In Los Angeles, it’s beach weather all year-round. But in January you don’t have to compete with nearly as many people for prime towel spots. All L.A.-area beaches are managed by the California State Parks Department, sometimes in cooperation with county or city governments.

Santa Monica

Santa Monica State Beach celebrates America’s love affair with the ocean-theme park combination. The 3.5-mile long stretch of sand starts just north of the iconic Santa Monica Pier, with its aquarium, arcade games and an old-fashioned roller coaster and Ferris wheel. Multiple pay parking lots available. 380 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica.

Zuma

When people think of a classic California beach, they might be imagining the 3-mile-long Zuma Beach in Malibu, and perhaps that’s because a lot of the original “Baywatch” TV series was shot here. But it’s also a favorite spot for surfers, as well as families, sunbathers and anglers. There’s a parking lot and street parking. 30000 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu.

El Matador

If you arrive early or stay late, the romantic El Matador is a great place to catch a memorable dawn or sunset. Ten miles north of Malibu and part of Robert H. Meyer Memorial State Beach, El Matador is only accessible via a steep gravel path, but the reward is a lovely stretch of sand where you can enjoy a sense of privacy amid rock arches and hidden coves. Parking is available in a self-pay lot or on the highway.

Leo Carrillo

Farther up the Pacific Coast Highway, Leo Carrillo State Park offers the best of beach-combing worlds: a generous stretch of sand, mellow waves for longboarders, tide pools, reefs and coastal caves for nature lovers, and backcountry for serious hikers. There’s also an on-site campground, RV lot and token-operated showers. Parking is available for up to $12 a day. 35000 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu.