http://losangeles.citysearch.com/roundup/39676 In SoCal, it's easy to have fun in the sun. From Malibu to the South Bay, plan your ocean excursion with our recommendations for the best L.A. beaches and activities, waterfront bars, restaurants and <a href="http://losangeles.citysearch.com/find/section/losangeles/hotels_visitors.html">hotels</a>. en Copyright 2003 Mon, 02 Jun 2003 01:46:59 -0700 http://images.citysearch.com/roundup/fc/51/39676r1.jpg http://losangeles.citysearch.com/roundup/39676 Citysearch Editors, Los Angeles Whether you're hitting the sand for some serious sunbathing, biking along the winding boardwalk or picnicking in the tree-lined park area, you can be sure you'll have the ultimate beach experience. Santa Monica, CA http://losangeles.citysearch.com/profile/158554/santa_monica_ca/santa_monica_beach.html Mon, 02 Jun 2003 01:46:59 -0700 Citysearch Editors, Los Angeles Walk on water (or at least above it) at this family favorite that offers everything from roller coasters and carnival games to corn dogs, pizza, people-watching and oh yeh, stunning views of the Pacific. Santa Monica, CA http://losangeles.citysearch.com/profile/11280461/santa_monica_ca/santa_monica_pier.html Mon, 02 Jun 2003 01:46:59 -0700 Citysearch Editors, Los Angeles The cozy front patio deck of this art deco hotel provides some of the best views of the Santa Monica Pier ... and the food's not so bad either. Santa Monica, CA http://losangeles.citysearch.com/profile/158117/santa_monica_ca/the_georgian_hotel.html Mon, 02 Jun 2003 01:46:59 -0700 Citysearch Editors, Los Angeles Now Angelenos can find out what all the fuss is about: New Yorkers swear by this no-nonsense pizza joint where the walls are spare, the service quick and the pizza to live for. Santa Monica, CA http://losangeles.citysearch.com/profile/46304593/santa_monica_ca/joe_s_pizza.html Mon, 02 Jun 2003 01:46:59 -0700 Citysearch Editors, Los Angeles You'll swear you've been washed ashore at some funky Caribbean shack--this local favorite dishes spicy fare like jerk chicken enchiladas and fried plantains. Santa Monica, CA http://losangeles.citysearch.com/profile/163713/santa_monica_ca/cha_cha_chicken.html Mon, 02 Jun 2003 01:46:59 -0700 Citysearch Editors, Los Angeles Pink, mint green and Polynesian prints abound at this plush tropical paradise of $30 salads, $8 pineapple juice and lots of elbow-rubbing with the Westside's rich and hungry. Santa Monica, CA http://losangeles.citysearch.com/profile/157694/santa_monica_ca/ivy_at_the_shore.html Mon, 02 Jun 2003 01:46:59 -0700 Citysearch Editors, Los Angeles You'll have to walk to the end of the Santa Monica Pier to get here, but tourists (and a few locals) can't get enough of this upbeat beach-bum eatery. Santa Monica, CA http://losangeles.citysearch.com/profile/157795/santa_monica_ca/rusty_s_surf_ranch.html Mon, 02 Jun 2003 01:46:59 -0700 Citysearch Editors, Los Angeles The casual yet upscale Cal-Med dishes might be a little pricey, but the poshy beach scene and ocean views are priceless. Santa Monica, CA http://losangeles.citysearch.com/profile/11288304/santa_monica_ca/one_pico_at_shutters.html Mon, 02 Jun 2003 01:46:59 -0700 Citysearch Editors, Los Angeles All the world's a stage at L.A.'s notoriously wacky boardwalk starring a never-ending cast of kooky characters, street performers, junk peddlers and body-building exhibitionists. Los Angeles, CA http://losangeles.citysearch.com/profile/11418340/los_angeles_ca/ocean_front_walk.html Mon, 02 Jun 2003 01:46:59 -0700 Citysearch Editors, Los Angeles L.A.'s funkiest beach might play second fiddle to its outrageous Ocean Front Walk, but the surf and sand have their fair share of followers. Venice, CA http://losangeles.citysearch.com/profile/11280311/venice_ca/venice_beach.html Mon, 02 Jun 2003 01:46:59 -0700 Citysearch Editors, Los Angeles Stiff drinks, beers on tap and killer views are the main attractions at this breakfast-to-dinner local-heavy hangout. Venice, CA http://losangeles.citysearch.com/profile/11495309/venice_ca/venice_whaler_bar_grill.html Mon, 02 Jun 2003 01:46:59 -0700 Citysearch Editors, Los Angeles Just a few blocks from the beach, this spacious '80s-style spot is where folks go for vodka martinis and a laidback dining scene. Venice, CA http://losangeles.citysearch.com/profile/11296922/venice_ca/james_beach.html Mon, 02 Jun 2003 01:46:59 -0700 Citysearch Editors, Los Angeles It's business and pleasure at this posh seafood favorite for gorgeous waterfront views, a lively bar scene, cozy fireplace and super fresh fish. Marina del Rey, CA http://losangeles.citysearch.com/profile/151010/marina_del_rey_ca/cafe_del_rey.html Mon, 02 Jun 2003 01:46:59 -0700 Citysearch Editors, Los Angeles Located on the waterfront of Marina Del Rey, this boardwalk might be a bit beat up, but the handful of restaurants and dozens of cruise, kayak and boat rental options keep waterbound patrons coming back. Marina Del Rey, CA http://losangeles.citysearch.com/profile/151630/marina_del_rey_ca/fisherman_s_village.html Mon, 02 Jun 2003 01:46:59 -0700 Citysearch Editors, Los Angeles No, it has nothing to do with the Marlon Brando film. This Venice boardwalk eatery is all about Swiss food, German beer and good times. Venice, CA http://losangeles.citysearch.com/profile/150124/venice_ca/on_the_waterfront_cafe.html Mon, 02 Jun 2003 01:46:59 -0700 Citysearch Editors, Los Angeles Sure, it's inside the Ritz, but this upscale Asian fusion find has a distinctly Marina sensibility--don't be surprised if the visiting suits and local boaters loosen their ties after a few cocktails and tasty starters. Marina del Rey, CA http://losangeles.citysearch.com/profile/11483167/marina_del_rey_ca/jer_ne_restaurant_bar.html Mon, 02 Jun 2003 01:46:59 -0700 Citysearch Editors, Los Angeles It's not on the beach, but this chic Marina Del Rey bistro is where folks can enjoy French-Euro cuisine and a friendly, breezy atmosphere. Marina Del Rey, CA http://losangeles.citysearch.com/profile/41921810/marina_del_rey_ca/le_marmiton.html Mon, 02 Jun 2003 01:46:59 -0700 Citysearch Editors, Los Angeles Sun lovers, celebrities and a sandy beach--it's the L.A. experience encapsulated. Malibu, CA http://losangeles.citysearch.com/profile/11283018/malibu_ca/malibu_lagoon_state_beach.html Mon, 02 Jun 2003 01:46:59 -0700 Citysearch Editors, Los Angeles The beer is cold, the seafood is hot and the atmosphere is perfect for a nosh after a day at the beach. Malibu, CA http://losangeles.citysearch.com/profile/139260/malibu_ca/reel_inn.html Mon, 02 Jun 2003 01:46:59 -0700 Citysearch Editors, Los Angeles Sip mai tais and watch the sunset from the Malibu sand. Malibu, CA http://losangeles.citysearch.com/profile/11495307/malibu_ca/duke_s_malibu_restaurant_barefoot_bar.html Mon, 02 Jun 2003 01:46:59 -0700 Citysearch Editors, Los Angeles Locals and tourists cram this beachside haunt for seafood and strong drinks. Malibu, CA http://losangeles.citysearch.com/profile/139263/malibu_ca/paradise_cove_beach_cafe.html Mon, 02 Jun 2003 01:46:59 -0700 Citysearch Editors, Los Angeles Good food plus a gorgeous view equals a great time at this Malibu special-occasion favorite. Malibu, CA http://losangeles.citysearch.com/profile/11301108/malibu_ca/geoffrey_s.html Mon, 02 Jun 2003 01:46:59 -0700 Citysearch Editors, Los Angeles Don't bust a Mel (Gibson, that is) at this popular waterfront eatery serving up Asian-tinged seafood. Malibu, CA http://losangeles.citysearch.com/profile/139252/malibu_ca/moonshadows.html Mon, 02 Jun 2003 01:46:59 -0700 Citysearch Editors, Los Angeles Renovated cultural landmark and original Getty Museum site houses expanded exhibits of ancient Greece, Rome and Etruscan arts. Pacific Palisades, CA http://losangeles.citysearch.com/profile/41871282/pacific_palisades_ca/getty_villa.html Mon, 02 Jun 2003 01:46:59 -0700 Citysearch Editors, Los Angeles A sun-kissed mecca of physical exertion for the young, hip and sweaty. Manhattan Beach, CA http://losangeles.citysearch.com/profile/11282998/manhattan_beach_ca/manhattan_beach.html Mon, 02 Jun 2003 01:46:59 -0700 Citysearch Editors, Los Angeles One block from the beach, this South Bay charmer is a casual brunch destination. Hermosa Beach, CA http://losangeles.citysearch.com/profile/133958/hermosa_beach_ca/martha_s_22nd_street_grill.html Mon, 02 Jun 2003 01:46:59 -0700 Citysearch Editors, Los Angeles Get cozy with cocktails and cold ones just yards from the Manhattan Beach Pier. Manhattan Beach, CA http://losangeles.citysearch.com/profile/140478/manhattan_beach_ca/shellback_tavern.html Mon, 02 Jun 2003 01:46:59 -0700 Citysearch Editors, Los Angeles Beer aficionados and beach bums delight in pints of homemade pilsner, pale ale and porter. Manhattan Beach, CA http://losangeles.citysearch.com/profile/140457/manhattan_beach_ca/manhattan_beach_brewing_company.html Mon, 02 Jun 2003 01:46:59 -0700 Citysearch Editors, Los Angeles People-watching, peanuts and pitchers of Bud make this longtime Hermosa Beach dive a splash. Hermosa Beach, CA http://losangeles.citysearch.com/profile/133997/hermosa_beach_ca/poop_deck.html Mon, 02 Jun 2003 01:46:59 -0700 Citysearch Editors, Los Angeles A blissfully idyllic oceanfront hideaway that's just far enough away from L.A. Hermosa Beach, CA http://losangeles.citysearch.com/profile/134170/hermosa_beach_ca/beach_house_at_hermosa.html Mon, 02 Jun 2003 01:46:59 -0700 Citysearch Editors, Los Angeles This lively pier offers year round fishing, volleyball courts, access to the famed "Strand" boardwalk and lots of eating options. Hermosa Beach, CA http://losangeles.citysearch.com/profile/11279446/hermosa_beach_ca/hermosa_beach_pier.html Mon, 02 Jun 2003 01:46:59 -0700 Citysearch Editors, Los Angeles Surf City's eight-mile stretch of beach beckons adventurers to tackle its famed shore, funky town and surfable waves. Huntington Beach, CA http://losangeles.citysearch.com/profile/11571912/huntington_beach_ca/huntington_beach.html Mon, 02 Jun 2003 01:46:59 -0700 Citysearch Editors, Los Angeles Dive into a crystalline cove or hike and camp the backcountry at this diverse California coastal park. Laguna Beach, CA http://losangeles.citysearch.com/profile/598299/laguna_beach_ca/crystal_cove_state_park.html Mon, 02 Jun 2003 01:46:59 -0700 Citysearch Editors, Los Angeles This fenced dog park offers plenty of grassy leash-free space for Fido to run free. Laguna Beach, CA http://losangeles.citysearch.com/profile/41301886/laguna_beach_ca/laguna_beach_dog_park.html Mon, 02 Jun 2003 01:46:59 -0700 Citysearch Editors, Los Angeles Mega-mall draws shoppers and tourists with a staggering array of stores, restaurants and entertainment. Costa Mesa, CA http://losangeles.citysearch.com/profile/582011/costa_mesa_ca/south_coast_plaza.html Mon, 02 Jun 2003 01:46:59 -0700 Citysearch Editors, Los Angeles For a unique experience, tour the Newport waterways on a private, romantic gondola cruise. Newport Beach, CA http://losangeles.citysearch.com/profile/669383/newport_beach_ca/gondola_cruises_of_newport_beach.html Mon, 02 Jun 2003 01:46:59 -0700 Citysearch Editors, Los Angeles California wines and contemporary cuisine served on a poolside ocean-view patio with live entertainment and a popular Champagne brunch. Huntington Beach, CA http://losangeles.citysearch.com/profile/595257/huntington_beach_ca/shades_restaurant_at_hilton_waterfront.html Mon, 02 Jun 2003 01:46:59 -0700 Citysearch Editors, Los Angeles Kick back on Newport's ultimate waterfront patio sipping a signature bloody mary and snickering at first-time seamen. Newport Beach, CA http://losangeles.citysearch.com/profile/605322/newport_beach_ca/back_bay_cafe.html Mon, 02 Jun 2003 01:46:59 -0700 Citysearch Editors, Los Angeles Upscale shopping and dining in a relaxing, outdoor oceanside setting. Newport Beach, CA http://losangeles.citysearch.com/profile/605940/newport_beach_ca/fashion_island_shopping_center.html Mon, 02 Jun 2003 01:46:59 -0700 http://losangeles.citysearch.com/roundup/40157 Mon, 02 Jun 2003 01:46:59 -0700 http://losangeles.citysearch.com/roundup/39717 Mon, 02 Jun 2003 01:46:59 -0700 http://losangeles.citysearch.com/roundup/37736 Mon, 02 Jun 2003 01:46:59 -0700