2023 Best High Schools for Athletes in the Los Angeles Area

• Santa Ana, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.17 out of 5  568 reviews

Alum: I was the first of my family to attend Mater Dei and I fell in love with the school. I made so many great memories from the football games to the amazing friends I made. I thought the classes prepared me for college tremendously and made it very easy to transition into college. Although, the tuition is expensive I think every penny was worth it. The teachers were amazing and always made the subjects fun and exciting to learn about. I think the opportunities I received by being a Mater Dei Alumni also made the high school worth it. When you become a Monarch you will always be a Monarch and everyone in that community is aware of that. You are not only joining a school, you are joining a great big family! Go Monarchs!... Read 568 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Total number of sports 25

• Bellflower, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.61 out of 5  157 reviews

Senior: I came from a public school and transferred into St. John Bosco during the sophomore year. The school atmosphere was a breathe of fresh air. Teachers and staff have a true sense of care for the students that I didn't find at my previous school. I wasn't a very religious child, but St. John Bosco didn't treat me worse because of this fact. This is a institution for not only religious children, but children who want to better themselves outside of the classroom. Amazing sports teams and clubs. This school is so innovative with the Engineering, Entrepreneurship, Computer Science, Bio-Medical programs. Many thanks to the teachers and academic counselors for all of their efforts in helping me achieve my goal of attending my dream school! I know that I am prepared for the rigor of college.... Read 157 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Total number of sports 15

• Saddleback Valley Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.05 out of 5  644 reviews

Alum: During my time as a student at Mission Viejo High School, I found and experienced many good things. The school is one of the few institutions that offers courses in the international baccalaureate (IB) program. As a student who was fully enrolled and committed to this program, I can confidently say that it does prepare students for college. So, as long as you are taking full advantage of the opportunities that the school is giving to you as a student, you will find the workload in college manageable. Furthermore, the leaders who guide the program are an additional bonus. Many instructors working both inside and outside the program are provide helpful resources and guidance. While there are many good things about this school in terms of the educational aspect, there are also a few things that could be improved on. Things such as choice of counselors, academic advisor availability, and etc. Despite these things, I would highly recommend attending this high school!... Read 644 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Total number of sports 25

• Los Angeles, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.62 out of 5  208 reviews

Parent: Loyola High School is an exceptional college-preparatory high school that truly supports its students in every way! It offers a rigorous education that will not only prepare you for college, but also for real life. The school produces scholarly men of faith, service and leadership. Its focus on cura personalis is exemplary. Everything about this school is top notch!... Read 208 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Total number of sports 12

• Chatsworth, CA•

• Private School•

• PK, K-12

• •
  Rating 4.56 out of 5  102 reviews

Parent: We have had an amazing experience at Sierra Canyon. Our son is a student-athlete. Academics are very important to him. He finished his senior year with a 4.4 GPA while playing on one of the top football programs in the country with some of the best coaches. That is not possible without the support of amazing teachers that keep the kids engaged. Sierra Canyon's college counseling is phenomenal as well. We have two older sons that graduated from one of the best Catholic schools in the area, but the counseling is virtually non-existent. We now know the difference. Sierra Canyon was a great fit for our youngest. My only regret is not moving him there sooner. He is now playing football for Texas Christian University and in their Neeley School of Business. I credit Sierra Canyon for that!... Read 102 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Total number of sports 21

• Murrieta Valley Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.13 out of 5  749 reviews

Senior: One big part of my school that I like is the involvement of students in clubs, sports, activities, etc. There are many different people and no one should be left out. Especially with how many students that go there. One thing I would like to see changed is the loneliness of other students. I could remember I was lonely as a freshman and I wish I was helped out more or at least had some friends. I would want everyone to be happy with socializing at school. It’s a great environment and the school spirit is what really keeps the school positive. My favorite part of attending this school is going to the football games because of the hype from the band, football players, and crowd. It’s so much fun! I feel there is a place where everyone can fit in. You just have to find your people you enjoy being with and your high school experience will be spectacular and memorable! Go Broncos!... Read 749 reviews

• grade A

• grade A+

• Total number of sports 26

• Westlake Village, CA•

• Private School•

• 5-12

• •
  Rating 4.33 out of 5  261 reviews

Parent: I have an Oaks Graduate and a current sophomore. Both are very different children and both have had amazing, unique experiences at this school. From the caring teachers and faculty, to the amazing athletic programs, chapel and spiritual encouragement, combined with tons of extra curricular and student government opportunities, there is something for everyone at Oaks Christian.... Read 261 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Total number of sports 46

• Long Beach Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.1 out of 5  1,082 reviews

Senior: Great school! Offers lots of opportunities for disadvantage students to thrive towards their career and academic goals. The teachers really care and go out of their way to support their students. Great sense of community and school events that allow people to connect to each other. There is a college and career center that helped everyone, especially first-generation students, navigate the college admission process. Go Jackrabbits!... Read 1,082 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Total number of sports 19

• San Juan Capistrano, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.14 out of 5  209 reviews

Parent: JSerra is a college-prep school with very challenging curriculum. There are many AP and Honors classes available, as well as such courses as pre-law, pre-med, pre-engineering, and others. Teachers and staff were terrific and always available to help you when you need it. School facilities and grounds were always kept clean and tidy. The only change I would make is to increase on campus parking. Otherwise, I would highly recommend this great school!... Read 209 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Total number of sports 26

• Rancho Santa Margarita, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.14 out of 5  330 reviews

Parent: Best teachers. Incredible coaches. Administrators who care about your student’s (and family’s) overall experience. World class arts program. Our son does Steel Drums as an elective and has also participated in several sports — Cross Country, Volleyball, Track. The concerts are next level — so much talent, so fun to watch! The coaches have all been tremendous and have taken their teams to CIF and State champs. They really care about the kids and are great leaders. There’s just so much love here. They say “Find it Here” and that’s so true…there’s really something for every interest.... Read 330 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Total number of sports 44

• La Puente, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.96 out of 5  312 reviews

Parent: Beautiful school in many ways. At Amat, they really have their priorities straight and care about each and every kid. The emphasis is on the whole child - making sure they are growing academically, spiritually, socially, and in their God-given talent. The teachers are incredible. They cover all material very well, very approachable, no nonsense - excellent care for the kids. I really appreciate this aspect of the school because it is hard to find a good balance of teachers. My kid comes home raving about his classes, and I clearly see him progressing in his studies as well. The honors program really stands out as a huge benefit for the advanced student, it’s hard to find a program like this anywhere. The foundation in the Catholic Faith that is provided at Amat is strong. I appreciate the firm discipline and traditional approach to all things as well. Proud and grateful to be an Amat parent!... Read 312 reviews

• grade A minus

• grade A+

• Total number of sports 18

• Newport-Mesa Unified School District, CA•

• 7-12

• •
  Rating 3.86 out of 5  289 reviews

Parent: Has many opportunities for AP classes. Great PTA, Foundation, and Boosters Club. Has funding and events like a private school, even though it is a public school. Terrible counseling department- actually, not only worthless , but detrimental. Will not help students in signing up for best classes to take. Students/parents have to figure out from outside sources for the ideal classes to take for college resume. Need outside college advice!... Read 289 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Total number of sports 24

• Capistrano Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.88 out of 5  436 reviews

Senior: San Clemente High School is such a special place that I have been fortunate enough to be able to attend for my high school academic career. The teachers are so caring and involved, and the whole town supports the high school just as the high school supports the local businesses. SCHS is a close-knit community that is constantly working to improve itself for the better of the student body. There are so many vast opportunities for students of different interests, backgrounds, and identities that allow them to surround themselves with people of similar interests and those of different perspectives. I have had the most amazing time at SCHS and I have made memories that I will carry with me for the rest of my life.... Read 436 reviews

• grade A

• grade A+

• Total number of sports 26

• Palos Verdes Peninsula Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.96 out of 5  398 reviews

Senior: Palos Verdes High School has such amazing teachers. There are so many opportunities to get involved like in Be the Change, ASB, Link Crew, sports, Choreo/Dance, the Vex robotics team, PVIT, and many clubs. There is something for everyone. Help is always accessible through our many counselors and mindfulness staff. PVHS has a wellness room and even a mindfulness class to practice healthy ways to reduce stress. Office hours are also offered by many teachers for extra help. Finally, the school is located in a gorgeous location.... Read 398 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Total number of sports 22

• Gardena, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.99 out of 5  187 reviews

Senior: The Serra community is not only hardworking and impressive in deed, they are a benevolent community who welcomes all into their family. They support one another , laugh with each other , cry together , persevere after every fall , and rejoice in every triumph. You don't have to worry about fitting in-you are free and even obliged to be yourself. Don't be afraid to ask for help for the whole purpose of Serra is to unite everyone under a loving God and to help you achieve your dreams!... Read 187 reviews

• grade B

• grade A+

• Total number of sports —

• West Hills, CA•

• Private School•

• 6-12

• •
  Rating 4.18 out of 5  238 reviews

Alum: Chaminade College Preparatory is an amazing school that provides its students with both a quality education and a supportive family like environment. When it comes to academics, the school provides its students with loads of different types of courses to participate in, with helpful and personable teachers. The teachers go above and beyond to make sure students understand the material and are helped through obstacles. Another thing that stands out is the immense family spirit. Student culture and activities allows for a community like feel where all chaminade students have school pride and are connected to one another through the school they attend. Personally, I feel as though Chaminade allowed me to grow as a person in both my education and mindset in the 4 years I attended. I love Chaminade and hope to send my kids there one day.... Read 238 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Total number of sports 28

• Redondo Beach Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.1 out of 5  679 reviews

Junior: I love Redondo Union High School. I started going to school there this year and the teachers and administrators have helped me tremendously getting enrolled, choosing classes and helping me with my work. I have accommodations and my counselor met with me to discuss if I was getting the help that I needed. The campus is really big and is well maintained. I feel super safe there. I play beach volleyball and they have a great workout facility. There are so many clubs and activities to choose from. I bring my own lunch but my friends say that the lunch is good. During my enrollment the PTA was there helping everyone signup for activities and directing the students and parents where they needed to go. My classes are challenging and they are definitely helping me get ready for college. I really love my new school!... Read 679 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Total number of sports 33

• Torrance, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.09 out of 5  343 reviews

Alum: As an alumni looking back nearly 30 years back to my Bishop Montgomery days, I would say there's definitely something about the campus, academic staff and most importantly- the students, that fosters the special environment for growth, mutual acceptance/respect, and school pride. I recall nearly all my of high friends were motivated in the classroom but also active outside - representing the school in some way (through sports, performing arts, decathlon, speech, clubs, etc). It was common to find students supporting each other by attending a game / performance / competition. That kind of community/camaraderie inspiration, supporting each other in academics and extra-curricular activities is truly special. Taking a trip down Bishop Montgomery memory lane brings nostalgia- but now understand that those years definitely shaped my motivation for college, but also the perspective towards community and life.... Read 343 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Total number of sports 25

• Ventura Unified School District, CA•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.82 out of 5  341 reviews

Senior: Some teachers are really great! The female teachers at VHS have all been excellent. The music department is nationally ranked and the drama department is incredible. The campus is open with no surrounding gates, so the safety is not ideal, but the security is pretty good.... Read 341 reviews

• grade A minus

• grade A+

• Total number of sports 23

• La Verne, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.15 out of 5  142 reviews

Alum: My 4 years at Damien was a learning experience. The brotherhood we all shared will last a life time. Our educators are very much involved with the students and they have been a very important part of my growth. My senior year highlight, beside class of 2020, was our Kairos retreat. I learned to know myself better and my brothers too. The school is constantly revolving; therefore, after experiencing virtual learning, I would like to see the school offer more online classes for students. Overall, an excellent school and proud to be a Spartan!... Read 142 reviews

• grade A

• grade A+

• Total number of sports —

• Sherman Oaks, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 3.96 out of 5  300 reviews

Alum: Overall, I would say that I absolutely loved my experience with Notre Dame! Coming there my freshman year was so nerve wracking because I expected a clicky high school environment. However it was not like that at all! Most of the teachers were absolutely amazing and passionate about the job. The entire school felt like a caring community. Deans were kind and understanding. However, it seems like many teachers are leaving ND this year, which is truly heartbreaking.... Read 300 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Total number of sports —

• Los Angeles, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.01 out of 5  144 reviews

Parent: CHS has been incredible. It is smaller in class size than other Catholic boys' high schools, this allows staff to really know the students. My son was part of the Academy program and he got individualized help applying to many colleges. Even if your son isn't in the Academy, this school has had 100% of each graduating class go on to college so I think everyone gets encouragement towards achieving higher education. My son graduating and will be going to UCLA. He was also accepted to UCSD, UCI, U. Pitt w/ guaranteed admission to Dental School, USC, USF. My son also made some great friends here, who all got into some great colleges (BU, NYU, U. Pitt, multiple UC's, etc). I know Loyola HS is one of the most popular options for almost all LA Catholic 8th grade boys. I have 2 sons, both accepted to Loyola HS, but both chose CHS and I couldn't be happier with their choice. If your heart isn't set on Loyola HS, definitely come check out Cathedral High School.... Read 144 reviews

• grade A

• grade A+

• Total number of sports —

• A•

• Private School•

• 7-12

• •
  Rating 4.45 out of 5  163 reviews

Parent: Joyful pursuit of excellence! My two daughters are attending Harvard-Westlake. One is in lower school and the other is a junior in the upper school. For the past several years they have been evolving and focusing on the health and well-being of the students! Late starts for high school students, days off for high school students, day trips to Disneyland! Head of School Rick Commons and Associate Head of School Laura Ross are incredible! The teachers are passionate, enthusiastic, outstanding (they often incorporate curbed grading) and there's a supportive team/learning specialists, psychologists who are there for students and parents no matter where they are on their journey! My kids are learning to listen effectively. work collaboratively, enhancing their emotional intelligence quotient. Applying historical-cultural insights to contemporary moments, have a richer appreciation for the need to be an engaged active glocal and global citizen and are more than ready for college!... Read 163 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Total number of sports 28

• Encino, CA•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.23 out of 5  64 reviews

Parent: We have a family of three and our oldest child is currently a Junior at Crespi. Our experience with the school has been phenomenal for so many reasons. The school culture and focus on how boys learn prompted our interest in the school . When we applied, our experience through that process was so different from other High Schools. It was customized and specific to our son's needs. Once enrolled, the school focused on his growth and educational trajectory but also on the daily experience. The focus on brotherhood, community and family create an amazing experience for our son. He has developed deep friendships and as a family, we love the parents, teachers and administrators. Our youngest son will also be attending Crespi and our daughter will attend their sister school. We are so fortunate for their hard work during COVID and their efforts to make this time as normal as possible. Finally, the work on getting him to College is fantastic. Thank you Crespi team for all you do!... Read 64 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Total number of sports 14

• A•

• Private School•

• 9-12

• •
  Rating 4.08 out of 5  304 reviews

Freshman: Even though this is my first year at Bishop Alemany High School, I am absolutely loving my experience here! There is so much opportunity and I really do appreciate how the teachers push you to challenge yourself to the best of your ability. For my elementary and middle school years, my last two schools were small and everybody knew everybody. In a way, that was a positive, but it also left me wondering what other opportunity lies outside…What things could I do that I can’t do here? When I went to Alemany for the first time, I was amazed by the amount of students, the diversity, and all the options I had that weren’t offered before! For example, I am very much an arts type of person and I love theater and music. At Alemany, I was ecstatic to learn I could start a club to interact with other people who share my love of music! I was also blown away when I saw how incredible their theater program was! I haven’t been at Alemany long enough to want change because I think it is incredible.... Read 304 reviews

• grade A

• grade A

• Total number of sports 23