El Porto Beach
Manhattan Beach, CA
El Porto is the north end of Manhattan Beach's sand, reached by a steep set of stairs down from the bluff, and it draws a distinct surf crowd from the rest of the city's beach. The shorebreak here runs stronger than the more sheltered stretches south of it, which is exactly why regulars prefer it.
A real surfer's beach with a punchier break than its neighbors, the steep stairs alone keep the casual crowd away.
How we score beachesThe shorebreak has real punch, it's a better bet for experienced surfers and bodyboarders than for a casual first swim.
Limited street parking at the top of the stairs; a small fee lot serves the immediate area.
A steep stairway is the only way down from the bluff, no ramp access.
Dogs are not allowed on the sand at El Porto Beach, though leashed dogs can use the adjacent coastal bike path.
The stronger shorebreak holds up better through the flatter summer months than gentler South Bay beaches, part of why surfers favor it.
More Pacific Coast beaches
Zuma Beach
Malibu, CA · Pacific Coast
A wide stretch of sand backed by the Santa Monica Mountains, with reliable swells that draw surfers year-round and plenty of room to spread out even on busy weekends.
Huntington City Beach
Huntington Beach, CA · Pacific Coast
Known as Surf City USA, with a mile-long municipal pier, consistent breaks for surfers of every level, and a laid-back boardwalk scene along Pacific Coast Highway.
Main Beach
Laguna Beach, CA · Pacific Coast
Tucked between rocky headlands, with tidepools to explore at low tide, calmer coves for swimming, and an arts-town backdrop of galleries and cafes just steps from the sand.