Beach & Entry
Surface, sand, water entry and bottom
Surface Type
Main surface type
sand
Sand Color
Main sand colour
golden
Water Entry
How steep the drop-off is
gentle
Shallow Distance
Metres to waist-deep water
25 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
sand
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
not needed
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
2 800 m
Frequently asked questions
Will Rogers State Beach: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — turquoise, clarity high, average temperature +17.0°C, warms up to +20.0°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
Will Rogers State Beach: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — moderate. Average wave height — 0.8 m.
Will Rogers State Beach: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — gentle. The shallow area extends for 25 metres from the shore. Bottom — sand. Special shoes are not required — the water entry is comfortable. The gentle slope is safe for children and inexperienced swimmers.
Will Rogers State Beach: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — golden. Texture — fine. Beach length — 2 800 metres.
Will Rogers State Beach: when is the swimming season?
The swimming season starts in June. It ends in October. The best month for a holiday is August. This is when the water is warmest and the weather is most comfortable.
Will Rogers State Beach: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as good. Rip currents are likely — swim only in designated areas. Jellyfish risk — low. Shark risk — low. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
Will Rogers State Beach: which dangerous creatures live in the water?
The water contains: sharks. We recommend wearing protective footwear, not touching marine life and taking care when entering the water.
Will Rogers State Beach: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: showers, toilets, changing rooms, parking, kids playground, sports ground. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
Will Rogers State Beach: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
Lifeguards are on duty on the beach — an important safety factor. A first aid station is available.
Will Rogers State Beach: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: Gladstone-s, The Hungry Cat, Sam-s By the Beach. Cuisines available: Seafood, American, Mediterranean. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Will Rogers State Beach: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Water, Headwear, Towel, Swimsuit, Cash, First aid kit, Wetsuit.
Will Rogers State Beach: when is the best time to swim?
The best time to swim is in the morning when the water is calmer and fewer people are around. In summer, the water warms up to 20°C.
Will Rogers State Beach: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Littering on the beach is prohibited. Dogs are not allowed on the beach.
Will Rogers State Beach: what activities are available?
The beach offers: surfing, kayaking and SUP. See the "Activities" section above for details.
Will Rogers State Beach: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for families with children, surfers and active recreation enthusiasts. Not suitable for those seeking warm water and solitude.
Will Rogers State Beach: what makes this beach unique?
The beach is named after Will Rogers, a famous actor and philosopher of the 1930s. Many films and TV shows were filmed on the beach, including "Baywatch". The section south of the Pacific Coast Highway and Entrada Drive intersection is unofficially known as "Ginger Rogers Beach" and is popular within the LGBT community.
Will Rogers State Beach: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: Wide sandy beach stretching almost 2 miles, Clean water and scenic views of Santa Monica Bay, Developed infrastructure: lifeguards, toilets, showers, parking, Volleyball courts, gymnastic equipment, playground, 19-mile bike path along the coast, Less crowded than neighbouring beaches, Popular spot for surfing, swimming and picnics. Cons: Water can be cool (17-20°C), Paid parking ($15 per day), Can be crowded on weekends, Rocky patches on the seabed in some areas, Noise from the nearby highway, No large hotels with direct beach access.
Will Rogers State Beach: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Will Rogers State Historic Park, Santa Monica, Pacific Palisades, Temescal Canyon Trail. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Will Rogers State Beach: how do I get to the city of Santa Monica?
The beach is located near the city of Santa Monica. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for Santa Monica.