Visiting Manhattan Beach, California: The Insider’s Guide to the South Bay’s Gold Standard
- GSS Staff
- Aug 16, 2024
- 5 min read
Updated: 4 days ago
Manhattan Beach is arguably the most "structured" beach city in Los Angeles. Unlike the sprawl of Santa Monica or the grit of Venice, Manhattan Beach unfolds in clean, intentional layers. While the beach, the Strand, the pier, and the downtown core are all physically connected, each serves a distinct purpose in the local ecosystem.
The Sand That Built Waikiki
The wide, even expanse of Manhattan Beach isn't just a natural fluke. Originally, this coastline was dominated by massive sand dunes, some towering 70 feet high. During the early 20th-century development, much of this sand was excavated. In a fascinating bit of coastal history, some of it was actually shipped to Hawaii to help create the world-famous beaches of Waikiki. That legacy remains today in the beach’s unique geography: it is exceptionally wide and consistently flat, making it the premier spot for professional-grade beach volleyball.
Start Early: The El Porto Surf Ritual
If you’re starting your morning like a local, head to the northern end of town: El Porto.
This isn't just another beach stretch; it’s a surf destination. An underwater canyon offshore creates consistent, powerful swells that break differently here than anywhere else in the South Bay.
The Vibe: High-energy and functional. It’s about the water, not the scene.
What to See: Professional-level surfers at sunrise!
Pro Tip: Amenities are sparse here—parking is in a long narrow lot and there is only one cafe. It’s a "surf and go" spot.
If you want to get in the water, Manhattan Beach makes it easy to try surfing. Rentals and lessons are available within a few blocks of the beach. Shops like Nikau Kai Waterman Shop (919 Manhattan Ave) and Spyder Surf (1116 Manhattan Ave) handle standard rentals—surfboards, wetsuits, and bodyboards. Further north, El Porto Surfboards (3804 Highland Ave) opens early and is closer to the main surf break. For beginners, One Wave Surf runs structured 1.5-hour private and group lessons.
Showers are available at the pier and there are multiple restrooms along the beach.
The Strand: The South Bay’s Arterial Pulse
Connecting El Porto to the rest of the city is The Strand. This paved coastal path is the soul of Manhattan Beach. Unlike other beach paths, MB’s section of the Strand is impeccably maintained and strictly divided between pedestrians and cyclists.
It is one of the few places in LA where you can move for miles without hitting a single traffic light. Whether you’re on a cruiser bike or training for a marathon, this is where the city’s high-performance energy is most visible.
Beyond the Towel: An Active Beach
This is the "Volleyball Capital of the World." The Manhattan Beach Open (the Wimbledon of beach volleyball) happens here annually. Winning players are immortalized with bronze plaques on the Volleyball Walk of Fame at the pier.
The courts along the sand are open to the public throughout the day. You’ll see everything from casual games to high-level practice, and no reservations are required. If you want to move beyond the sand, the Strand runs along the coastline and connects Manhattan Beach to Hermosa and down toward Redondo, making it easy to cover distance by bike.
Rentals are available nearby, including Manhattan Beach E-Bike Rentals (3616 Highland Ave), while additional options like Hermosa Cyclery (20 13th St), Jeffers Beach Rentals (39 14th St), and Next Adventure E-Bikes offer cruisers, tandems, and delivery-based e-bike rentals.
In addition, on any given morning, the sand is filled with group fitness classes, ocean swimmers, and elite athletes running drills.
The Pier and Roundhouse Aquarium
The Manhattan Beach Pier is a 900-foot landmark that anchors the city. The pier is a prime vantage point for spotting dolphins, which frequent the shoreline year-round, and migrating whales during the winter months.
At its terminus sits the Roundhouse Aquarium. This a free, non-profit marine center. While small, it’s highly curated with local Pacific species and is an essential stop for families.
Navigating Downtown Manhattan Beach
Walking inland from the pier takes you directly into Downtown Manhattan Beach. This area is a sophisticated blend of beach-casual and high-end luxury. It’s walkable, breezy, and surprisingly dense with high-quality retail. You’ll find local staples alongside premium brands like Aviator Nation and Free People Movement.
The food scene has evolved from simple "fish and chips" to Michelin-recognized dining. For a full breakdown, see our - Where to Eat in Manhattan Beach guide.
For coffee or something lighter, there are several reliable options within walking distance of the beach. Near the gorgeous Manhattan Beach Library, Good Boy Bob focuses on small-batch, high-quality coffee, while Two Guns Espresso is known for its flat whites and consistent espresso drinks. Verve Coffee Roasters offers single-origin coffees in a more modern setting, and Bluestone Lane brings an Australian-style café menu with coffee, smoothies, and lighter breakfast options.
Parks, mall and the Iconic "Sand Dune"
Manhattan Beach isn't just about the ocean. The city’s parks offer a different rhythm:
Polliwog Park: The largest in the South Bay. It features a large pond, an amphitheater for summer concerts, and a small botanical garden.
Live Oak Park: A shaded, quiet alternative near the downtown core, perfect for a mid-day break.
Sand Dune Park: This is a local legend. It features a steep, 100-foot sand dune that provides a grueling workout. Note: Use of the dune often requires a reservation through the city's website due to its popularity.
The Manhattan Village Mall is also an option if you are looking to shop and eat.
Logistics: Parking and Getting Around
Parking near the pier has become a little competitive. The large "Lot 3" (formerly a central hub) has been demolished, and weekend demand is high. Your best bet is to look for the underground parking structure a few blocks inland (Metlox Plaza) or metered street parking along Highland Avenue. Once you park, put your keys away. The beauty of MB is that the distance from the furthest downtown shop to the water is less than a ten-minute walk.
Explore More of Manhattan Beach:
The Dining Edit: Where to Eat in Manhattan Beach: The Definitive Shortlist – Skip the tourist traps and discover where locals actually eat, from modern Thai to the best soup dumplings.
The Stay Guide: Manhattan Beach Hotel Edit: Where to Stay for Access and Utility – Whether you want to be in the heart of Downtown or tucked away in a quiet residential neighborhood, find the perfect base for your trip.
