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Hermosa Beach is an idyllic seaside escape filled with a sun-soaked beach, bustling bars, and delicious restaurants. Whether you’re a sun worshipper, foodie, or just looking to unwind, there are so many things to do in Hermosa Beach.
This charming beach town has something for everyone. Some of the more popular Hermosa Beach activities include beach outings, beach volleyball games, surfing, biking, and so much more.
About Hermosa Beach
The City of Hermosa Beach is a small yet lively city known for its laid-back vibe, outdoor activities, and welcoming atmosphere. The sandy beach, stunning sunsets, and various attractions make it ideal for visitors of all ages. Hermosa Beach in California is a top destination for both locals and tourists.
Where is Hermosa Beach?
Hermosa Beach is part of Los Angeles County, California. The cute beach town is about 20 minutes south of the Los Angeles International Airport. It is also part of the South Bay, which includes other popular towns like Manhattan Beach and Redondo Beach.
Hermosa Beach Weather
Hermosa Beach enjoys a mild climate throughout the year, with warm days and cooler nights. The best time to visit is in September and October when the beach days are generally perfect and the crowds are smaller. However, Hermosa Beach is a year-round destination with mild temperatures and sunny days.
Top Activities in Hermosa Beach
The following comprehensive guide provides you with the top 25+ things to do in Hermosa Beach, California.
Soak up the Sun at the Beach
Hermosa Beach’s pristine beach is the town’s main attraction and one of the best in Los Angeles County. Like Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach is a wide soft-sand beach perfect for activities like sunbathing, swimming, and beach volleyball. With close to two miles of beach, Hermosa Beach, it is easy to see why the town and the beach are so popular.
Scenic Strolls and Bike Rides Along Hermosa Beach’s Oceanfront
One of the most fun things to do in Hermosa Beach is a bike ride along the Strand. If you don’t have your own bike, head to Hermosa Cyclery, where you can rent one and explore the South Bay, including neighboring towns like Manhattan Beach and Redondo Beach. Along the way, you’ll find plenty of spots to stop for a bite or a refreshing drink.
Ace Your Game: Hermosa Beach Volleyball
One of the most popular sports is beach volleyball. Given its popularity, the city installed seventy-one courts that are first come, first serve, and they are packed with eager players.
The level of beach volleyball talent is off the charts at Hermosa Beach. Top beach volleyball athletes train in the area. If you are inspired and will be in town long enough, you can take one of the city’s beach volleyball clinics. Classes are offered throughout the year. I did it over a summer, but learned volleyball, and I don’t really get along.
Catch a Wave Surfing in Hermosa Beach
Surfing and bodyboarding in Hermosa Beach are popular with the locals, especially beginners. The waves don’t usually get as big as those in El Porto (North Manhattan Beach), but it’s still fun to take a board out.
Beachside Entertainment: Concert and Movies on the Beach
Hermosa Beach is an upbeat city that draws crowds far and wide. One of the largest events the city hosts every year is the concert and movie series. Ranging from concerts to movies, Hermosa Beach gives back by sponsoring these types of super fun free community events.
Whether you put a blanket down in the morning to reserve your spot or show up at the last minute, there is no bad spot to watch the movies or listen to the concerts.
One of my favorite parts of this summer series is watching the sunset while hanging out with friends on a beautiful night.
Pro Tip: Most people bring a beach picnic. You might see anything from professional chef-plated meals to people enjoying a slice of pizza from Paisanos Pizza & Pasta or a cheese and charcuterie platter from Cultured Slice.
Laugh out Loud at the Comedy and Magic Club in Hermosa Beach
For a night of laughter and entertainment, head to the Comedy and Magic Club in Hermosa Beach. This iconic venue has hosted some of the biggest names in comedy, including Jay Leno, who performs regularly. However, he is not the only famous comic that has graced the stage. Numerous famous comics test out their material at the Comedy and Magic Club. A visit to the Comedy and Magic Club is a fun thing to do at night in Hermosa Beach.
Take a Walk on Hermosa Pier
The Hermosa Beach Pier is a must-visit landmark. Extending 1,000 feet into the Pacific Ocean, it offers stunning views and is a popular place for fishing, photography, and enjoying the ocean breeze.
Shop ‘Til You Drop: Discover Hermosa Beach’s Unique Shopping Spots
Shopping in Hermosa Beach would not be complete without stopping at the stores on Pier Avenue. It is the perfect place to indulge in some retail therapy. Pier Avenue has it all, from unique boutiques like Curious to home/apothecary stores like Gum Tree. You can even go antiquing at Stars Antique Market.
Art on the Streets: Go for a Mural Walk
Hermosa Beach is home to several stunning murals that add to the town’s artistic charm. Take a stroll and discover vibrant artworks that showcase the local culture and creativity. Follow the mural walk created by the Hermosa Beach Historical Society and Museum. The murals make terrific Instagrammable shots.
Stay Fit and Active in Hermosa Beach
As you walk around, you will notice that everyone is generally fit. One reason there are so many fit people in Hermosa Beach is that the city makes it easy to find a public space to work out.
Go for a walk on the Greenbelt
The Hermosa Valley Greenbelt is a beautiful tree-lined chipped path between Valley Drive and Ardmore Avenue that is great for running and walking your dog. The path used to be a spur of the Santa Fe Railway that went to and from the Redondo Beach Pier. It runs through Manhattan Beach and Hermosa Beach.
Pickleball/Basketball/Tennis
Hermosa Beach offers public pickleball, basketball, and tennis courts. You can even play beach tennis on the sand!
Yoga/Barre classes
Although not sponsored by the city, there are other workout options in the area. For a barre workout, head to the Bar Method. If yoga is your jam, check out SoHo Yoga.
Life Music
The Lighthouse Café is a legendary music venue in Hermosa Beach, known for its rich history and live music performances. It’s a popular place to enjoy live music in an intimate setting, with a variety of genres featured throughout the week. Locals are very fond of The Lighthouse Café.
For movie buffs, you might recognize The Lighthouse Café from La La Land.
Saint Rocke is another popular music venue.
Shop Artisanal Food at the Hermosa Beach Farmers Market
The Hermosa Beach Farmers Market is held every Friday and offers a fantastic selection of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and delicious food. It’s a great place to shop for local products, enjoy live music, and soak up the community vibe.
Some of my favorite vendors include Tammie’s Muffins (try the chocolate chip muffins) and Fresco Pasta, which sells authentic Italian pasta, cheeses, cured meats, and pizza. My go-to order from Fresco Pasta is spinach linguine and pesto sauce.
Romantic Sunsets Over the Ocean
Locals flock to the beach just before sunset because Hermosa Beach sunsets are spectacular. They are a kaleidoscope of bright colors that light up the sky, turning day to night. Watching the sunset is an ideal romantic activity for couples.
As the sun starts to set, you will find locals walking along the shoreline, riding their bikes, or sipping a cocktail at one of the local bars on Pier Avenue.
Dive into History and visit the Hermosa Beach Historical Society & Museum
For a dose of local history, visit the Hermosa Beach Historical Society and Museum. It offers exhibits on the city’s history, from its early days as a seaside resort to its role in the development of surf and beach culture. Approximately 3,500 items are on display, such as photographs, postcards, newspapers, and prints.
Check Out the Hermosa Beach Skate Park
If you are looking for a free, family-friendly activity, head to the Hermosa Beach Skate Park. The skatepark offers a variety of ramps, rails, and bowls for skaters of all skill levels. It’s a great place to practice your tricks or watch local talent in action.
Celebrate the Local Culture at Fiesta Hermosa
Fiesta Hermosa is an annual arts and crafts festival that takes place over Memorial Day weekend. It features over 300 vendors, live music, a food court, and a beer garden. It’s a highlight of the Hermosa Beach event calendar.
I go every year to stroll the art scene, browse the vendors, and try new types of food. Earlier this year, I tried banana puddling – and surprisingly, I loved it!
Fiesta Hermosa is another free, family-friendly event. However, you do have to purchase tickets for rides and games.
Winter Fun: Sand Sledding on the Beach
In the winter months, the City of Hermosa Beach creates a sand berm just up from the coastline to prevent beach erosion. An unintended consequence of the large sand berm that stretches multiple blocks is it has become a slide. All winter, you can hear screams of delight as kids ride a sled down the front of the sand berm.
Indulge and Relax
Relax and recharge at a Hermosa Beach spa. The area has no shortage of nail salons, beauty lounges, and spas. But one of my favorite options is Sand Spa, where you can relax in an upscale nail salon (Sand Spa Polish), get a facial, or relax during a massage. I usually opt for a classic pedicure with an extra foot or neck massage.
For a no-frills massage, head to Coco’s Nail Spa, where I have had numerous manicures and massages over the years.
Instagram Worthy Spots: Find the Most Photogenic Places in Hermosa Beach
Hermosa Beach is a beautiful beach community with countless opportunities to take swoon-worthy and fun pictures. A few suggestions include the beach, the Hermosa Beach pier, murals near Pier Avenue (see the mural walk discussion above), the Hermosa Beach Pride Lifeguard Tower, and public art like the Surfer Hall of Fame statute at Hermosa Pier and the 90210 house.
Take a Self-Guided Walking Tour
The Hermosa Beach Historical Society has put together several walking tours that focus on murals, historic homes, and a musical journey through time.
Up Your Culinary Game with a Cooking Class
Whether you are interested in a knife skills class or learning to cook an authentic dish from around the world, Lazy Acres has a class for you. I took the knife skills class with a few friends, where I learned knife sharpening techniques, tips for cutting vegetables, and how to make a couple of delicious dishes. During our class, we made a tomato soup, an Asian-inspired stir-fry, and my favorite, a zucchini tart.
The affordable classes are a fun way to boost your culinary skills in a low-key environment. Highly skilled chefs lead the classes.
Explore a Local Park
If you don’t have time to get sandy at the beach but want to relax in a green open space, check out one of the twenty parks and parkettes in Hermosa Beach.
Noble Park, a green space just off the beach, is ideal for picnics, relaxing, and people-watching. Grab a spot on a bench or, as Julie Roberts would say, “cop a squat” on the green to unwind after a day of beach activities.
The people-watching at Noble Park can be entertaining. It’s popular with people who enjoy slacklining. Other parks in the area are popular with kids who like to play on the jungle gym.
Other Hermosa Beach Events
Hermosa Beach hosts numerous unique events throughout the year. Some of the more popular events include the
- St. Patrick’s Day Parade
- International Surf Festival
- Hermosa Beach Open
- Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk
- Smackfest
- Locale 90254 Oktoberfest
- Winter Holiday Events
Have a Lawn Bowling Party
The Hermosa Beach Lawn Bowling Club was founded in 1936 to bring the community together and keep the sport of lawn bowling thriving. Today, the club is private, but there are a few exceptions. If you are a lawn bowling enthusiast, you can take a free lesson, throw a party, or get a friend to bring you to a game.
Hermosa Beach Community Theatre
Take a seat in the 502-seat theatre where musical theatre groups perform, film premieres are screened, and dance productions take center stage. It’s a hub for inexpensive entertainment, workshops, movie nights, and cultural events.
The Best Restaurants in Hermosa Beach: Where to Eat
Hermosa Beach Breakfast/Brunch Options
For brunch, head to Martha’s 22nd Street Grill for a wide variety of brunch favorites, from eggs benedict and inventive scrambles to fresh salads and burgers. The outdoor seating offers a view of the ocean. My favorite dish is California benedict, and the curly fries are a must!
Pro Tip: You can usually get a table much faster if you are willing to skip the ocean view and ask for an inside.
Good Stuff is another popular breakfast joint, partly because of the food and partly because of the outdoor eating area that overlooks the beach.
For breakfast burritos, head to Brother’s Burritos or Guisado’s.
For a lighter, healthier breakfast, stop at Gum Tree for my favorite dish – scrambled eggs on avocado toast or Source Café, your go-to Hermosa Beach restaurant for gluten-free, vegan, paleo, and keto options.
For coffee, head to Java Man.
Culinary Hotspots for Dinner
Hermosa Beach offers numerous delicious options for dinner. Below is a list of restaurants popular with locals in Hermosa Beach. You can also venture a couple of miles and enjoy dinner in Manhattan Beach.
- Palmilla Cocina y Tequila offers delicious Mexican cuisine in a stylish setting, perfect for a night out. I often order a margarita, guacamole, and grilled seabass with lime rice. The menu also includes more traditional dishes, such as fajitas, enchiladas, and tacos.
- Bottle Inn is a local favorite that has been offering traditional classic Italian cuisine since 1974. Some of my favorite dishes include the Caesar salad with grilled shrimp, rigatoni pollo e Basilico, and the fettuccine Bolognese.
- Zane’s is a must-stop for an upscale meal with ocean views. Just up from the Hermosa Beach pier, Zane’s offers California fare and handcrafted cocktails in a warm atmosphere where there is something for everyone.
- RYLA is a chic coastal restaurant where California cuisine is infused with bold Japanese flavors. Some of my favorite dishes include Hokkaido Milk Bread, sushi rolls, and fried rice.
- Barrans2239 is a family-owned restaurant where Executive Chef Tyler Gugliotta leans on his Italian roots to create European-inspired dishes. Barrans2239 is popular with locals.
Quick Service Restaurants
For a more casual dining experience, check out the following restaurants:
- The Green Store for sandwiches
- Mickey’s Deli for hot sandwiches and sides
- Cultured Slice for cheese and charcuterie
- Paradise Bowls for acai bowls
- Guisado’s for tacos and tamales
The Best Places for Dessert in Hermosa Beach
No beach day is complete without a sweet treat. Hermosa Beach is filled with sugary goodness, including places like the Baked Bear, where you can get a warm brownie ice cream cookie sandwich (yes, that’s right, a brownie and a cookie), Bonaparte, where you can get pastries, cakes, and cookies, or travel inland to Best Donuts, for you guessed it – donuts.
The Best Bars in Hermosa Beach
Hermosa Beach is known for its bars and nightlife. Some of the best bars include Palmilla Cocina y Tequila (margaritas), The Lighthouse Café (live music), Vista (outdoor bar overlooking the beach), and Barnacles Bar & Grill (dive bar). For a young adult crowd, opt for Baja Sharkeez or Tower 12.
Happy Hour in Hermosa Beach
Happy hour is my favorite hour. Some of the best places for happy hour in Hermosa Beach include Japonica, Zane’s, and Tower 12.
Where to Stay in Hermosa Beach
Hotels in Hermosa Beach range from luxury beachfront hotels to charming bed and breakfasts. The Beach House Hotel is a popular choice for its prime location and stunning ocean views. For a more budget-friendly option, Sea Sprite Hotel offers comfortable rooms just steps from the beach or Hotel Hermosa, which is less than a five-minute drive from the beach.
But hotel options are not your only choice. There are numerous beach vacation rentals also available in Hermosa Beach.
Hermosa Beach Parking Tips
Parking in Hermosa Beach can be challenging, especially during peak times. However, there are several parking options throughout the city. The easiest place to park is parking lot C (structure). Metered street parking is also available.
All-day and overnight parking is available when staying at Hermosa Beach Hotels, such as the Beach House.
What should I pack for my trip to Hermosa Beach?
When visiting Hermosa Beach, you will want to pack for a casual beach vacation. You can go to any restaurant in a sundress or a pair of jeans.
A few beach essentials include sunscreen, a beach cover-up, a bathing suit, flip-flops, and a hat.
If you plan on biking The Strand or surfing, consider renting equipment locally at a place like Beach Bound Sports and Spyder Surf.
Pro Tip: Check out my ultimate guide to packing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some free things to do in Hermosa Beach, California?
There are plenty of free activities to enjoy in Hermosa Beach, such as lounging on the beach, biking or walking along The Strand, exploring the Hermosa Beach Pier, and attending free events like the Hermosa Beach Summer Concert Series.
What are some things to do with kids at Hermosa Beach?
Hermosa Beach is very family-friendly. Kids can enjoy the beach, the Hermosa Beach Skate Park, and the various playgrounds and parks in the area. The Farmers Market and local events like Fiesta Hermosa also offer fun activities for children.
What are some things to do with dogs at Hermosa Beach?
Hermosa Beach is dog-friendly, with many outdoor patios at restaurants welcoming pets. The Greenbelt and The Strand are great places to walk your dog. There’s also a dog park nearby in Redondo Beach, but Hermosa Beach is not a dog-friendly beach.
What are some things to do at night in Hermosa Beach?
The Hermosa Beach nightlife comes alive as young adults flock to Pier Avenue. Younger crowds favor places like American Junkie, Baja Sharkeez, Tower 12, and Hennessey’s Tavern.
But there are plenty of places in Hermosa Beach that cater to people over 25. Visit places like The Lighthouse Café for live music, enjoy a comedy show at the Comedy and Magic Club, or explore upscale restaurants with bars like Palmilla Cocina y Tequila and RYLA.
Key Takeaways
With its stunning coastline, upbeat vibe, and fun things to do, Hermosa Beach is perfect for a weekend getaway. Whether you are a foodie, someone who loves the beach, or you want to get away and relax, Hermosa Beach will not disappoint.
Hermosa Beach is also a family-friendly destination with multiple things for kids to do for free.
For young adults, Hermosa Beach is a prime vacation destination with fun activities during the day and bar hopping opportunities at night.
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The best things to do in the South Bay
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The best places to stay in and around Beverly Hills, California
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I’m a huge fan of the beach, so this would be up my ally! Sand sledding? So cool
Quite an extensive guide, with lots of things to do in Hermosa Beach. Thanks for sharing.
Hermosa Beach looks like a wonderful place to spend a few relaxing days. I have never heard of pickle ball before – had to look it up. I am not that much of a beach person but there are enough things to do apart from just relaxing at the beach.
Going to a concert on the beach is something i’ve always dreamed of doing. Hermosa beach looks beautiful and might need to be where I try and finally see some live music near the ocean.