parks - state -  beaches

DOCKWEILER BEACH

At the perimeter of Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) along the flight path of departing jets lies a wide, sandy beach stretching approximately three miles between El Segundo and Playa del Rey. Located near the western terminus of Imperial Highway along Vista del Mar Boulevard, the state operated Dockweiler Beach is one of the busiest and most visited in California. It is incredible for two reasons. 

First, it's amazing that a beach this size is located so close to an international airport. You can actually arrive at LAX and be on the beach, enjoying the sun and sand within 15 minutes! Especially interesting, however, is the sound of jets overhead. The noise is so loud that it is almost comical. For those who envision the quiet beaches seen on television programs, be prepared for a slightly different experience. Those who explore nearby L.A. between connecting flights will find the roar of jets occurs like clockwork and drowns out the sounds of nearly everything else at Dockweiler Beach. After an hour or two at the beach, you eventually adjust to the phenomenon and it becomes less noticeable. Some nearby residents report that they learn to selectively block out the sounds.

Aside from jet noise, Dockweiler Beach offers nearly everything you could want. There's lots of sand, volleyball nets and a paved cement path which stretches from Redondo Beach on the south end to Santa Monica on the north. It is ideal for bicycling, roller blading and jogging. The beach also includes a picnic area, restrooms, a playground, fire rings for beach barbecues and fishing opportunities at the jetties on the north end of the beach.  Swimming and surfing are popular here, as well. 

Dockweiler Beach has a large public parking lot which charges by the day and for those willing to walk, there's limited free parking on the hill above the beach for the few who arrive early. Dockweiler Beach Phone: 310-305-9545 RV Park Phone: 310-322-7036