3 Unique Southern California Beaches

Southern California beaches are as unique as the state itself. If you're vacationing at one of the many LAX hotels, head to one of the Southern California beaches for a day of sun and sand. No matter what type of vacation you're looking for, there's a beach for you.

Mother's Beach

If you brought the family with you on vacation, nearby Mother's Beach is a must-see. It is known as one of the most family-friendly Southern California beaches because of it doesn't have any surf and lifeguards are located throughout the beach. It is a safe place for children and adults to play and swim.

Mother's Beach is popular with kids because of its large playground right on the beach, complete with a large swing set. There's also an interactive whale shaped slide that kids love because they can control the whale's spout with a nearby button. Nearby is a grassy, shaded spot that's perfect for picnic lunches with the entire family. The beach planners had families in mind and even placed the restrooms near the playground.

Mother's Beach may be within walking distance, depending on which of the LAX hotels you're staying in. If your trip has you hauling beach chairs, sand toys and sunscreen, there is a nearby parking lot with coin-operated parking meters.

Venice Beach

A day at Venice Beach can't be duplicated anywhere else. It's famous all over the world for its unique street performers, vendors and the body builders who lift weights right on the beach. You won't find anything like Venice Beach at any other of the Southern California beaches.

If you're an aspiring artist, Venice Beach is the best of the Southern California beaches to visit. Known as the Sandman of Venice Beach, Marc Goodrich creates sculptures like elephants and lions completely out of sand. The artwork only lasts for a day or two before it blows away and Goodrich starts over -- so catch it while you can. Venice Beach is also known for its large building murals designed by artist, R. Cronk. Some of Cronk's murals include a tribute to Venice Beach resident Jim Morrison and the murals played an important role in the area's revitalization.

The street performers of Venice Beach are legendary. Only the world's best and bravest performers are successful here, so it's not unusual to see someone juggling chainsaws or breathing fire.

Most of the LAX hotels are within walking distance to Venice Beach. If you need to drive, make sure to park in one of the special lots for visitors. Most of the lots charge a small fee, but offer a free shuttle to the beach. Street parking is hard to come by in the area and many locals depend on the street parking near their homes.

Malibu Beach

Malibu Beach is known as one of the best Southern California beaches for surfers. Malibu Beach became famous in the 1960s by the Beach Boys and again gained fame in the 1990s with the TV show Baywatch. Although most known for surfing, Malibu Beach is also an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts. You'll be able to fish off the Malibu Pier or explore 22 acres of wetlands, flower gardens and sandy beaches.

Because Malibu spans 21 miles of coastline, plan on driving from the LAX hotels. If you're an avid bicyclist load up your bike and ride the Pacific Coast Highway for the beautiful ocean, mountain and canyon views.

There are many other Southern California beaches - these are just three. Whether you are swimming, playing in the sand or just people-watching, the Southern California beaches are a fun place to spend a day.

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Dakota Bressler is an avid fan of Southern California beaches. He is an author for Marina Del Ray, California, a beautiful ocean-side community situated near many of the best LAX hotels.