Things To Do
in Hermosa Beach
Hermosa Beach is a sun-soaked coastal city in Los Angeles County known for its long clean beaches and a laid-back, bike-friendly vibe. The Hermosa Pier and The Strand deliver postcard-perfect ocean views, while the nearby South Bay towns add a lively mix of dining and nightlife. It’s a compact beach town that feels walkable, with plenty of cafes, bars, and surf culture within easy reach.
Expect mild, sunny weather most of the year and a welcoming, active community that makes it easy to spend hours outdoors.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with an invigorating yoga session right on the sandy shores of Hermosa Beach. Join a local instructor for a guided class that focuses on breath and mindfulness, with the sound of waves as your backdrop. Feel the stress melt away as you connect with the natural beauty around you.
After yoga, head to a nearby café for a delicious brunch featuring fresh, local ingredients. Enjoy a hearty avocado toast or a smoothie bowl while soaking in the coastal vibes. Spend the afternoon lounging on the beach, soaking up the sun, or taking a refreshing dip in the ocean.
As the sun sets, stroll along the Hermosa Beach Pier, watching the vibrant colors paint the sky. Stop by one of the beachside restaurants for a dinner of fresh seafood, perhaps trying the local fish tacos. Conclude your evening with a casual walk along the boardwalk, enjoying the lively atmosphere.
Kick off your day with a visit to the Hermosa Beach Art Walk, where you can admire local artists' work displayed in galleries and studios. Engage with the artists and perhaps pick up a unique piece to remember your trip. Enjoy some fresh coffee from a local café as you soak in the creative energy of the area.
Head to the Hermosa Beach Historical Society and Museum to learn about the rich history of the town and its development over the years. After your dose of culture, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a beachside bistro, sampling some Californian cuisine. Spend the afternoon exploring the charming shops along Pier Avenue, picking up souvenirs and local crafts.
In the evening, treat yourself to a performance at the Hermosa Beach Community Theater, featuring local talent and a variety of shows. After the show, enjoy a casual dinner at a nearby gastropub, where you can savor gourmet burgers and craft beers. End the night with a stroll along the beach, listening to the soothing sounds of the ocean.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🛏️Hotel night | $140-260 |
| 🚊Public transit fare | $2-4 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-6 |
| 🎟️Movie or venue ticket | $12-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and a relaxed, walkable town
- Strong surf and outdoor activity options
- Close to other South Bay destinations and LA-area sights
- Crowds in peak season can be busy
- Parking can be challenging near the beach
- Prices can be higher in tourist-heavy areas
Places to Visit in Hermosa Beach
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic pier with ocean panoramas, morning mists, and colorful sunsets—perfect for silhouette and wide-angle shots.
Long, straight views along the beach with surfers, runners, and cyclists; best for action shots and golden-hour portraits.
Elevated vantage points and stairways offering dramatic beach and line-of-sight photographs toward the Pacific.
Coastal corners with lifeguard towers, lifelike beach vibe, and colorful beach houses for lifestyle photography.
Food in Hermosa Beach
Hermosa Beach Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy or grilled fish tucked into warm tortillas with slaw and lime. A quintessential SoCal seaside staple, widely available along The Strand and Pier Avenue.
Must-Try!
Creamy, comforting chowder served in a crusty bread bowl—perfect for a cool, breezy beach day.
Fresh seafood bowls with rice or greens, often topped with citrus and herbs, available at casual beachfront spots.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering fresh produce, prepared foods, and local crafts along with a lively outdoor atmosphere.
Seasonal beachside stalls and small eateries along Pier Avenue offering snacks, tacos, and quick bites with ocean views.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect posted rules, keep noise reasonable after dusk, and properly dispose of trash. Share space with others on crowded beaches.
Casual beachwear is expected on the sand; cover-ups are common when entering shops or restaurants.
Safety
Tipping in Hermosa Beach
Ensure a smooth experience
In the U.S., customary to tip 15-20% at restaurants if service is satisfactory; rounding up at casual cafes is common. Tips for bartenders, car valets, and hotel staff are typically 1-2 dollars per service or 15-20% where appropriate.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; mobile wallet options (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are common. Cash is always accepted for most small vendors and beach kiosks.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with dry Santa Ana or mild onshore breezes; expect beach crowds, peak surf and boardwalk activity. Pack sunscreen, hydration, and a light jacket for evenings.
Continued pleasant weather with fewer crowds compared to summer; great for sunset shoots and longer beach strolls.
Milder temperatures, occasional coastal fog, and cooler water; still comfortable for beach walks and seaside dining, though ocean winds can be brisk.
Rising temperatures, blooming coastal flora, and good sea conditions for surfing and paddling; often ideal for outdoor activities and photography.
Hermosa Beach at Night
Hiking in Hermosa Beach
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal hike with ocean views, tide pools, and rugged coastline—great for day trips from Hermosa.
Moderate coastal hike offering cliffside overlooks and potential whale-watching opportunities during migration seasons.
Airports
How to reach Hermosa Beach by plane.
Major international hub about 5-20 miles west of Hermosa Beach; frequent domestic and international flights and convenient rental car or rideshare access.
Convenient, smaller international airport about 20 miles south; easier security and shorter lines for domestic travel.
About 12-15 miles north; good for private or domestic flights and general aviation.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents are families drawn to the safe, walkable beach environment and good schools in the area.
A mix of professionals who appreciate the accessible coastline, nightlife, and nearby employment hubs.
A steady presence in the community, enjoying a relaxed pace, beach access, and local events.
Nearby colleges and the South Bay’s reputation for easy getaways attract students and short-term visitors.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A defining local sport with beginner-friendly waves and nearby surf schools.
Numerous courts along the beach; popular social and recreational activity.
Multiple skate spots and a culture of local skate parks in adjacent neighborhoods.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hermosa Beach.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most spots offer vegetarian options or flexible builds (salads, veggie bowls, veggie burgers). Look for explicit tofu/veggie offerings or customize dishes; many seafood-focused places can accommodate by removing meat or cheese.