The South Bay is where Los Angeles trades Hollywood hustle for beach cruiser bliss. Stretching from Redondo Beach in the south to Manhattan Beach in the north—via the lively Hermosa Pier, this sun-drenched trio delivers a quintessential SoCal experience: scenic bike rides, surfer culture, vibrant nightlife, and an oceanfront food scene that rivals LA’s best. Whether you're paddleboarding in the harbor, catching live music by the sand, or sipping cocktails on a rooftop at sunset, South Bay offers California beach life in full color.
Local Flavor: Each beach town has its flavor—but all three shine with breezy patios, seafood, and hyper-local vibes
Manhattan Beach:
· The Strand House: Upscale coastal fare with a Pacific view
· Manhattan Beach Post (MB Post): Modern American with sharable plates
· Uncle Bill’s Pancake House: Classic beach brunch favorite
· Shellback Tavern: Divey fun steps from the sand
Hermosa Beach
· Martha’s: Locals favorite for brekkie steps from the shore
· Palmilla: Upscale Mexican cuisine, with incredibly styled margaritas
· Vista: Rooftop views and modern cuisine near the pier
· Tower 12: Casual beach bar with lively atmosphere and good bites
Redondo Beach
· Captain Kidd’s Fish Market: Fresh seafood you can pick and grill
· The Bull Pen: Classic steakhouse with vintage ambiance and live music
· Hennessey’s Tavern: In the heart of Riviera Village and locals watering hole
Activities: Ideal for travelers seeking sun, surf, and a genuine California beach-town experience
· The Strand (Beach Path): Rent a beach cruiser and coast along this oceanfront route connecting all three towns—ideal for sightseeing and sunset rides.
· Piers & Plazas:
o Manhattan Beach Pier: Surfing, volleyball courts, and the Roundhouse Aquarium
o Hermosa Beach Pier: The social hub with skateboarding, live music, and volleyball
o Redondo Beach Pier & King Harbor: A more nostalgic boardwalk with arcades, harbor cruises, and laid-back charm
· Water Activities:
o Surf at Manhattan or Hermosa
o Paddleboard or kayak in Redondo’s King Harbor
o Try the sand dune workout at Sand Dune Park in Manhattan
· Festivals & Events:
o Fiesta Hermosa (twice annually) – arts, music, and food
o Concerts on the Pier – free summer series in Hermosa & Redondo
o Live music at Lighthouse Café, rock/state at Saint Rocke
Hotels: Boutique & Luxury with a laid-back vibe
· Shade Hotel Manhattan Beach or Redondo Beach – Urban chic with rooftop Sky decks, indoor/outdoor dining, and cruiser rentals
· Beach House Hotel Hermosa Beach – Right on the strand with ocean view balconies
· Westdrift Manhattan Beach (Autograph Collection) – Resort feel with golf and luxe amenities
Click HERE to know more about things to do.
