As a parent we aim to re-create for our kids fond memories we had in childhood. For me, time spent at Mother's Beach (a tiny tucked away location off the coast of Long Beach) is one of those memories. I remember many summers swimming along the shallow shores and building sandcastles with my mom (and friends) watching closely from under a beach umbrella. I'm already dreaming of our summer days along the sand. Here are a few family favorite Southern California coastal locations:
Mother's Beach (Marine Park, Long Beach)Appian Way below 2nd Street
562.570.3100
Best Features: Set in the marina the only waves come from the wake of a passing boat so there are no worries of big waves taking your toddler in the undertow. There is lots of shade and picnic benches as well as an amazing playground. Lifeguards staff during peak periods and little ones can watch rowing crews and outrigger paddlers from the shore.
Parking/Entrance: Meter lot close to the water and playground. Fairly inexpensive to park, but don't forget the quarters.
Mom Tip: Be sure to pack a lunch and plenty of snacks...there is a snack bar at one end, but not a walk you want to make with several kids in tow and there are no other eating establishments within walking distance.
Mother's Beach (Marina del Rey)
4101 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey
Best Features: Swimming (no surf), children's playground with a pirate ship, picnic tables, windsurfing, kayaking, restaurants, hotels, restrooms. Lifeguards on the beach during daylight hours.
Parking/Entrance: Beach is at the corner of Admiralty and Palawan Way. Ample public parking is available.
Mom Tip: The beach is a boarding location for the Marina del Rey Waterbus (only $1 a ride). *This cost has not verified.
Bolsa Chica State Beach
Pacific Coast Highway from Seapoint Avenue north to Warner Avenue
Best Features: Cleaner and less crowded than Huntington beach this spot is a great one for collecting seashells. The parking is a lot closer to the water than other Orange County beaches and if you have an RV you can even turn your trip into a mini vacation (campsites available - no tent camping). Enjoy biking, restrooms, showers, picnic tables and fire rings.
Parking/Entrance: State Beach parking fees apply in lot
Mom Tip: The fire rings get occupied early so if you were thinking of a bonfire plan to spend all day securing the pit.
Santa Monica (Pier and Park)
200 Santa Monica Pier, Suite A
Best Features: Pier open 24 hours a day, and it's the only pier with an amusent park (Pacific Park). Kids can play games, ride the coaster, carousel, take part in trapeze school in addition to enjoying the beach. There are several restaurants.
Parking/Entrance: Their are eight beach parking lots north of Santa Monica Pier along PCH, parking fees will apply. Easy pedestrian access at the end of Colorado Blvd., a ramp leads to the Pier and steps descend to the beach. North of the pier four pedestrian bridges arch over PCH connecting Palisades Park to the beach at Montana Ave, Idaho St. Arizona Ave. and Broadway Ave.
Mom Tip: The Santa Monica Pier Aquarium is hidden under the ramp of the pier. A fun and educational stop and kids under 12 are free.
Buccaneer Beach (Oceanside)
Pacific Street (half a mile from Cassidy Street)
Best Features: Oceanside's smallest and most southern public beach. It's close to private homes so most of the visitors are locals. Across the street is Buccaneer Beach Park with a shaded picnic area, barbeque grills and restrooms. There is also a nearby lagoon and oceanfront basketball courts.
Parking/ Entrance: Free parking in Buccaneer Pier parking lot, walk-in entrance to beach is right across the street from the Buccaneer Cafe.
Mom Tip: One lifeguard tower. Closed to surfers in the summer.
