10 Beaches Near U.S. West Coast Airports
On an aviation social media forum, someone asked:
“Easily accessible from airport (US) west coast beach??? Only have 24 hours and a budget”
And here are ten easily accessible beach destinations from major U.S West Coast airports, complete with Google Maps links and public transportation options where available:
Beaches Near John Wayne Airport (SNA)
1. Huntington Beach, California
Airport: John Wayne Airport (SNA)
Distance: About 12 miles from SNA
Highlights:
– Surf City USA with a lively boardwalk
– Affordable beachfront hotels
– Vibrant local dining scene
– Public transportation: OCTA Bus Route 76 from SNA
Additional Information: Huntington Beach Tourism Board
Directions: Google Maps
Need a Hotel In SNA?
2. Laguna Beach, California
Airport: John Wayne Airport (SNA)
Distance: About 16 miles from SNA
Highlights:
– Beautiful coves and tide pools
– Art galleries and festivals
– Plenty of budget dining options
– Public transportation: OCTA Buses from SNA
Additional Information: Visit Laguna Beach
Directions: Google Maps
Long Beach Airport (LGB)
3. Seal Beach, California
Airport: Long Beach Airport (LGB)
Distance: Approximately 8 miles from LGB
Highlights:
– Quaint, small-town atmosphere
– Seal Beach Pier
– Local shops and affordable dining options
– Public transportation: Long Beach Transit Bus from LGB
Additional Information: City of Seal Beach
Directions: Google Maps
Need A Hotel In Long Beach?
Los Angeles International (LAX)
4. Santa Monica, California
Airport: Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
Distance: Approximately 10 miles from LAX
Highlights:
– Iconic Santa Monica Pier
– Beautiful sandy beaches
– Plenty of budget-friendly dining options
– Public transportation: Metro Bus Line 3 or Rapid 3 from LAX
Additional Information: Santa Monica Beach
Directions: Google Maps
Need A Hotel Near LAX?
5. Venice Beach, California
Airport: Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
Distance: Approximately 8 miles from LAX
Highlights:
– Famous boardwalk with street performers
– Muscle Beach
– Eclectic shops and affordable dining
– Public transportation: Metro Bus Line 3 and Rapid 3 from LAX
Additional Information: Venice Beach
Directions: Google Maps
San Diego International Airport (SAN)
6. Coronado Beach, California
Airport: San Diego International Airport (SAN)
Distance: Approximately 9 miles from SAN
Highlights:
– Beautiful wide beach with stunning views
– Historic Hotel del Coronado
– Numerous casual dining spots and cafes
– Public transportation: MTS Bus Route 992/901 from SAN to Coronado
Additional Information: Coronado Beach
Directions: Google Maps
Need A Hotel Near SAN?
7. Mission Beach, California
Airport: San Diego International Airport (SAN)
Distance: Approximately 7 miles from SAN
Highlights:
– Belmont Park amusement park
– Long boardwalk for biking and skating
– Variety of budget-friendly eateries
– Public transportation: MTS Bus Route 923 from SAN to Mission Beach
Additional Information: San Diego Tourism
Directions: Google Maps
8. Ocean Beach, California
Airport: San Diego International Airport (SAN)
Distance: Approximately 5 miles from SAN
Highlights:
– Laid-back, bohemian vibe
– OB Pier and tide pools
– Variety of budget-friendly dining options
– Public transportation: MTS Bus Route 992 to the Blue Line to the 35 from SAN to Ocean Beach
Additional Information: Ocean Beach
Directions: Google Maps
9. Pacific Beach, California
Airport: San Diego International Airport (SAN)
Distance: Approximately 8 miles from SAN
Highlights:
– Vibrant nightlife and casual eateries
– Long boardwalk for biking and walking
– Surf-friendly beaches
– Public transportation: MTS Bus/Tram from SAN to Pacific Beach
Additional Information: Pacific Beach
Directions: Google Maps
Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA)
10. Alki Beach, Seattle, Washington
Airport: Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA)
Distance: About 14 miles from SEA
Highlights:
– Scenic views of Puget Sound and the Seattle skyline
– Quaint beach town atmosphere
– Affordable eateries and coffee shops
– Public transportation: Link Light Rail to Downtown, then Water Taxi to Alki Beach
Additional Information: Alki Beach Park
Directions: Google Maps
Need A Hotel Near SEA?
These destinations are not only accessible from major airports but also offer a range of budget-friendly options to make the most of your 24-hour beach getaway.

