Best Beaches for Surfing Near Hollywood CA

You can leave the Walk of Fame after breakfast and still be catching waves before noon. That is one of the best parts about staying in Hollywood. Whether you are learning to stand on a board for the first time or looking for cleaner, more challenging waves, there are plenty of easy day-trip options along the coast.

If you are searching for the best beaches for surfing near Hollywood, CA, these local favorites offer different wave styles, beach vibes, and skill levels.

Santa Monica Beach

• From Hollywood: About 35 to 45 minutes
• Recommended for: Beginners and casual surfers

Santa Monica Beach is one of the most accessible surf spots from Hollywood, especially via the 10 West from Hollywood Boulevard. The waves here are usually mellow, making it ideal for beginners and casual surfers. Surf schools and rental shops near the pier make it easy if you do not have your own gear. The beach has an energetic atmosphere. After surfing, most people walk over to the Santa Monica Pier, grab tacos near Ocean Avenue, or bike along the Strand. Parking can fill quickly by late morning, especially on weekends, so getting there early is usually better and less crowded.

Manhattan Beach

• From Hollywood: About 45 minutes to 1 hour
• Recommended for: Beginners to intermediate surfers

After a morning around Hollywood Walk of Fame, a lot of people head south to Manhattan Beach for steadier waves and a more relaxed coastal vibe. The surf here is consistent, working well for intermediate surfers while still offering beginner-friendly areas near the pier. What makes Manhattan Beach stand out is its walkable downtown right next to the sand, filled with coffee shops, brunch spots, and boutique stores that make it easy to stay all day. The pier also gives great views of surfers throughout the day, especially at sunset. Locals usually come here in the morning to surf since winds are calmer, and if you stay longer, parking fees can start to add up.

Will Rogers State Beach

• From Hollywood: About 30 to 40 minutes
• Recommended for: Beginners

Will Rogers State Beach is often quieter than nearby beaches, which is exactly why locals prefer it. Located along the scenic Pacific Coast Highway, it offers gentler waves that are great for practicing balance, paddling, and basic surf skills. The wide shoreline, easier parking, and calmer setting make it a good choice for families or first-time surfers. Many travelers also extend their trip with a coastal bike ride or simply enjoy views stretching toward Malibu. It is one of the more relaxed choices among the best beaches for surfing near Hollywood, CA.

Topanga Beach

• From Hollywood: About 40 to 50 minutes
• Recommended for: Experienced surfers

After spending time around the Hollywood Sign, surfers looking for a more classic California surf setting often head toward Topanga Beach along the coast. Compared to the larger city beaches closer to Hollywood, Topanga feels more rugged and less commercial, with canyon scenery, coastal cliffs, and smaller local cafes nearby creating a quieter beach setting. The beach is especially known for its right-hand point break, which attracts experienced surfers searching for cleaner rides and stronger waves. Most visitors arrive early to catch better surf conditions before it gets crowded and to avoid parking difficulty later in the day.

Malibu Surfrider Beach

• From Hollywood: About 45 minutes to 1 hour
• Recommended for: Intermediate to advanced surfers

Malibu Surfrider Beach is one of California’s most iconic surf destinations. Located next to Malibu Pier, it is known for long, smooth waves that attract surfers from around the world. The area feels upscale but relaxed, with oceanfront restaurants, scenic views, and steady surf activity near the pier. If you want fewer crowds, come on weekday mornings since weekends can get busy both in the water and in parking areas, where rates are usually higher during peak hours.

Plan Your Surf Escape From Hollywood

One of the best parts about staying near the Hollywood Sign is how easily you can swap city streets for ocean waves. From beginner-friendly beaches like Santa Monica and Will Rogers to more advanced surf spots in Malibu and Topanga, there is a surf spot for every skill level and travel style.

If you want to continue exploring Southern California’s beach lifestyle after your surf trip, take time to experience the surf culture at Venice Beach before heading back toward Hollywood for the evening.