Choose from the pool, the splash pad, or the beach. Photo courtesy of the Annenberg Beach House

Beat the Heat with Outdoor Activities Like Cool Pools

Public pools dot our city, and there's probably one right near your home. However, for a special treat, these favorites are worth the drive.

1. Annenberg Beach House — Santa Monica

Why it’s great: This destination along the PCH in Santa Monica is a must-visit for those hot summer months. It's open to everyone; there's no membership required. There's a vintage pool, splash pad, playground, and indoor rec center. 
Tip: Save the splash pad for last so kids can wash off sand while splashing around.

2. Seaside Lagoon — Redondo Beach

Why it’s great: This pool is built right into the beach! With lifeguards on duty and a large sandy area for sunbathing, it's like the beach but even better.
Tip: Bring a bucket and shovel for kids as the sandy beach area is perfect for building castles next to the water.

3. Hansen Dam Aquatic Center — Lake View Terrace

Why it’s great: This pool is gargantuan! According to the city, it can fit 2,800 people. It has dual water slides, a zero-entry shore, and a sandy beach that surrounds the water.
Tip: Bring water shoes as the bottom can get sandy and they’ll protect little toes while digging or sliding

Splash & Play – The Best Splash Pads and Water Features in LA

Sure, we’ve got splash pads in every nook of the city; enough that we rounded up our favorite splash pads across Los Angeles in this guide. But if it’s a heat wave and you need a destination splash pad where you can spend the whole day, these are our picks:

4. Brand Park Wading Pool — Glendale

Why it's great: Shaded areas, adjacent library, easy parking, gentle fountains for toddlers
Tip: Pack a lunch and enjoy the shady picnic areas.

5 . Annenberg Beach House — Santa Monica

Why it’s great: This destination along the PCH in Santa Monica is a must-visit for those hot summer months. It's open to everyone; there's no membership required. There's a vintage pool, splash pad, playground, and indoor rec center.
Tip: Arrive early to secure a parking spot — there's not a lot of room for cars here.

6. Grand Park — DTLA

Why it's great: Families flock to Grand Park's large fountain on the northeast end of the park (by Grand Avenue). The bubbling fountains and water are the perfect place to cool off the soothing sounds of running water. 
Tip: Take Metro to avoid paying for parking in Downtown Los Angeles.

7. Tongva Park — Santa Monica

Why it’s great: This popular park in Santa Monica has a play area, a small splash pad, and a man-made stream that kids love. Plus, you can walk to both the beach and 3rd Street Promenade from this park.
Tip: Don't forget to bring shoes for your littlest splashers, because it can be a bit slippery.

8. Coldwater Canyon Park — Beverly Hills

Why it’s great: This park is super shaded and includes a man-made creek for kids to splash around.
Tip: Keep an eye out for celebrities bringing their tots to the park!

9. Rancho Tapo Community Park — Simi Valley

Why it’s great: Locals call it "Lemon Park" but don't be deceived, this park is no lemon. The splash pad operates daily with plenty of fun water features spraying in all directions. 
Tip: Bring a picnic to enjoy in the shade by the park's lake.

10. La Pintoresca Park — Pasadena

Why it’s great: La Pintoresca Park has a splash pad and shaded playground for kiddos to enjoy.
Tip: Make sure to bring plenty of sunscreen because the splash pad is out in the open.

11. Valleydale Park — Azusa

Why it’s great: The big draw of this park's splash pad is that it's shaded! The splash pad is surrounded by play structures so kids can go back and forth between the two areas with ease.
Tip: Plan your visit around the morning hours, because it can get very busy in the afternoons.

12. Alondra Park — Lawndale

Why it’s great: This park is pretty awesome, with a large splash pad, a full aquatics center, shaded picnic tables, playgrounds, and a pond with an island ripe for exploration.
Tip: During a heatwave, consider visiting before 12pm and after 4pm to enjoy the walking paths and lakes without overheating.

13. Virginia Avenue Park — Santa Monica

Why it’s great: The Pico neighborhood is home to Virginia Avenue Park, which includes a splash patio that's great for cooling off.
Tip: It's not great for the heat, but this park has a great skate park.

Stay Indoors – Free & Low-Cost Indoor Activities with A/C

Keeping kids cool and entertained in the summer can be expensive! Beat the heat without draining your bank account with these affordable summer destinations. 

14. The Getty Center — Brentwood

Why it's great: Cool architecture, misting fountains, kid-focused guides and gardens.
Tip: Take the tram up—kids love it. Bring snacks, but food is sold on site.

15. Bob Baker Marionette Theater — Highland Park

Why it's great: Historic, magical, and air-conditioned puppet shows and of course, ice cream!
Tip: Shows sell out fast in summer—book early.

16. LA Central Library's Children’s Room — Downtown

Why it's great: A/C, reading areas and often hosts story time or craft hours.
Tip: Use Metro to get there and avoid parking fees downtown.

17. Academy Museum of Motion Pictures — Miracle Mile

Why it’s great: Kids 17 and under get in free! Plus, parents only have to pay $25 a ticket for admission. 
Tip: Check out the mutoscopes, which are early film-making devices.  

Chill Eats – Kid-Friendly Places With Cold Treats & Cool Vibes

Sometimes all you need to beat the heat is a nice, cool snack. Here are our favorite ice cream and cool treats in Los Angeles.

18. Honeymee — Multiple Locations

Why it's great: Milk-based soft serve with honey drizzle = a cold & protein-rich treat.
Tip: Ask for half sweetness if your kids don’t love super-sweet.

19. The Original Farmers Market — Fairfax

Why it's great: Covered walkways, cold drinks and mini donuts or ice cream. 
Tip: Combine it with a visit to The Grove for a trolley ride.

20. Wanderlust Creamery — Pasadena, Venice, & Tarzana

Why it's great: Global flavors, A/C indoor seating. 
Tip: Indecisive kids can sample flavors before choosing.

Beat the Heat with Indoor Activities: "Cool" Museums in Los Angeles

Yes, pretty much all the museums in Los Angeles are air-conditioned, but these are our favorites for when it's too hot to play outside, and keeping kids enthralled and entertained is key.

21. Page Museum — Miracle Mile

Why it's great: The indoor, underground Page Museum is a cool place to hang out. You'll learn about the mammoth creatures that roamed prehistoric Southern California. 
Tip: Free lawn and tar pit areas outside even if you don’t go into the museum.

22. Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County — Exposition Park

Why it's great: There's nothing like a trip to see the dinosaur bones at NHM of LA County. Of course, the museum is so much more than prehistoric artifacts, with a gem room, animal dioramas, interactive exhibitions, and more!
Tip: If you want a little outside time, check out the nature gardens!

23. California Science Center — Exposition Park

Why it's great: While you're at NHM, why not stop by the California Science Center? Located right next door, admission to the museum is free (though some attractions, like the IMAX, have an admission fee). 
Tip: Pack lunch — café prices can add up. 

24. Cayton Children’s Museum — Santa Monica

Why it's great: Modern, well-air-conditioned, hours of entertainment, and in the middle of Santa Monica. What's not to love? 
Tip: After playing at the museum, head downstairs to the shops and food court at Santa Monica Place for some retail therapy and a snack.

25. The Autry Museum of the West — Griffith Park

Why it's great: Hop on a horse in air-conditioned splendor.
Tip: The Autry has a new family play space with fun toys and sweet, mellow activities. 

26. Noah's Ark at the Skirball — West LA

Why it's great: Yes, you want to see the rest of the exhibits at the Skirball, too, but the real draw for kids is the Ark. Play time in the ark is included with admission (which is free on Thursdays), but you must reserve timed tickets in advance. This one is worth an entire afternoon, I had to drag my kids out of here on our last visit. 
Tip: If it's not too hot, check out the outdoor play area.

27. Southern California Children’s Museum — Pasadena

Why it's great: If you have smaller children, SCCM is always a solid choice for a laid-back afternoon of play. The open space makes it easy to keep an eye on little ones as they explore the permanent and rotating installations.
Tip: Check the schedule because they have special events and programming throughout the week.

28. Discovery Cube — Sylmar and Santa Ana 

Why it's great: There are two Discovery Cube locations in the LA area, one up in the Valley and another along the I-5 in Orange County. Both museums feature unique, interactive exhibits that keep kids entertained for hours.
Tip: Research the rotating exhibits ahead of time to plan your visit.

RELATED: Free Things To Do with Kids in Los Angeles this Summer

 
Something both parents and kids can enjoy! Photo courtesy of The Grammy Museum

29. The Grammy Museum — DTLA

Why it's great: Music lovers will adore the Grammy Museum at LA Live. Exhibits will entertain children of all ages, no matter what style of music they like to rock out to! Children 17 years and under receive free admission to the museum. 
Tip: The "Sound Lab" is a must for a fun and hands-on experience!

30. The Broad — DTLA

Why it's great: See modern art in a cool, climate-controlled space. Even better, admission is free — just be sure to reserve ahead of time and avoid waiting in a long, outdoor stand-by line.
Tip: Bring a picnic and enjoy the lawn area right next to the museum.

31. Aquarium of the Pacific — Long Beach 

Why it's great: The Aquarium of the Pacific is a great place to beat the summer heat and scope out some incredible marine life. There's also an outdoor area with a splash pad to cool off, and kids will love waving at the penguins and gazing at the sharks. 
Tip: Don't miss the touch tanks!

RELATED: Los Angeles Restaurants Where Kids Can Play While Parents Eat

 
Kids play while you sip an iced latte. That's a good day. Photo courtesy of My Little Paris

Cool Things to do in Los Angeles: Indoor Play Spaces for Wee Ones

Los Angeles has loads of great indoor play spaces all over the city, but these are our favorites, which are worth the drive and so compelling that once there, kids will happily play all day.

32. My Little Paris Cafe & Play — San Gabriel

Why it's great: This play space allows parents to enjoy legitimately authentic French-inspired dishes while the kiddos frolic in the adjacent play area. That C'est magnifique.
Tip: Unlike most kids play places, the food here is actually excellent! Don't be afraid to order an entire meal.

33. Pretend City — Irvine

Why it's great: It's a bit of a drive from Los Angeles, but Pretend City is well worth the travel time. Not to mention, there's a mini Trader Joe's inside for the tiniest shoppers. 
Tip: Get there early because the opportunities for imaginative play are endless. You'll almost assuredly stay until closing time.

34. Wild Child Gym — Culver City

Why it's great: This unique indoor gym offers free play and classes and is a wonderful space for kids and parents alike. It's not one of the hectic and plastic-filled play spaces but rather minimalist and chill, perfectly placing it as one of the many cool things to do in Los Angeles. 
Tip: Dress your kids in comfy clothes so they can move around with ease! 

RELATED: Trending and Out-of-the-Box Activities for Kids in Los Angeles

 
Keep it cool indoors while racing. Photo courtesy of K1 Indoor Track

Cool Indoor Activities: Big Kid Indoor Play

Big kids like to play indoors, too! But when they age out of play spaces, what's a parent to do? Head to one of these cool spots for teens and tweens.

35. K1 Indoor Track — Burbank, Torrance, Irvine, & More Locations

Why it's great: This indoor track means no sunburns as you burn up the track.
Tip: For less confident kids, have them start on the slower go karts.

36. SkyZone Trampoline Parks — Multiple Locations

Why it's great: When you want to actually bounce off the walls, but not in your own home, these are the places to play. Kids can burn off all that energy in air-conditioned comfort, then sleep really well at night!
Tip: Make sure to bring grip socks.

37. Jump 'n Jammin — Arcadia, Oxnard and West Covina

Why it's great: With multi-level play structures, giant slides, obstacle courses, ball shooters, an exploding foam ball volcano, rock climbing, and so much more, kids can keep busy here all day.
Tip: While it's ideal for kids up to age 12, you can bring older siblings (up to 17 years old), and you'll love watching your big kids act young again.

38. Neon Retro Arcade — Pasadena

Why it's great: Today's tech-savvy kids still love playing the classics like Pac-Man, Donkey Kong, Frogger, and pinball. Time travel and experience the arcade of yesteryear at Neon Retro Arcade, where you can maybe even beat your kids at video games for once!
Tip: No need to bring quarters! All games are set to "free play." 

Stay Cool in the Best Escape Rooms in Los Angeles for Kids

Escape Rooms are a great way to get a whole gaggle of kids together indoors, away from video games and using a little brain power. Find the perfect one from our list for the ages and interests of your crew.

39. Hypnotic Escape Rooms — Van Nuys

Why it's great: The rooms are meticulously designed to give a very realistic appearance that teens will love.
Tip: While children under 14 may be permitted to participate, you need to call Hypnotic ahead of time.

40. Enchanted Escape Room — Northridge & North Hollywood

Why it's great: With two different locations, Enchanted Escape Room is suitable for children as young as 10 years old.
Tip: Make sure to arrive on time; guests who arrive late may be asked to wait for the next available room.

41. Back in Time Escape Rooms — East Torrance and Manhattan Beach

Why it's great: Back in Time Escape Rooms offer nine different rooms, giving kids lots of variety.
Tip: Kids under 6 are free!

Beat the Heat with Kids: The Best Virtual Reality Centers and Arcades in Los Angeles

VR spots have been popping up all over LA, and while there are certainly ample options for even little kids, it's the big kids who can spend hours and hours in virtual worlds, making this a hot weather escape that can last all day. Check out our list of the best VR spots in LA to find one for your teen or tween.

42. Los Virtuality — West Los Angeles

Why it's great: Multiple games ensure your kids will have more options than they can handle.
Tip: Many VR games here can be played by kids as young as six.

43. Player One VR World — Hollywood, Century City, Santa Monica

Why it's great: They have everything from horror games to family-friendly games.
Tip: Games at this VR center are for ages 10 and up. 

Cool Movie Theaters to Chill In

Sure, any movie theater is a respite from the heat in the summer, but these offer something extra special for families, making them a cool thing to do in Los Angeles. 

44. Regal Cinemas Summer Movie Express — Multiple locations

Why it’s great: You had me at $2 movies. 
Tip: Bring your own popcorn to keep it fun and cheap! 

45. El Capitan — Hollywood

Why it’s great: Smack in the middle of Hollywood, the El Capitan is much more than your usual movie-going experience.
Tip: Step off the Walk of Fame and into this Disney-owned experience. 

46. Regency Academy Cinemas — Pasadena

Why it’s great: Formerly a second-run theater, The Regency still has some of the lowest ticket prices in town.
Tip: While most of the snacks are regular movie theater prices, the hot dogs are only $1!

47. Alamo Drafthouse — DTLA

Why it’s great: This theater has made its name for serving food and drinks right at your seat—just don't be late because they won't seat you after the movie starts.
Tip: Keep an eye out for special promotions and menu items in partnership with new movies.

48. Cinépolis — Pico Rivera

Why it’s great: This Mexican movie theater chain is new to the area, though it's well-established in its home country.
Tip: This chain is known for its "Junior" theaters, which have a play area in front of the seating area! 

49. New Beverly Cinema — West Hollywood

Why it’s great: You might not think of a movie theater owned by Quentin Tarantino for kids' showings, but there are weekend "kiddie" screenings of old-school, family-friendly films.
Tip: Be sure to hit the snack bar for frozen Junior Mints, where prices are locked in at retro levels.

Spend "Spare" Time at the Bowling Alley

While bowling alleys are becoming fewer and further between, there are still plenty of opportunities to hit the lanes in Los Angeles. Whether you prefer modern alleys like Lucky Strike or traditional locations like Shatto 39, here are our favorites to beat the heat.

50. Pinz Bowling Center — Studio City

Why it’s great: The Pinz Bowling Center has a unique mid-century style, perfect for a bowling alley.
Tip: Blacklight bowling times are extra fun for kids!

51. Shatto 39 Lanes — Koreatown

Why it’s great: Shatto 39 Lanes in Koreatown is one of the few remaining classic alleys in Los Angeles, and the prices remain low, which makes it a perfect family spot.
Tip: Grab some of the country's best Korean BBQ while you're in K-Town!

52. Bowlero — Multiple locations

Why it’s great: Bowlero is a large chain with locations all across Southern California. In addition to bowling, there's an arcade to keep kids busy.
Tip: The chain offers summer promotions, making it even more enticing to beat the heat at the alley. 

53. Lucky Strike — Hollywood, DTLA, Beverly Hills and Mar Vista

Why it’s great: Lucky Strike has four locations in Southern California: one on Hollywood Blvd., another at LA Live in DTLA, one at the Beverly Center and one in Mar Vista. The arcade offers additional activities beyond bowling and the full bar is certainly a draw for the parents. 
Tip: Prices are higher here than at other lanes, but it's also a more upscale experience.

54. XLanes LA — Little Tokyo

Why it’s great: Little Tokyo's XLanes LA is over 50,000 square feet—plenty of room to relax and knock down pins.
Tip: After a few rounds, head to Daiso (in the same shopping center) for some back-to-school shopping. 

RELATED: Family-Friendly Bowling in Los Angeles for Birthday Parties or a Spare Afternoon

 
Skate the summer away. Photo courtesy of the Moonlight Rollerway Skating Center

Roller Rinks: Skating and Ice to Beat the Heat

55. Pickwick Ice — Burbank

Why it’s great: Pickwick Ice is a rink affiliated with the LA Kings.
Tip: There are daily public skating sessions and youth hockey leagues.

56. Fountain Valley Skating Center — Fountain Valley

Why it’s great: Orange County's Fountain Valley Skating Center has public roller skating sessions throughout the week. 
Tip: There are specific times for kids and toddlers to skate.

57. Holiday Skate Center — Orange

Why it’s great: In addition to public roller skating sessions, the Holiday Skate Center has a whole summer skate schedule. 
Tip: Look for daytime matinee skating sessions.

58. Moonlight Rollerway Skating Center — Glendale

Why it’s great: If Orange County is too far to drive for skating, then check out the Moonlight Rollerway Skating Center in Glendale.
Tip: There are skating sessions and classes throughout the week. 

59. Toyota Sports Performance Center — El Segundo

Why it’s great: One of several ice skating centers sponsored by the LA Kings, the Toyota Sports Performance Center is a sprawling complex.
Tip: There are daily free skate sessions available. 

60. Pasadena Ice Skating Center — Pasadena

Why it’s great: Pasadena's Ice Skating Center is another great place to catch a free skate.
Tip: If you have a summer birthday, you can rent the facility for a one-of-a-kind curling birthday!

RELATED: LA's Best Ice Cream and Frozen Treats

 
The shady Ferndell path wanders along to a stream before ending at a playground. Photo courtesy of @lacityparks

Play in the Shade at these Top Shaded Playgrounds

On the plus side, LA is almost always sunny. On the minus side, that means our playground equipment gets h-o-t. But not at these favorite shaded playgrounds.

61. Ferndell Playground — Griffith Park

Why it’s great: Combine it with the Ferndell trail which has shaded, flat, easy paths for little legs. 
Tip: If you work up an appetite, head to the nearby Trails Cafe.

62. York Boulevard Park — Highland Park

Why it’s great: Catch a show at the Bob Baker Marionette Theater across York Ave., grab an iced coffee from Café de Leche, and watch your kids frolic in this small, gated, shaded, wildlife-themed park.
Tip: Grab an iced coffee or hibiscus lemonade across the street at Cafe De Leche!

63. Garfield Park — South Pasadena

Why it’s great: South Pasadena's best park attracts families from all over the San Gabriel Valley. The playground is located at the bottom of a small valley and has plenty of trees to provide shade when the temperature rises. 
Tip: If there's not a party going on, grab a picnic table under the shaded gazebos.

64. Polliwog Park — Manhattan Beach

Why it’s great: One of the best parks in the LA area, Polliwog Park has tons of places kids can play and explore. The playground area is partially covered by canopies and the adjacent areas are well-shaded by trees.
Tip: Enjoy a picnic by the large ponds. 

65. South Park — Hermosa Beach

Why it’s great: At Hermosa Beach's South Park, large canopies stretch over much of the playground area. While not shaded, the large slides are a major draw for kids, and there's a butterfly garden just outside the park, along the bike path in Ardmore Park.
Tip: The Strand is only a few blocks west of South Park, bring skates or a bike to enjoy this famous path.

66. Roxbury Park — Beverly Hills

Why it’s great: Beverly Hills' urban park has plenty of shade to protect your kids from the sun in the summer. 
Tip: The large, grassy shaded area is a great place for a picnic. 

RELATED: Why You Should Stay on Property at One of the Legoland Hotels

 
Save time for the Legoland Water Park. Photo courtesy of the Legoland Water Park

Cool Things To Do in Los Angeles: Our Favorite Huge Water Parks

These giant water parks make for a fabulous summer treat.

67. Six Flags Hurricane Harbor — Santa Clarita

Why it’s great: When the weather is too hot to enjoy the coasters at Six Flags Magic Mountain, head to Hurricane Harbor. While the park may be known for its extreme water slides, there are attractions for the littles too: Castaway Cove and Splash Island both offer fun for the youngest kids.
Tip: Wear water-friendly shoewear to protect your feet as you walk between attractions.

68. Knott’s Soak City — Garden Grove

Why it’s great: Like Hurricane Harbor, Soak City is located right next to a traditional theme park—in this case, Knott's Berry Farm. There are plenty of attractions for everybody, from adrenaline junkies to scaredy-cats. 
Tip: Grab a lounge chair by the wave pool as soon as possible so you'll have a "home base" for the rest of the day.

69. Raging Waters — San Dimas

Why it’s great: Raging Waters is one of the original water parks in the Southern California area. There are attractions for kids of all ages, from moderate-intensity rides for kids and families to rides with big drops for the thrill-seekers in your family.
Tip: Hit the most popular rides early before the lines get too long!

70. Legoland Water Park — Carlsbad

Why it’s great: Build your summer fun by splashing around in the Legoland Water Park.
Tip: Legoland itself also has a few fountains for the kiddos to run through on a hot summer day if they aren't quite old enough yet for a full-on water park experience. 

71. Alpine Slide Big Bear — Big Bear

Why it’s great: Okay, this one is far, but you not only get to ride the amazing double water slide but also cool down with the wind in your hair at the Alpine Slide, which allows everyone in the family the chance to sled down a quarter-mile-long cement track. And the last way to cool down is a zip on the Soaring Eagle ride, which gives the sensation of flying while getting a bird’s eye view of Big Bear Lake — and getting those gorgeous lake breezes and mountain air.
Tip: Wear comfortable clothes and closed-toe shoes because the ride can be a bit bumpy! 

72. Sesame Place — Chula Vista 

Why it’s great: This one is also a bit of a drive, as Chula Vista is almost at the Mexican border, but the splash zones and slides at Sesame Place are so fun, it may be worth the trek. This half amusement park and half water park has kids running from the lazy river to a mild coaster and back again all day long. 
Tip: The Count's Splash Castle is a brand new water area for younger kids. 

RELATED: SoCal Theme Parks and Water Parks Guide

 
This might be the best water park in town! Photo courtesy of Buccaneer Cove

Our Favorite Local Smaller Water Parks

These water parks are more manageable with kids, and less expensive, too!

73. Buccaneer Cove at Castle Park — Riverside

Why it’s great: Buccaneer Cove is part of Castle Park in Riverside. This water park boasts four levels of family water play, five water slides, spray cannons, and spray fountains.
Tip: If you're feeling a little exclusive, you can rent a cabana at the park for an extra fee. 

74. DryTown Water Park — Palmdale

Why it’s great: Few places in the LA area that need a place to cool off more than the High Desert. Palmdale's DryTown Water Park is definitely one of the cool things to do in Los Angeles.
Tip: Arrive early to beat the hottest parts of the day.

75. DropZone Waterpark — Perris

Why it’s great: This water park has a variety of attractions, including a Hydroplane FlowRider, waterslides, a lazy river and plenty of splash pads and fountains for the little ones. 
Tip: While the temperatures in Perris aren't quite as elevated as in the High Desert, it can get pretty scorching! There are also volleyball courts and swimming pools.

76. Buccaneer Bay — La Mirada

Why it’s great: The park has a lazy river, three water slides, a play structure, a zero-entry pool, and two splash pads.
Tip: La Mirada's Buccaneer Bay is more than a municipal pool or splash pad, but not quite on the level of the major water parks. On the flip side, admission is much less expensive. 

77. Casitas Water Adventure — Ventura County 

Why it’s great: Float along a lazy river or splash in a giant water zone at this beloved little water park in Lake Casitas, which has recently gotten a facelift! 
Tip: Lifejackets are available for no extra charge. 

And of Course, There's the Beach

We live in LA, the home of the best beaches in the country (well, maybe Hawaii has a better claim to that title, but we'll take the continental US!). Whether you want to swim, surf, boogie board, watch for dolphins, or just walk and cool down in those ocean breezes, we've got the best beach for you and your family. Here are a few of our favorite kid-friendly beaches and hidden gem beaches.

78. Leo Carrillo State Beach — Malibu

Why it’s great: This beach is remote enough to not be all that busy, with great tide pools and even a dog-friendly portion of the beach.
Tip: Leo Carrillo is always a few degrees cooler than the city — consider escaping the heat and camping at the State Park across the PCH.

79. Carbon Beach — Malibu

Why it's great: This beach is a public access beach, meaning tit's definitely one of the best hidden gems in Southern California.
Tip: Don't park in any of the business parking lots around Carbon Beach — you'll return from the beach to find your car towed!

80. Little Corona Del Mar Beach — Corona Del Mar

Why it's great: It's a bit of a drive from Los Angeles, but Little Corona Del Mar Beach is great for swimming, exploring the tide pools or just relaxing and taking in sun.
Tip: The calm waves and clear waters make this a great beach for snorkeling.

81. Victoria Beach — Laguna Beach

Why it's great: Victoria Beach is extremely private, located at the base of bluffs along the PCH.
Tip: Check out the Pirate Tower, which was built in 1926!

Stay Cool at Home – Low-Cost Hacks for Heat Wave Days

Check out our guide to water games you can play all summer long, fun indoor crafts and boredom busters for teens.

• DIY Backyard Car Wash: Grab sponges and water toys to wash bikes, scooters, or ride-ons.
• Frozen Toy Dig: Freeze small plastic toys in Tupperware—kids “excavate” with water.
• Fan + Ice = Homemade A/C: Set up a box fan with a frozen gallon jug of water in front.
• Cooling Towels: Wet and freeze small towels for neck wraps are a reusable and effective way to beat the heat.

Pro Parent Tips for Keeping Kids Safe in the Heat

• Avoid outdoor activity between 12–4pm
• Hydration tip: Freeze water bottles halfway and top off for cold all day
• Dress kids in light-colored, loose clothing
• Look for shady parks or parks that have a water feature
• Check car seats before loading kids — buckles can burn!

FAQ – Heat Wave Tips for Parents in LA

Q: What’s the best time of day to go out during a heat wave in LA?
A: It's recommended that you limit outdoor playtime to before 10am or after 5pm. Many parks and splash pads open early.

Q: Are there any free public indoor play spaces?
A: Yes – public libraries, some community centers, and select mall play areas like Westfield Century City, The Shops at Santa Anita and Baldwin Hills Crenshaw Plaza offer indoor play areas.

Q: Can you get heat stroke indoors?
A: Yes, especially in homes with poor ventilation. Use fans and keep curtains closed during peak sun hours.