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Explore LA

Here Are 4 SoCal Beaches To Hightail To This Weekend

A person walks on a beach at sunset as waves roll to shore
The sunsets at Manhattan Beach.
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Mario Tama
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Getty Images
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Listen 12:25
Shouting Out The Best Beaches In Southern California
Through May gray and June gloom, there’s a light at the end of the tunnel, and it’s filled with hot sand and glistening water. Beach season is a treasured time in Southern California, but not all beaches are created equal. Today on AirTalk, listeners share their favorite beaches throughout the region and what makes them extra special. Share your favorite beach by calling 866-893-5722 or email atcomments@laist.com. Joining to discuss is Molly O’Brien, freelance travel writer.

There’s a light at the end of this May Gray, June Gloom tunnel, and it's beach season! We asked listeners to call into LAist 89.3’s live daily news program, AirTalk, to share which beach they'd recommend to a visiting friend or family member who could only check out one during their time in SoCal.

Here are a few of the recommendations LAist listeners shared!

La Piedra Beach

North of Zuma Beach in Malibu (another great option recommended by callers) is La Piedra State Beach.

According to David in Agoura Hills, it’s the perfect place to make a day out of. You start by hiking down to the beach, where you can find caves, tide pools, swimming areas and a pristine beach. David then recommends making your way up the road to Charmlee Wilderness Park, which has killer ocean views.

Rosie's Dog Beach

A brown sign stands on a beach and reads "Rosie's Dog Beach City of Long Beach."
Rosie's Dog Beach
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Trent Robinson
)
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It can be tough to find a beach that allows dogs, let alone one that allows your pup to roam off-leash. Rosie’s Dog Beach in Long Beach is a good spot for the dogs that love their freedom — but humans, prepare for some chaos.

A packed beach with tons of dogs running loose is a sight to be seen; a dog lover’s dream to be sure. If you’re looking for something more relaxing for you and your pooch, maybe head to Leo Carrillo State Park in Malibu, which has a on-leash dog-friendly section that’s lovely.

Laguna Beach

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Laguna Beach
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Photo by preparsed via LAist Featured Photos on Flickr
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If you’re looking for a beach that has all the fixings — hiking trails, cliffs, restaurants, eclectic shopping — you can’t beat Laguna Beach, according to Bruce in Newport Beach. Plus, the year-round festivals and art scene add even more fun.

San Clemente State Beach

An aerial view of a beach with a long pier
A view of the San Clemente beach and pier.
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For a simple, no frills family day, head to San Clemente State Beach. There are trails for walking and jogging, the beaches are clean and the Pacific Surfliner train is accessible.

Listen to the conversation

For more beach recommendations from LAist listeners, check out the full interview below.

Listen 12:25
Shouting Out The Best Beaches In Southern California

And you can use the form below to let us know if there's a secret spot you're willing to share.

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