Dockweiler State Beach Is The Ultimate Day Trip Destination
When it comes to the beaches of Los Angeles County, there’s something for everyone. El Segundo is great for escaping the crowds, while Redondo Beach is a perfect surfing spot. And if you’re looking to spend an amazing day by the sea with your loved one, Dockweiler State Beach offers a little bit of everything.
Located west of the LAX Airport in the Playa Del Rey District of L.A., this is a state-owned beach operated by L.A. County. The main day-use beach has an inviting wide stretch of sand with fire pits, a paved bike path, and lifeguards during the day. It’s an amazing place to hang out and enjoy the sunshine. The Marvin Braude Bike Trail passes through this beach. The full trail extends for 22 miles between Will Rogers State Beach and Torrance County Beach.
Dockweiler State Beach is an ideal spot to host a BBQ or picnic. Bring your own coals, wood, blankets and chairs and enjoy dining by the ocean. If you’re an aircraft enthusiast, you’ll love it here. Since it’s located near the airport, you can watch planes coming and going all day.
The beach is also popular for surfing, boogie boarding, sunbathing, swimming and every other standard beach activity. There are plenty of jogging paths for anyone who’d rather work up a good sweat than spend a day lounging. And if you’re looking for a romantic date, treat your someone special to an evening bonfire here.
Like many state beaches in California, camping is available at Dockweiler, but you must have an RV or a trailer. This is one of the only oceanside campgrounds in L.A. County, and even though the campsites are close together, their proximity to the ocean makes them highly sought after. To reach the campground, head west on Imperial Highway until it ends at Vista Del Mar.
If you’re interested in any activities, stop by the Dockweiler Youth Center, which overlooks the beach. In addition to arts and crafts for kids and a summer youth camp, the youth center sometimes offers fitness classes, fishing lessons and other activities for people of all ages.
