Sandy beach
Yes
Hike-in Required
No
Surfing
Yes
Snorkeling / SCUBA
No
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

Swimmers, scuba divers, kayakers, sunbathers, and sailors with catamarans enjoy Topanga State Beach, but it is perhaps most popular among surfers. There are lifeguards on duty all day, and both restrooms and showers are available for public use. The picnic area provides a lovely place to enjoy your lunch in the sun. If you would prefer to eat at a restaurant, just walk eastward along the beach until you reach the Malibu Chart House.

You may find this beach to be considerably more secluded than other beaches in the area. The trade off is having to deal with some rocky areas, particularly where the water is shallow. This shouldn’t be a problem if you have water shoes or are primarily planning to sunbathe. If you decide to try your hand at fishing, there is a bait and tackle store just across the street.

There are two parking lots with reasonable fees, although you might be able to snag a free spot along the Pacific Coast Highway. The beach opens when the sun rises and closes at dusk when the lifeguards leave. If you want to visit multiple beaches throughout the day you will find Will Rogers State Beach to the east and Las Tunas Beach to the west. These and other beaches are located on the Santa Monica Bay. The bay is home to a wide variety of plants and animals including giant kelp, invertebrates, sea lions, dolphins, whales, and many different species of fish.

Note that, despite the name, this beach is no longer owned by the State of California, but rather by L.A. County.

Logistics + Planning

Congestion

High

Parking Pass

State Park Fee

Pros

Surf break. Outdoor showers and restrooms.

Cons

Dogs not permitted on the beach.

Features

ADA accessible
Picnic tables
Surfing
Bird watching
Wildlife

Location

Nearby Lodging + Camping

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