Splish, Splash: Ultimate SoCal Beach Guide

500 Pacific Coast Highway, Huntington Beach, CA 92648 (map)

This welcome newcomer located just across the street from Huntington Beach offers a fun experience whether you're a hotel guest or not. Folks can stop by for a Mediterranean meal at Zimzala restaurant or simply hang out in the lounge or outdoor patio for a cool handcrafted cocktail.

3101 W Coast Hwy, Newport Beach, CA 92663 (map)

Who says you have to go to Venice (or Vegas) for a fun gondola experience? This local favorite is where a romantic party of two or a celebrating group of six can charter a 32-foot gondola to cruise of the Newport waterways. Even better, the entire ride is helmed by an appropriately dressed gondolier who might belt out a tune or two.

21100 Pacific Coast Hwy, Huntington Beach, CA 92648 (map)

Whether sitting inside the amber-hued main dining room or out on the poolside patio next to the fire pit, guests at this restaurant are treated to views of the Pacific Ocean. If you're looking for a real social scene, things pick up during the week with the after-work crowd and on weekends for the lavish brunch.

21700 to 22500 blocks of PCH, Huntington Beach, CA 92648 (map)

No one can say good-bye to summer without at least one trip to Surf City. The eight-mile stretch of beach beckons adventurers to tackle its famed shore, laidback town and surfable waves. And don't forget those famous bonfire pits right on the sand, perfect for warming up after the sun goes down.

23000 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265 (map)

This fun and casual retro-themed diner joins the Beachcomber Cafe and Malibu Pier Club at the end of the restored, historic Malibu Pier. Inside it's all chrome, Formica and shiny red booths, but the patio is the prime spot for fresh air and a spectacular vista. There's even fishing allowed outside, so bring a pail and some bait for an all-day affair.

17985 Pacific Coast Hwy, Pacific Palisades, CA 90272 (map)

Sure, the big Getty is up on the hill in Brentwood, but this gorgeous smaller property has got an even closer view of the ocean. (Okay, so technically it's located in the Palisades, but it feels like Malibu. The scuptures are spectacular, the gardens breathtaking, and the cafeteria-style outdoor dining area offers some of the best views around. (And the food is really good, too.)

28128 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265 (map)

This quintessential SoCal beach bar and restaurant has been around forever yet it's managed to stay the most popular 'Bu hangout year after year. (Just try stopping by on a weekend afternoon, and you'll see what we mean.) The menu is extensive, the scene is always hoppin' and it's the only restaurant in Malibu situated right on the sand with its own private beach. So grab a seat on one of the Adirondacks, dig your toes into the sand, throw back a few Coronas and get ready to relaaaaax.

1 Pico Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90405 (map)

A much more casual (and affordable) option to One Pico, this second restaurant located inside Shutters on the Beach is literally right on the Santa Monica boardwalk, making it the perfect spot for some pre- or post-prandial people-watching and ocean viewing.

1415 Ocean Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90401 (map)

If the prices at the Ivy leave you itching for a better deal, head over to the cozy front patio deck of this art deco hotel for some of the best views of the Santa Monica Pier ... and the food's not so bad either.

1906 Ocean Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90405 (map)

You'll swear you've been washed ashore at some seaside Caribbean shack--this local favorite dishes spicy fare like jerk chicken enchiladas, fried plantains and the most delicious agua frescas in town (try the watermelon, you won't be sorry).

1535 Ocean Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90401 (map)

Pink, mint green and Polynesian prints abound at this plush tropical paradise of $30 salads, $8 pineapple juice and lots of elbow-rubbing with the Westside's rich and hungry. Sure, it's pricey and sceney (in that rich old people sort of way) but that's kinda why it's kinda fun.

200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA 90401 (map)

Walk on water (or at least above it) at this family favorite that offers everything from roller coasters and carnival games to corn dogs, pizza, people-watching and oh yeh, stunning views of the Pacific.

1697 Pacific Ave, Venice Beach, CA 90291 (map)

Taking up residence where the old Best Western used to be, this surfy hotel is just a stone's throw from the beach. Onsite eatery Hash is great for gourmet treats but the rooftop lounge High is where you want to be--high above the Venice boardwalk, overlooking all the action alongside palm trees and gorgeous ocean views. Best of all, you don't have to be a hotel guest to enjoy the sights--just step right up, grab a drink and soak in the sun.

4375 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey, CA 90292 (map)

Sure, it's inside the Ritz, but this upscale Asian fusion find has a distinctly Marina sensibility--don't be surprised if the visiting suits and local boaters loosen their ties after a few cocktails and tasty starters.

4451 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey, CA 90292 (map)

It's business and pleasure at this recently revamped seafood favorite for gorgeous waterfront views, a lively bar scene, a cozy fireplace for those chilly nights and super fresh fish.

60 N Venice Blvd, Venice, CA 90291 (map)

There's a reason this slightly tattered, '80s-style restaurant/bar was featured in "I Love You, Man"--it's just a few blocks from the beach and the bar's martinis and laidback dining scene is too fun(ny) to pass up.

260 Portofino Way, Redondo Beach, CA 90277 (map)

Now that it's had a multimillion-dollar makeover, this marina-front property is a full-fledged destination for those staying the night and those who just want to stop by for a bite (Baleen restaurant is a real treat) or a few cocktails with friends.

120 Manhattan Beach Blvd, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 (map)

Long before its second (and much larger) location opened up downtown at L.A. Live, this beachside hangout was reeling in folks with its romantic, candlelit patio, potent drinks from the towering bar and an upstairs dining area for surf-and-turf feasting. And they're still doing it.

1221 N Valley Dr, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 (map)

This Manhattan Beach hotel might be a quiet little beachside getaway by day, but come Saturday night, the lobby's Zinc Lounge transorms into the wildest spot in town. (Think appletini-nursing cougars, gel-coiffed dudes and a DJ who knows how to keep the party going all night long.)