Suggest a great beach near LA?

Question

I will be traveling to LA next month and will have a few days of free time. Was hoping someone could suggest a beach that is not crowded. I prefer desolate beaches since they are much more relaxed. Basically looking for the exact opposite of Venice Beach.

Can anyone give a recommendation? Willing to drive about an hour from LAX in search of a good beach.

Thanks!

Also, what is water temp in the oceans near LA this time of year?

Answer 1

If you drive North on the pacific coast highway you might find some nice beaches near malibu. But those tend to get crowded. If you follow Hwy 1 north you will end up in Oxnard Ventura. Ventura has nice beaches. And if you want more desolate beaches try going further north to Santa Barbara on the 101. There is miles of beach between Ventura and Santa Barbara right off of the 101 fwy. It 's a beautiful drive. I think once you pass malibu, the beaches tend to get more desolate. But not as desolate where I work. I work at VAFB near lompoc, and nobody is out here. But this place is 2.5 hours away from LAX. In my opinion if you are looking for the opposite of Venice beach go somewhere between Ventura and Santa Barbara. Ventura about an hour away, and Santa Barbara is about 1.5 to two hours away depending on traffic. I like Pismo Beach (further north), but in recent years it has been turning into Venice beach.

Answer 2

Huntington Beach is more of a family beach. Venice beach has a lot of tourist type things to see, like outdoor vendors and entertainment. Down the coast of bit is Dana Pointe & Balboa which have beautiful beaches and less littering. Oh and Huntington has fire-pitts.

Answer 3

Drive north thru the Malibu area and you will find what you are looking for. Not too crowded in the winter time.

Answer 4

Zuma should be pretty empty this time of year. You should have lunch at "The Sunset " while you're there =). It's the only restaurant near the beach.