Before moving to California, I probably got to the beach once a year on a family vacation and just couldn't get enough of it. So moving here and living right up the street from this gorgeous southern California coast has added up to our fair share of beach days all year long. And since we have lived in a couple different spots up the coast, we have gotten to know some different beach spots which is great because there is so much here in LA. I think everyone can find what they are looking for with all of the different California beaches here. I have also learned a thing or two by taking my two kids to the beach all the time and even though it's a lot of work, it is so worth it because I think the surf and sand makes for a great playground for kids. A few tips I think are important are that you can never be too prepared! Pack lots of water and snacks, a dry change of clothes for after, some baby powder to get the sand off with, an umbrella for shade, something to sit on, and apply sunscreen on before you get to the beach so you don't have to deal with rubbing sand in. But most importantly, you need a great swimsuit! I love finding cute swimsuits that are unique so not everyone at the beach will have it and something that you feel comfortable in. These Kortni Jeane swimmers are just that! With the cutest patterns and colors around, these swimsuits had me all heart eyes for them the first time I saw them. The high-waisted bottoms are my favorite look right now and I love that you have the convenience of a two-piece but all the coverage you need. My little girl had one last year and everyone always asked me where she got it. They really are the best, so check them out for the cutest designs for your beach days this summer. And see below for a list of the best beaches in the Los Angeles area and the best beaches for kids.

| BEST BEACHES IN LA |

el matador beach in malibu

[this is a gorgeous spot to have a picnic on the beach and watch the sunset. lots of people get family pictures here because the huge rocks create beautiful photo spots]

surfrider beach in malibu

[this is the place to get your board out and surf. great waves here and great views. you can grab some yummy food on the pier too at Malibu Farm. and if you just want to relax on the beach here, Paradise Cove is a great spot]

santa monica beach pier

[this is a fun spot to visit if you're on vacation because there is lots to do on the pier and the stretch of sand is huge. muscle beach is here with a perfect beach path for bikes, rollerblades, or walks, but just to warn you it can get crowded here. you can also check out Will Rogers just a little north of here]

mothers beach in marina del rey

[this is a great secluded spot for paddle boarding or kayaking and has a small wading pool area for kids with a play ground]

el porto at manhattan beach

[a great spot to surf and bring the kids for a beach day. the manhattan beach pier is a beautiful spot with lots of good restaurants up the street and darling houses on the strand]

hermosa beach

[this is a fun hipster beach spot with a cute beach town feel. lots of volleyball nets here and the beach path that goes all the way up the coast for 22 miles- it starts in redondo beach]

cabrillo beach

[this is the furthest south beach in the south bay and is in a tranquil setting near San Pedro. this has two sides that make it great for surfing or hanging at the beach with the family with lots of things to do near by]