One of the many attractions of Southern California is of course, its beaches. And with summer just getting started, going to the beach is a a daily occurrence for many. It’s amazing to me that even though I don’t live too far from the sandy shores, I definitely don’t go to the beach as often as I would like to–I plan on changing that.

Over the next several weeks, Travelin’ Local will be heading to the beach, several beaches in fact to provide both locals and non-locals alike various tips, tours, history, and facts that you will want to know about them to fully be able to have as much fun in the sun as possible while remaining “in the beach loop.”

Dockweiler State Beach is just one of the 30+ beaches that line the Los Angeles County coastline. Named in honor of Isidore B. Dockweiler, a native born Angeleno, who lived in LA when it had a population of less than 4,500 people. Dockweiler was the father of 14 children, practiced law for 58 years, held numerous political positions, and was characterized by Will Rogers as "the Democratic Party of California".

In 1955, in memorization of him and his family’s contributions to the public, the California State Parks Commission renamed a portion of the then Venice-Hyperion Beach State Park to the moniker, the Isidore B. Dockweiler Beach State Park, commonly known as Dockweiler Beach.

If you plan on visiting Dockweiler Beach, here are a few of the amenities you’ll find there:

Barbecue grills
Bike path/trails access
Bus stop nearby
Disabled facilities
Firepits
Fishing
Food and drink
Lifeguard on beach
Parking lot
Picnic facilities
Playground equipment
Restrooms
Showers
Stairs to beach
Street parking
Surfing
Swimming
Volleyball
Windsurfing

With its 3.7 miles of ocean frontage, and 255 acres of beach, it’s virtually impossible not to to find something to do at Dockweiler State Beach. It’s located at 12501 Vista Del Mar in Playa del Rey, just across the street from Los Angeles’ Ghost Town.

Dockweiler Beach is one of the few beaches in Los Angeles County that allows bonfires. Just be sure you use the firerings provided.

Because Dockweiler Beach is open daily from 6:00am-10:00pm, you can enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner while doing everything you have planned all on the beach.

Just bring your cooler and BBQ supplies, and you’ll be set. The majesty of the Ocean is right there for your permanent enjoyment.