Dockweiler State Beach

Dockweiler State Beach, located at 12000 Vista del Mar, Playa del Rey, CA, is just north of El Segundo. The three-mile long black sandy beach is directly west of the Los Angeles International Airport and one of the most visited beach in California.

Since the beach is beneath the takeoff path for the airport, it is by no means a quiet place, but it is one of the few beaches in the county that allow bonfires. Other beach activities include: swimming, surfing, volleyball, a playground, fishing off the north end jetties, paths for walking and biking, as well a hang-gliding lessons and bicycle and skate rentals.

Dockweiler State Beach provides lifeguards during the daylight hours, picnic areas, food, restrooms, showers, a nearby RV park and a parking lot.

Between the beach and airport, visitors can see the remains of Palisades del Rey, now a ghost town. Originally called Surfridge, the community of 822 homes was acquired by the City of Los Angeles through eminent domain purchases due to the proximity to the airport. The area was destroyed and is now fenced in and off-limits to the public. It currently serves as protected habitat for the endangered El Segundo Blue Butterfly.