Palisades Beach

This narrow strip of soft white sand is just along the coast from the ever-popular Santa Monica.

Unlike its next-door neighbor, there aren’t a whole host of beachfront bars and restaurants, which helps to keep the crowds away, and means there’s plenty of wriggle room for a spot of sunbathing.

Lifeguards are on duty every day and there are loads of places to park nearby if you’re taking the car to the beach. You’ll find public restrooms too, and the sprawling green spaces of Palisades Park are right behind the beach, but if you’re looking for lots of amenities, you’re better served heading just along the coast.

If you’re into watersports then surfing’s a pretty big draw here, but you’ll need to bring your own board, as there aren’t any surf hire shops on this particular stretch of California coastline.