Did you know Will Rogers State Beach spans approximately 65 hectares (160 acres) of pristine coastline, making it one of the largest public beaches in the Los Angeles area? This stunning stretch of golden sand attracts over 1 million visitors annually, yet somehow maintains a more relaxed atmosphere than its famous neighbors. Whether you’re a local seeking weekend relaxation or a traveler exploring Southern California’s coastal gems, this comprehensive guide will help you discover all the amazing experiences this beach has to offer.
Getting There & Planning Your Journey
Will Rogers State Beach is conveniently located along the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood of Los Angeles. The beach sits approximately 23 km (14 miles) west of downtown Los Angeles, making it easily accessible for both locals and tourists.
Nearest Airports
- Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) – Located about 24 km (15 miles) south of the beach, LAX is the primary international gateway with numerous daily flights from around the world.
- Hollywood Burbank Airport – Situated approximately 32 km (20 miles) northeast, this smaller airport offers a less crowded alternative with domestic flights.
- Long Beach Airport – About 48 km (30 miles) southeast, this regional airport provides another option for domestic travelers.
By Car
The most convenient way to reach Will Rogers State Beach is by car. The beach is located directly off Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1), between Temescal Canyon Road and Chautauqua Boulevard. Look for the large parking lots adjacent to the beach.
By Public Transportation
Los Angeles Metro offers several bus routes that stop near Will Rogers State Beach. The Metro Bus Line 534 runs along Pacific Coast Highway with stops near the beach. Additionally, during summer months, the Santa Monica Big Blue Bus Line 9 provides service to the area.
Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips
Recommended Seasons
Best Months to Visit
- Late May to Early October – Prime beach season with warm temperatures averaging 21-27°C (70-80°F) and minimal rainfall.
- September and October – Often considered the ideal months, offering warm water temperatures, fewer crowds, and the clearest skies after summer fog dissipates.
- Weekdays year-round – For a more peaceful experience with significantly fewer visitors.
Seasons to Avoid
- November to March – Winter brings cooler temperatures 13-18°C (55-65°F) and occasional rainstorms.
- June (early summer) – Often experiences “June Gloom” with morning marine layer fog that may not clear until afternoon.
- Summer holiday weekends – Extremely crowded with limited parking availability.
Weather Patterns
Southern California’s coastal areas experience a Mediterranean climate with mild, relatively dry weather year-round. Will Rogers State Beach typically enjoys more than 300 days of sunshine annually. However, visitors should be aware of these weather phenomena:
- Marine Layer – Morning fog, especially in May and June, can persist until midday before burning off to reveal sunshine.
- UV Exposure – Even on overcast days, UV rays penetrate the clouds. Always apply sunscreen with SPF 30+ regardless of cloud cover.
- Water Temperature – Ocean temperatures range from 14°C (57°F) in winter to 20°C (68°F) in late summer. A wetsuit is recommended for extended water activities outside of August and September.
- Wind Conditions – Afternoon onshore breezes are common, especially during spring and summer. Bring a light jacket even on warm days.
Getting Around Locally
Navigating the Will Rogers State Beach area is relatively straightforward, with several transportation options available to visitors:
Beach Bike Path
The Marvin Braude Bike Trail (also known as The Strand) runs directly through Will Rogers State Beach, connecting it to Santa Monica and beyond. This 35 km (22-mile) paved path is perfect for cycling, walking, or rollerblading along the coastline. Bike rentals are available at nearby shops in Pacific Palisades and Santa Monica.
Parking Options
The beach offers several large parking lots with approximately 1,200 spaces. Parking fees range from $8-15 depending on the season. Arrive early (before 10 AM) on summer weekends to secure a spot. Limited free street parking may be available on nearby residential streets, but be sure to check signage for restrictions.
Rideshare Services
Uber, Lyft, and other rideshare services operate throughout the Los Angeles area and provide convenient access to Will Rogers State Beach. Designated pickup and drop-off areas are located near the main entrance.
Beach Shuttle
During summer months (Memorial Day through Labor Day), the Los Angeles County Beach Bus offers affordable transportation to Will Rogers State Beach from various inland communities, helping visitors avoid parking hassles.
Where to Stay
While there are no accommodations directly on Will Rogers State Beach, numerous lodging options are available within a short drive:
Nearby Hotels and Accommodations
Luxury Options
- Shutters on the Beach – Upscale beachfront hotel in Santa Monica, approximately 8 km (5 miles) from Will Rogers State Beach.
- The Huntley Hotel – Elegant high-rise with ocean views and rooftop restaurant.
- Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows – Historic property with lush gardens and ocean-view rooms.
Mid-Range Accommodations
- Channel Road Inn – Charming bed and breakfast in Santa Monica Canyon, just 3 km (2 miles) from the beach.
- Hotel Carmel – Comfortable rooms within walking distance of Santa Monica Pier.
- Courtyard by Marriott Santa Monica – Modern amenities with convenient location.
Budget-Friendly Options
- HI Los Angeles Santa Monica Hostel – Affordable dormitory and private rooms, 7 km (4.5 miles) from Will Rogers State Beach.
- Gateway Hotel Santa Monica – Reasonable rates with basic amenities.
- Vacation Rentals – Numerous apartments and homes available through Airbnb and VRBO in Pacific Palisades and Santa Monica.
Camping Options
For those seeking a more outdoor-oriented stay, several campgrounds are available within driving distance:
- Malibu Creek State Park – Located 24 km (15 miles) north, offering tent and RV camping in a beautiful mountain setting.
- Dockweiler RV Park – The only beachfront RV park in Los Angeles County, situated 16 km (10 miles) south of Will Rogers State Beach.
- Leo Carrillo State Park – Coastal camping approximately 32 km (20 miles) northwest in Malibu.
Dining & Local Cuisine
While Will Rogers State Beach itself has limited food options, the surrounding areas offer excellent dining choices ranging from casual beachside cafes to upscale restaurants:
Beach Concessions
During summer months, beach concession stands operate at Will Rogers State Beach, offering basic items like hot dogs, hamburgers, sandwiches, snacks, and cold beverages. These stands are typically open from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Nearby Dining Options
Pacific Palisades
- Gladstone’s – Iconic seafood restaurant right on PCH with panoramic ocean views.
- Patrick’s Roadhouse – Classic American diner known for hearty breakfasts.
- Cafe Vida – Healthy California cuisine with fresh ingredients.
Santa Monica
- The Lobster – Upscale seafood with views of Santa Monica Pier.
- Back on the Beach Cafe – Casual beachfront dining with sand beneath your feet.
- Cha Cha Chicken – Caribbean-inspired dishes perfect for a post-beach meal.
Malibu
- Malibu Farm – Farm-to-table cuisine on Malibu Pier.
- Neptune’s Net – Legendary seafood spot popular with surfers and motorcyclists.
- Reel Inn – Casual fresh fish in a relaxed setting.
Picnic Options
Will Rogers State Beach features designated picnic areas with tables and BBQ grills, making it perfect for bringing your own food. Nearby grocery stores and markets for picnic supplies include:
- Gelson’s Market – Upscale grocery store in Pacific Palisades with prepared foods and deli items.
- Whole Foods Market – Located in Santa Monica, offering organic options and prepared meals.
- Bay Cities Italian Deli – Famous for their “Godmother” sandwich, perfect for beach picnics.
Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities
Will Rogers State Beach offers a wide variety of activities for visitors of all ages and interests. From water sports to relaxation, there’s something for everyone at this beautiful coastal destination:
Beach Activities
Water Sports
- Swimming – Lifeguard stations are staffed year-round, with additional coverage during summer months.
- Surfing – The beach offers consistent waves suitable for beginners and intermediate surfers.
- Paddleboarding – Calm morning waters are perfect for stand-up paddleboarding.
- Bodyboarding – Fun for all ages in the shore break.
Beach Games
- Volleyball – Multiple courts available on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Beach Tennis – Growing in popularity with designated areas.
- Frisbee – Plenty of open space for throwing games.
- Sandcastle Building – Fine sand perfect for creative construction.
The Marvin Braude Bike Trail
This iconic 35 km (22-mile) paved path runs from Will Rogers State Beach all the way to Torrance County Beach, passing through some of Los Angeles’ most famous coastal neighborhoods. Rent bikes nearby or bring your own to explore the coastline. The flat terrain makes it suitable for riders of all skill levels.
Whale Watching
Will Rogers State Beach offers excellent shore-based whale watching opportunities during migration seasons:
- Gray Whales – Visible from December through April during their annual migration.
- Blue Whales – The largest animals on Earth can sometimes be spotted from June through September.
- Dolphins – Common year-round, often seen playing in the surf.
For a closer look, whale watching tours depart from nearby Marina del Rey and Santa Monica harbors.
Sunset Viewing
The west-facing orientation of Will Rogers State Beach makes it one of the best spots in Los Angeles to watch the sun set over the Pacific Ocean. Bring a blanket and camera to capture the spectacular colors as day turns to evening.
Museums, Cultural Spots & Festivals
While the beach itself is primarily a natural attraction, the surrounding area offers rich cultural experiences that complement your beach visit:
Will Rogers State Historic Park
Located just inland from the beach, this 75-hectare (186-acre) park preserves the former ranch of Will Rogers, the famous American humorist and actor. Visitors can tour his 31-room ranch house, watch polo matches on weekends (April through October), and hike scenic trails with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.
Getty Villa
Just 3 km (2 miles) north of Will Rogers State Beach, the Getty Villa houses an impressive collection of Greek, Roman, and Etruscan antiquities in a stunning recreation of a Roman country house. The meticulously maintained gardens and architecture are attractions in themselves.
Annenberg Community Beach House
Located in nearby Santa Monica, this public beach facility was once the site of a lavish private estate built by William Randolph Hearst for actress Marion Davies. Today, it offers a swimming pool, beach amenities, and cultural programs open to the public.
Annual Events and Festivals
- Twilight Concert Series – Free summer concerts at nearby Santa Monica Pier featuring diverse musical acts.
- Pacific Palisades Fourth of July Parade – A charming small-town parade just minutes from the beach.
- Beach Volleyball Tournaments – Professional and amateur competitions held throughout summer months.
- Malibu Arts Festival – Celebrated in late July, featuring works by local artists just a short drive north.
Nature & Outdoor Experiences
Beyond the beach itself, the area surrounding Will Rogers State Beach offers remarkable natural attractions and outdoor experiences:
Hiking Trails
Several excellent hiking trails are located just minutes from the beach:
- Temescal Canyon Trail – A 4.8 km (3-mile) loop trail with ocean views and a seasonal waterfall, located just across PCH from the beach.
- Los Liones Trail – Moderate 4 km (2.5-mile) hike offering spectacular coastal panoramas.
- Backbone Trail – For more ambitious hikers, this 107 km (67-mile) trail traverses the entire Santa Monica Mountains.
Tidepooling
At the northern end of Will Rogers State Beach, rocky areas exposed during low tide reveal fascinating marine ecosystems. Explore these natural aquariums to discover sea anemones, starfish, hermit crabs, and other intertidal creatures. Check tide charts before planning your visit, and remember to observe without disturbing these delicate environments.
Birdwatching
The beach attracts a variety of coastal birds throughout the year:
- Brown Pelicans – Often seen diving dramatically for fish.
- Western Gulls – Common year-round residents.
- Snowy Plovers – These threatened shorebirds occasionally visit during migration.
- Great Blue Herons – Sometimes spotted fishing in shallow waters.
Marine Life
The waters off Will Rogers State Beach are part of the Santa Monica Bay, home to a diverse array of marine life:
- California Sea Lions – Often visible swimming offshore or lounging on buoys.
- Bottlenose Dolphins – Frequently spotted year-round, sometimes surfing in the waves.
- Harbor Seals – Occasional visitors to the area.
- Seasonal Whales – Including gray, blue, and humpback whales during migration periods.
Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs
Beach Safety
Will Rogers State Beach is patrolled by Los Angeles County lifeguards year-round, with increased staffing during summer months. For your safety:
- Swim near lifeguard towers – Always swim in designated areas under lifeguard supervision.
- Understand flag warnings – Green flags indicate safe conditions, yellow means caution, and red signals dangerous conditions.
- Watch for rip currents – If caught in a rip current, swim parallel to shore until free of the current before swimming back to beach.
- Apply sunscreen regularly – Even on cloudy days, UV exposure is significant.
- Stay hydrated – Bring plenty of water, especially during hot summer days.
Beach Regulations
To ensure everyone’s enjoyment and preserve the natural environment:
- Alcohol is prohibited – No alcoholic beverages are allowed on the beach.
- No smoking – Smoking is not permitted on Los Angeles County beaches.
- Dogs policy – Dogs are not allowed on the beach itself but are permitted on leash on the adjacent bike path.
- No fires on the sand – Open fires are prohibited, but designated BBQ grills in picnic areas are available.
- Pack out trash – Help keep the beach clean by disposing of all waste in provided receptacles or taking it with you.
Local Etiquette
Follow these unwritten rules to blend in with locals and show respect for others:
- Surfing etiquette – Respect the lineup, don’t drop in on other surfers, and yield to those already riding a wave.
- Bike path courtesy – Keep right, pass left, and give audible signals when passing pedestrians.
- Noise consideration – Keep music at a reasonable volume that doesn’t disturb others.
- Photography respect – Ask permission before photographing strangers, especially children.
- Environmental awareness – Respect wildlife and plant life; never feed seagulls or other animals.
Visitor Comments About Will Rogers State Beach
“Will Rogers quickly became our family’s favorite Los Angeles beach during our California road trip. The clean sand, ample parking, and less crowded atmosphere made it perfect for our kids to play. We especially loved the bike path for morning rides and the volleyball courts where we joined a friendly pickup game. Watching dolphins swim by was an unexpected highlight!”
“As a visitor from the UK, I was impressed by the sheer size and beauty of Will Rogers State Beach. The facilities were well-maintained, and the lifeguards were attentive. I spent three days here during my two-week California trip and found it much more relaxing than some of the busier tourist beaches. The sunset views were absolutely spectacular!”
“We visit Will Rogers State Beach every time we’re in Los Angeles. The water is cleaner than at many other city beaches, and the mountains in the background create a stunning setting. My husband enjoyed surfing while I relaxed with a book. The nearby hiking trails in Temescal Canyon provided a perfect change of pace when we wanted a break from the sand.”
Additional Nearby Destinations
Will Rogers State Beach serves as an excellent base for exploring other notable attractions in the area. Consider adding these nearby destinations to your itinerary:
Within 10 km (6 miles)
- Santa Monica Pier – Historic pier with amusement park, aquarium, and dining options.
- Third Street Promenade – Pedestrian shopping district with street performers and restaurants.
- Topanga State Park – Largest wildland within a major city, offering 58 km (36 miles) of trails.
Within 25 km (15 miles)
- Venice Beach – Famous for its bohemian spirit, street performers, and Muscle Beach.
- Getty Center – World-class art museum with spectacular architecture and gardens.
- Malibu Wine Safari – Tour a working vineyard while seeing exotic animals.
Day Trips
- Catalina Island – Accessible by ferry for hiking, snorkeling, and island exploration.
- Channel Islands National Park – Pristine island ecosystem with unique wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Disneyland Resort – Approximately 72 km (45 miles) southeast in Anaheim.
Practical Travel Tips
Essential Items to Bring
- Beach essentials – Towels, umbrella, chairs, and a cooler with drinks and snacks.
- Sun protection – High-SPF sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, and possibly a beach tent for shade.
- Water shoes – Helpful for rocky areas, especially when tidepooling.
- Wetsuit – Recommended for extended water activities outside of late summer.
- Binoculars – Great for whale watching and birdwatching.
Money-Saving Tips
- Visit on weekdays – Parking fees are often reduced, and crowds are smaller.
- Bring your own food – Pack a picnic instead of purchasing meals at nearby restaurants.
- Carpool – Share parking costs with friends or family.
- Public transportation – Use Metro buses to avoid parking fees entirely.
- Free activities – Take advantage of hiking, swimming, and sunset watching at no cost.
Accessibility Information
Will Rogers State Beach offers several accessibility features for visitors with mobility challenges:
- Beach wheelchairs – Available free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis from lifeguard headquarters.
- Accessible parking – Designated spaces available in all parking lots.
- Accessible restrooms and showers – Located at regular intervals along the beach.
- Paved path – The Marvin Braude Bike Trail provides a smooth surface for wheelchair users to enjoy ocean views.
Connectivity
Cell phone coverage is generally good throughout Will Rogers State Beach. Free public Wi-Fi is not available on the beach itself, but many nearby cafes and restaurants offer Wi-Fi for customers.
Your Pacific Paradise Awaits
Will Rogers State Beach offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and convenient access that makes it one of Southern California’s most treasured coastal destinations. Whether you’re seeking active adventures like surfing and volleyball, peaceful moments watching dolphins play offshore, or simply the joy of feeling sand between your toes as you watch a spectacular sunset, this beach delivers unforgettable experiences.
Unlike its more famous neighbors, Will Rogers State Beach maintains a relaxed, local vibe that allows visitors to experience authentic Southern California beach culture without overwhelming crowds. Its 1.5-mile stretch of golden sand provides ample space to find your perfect spot, while the surrounding attractions ensure you’ll never run out of things to do.
As you plan your visit, remember that each season offers its own unique charm—from the clear autumn days perfect for long beach walks to the vibrant summer energy when the beach comes alive with activity. Whenever you choose to visit, Will Rogers State Beach promises to be a highlight of your Southern California adventure.
The above is subject to change.
Check back often to TRAVEL.COM for the latest travel tips and deals.
0 Comments