On your next trip to Los Angeles, Manhattan Beach needs to be on your itinerary. Whether you’re a SoCal resident looking for a day trip, local looking for ideas, or out-of-towner planning your trip, this list suits all of the above. Below is a list of 10 things to do in Manhattan Beach on any given day. You may have heard this beachy, surfer town name dropped in a few famous movies like She’s All That, and Blow, but there’s much to offer in this laidback South Bay city, just ten minutes outside of LAX.
1. Walk, bike, or skate The Strand
One of the greatest activities you can enjoy in Manhattan Beach while keeping your health in check is strolling down The Strand. In Manhattan Beach, there are two parts to the Strand: the Marvin Braude Bike Trail (path closest to the beach), which extends from Santa Monica to Torrance, or the walking path above it.
Along The Strand, you’ll see people doing a combination of walking solo, walking their dogs or with friends, jogging, skateboarding, rollerskating, or biking. If you want to consider a bike rental close to the beach, check out Manhattan Beach e-Bike Rentals (North Manhattan Beach)
If you’re walking, grab a coffee or tea from a local shop like Two Guns Espresso (multiple locations), M&Love (open daily 8-3), or Goodboy Bob (6:30-2:30).
2. Surf the Pacific Ocean
One of the biggest draws of coastal, west LA and specifically the South Bay is the proximity to the beach. Manhattan Beach is home to surf-able waves, which can vary in level based on the day or season. To maximize your time in the ocean, a lesson is suggested, although they can run pricey. The average seems to be around $80 for a group lesson, or $115-130 for a private lesson.
To check the forecast ahead of time, look to Surfline and Magic Seaweed.
3. Check out local shops
If you feel like engaging in some retail therapy, there are a wealth of small businesses in the area to check out. For housewares, trinkets, clothing and more, check out:
Downtown Manhattan Beach:
- Gumtree
- Tabula Rasa
- Katwalk
North Manhattan Beach:
- The Waste Less Shop
- Yew Surf Wax (may be sold online or at El Porto Surf Shop)
4. Explore local attractions
IShould timing align, there’s the Roundhouse Aquarium at the end of the Manhattan Beach Pier, and an art popup in El Porto called Art of Summer.
For more on downtown Manhattan Beach, check out the official website, which encourages you to use #MBLocalLove when posting on social media.
5. Treat yourself to a spa day
Get pampered in the area with an activity of your choice. Hydrofacials are available at MB Skin Spa, or for an open-air mani pedi experience in a converted garage, try Polish Sand Spa.
6. Have a picnic at Bruce’s Beach
Bring music, or even your guitar. Grab food to go, like Beach Pizza, Beach Chinese, Pisces Sushi, or other easy take out from one of the local cafes.
7. Play beach volleyball
What would a beach with long stretches of sand be without volleyball? This popular LA beach sport is a South Bay favorite activity. Bring a volleyball and grab any open court for an authentic “local” experience.
Check out one of the many tournaments hosted here.
- Father’s Day Beach Tournament (June)
- 6 man (July)
- Manhattan Beach Open (Aug)
8. Wine and dine
When your stomach rumbles, the perfect activity that is generally mutually loved is abundant. Check out the dining Manhattan Beach has to offer, in either the northern end, downtown, or even in Manhattan Village.
Happy hours:
- Fishbar (2:30-5:30)
- Panchos (2-6:30)
- Hennessey’s (4-7)
- Tacolicious (3-6)
- FanSea Sushi (4:30-6 Tues-Fri)
Atmosphere:
Reservations are recommended for the below.
- Esperanza
- Manhattan Beach Post
- The Strand House
Classic MB:
These ones have been here some time and are more mom-and-pop:
- Uncle Bill’s Pancake House (since 1961)
- The Kettle (open 24 hours) (since 1973)
- The Local Yolk
- North End Caffe (since 1951)
For more of a guide on local eats, check out the Easy Reader dining guide.
9. Do an outdoor workout
Opt for fresh air with a more workout-style setup.
Cardio:
There’s a pathway commonly referred to as The Greenbelt or “Veterans Parkway,” which is several miles long, spanning from Manhattan Beach down to Redondo Beach.
Alternatively, you can really get your heart rate pumping by booking an hour slot at the Sand Dunes (must book online here).
Strength:
Nestled directly along the beach, there’s a workout area at Bruce’s Beach with some basic pull-up bars.
10. Play in the sand
Of course, sunbathing and bronzing in the sun is a must if the weather is in your favor. Prefer an active beach day? Bring a volleyball as there are many nets up, bring beach racquets, or try your hand at spike ball. Don’t forget your SPF and beach umbrella!
Want more tips on things to do in Manhattan Beach? Check out the City of MB website or Instagram for current events and update, and the downtown Manhattan Beach website.
