Hello LA families! LA’s coastlines offer more than just beautiful views and sunbathing—some beaches are home to fantastic playgrounds built right on the sand.
These oceanfront play areas blend the best of beach fun with safe, imaginative spaces for children to climb, swing, and slide to their hearts’ content.
For those of you looking for that fun playground right on the beach for the family, this is your new go-to guide. Each spot has been hand-picked for its combination of beachfront charm, convenience, and pure playground joy. From San Pedro to Santa Monica and Venice, here are five of the top sandy playgrounds for your little explorers.
1 – Kids Playground at Cabrillo Beach, San Pedro
Description:
Tucked away in the southern tip of Los Angeles, Cabrillo Beach in San Pedro is a hidden gem that locals love. The beach features a spacious, sandy playground situated right next to the shoreline, making it perfect for kids who want to alternate between building sandcastles and climbing jungle gyms.
With its nautical-themed structures, including a ship-shaped playset, Cabrillo captures the imagination of young adventurers.
The setting here is as scenic as it is family-friendly. Parents can relax on the beach with an eye on both the playground and the glistening waters of the Pacific. On calm days, the water in the protected cove stays gentle, making it safer for young swimmers.
Plus, the nearby Cabrillo Marine Aquarium adds an educational twist to the outing—just a short walk from the playground!
There are also plenty of amenities: restrooms, shaded picnic areas, and ample parking (a rare treat in LA!). Because the playground sits directly on the beach, families can spend hours here without needing to pack up and relocate. It’s a perfect one-stop destination for sun, sea, and play.
Hack: The San Pedro aquarium is located just a few steps away from the beach! Visit them and enjoy all the learning and fun exhibits during your day at the beach. It’s free of charge but you are welcome to leave a donation as you enter the aquarium.
Location: 3720 Stephen M. White Dr., San Pedro, CA 90731
Pic Credit: @californiabeaches
2 – Marina del Rey Mother’s Beach Playground
Description:
Mother’s Beach in Marina del Rey is specifically designed with families in mind. Nestled in a calm, protected marina cove, this beach offers a relaxing escape from the crashing surf you’ll find elsewhere. The beachside playground here is surrounded by soft sand, shaded by palm trees, and filled with colorful equipment just steps from the water.
What makes Mother’s Beach extra special is the serenity of its setting. The water here is extremely gentle-ideal for toddlers and younger children who are still learning their way around the ocean.
While the little ones play, parents can enjoy a quiet breeze and watch the boats drift by in the marina. There’s a calmness here that sets it apart from the hustle of other LA beaches.
There’s also a grassy picnic area, bathrooms, and even a bike path nearby. Lifeguards are often on duty, and there’s plenty of parking close to the beach.
Whether you’re coming for a birthday party or just a spontaneous beach day, Mother’s Beach makes it easy to enjoy quality time together. No stress, just sun and smiles.
Location: 4101 Admiralty Way Marina del Rey CA 90292
PIC Credit: @lacountybeaches
3 – South Beach Park Playground, Santa Monica
Description:
If you’re heading to Santa Monica, don’t miss the colorful and modern South Beach Park Playground, located just steps from the iconic pier.
This beachfront gem is one of the newer additions to the area and offers an imaginative, ocean-themed play space with equipment for both toddlers and older kids.
It’s fully accessible, thoughtfully designed, and surrounded by soft beach sand.
What makes South Beach Park especially appealing is its location. While the kids climb the play structures and fly down the slides, the sound of waves and the salty breeze create a beach day atmosphere that’s hard to beat.
Parents can relax on benches or picnic in nearby grassy areas while keeping an eye on the action. The view of the Santa Monica Pier in the background adds an extra bit of charm to the whole scene.
It’s also just a short walk from some of Santa Monica’s top attractions. After playing, families can stroll over to the pier for a ride on the carousel or grab a treat from one of the many snack stands.
Restrooms and parking are available nearby, making it an easy, breezy choice for a fun day out.
Location: 3400 Barnard Way, Santa Monica, CA 90405
PIC Credit: @californiabeaches
4 – Veteran’s Park Playground, Redondo Beach
Description:
Overlooking the Pacific Ocean from a grassy bluff, Veteran’s Park in Redondo Beach offers a truly stunning setting for a family outing.
The playground here isn’t directly in the sand, but it’s just a short and easy stroll down to the beach—perfect for mixing land and sea fun.
The equipment is well-maintained and shaded by mature trees, with play options suitable for a variety of ages.
The real showstopper here is the view. As kids swing and slide, families can take in sweeping vistas of the sparkling ocean and Redondo Pier.
It’s a great place to snap photos, enjoy a picnic, or just take a breather while the kids burn off energy. The elevated location also offers a nice breeze, which helps keep everyone cool on sunny days.
Once you’re ready for the beach, it’s just a quick walk down a paved path to the sand. The beach area itself is wide and beautiful, with plenty of space to stretch out.
Between the playground, the views, and the easy access to the water, Veteran’s Park is a coastal classic that’s perfect for a full day of fun.
Hack: Spend some time exploring the famous Redondo Beach Pier, and if you like seafood then you are in for a treat. This place offers delicious seafood at the bottom pier!
Location: 309 Esplanade, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
PIC Credit: @pinterest
5 – Venice Beach Kids Playground
Description:
Venice Beach is known for its bohemian spirit, street performers, and colorful murals—but did you know it also features a fantastic kids’ playground right on the sand? Tucked just off the boardwalk, the Venice Beach Kids Playground is a welcome oasis for families visiting this lively part of the coast. With soft sand underfoot and modern play structures, it’s a great spot to let the kids run wild.
The playground includes swings, slides, and climbing equipment all set on the beach itself, giving kids the perfect combination of structured play and beachy freedom.
There’s even a shaded section for little ones who need a break from the sun. Parents will appreciate the convenience of being close to restrooms, food stands, and the boardwalk action, all while keeping an eye on the kids.
It’s an excellent pit stop during a day of exploring Venice. After some time on the swings, take a walk along the Ocean Front Walk, grab a smoothie, or check out the skate park nearby.
The whole area buzzes with energy and creativity, making this playground feel like a mini adventure within the greater Venice experience.
Location: 1/2 Ozone Ave, Venice, CA 90291
PIC Credit: @cityoflosangeles
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