Dockweiler State Beach, Public beach in Playa del Rey, United States.

Dockweiler State Beach is a public shoreline along the Pacific coast in Playa del Rey that stretches more than 3.75 miles (6 kilometers) directly beside Los Angeles International Airport. The sand is fine and light, while the terrain remains flat and easy to reach from nearby parking areas.

The 91-acre property was established in 1948 as part of Venice-Hyperion Beach State Park. In 1955 it was renamed in honor of Isidore B. Dockweiler, a prominent early Angeleno. Hang gliding pioneers tested the sport on its dunes in the 1960s, but officials banned it in 1986; after 13 years of lobbying, a $6 million renovation in 2000 created the Dockweiler Hang Gliding Center.

The name honors a Los Angeles attorney whose family advocated for public access to shorelines. Today the area remains a gathering spot for family celebrations and sports groups who use the open space.

The shoreline provides parking near the waterfront, restrooms and showers, plus some picnic tables. Large sections allow evening bonfires at designated spots along the sand.

Hang gliding pioneers tested their craft on these dunes in the 1960s, but officials banned the sport in 1986 over safety and liability concerns. Practitioners lobbied for 13 years, winning a $6 million renovation in 2000 that built the Dockweiler Hang Gliding Center, the first such park established with a city government.