3 Best Family Beaches With Playgrounds in Southern California

As a family with kids under 10yrs old, our idea of the perfect beach has soft clean sand and gentle waves.   What is even better though is if there is a playground for the kids AT the beach too.  Oh--and clean washroom facilities nearby would round out our wish list!  On a recent trip to Southern California, we got our wish not one, not two but three times!  Set your GPS with these locations on your next trip to SoCal!
Our Favourite Family-Friendly Beaches in Southern California with Playgrounds:

1.  Mother's Beach/Marine Park, Long Beach, California 90803
Located on Alamitos Bay, Mother's Beach features calm shallow waters, sandy and grassy areas, a new playground and washroom facilities.  There is also a small concession stand on hand and ample (pay) parking.  The playground was suitable for 3-10yr olds.
 

Playground at Mother's Beach/Marine Park, Long Beach, CA

2.  Oceanside Beach, Oceanside, California
Heading south from Los Angeles, Oceanside is considered the 'Gateway to Southern California'.  (Legoland is located nearby.)  Its iconic wooden pier can be seen from miles away along the coast.  With the playground and washroom facilities located just off the south end of the pier, it'll be hard to tear the kiddies away from Oceanside! Suitable for Under 10 yr olds.  Note:  This is a surf beach so the waves can get rough especially further out.  Lifeguard on-duty during the summer months.

Playground at Oceanside Beach, CA

3.  Moonlight State Beach, Encinitas, California 92024.
Encinitas located approximately 40km (25 miles) north of San Diego and 150km (95 miles) south of the city of Los Angeles.  Moonlight State Beach is just off Highway 101 and is popular with families.  There is a lifeguard station, a new concession stand, washroom facilities and outdoor showers.  There is also a wonderful playground suitable for the 10 and under crowd, as well as beach volleyball nets.  A Parking lot with handicap access is also on site.  Note:  This is a surf beach so the waves can get rough, especially further out, although there is a lifeguard station there, even in the winter.

Volleyball Area, Moonlight Beach State Park, CA

Have you been to any of these?  Do you have any others to add?  Please do so in the Comments below!