Mother's Beach: A Family-Friendly Haven in Marina del Rey
A calm, family-friendly beach in Marina del Rey with gentle waters, playgrounds, and picnic spots for a perfect day of fun in the sun.
Nestled in the heart of Marina del Rey, California, Mother's Beach, officially named Marina Beach, is a beloved destination renowned for its tranquil waters and family-oriented atmosphere. This unique lagoon, shielded from the ocean's surf, provides an ideal environment for children to play and swim without the worry of crashing waves. Developed as part of the Marina del Rey project in 1957 and officially dedicated in 1965, Mother's Beach has a rich history. The area was once a tidal estuary before being transformed into the largest man-made small-craft harbor in North America. Today, the beach spans almost a half-mile, offering ample space for various activities. Mother's Beach offers a variety of amenities, including volleyball courts, picnic areas with barbecue grills, showers, and restrooms. The playground is a major attraction for families with young children, featuring slides, swings, and climbing structures. The calm waters of the lagoon are perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding. Rentals are often available nearby. Windsurfing is another popular activity. Recent improvements have made Mother's Beach an even more inviting space for families and visitors. These include a modern restroom building, picnic shelters, barbecue grills, a promenade, and a beach access mat. Phase 2 of the improvements, which began in January 2025, will continue to enhance the beach experience for visitors of all ages and abilities.
Local tips
- Arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure parking and a good spot on the beach.
- Bring your own food, blankets, and beach chairs for a comfortable day at the beach.
- Consider kayaking or paddleboarding in the calm lagoon waters.
- Check water quality conditions with lifeguards, especially after heavy rain.
A brief summary to Mothers Beach
- 4101 Admiralty Way, Marina Del Rey, California, 90292, US
- +1424-526-7777
Getting There
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Public Transport
Several bus lines serve the area near Mother's Beach. The closest bus stops are Via Marina & Admiralty Way (Northbound), Via Marina SB & Admiralty Ns, and Via Marina / Admiralty, all within a short walking distance of the beach. Bus lines 1, 108, and 18 stop near Mother's Beach. A single fare for the Metro bus is $2. Consider using the free Beach Shuttle that runs during the summer, connecting Mother's Beach with other key locations in Marina del Rey and Venice.
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Walking
Mother's Beach is easily accessible on foot from many nearby hotels and attractions in Marina del Rey. If you are near Fisherman's Village or Burton Chace Park, follow the waterfront promenade along Admiralty Way to reach the beach. The walk offers scenic views of the marina and its many boats.
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Taxi/Ride-share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Marina del Rey. A short ride from a nearby location, such as Fisherman's Village, to Mother's Beach typically costs around $10-$15, depending on traffic and demand. Be sure to confirm the fare before you start your trip.
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Parking
Parking is available near Mother's Beach, but it can be limited, especially during peak season. There is no on-site parking. The closest parking is located at 533 Washington Boulevard, Marina del Rey. Parking costs $5 between 9 AM and 6 PM, and $2 before 9 AM and after 6 PM. Free parking can be found at 545 Washington Boulevard, Marina Del Rey. Arrive early to secure a spot.
