Things To Do
in Manhattan Beach
Manhattan Beach is a coastal enclave in Los Angeles County known for its wide sandy beaches and a lively pier at the heart of the town. The city blends upscale residential neighborhoods with a breezy beach-town vibe, offering waterfront dining, boutique shopping, and scenic bike paths along The Strand. Located just south of Hermosa Beach and north of Redondo Beach, it’s a popular day-trip and weekend getaway from central Los Angeles.
Year-round mild weather, ocean views, and a welcoming community make Manhattan Beach a quintessential Southern California beach experience.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at one of the charming cafes in downtown Manhattan Beach, where you can enjoy fresh pastries and artisanal coffee. After breakfast, take a stroll through the historic district, admiring the quaint architecture and unique boutiques. Be sure to visit the Manhattan Beach Historical Society to learn about the rich history of this coastal town.
In the afternoon, head to the Manhattan Beach Pier, where you can take a scenic walk, watch surfers tackle the waves, and enjoy the views of the Pacific Ocean. Stop by the Roundhouse Aquarium located at the end of the pier to discover fascinating marine life native to the area. Grab lunch at one of the beachfront restaurants, savoring fresh seafood while listening to the sound of the ocean.
As the sun begins to set, find a cozy spot on the beach to unwind and soak in the stunning coastal views. After sunset, explore the vibrant dining scene with a dinner reservation at a popular local eatery, where you can indulge in delicious cuisine. Finish the evening with a leisurely stroll along the beach, feeling the soft sand beneath your feet and listening to the gentle waves.
Kick off the day with a hearty breakfast at a beachfront café, fueling up for a fun-filled day of activities. After breakfast, rent a paddleboard or kayak and hit the water for some exhilarating morning exercise while enjoying the beautiful ocean views. The calm waters of Manhattan Beach are perfect for beginners, making it an ideal spot for water sports enthusiasts.
In the afternoon, continue your aquatic adventure by taking a surfing lesson with one of the local surf schools. Experience the thrill of catching your first wave, guided by professional instructors who know the best spots for beginners. Afterward, relax on the beach, soaking up the sun and enjoying the laid-back atmosphere.
As evening approaches, gather for a beach bonfire with friends or family, roasting marshmallows and sharing stories under the stars. Enjoy a casual dinner at a beachside grill, where you can unwind with a refreshing drink and savor classic beach fare. Conclude your day with a moonlit walk along the shore, feeling the cool breeze and listening to the soothing sounds of the ocean.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🍽️Meal for 2 at mid-range restaurant | $60-100 |
| 🏨Hotel (per night) | $250-450 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $70-150 |
| 🚗Monthly parking or transit | $150-350 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and ocean views
- Strong dining and shopping options
- Walkable and bike-friendly beachfront
- Proximity to LAX and other LA attractions
- Family-friendly atmosphere
- High cost of living and dining
- Parking can be challenging during peak season
- Crowds on weekends and summer
- Limited late-night club scene
Places to Visit in Manhattan Beach
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic wooden pier with the ocean stretching to the horizon; ideal for sunrise silhouettes and long-exposure beach photography.
Historic aquarium with adjacent bluff viewpoints offering dramatic coastal panoramas at golden hour.
Wide beachfront promenade with surfers, volleyball nets, and colorful beach scenes perfect for street-style photography.
Cliffside vantage points and expansive ocean views; great for dramatic sky lines and sunset shots.
Food in Manhattan Beach
Manhattan Beach Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Freshly grilled or lightly battered fish with slaw, salsa, and lime on soft tortillas at beachside eateries.
Must-Try!
Lean tuna over rice with avocado, sesame, and a light soy glaze—popular at casual cafés.
Crispy or grilled fish with lettuce, tomato, and tartar sauce on a brioche bun.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Food trucks and market stalls near the pier and along nearby streets on weekends offering tacos, bowls, grilled snacks, and beach favorites.
Weekly farmers markets in nearby Hermosa Beach and Redondo Beach provide fresh produce, prepared foods, and local goods.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect lifeguard instructions, keep noise reasonable, clean up after yourself, and follow leash rules for dogs on appropriate beaches.
Polite dining behavior, tipping norms observed, and queueing in busy spots; avoid loud conversations in quiet dining areas.
Be mindful of parking restrictions, avoid blocking driveways, and share the road with pedestrians and cyclists on The Strand.
Safety
Tipping in Manhattan Beach
Ensure a smooth experience
In the US, tip 15-20% at restaurants; 10-15% for smaller or excellent service; tip more for bar service; delivery typically 10-15%.
Most places accept cash and cards; mobile wallets (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are increasingly common; some street vendors prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures, blooming coastal landscapes, and generally calmer crowds; great for outdoor activities and photography without peak heat.
Warm days with dry, sunny skies and busy beaches; expect larger crowds, beachfront events, and regular seabreeze in the afternoon.
Pleasant and slightly cooler; fewer crowds than summer; ideal for sunsets and outdoor dining with comfortable temperatures.
Cooler and occasionally rainy; beachgoers are fewer but coastal storms can bring dramatic skies and powerful sea views.
Manhattan Beach at Night
Hiking in Manhattan Beach
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic coastal bluffs in Palos Verdes with ocean views and varying elevations; great for a half-day hike.
Coastal cliffs and beaches with panoramic sea views; a popular Palos Verdes option just a short drive away.
Hiking trails along dramatic coastal bluffs offering sweeping vistas of the Pacific.
Airports
How to reach Manhattan Beach by plane.
Major international hub about a short drive from Manhattan Beach; extensive flight options and taxi/ride-share access.
Smaller, convenient option for domestic flights with relatively quick access to the South Bay.
Alternative airport options with shorter lines; drive to the South Bay is longer but feasible.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Strong presence of family-friendly neighborhoods with good schools and safe streets.
Professionals drawn to the coastal lifestyle, dining, and proximity to LA jobs.
A mix of White, Hispanic/Latino, Asian, and other communities contributing to a vibrant local culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
One of the most popular activities with reliable waves near The Strand and El Porto.
Numerous courts on the sand; a staple of the beach scene during warm months.
Public courses in and around the area, including the Manhattan Beach Golf Course.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Manhattan Beach.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many menus feature vegetarian-friendly options; look for salads, veggie bowls, veggie-forward entrees, and customizable plates. Don’t hesitate to ask for substitutions (eggs, cheese, or plant-based proteins) if needed.
Opt for veggie bowls, salads, and plant-based proteins; most spots can accommodate vegan requests with a quick heads-up.
Gluten-free bread, pastas, and clearly labeled options are available at many venues; always ask about preparation to avoid cross-contamination.