Things To Do
in El Segundo
El Segundo is a small coastal city just west of LAX, known for its aviation heritage and laid-back Southern California vibe. It's a compact town with a walkable Old Town core, parks, beaches, and easy access to nearby Manhattan Beach. Visitors will find a mix of aerospace workplaces, casual eateries, and family-friendly outdoor spaces along a scenic shoreline.
With quick connections to Los Angeles and the rest of the South Bay, El Segundo offers a relaxed base for sun, sea, and sightseeing.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café, enjoying delicious pancakes and fresh coffee. After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of downtown El Segundo, admiring the historic buildings and unique storefronts. Don’t miss the El Segundo Museum of Art, where you can explore contemporary art exhibitions that showcase local talent.
For lunch, head to a trendy eatery and savor fresh seafood or gourmet burgers. Afterward, visit the nearby Aerospace Museum, where you can dive into the fascinating history of aviation and space exploration. Spend some time in the beautiful parks nearby, soaking up the sun and enjoying the local flora.
As the sun sets, enjoy a delightful dinner at a beachfront restaurant with stunning ocean views. Savor fresh fish tacos or a classic California burrito, paired with a refreshing drink. End the evening with a peaceful walk along the beach, listening to the soothing sounds of the waves.
Kickstart your morning with a robust breakfast at a beachfront café, fueling up for a day of fun in the sun. Afterward, grab your beach gear and head to El Segundo Beach, known for its soft sand and gentle waves. Spend some time sunbathing or playing beach volleyball with locals.
Join a kayaking or paddleboarding session, exploring the coastline and spotting local marine life. Enjoy a picnic lunch on the beach, indulging in packed sandwiches and refreshing drinks from a nearby deli. After lunch, take a surfing lesson from an experienced instructor and ride the waves for an exhilarating experience.
After a thrilling day, unwind at a beachside bar, sipping on cocktails as you watch the sunset. Enjoy live music or a local DJ set that creates a vibrant atmosphere. Savor a light dinner of fish and chips or a fresh salad while enjoying the ocean breeze.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🏨Hotel night (mid-range) | $120-180 |
| ☕Coffee and pastry | $4-7 |
| 🎟️Museum or activity ticket | $15-25 |
| 🚗Rideshare or taxi (short trip) | $8-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Convenient access to LAX and other LA attractions
- Relaxed, coastal vibe with easy beach access
- Smaller dining and nightlife scene compared to adjacent cities
- Public transit not as extensive as central LA
Places to Visit in El Segundo
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide sandy beach with gentle waves and golden light during sunrise, ideal for wide coastal shots.
Colorful storefronts and murals along Grand Avenue provide charming street photography.
Short drive away; capture the pier silhouette against a blue sky from elevated viewpoints.
Dramatic aerial photography of planes landing and taking off with the ocean in the foreground.
Food in El Segundo
El Segundo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh fish served in soft tortillas with a bright mango salsa and lime.
Must-Try!
Hearty burrito with carne asada, rice, beans, and pico de gallo at casual taquerias.
Bowls featuring shrimp, scallops, or fish with citrusy toppings at coastal spots.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal markets in Manhattan Beach and Redondo Beach offering fresh produce, prepared foods, and local snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be punctual for appointments and respectful in queues; casual dress is common but tidy in restaurants.
Safety
Tipping in El Segundo
Ensure a smooth experience
In the US, leave 15-20% at restaurants and tip service staff in full. For bar staff and taxis, similar rates apply.
Most places accept credit/debit cards and contactless payments; cash is handy for some street vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild to warm days, lots of sunshine; ocean breezes keep temperatures comfortable. Expect crowds at beaches on weekends; apply sunscreen and stay hydrated.
Warm days with occasional Santa Ana winds that can bring dry, gusty conditions; jacket evenings.
Cool but generally mild; light rain is possible but snow is rare. Great for off-peak beach walks and quiet evenings.
Mild temperatures with blooming coastal flora; perfect for outdoor dining and beach strolls.
El Segundo at Night
Hiking in El Segundo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal trails with ocean views and tide pools, a short drive away in Rancho Palos Verdes.
Hiking along dramatic sea cliffs with sweeping views of the Pacific.
Gentle inland trail that connects neighborhoods with coastal views nearby.
Airports
How to reach El Segundo by plane.
Major international hub about 5-7 miles northeast of El Segundo; convenient for arrivals and connections.
Smaller regional airport about 15-20 minutes away by car; good for domestic flights.
Nearby general aviation airport for private flights and flight training.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of families, professionals, and aerospace staff due to nearby companies and the airport.
Tourists attracted by beaches, aviation history, and convenient access to greater LA.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular on nearby beaches; surf schools and rental shops are common.
Casual games and pickup matches on local sand courts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting El Segundo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many spots offer veggie bowls, salads, and vegetarian sandwiches; ask for dressings on the side or plant-based proteins.