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Beaches That Welcome the Whole Family

Where to Find Sun, Surf, and Swings

kid-friendly beaches!

The stretch of unseasonably warm weather has given us an early case of spring fever. The only cure: a family beach day. Here are three seaside spots that combine sun, surf, and swings.

Mother’s Beach
This aptly named slice of seaboard sits on a man-made lagoon along the harbor, offering serene swimming in the calm waters of a lifeguard-protected haven. The four-acre marine park hosts a playground-on-the-sand with swings and slides, sheltered picnic tables, and a clear view of sailboats silhouetted in the afternoon sun. Heaven. 4101 Admiralty Way, at Via Marina, Marina del Rey.

Zuma Beach
The fabled waves of this legendary shore have long conjured images of surf punks protecting their turf. The reality? All California kiddos are welcome at this Malibu beach. With swings, volleyball courts, and a rock-climbing wall tucked into the south end, this is one stretch of sand calling for a family day out. 30650 Pacific Coast Highway, between Trancas Canyon Road and Guernsey Avenue, Malibu.

Ocean Park
Though the Santa Monica Pier is the go-to destination for an old-fashioned carnival with older kids, just a mile away you’ll find the tot-friendly plaza of your parental dreams. Locals know the Ocean Park playground presents two ocean-view toddler play areas, three swing sets, and access to the famed boardwalk bike path. A nearby snack bar and restrooms are just icing on the melting cake. 2400 Barnard Way, at Ocean Park Boulevard.

this week in los angeles!

GRUB
Lucifers Pizza Kids’ Deal

What: The Los Feliz pizza joint offers a monthlong deal on its crazy kid-friendly combos — just make sure to choose “one chili” from the infamous spice-level system.
Why: Every kid loves a pizza party.
When: Daily, noon-10 p.m.
Where: 1958 Hillhurst Ave., b/t Finley & Carissa Aves. (323-906-8603). Mention DailyCandy to save 20 percent on individual pizzas.

INVESTIGATE
Westridge School Summer Opportunities Fair

What: Representatives from more than 100 local, national, and international programs (including day camps, community service programs, travel groups, schools, and more) help you and the kiddos decide how to spend June, July, and August.
Why: Make sure summer’s no bummer.
When: Sat., 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Where: Westridge School, 324 Madeline Dr., at Orange Grove Blvd. (626-799-1153). Admission is free.

CANTAR
Sandra Sandia Concert

What: The award-winning samba musician entertains with dreamy Spanish language ditties from her new album.
Why: With lyrics like “queiro mas chocolate!” the kids’ll be bilingual in no time.
When: Sun., 11 a.m.
Where: McCabe’s Guitar Shop, 3101 Pico Blvd., at 31st St. (310-828-4497). Tickets online at mccabes.com. Adults and children, $8; under 2, free.

Photo: BenSpark / Flickr

Location
Westridge School
324 Madeline Dr
@ Orange Grove Blvd
Pasadena, CA 91105
626-799-1153
4101 Admiralty Way
@ Via Marina
Marina del Rey, CA 90292
Lucifers Pizza
1958 N Hillhurst Ave
bt Finley & Carissa Aves
Los Angeles, CA 90027
323-906-8603
30650 Pacific Coast Hwy
bt Trancas Canyon Rd & Guernsey Ave
Malibu, CA 90265
2400 Barnard Way
@ Ocean Park Blvd
Santa Monica, CA 90405
McCabe's Guitar Shop
3101 Pico Blvd
@ 31st St
Santa Monica, CA 90405
310-828-4497
MAP IT!