RAT Beach
Torrance, CA
The name is local shorthand for Torrance, and this stretch of the South Bay is where the neighborhood's surfers and paddleboarders actually show up, well away from the crowds at more famous breaks nearby. A paved path runs along the bluff above for walkers and cyclists.
Early morning is when the water is glassiest for paddleboarding, before the wind picks up.
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.