Not long ago, I decided to write more about the places I frequent the most, the ones I consider part of my community. Today, it is the turn of Hermosa Beach, one of the lovely beach towns located in Los Angeles County.
I stop by Hermosa almost weekly. Therefore, I am more than happy to share my knowledge about what to do, see and eat in the city!
Context
Los Angeles is known for its enormous population, heavy traffic, and clouds of smog.
As a long-time resident, I can assure you not all of Los Angeles fits that description. Within the county, the cities of Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach and Redondo Beach (sometimes El Segundo is included) form a community with the characteristics of a small town.
Think about them along the lines of sun, surf, and sand. The waterfront is not overdeveloped and goods and services are provided by small, locally owned businesses. In other words, we live in our cocooned paradise but have first-hand access to the big city amenities (if we want to go there).
Hermosa Beach is the smallest of the Beach Cities in terms of land area (1.4 square miles) and population (about 20,000). If you want to experience Los Angeles beyond, Hollywood, Santa Monica and Venice Beach, I encourage you to take the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) to Hermosa Beach.
Hermosa Beach: Things to Do
As mentioned, Hermosa Beach has a small surface area and, consequently, most of the action happens Downtown which, by the way, is next to the water. The things to do, see and eat in this guide are concentrated on Downtown.
Stroll the Pier
This 1,000 feet (300 meters) pier is an integral part of this city’s identity. Even if we are in the area for lunch or dinner, we will make some time to stroll the pier. Follow the lead of the locals and take in the views of the Santa Monica Bay and the Palos Verdes Peninsula. In addition, you will be able to see the piers our sister communities (Manhattan Beach and Redondo Beach).
Fishing from the pier without a license is allowed.
Walk or Bike The Strand
The Strand is a 22-mile paved path extending from Pacific Palisades (close to Santa Monica) to Torrance.
The section belonging to Hermosa Beach has a length of about 1.5 miles. You can choose to walk or bike as much of the path as you want.
One of our favorite things to do is the “Pier to Pier” walk. This refers to the 2 miles section between the Hermosa Beach and Manhattan Beach piers (4 miles roundtrip). This is a great way to see what is happening at the beach and, at the same time, exercise. Plus, there are plenty of places to eat and drink at both ends of the walk.
The walk from the Hermosa Pier to the Redondo Pier is 2 miles long. This is another nice walk. However, when going south, we prefer to use our bikes and make it all the way to the end of the path in Torrance. This is an easy, 4 miles trip (one way).
If you do not have your own wheels, you can rent some at the Hermosa Beach Cyclery. They have cruisers, hybrids, tandems, trikes, skates, scooters, boogie boards, umbrellas and beach chairs in stock.
Take a Dip in the Ocean
Hermosa has about 1.5 miles of a sandy beach.
The strip of sand is relatively wide. The stretch closer to The Strand is used for volleyball, paddleboarding and other sports. The rest of the sand is claimed by families or individuals sunbathing or picnicking.
The beach is more crowded close to the pier. Walk a bit away from the pier if you are in search of a more secluded spot.
Showers, restrooms and potable water are available next to the pier and at 24th Street. There are NO shady areas at the beach.
Relax at Noble Park
If you prefer not to deal with the sand messiness (or if there is somebody on your party with mobility issues), you can set headquarters at Noble Park. This green area is right in front of the beach and does not get crowded.
Discover the Treasures of Pier Avenue
Have you noticed a lot of towns have a main thoroughfare? Well, Hermosa is not the exception. Pier Avenue, extending from the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) to the ocean, has dozens of eateries, coffee shops, apparel stores, a wine shop, hair salons and much more! There are plenty of options for those interested in dining or shopping.
This street has a terminus at a pedestrian space called the Pier Plaza. This area is known for its many bars and its party atmosphere. It is a cool place to be, but my recommendation is not to stay for your entire time there. The restaurants and stores are more interesting in other parts of the avenue.
Visit the Hermosa Beach Museum
I am a big fan of history and because of that, I try to learn about a community’s past every time I visit. Local museums provide an excellent opportunity to do exactly that.
The Hermosa Beach Museum showcases memorabilia and other objects pertaining to the history of the City of Hermosa Beach. In this museum, you can learn how the city has been involved in surf culture, the jazz movement in the South Bay and the punk music phenomenon.
Admission is free (donations are welcome). The museum is open Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and weekends from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Go Mural Hunting
For a small town, Hermosa Beach has an excellent collection of art displayed on its streets.
Most of the colorful murals gracing downtown can be attributed to the Hermosa Beach Mural Project, a non-profit dedicated to enhancing the appearance of businesses and public areas through art. Their goal is to complete 10 murals in 10 years. So far, 7 have been completed.
Let’s take a look at the murals!
Hermosa Splash Circa 1909
Location: 140 Pier Ave
Hermosa Beach West Coast Jazz
Location: 1007 Hermosa Avenue
Hermosa Swimwear Evolves
Location: 500 Pier Avenue
Hermosa’s Great Wave
Location: Hermosa Avenue & 14th Street
Lifeguards in Hermosa
Location: 13th Street and Hermosa Avenue
Here is information about the two additional murals of the project (do not have photos now).
Volleyball in Hermosa
Location: 13th Street and Beach Drive
Hermosa Beach Pier Plaza Circa 1924
Location: 14th Street and Hermosa Avenue
There are other works of art in the city not related to the Mural Project. The Sunny Southern California mural is located at the end of Pier Avenue.
J. Harpham’s underwater, hand painted tile mural is located on 10th street and The Strand.
Exercise on the Greenbelt
Granted, you may not want to spend your vacation exercising. However, I know there are a lot of folks who want to stay healthy even while traveling.
The Greenbelt or Veterans Parkway is a 3-mile long path extending from Hermosa Beach to Manhattan Beach. This shaded path, full of benches and picnic tables, may be of interest for those staying in the city for some time (a week or more).
The walk is considered easy and you will pass Downtown Hermosa and Manhattan Beach and make it all the way to Manhattan Beach Village (Shopping Mall). The path runs parallel to Valley Drive.
Get a Taste of Australia
No, I am not daydreaming.
Turns out one of the Gum Tree Café owners is from Australia. He and his Southern California wife met in New York. After the couple’s first daughter was born, they decided to move to California and open a café.
Gum Tree serves sandwiches and salads made with organic and locally sourced ingredients. The Aussie touch is on the meat/chicken pies, vegemite toasts, flat whites and tim tams served. Their coffee, chai lattes and lemonades are delicious too. I love this place and highly recommend it.
And, that is not all, the café is only a part of the business. They have a store selling the most amazing books, cards, jewelry and home accessories. If you are in town, go and look!
Shop (or Window Shop) to your Hearts Content
I am not a big shopper. However, Hermosa has some unique stores that are worth a visit. I promise the goods on some of these stores will make you laugh hard.
Curious … is my favorite store on Pier Avenue. In this gift shop, you will find furniture, gift, cards, books, candles and much more. But, these are not ordinary goods. Think along the lines of unicorn masks, mermaid tails and tons of political incorrectness. Really love to spend some time here.
Grizzly Clothing and Wicked+ sell a nice selection of goods too.
If you are into antiques, the Star Antique Market is for you. This red barn brings together 65 eclectic antique dealers under one roof. Featuring a wide spectrum of vintage items and collectibles, like European antiques, California pottery, jewelry, glassware and one-of-a-kind historical items, Stars has no problems filling it’s 7,000 square feet of space.
Pay a Visit to the Famous Lighthouse Café
In all honesty, I learned about the history of The Lighthouse Café when researching this article.
Even though the establishment has the word “café” on its name, this place was one of the central West Coast Jazz clubs from the 50s to the 70s. Several records have been made onsite. Live music is presented daily. Check the website for details.
In addition, the café was featured in the movie La La Land.
Get Fresh Produce at the Farmers Market
Every Wednesday from 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., the Hermosa Beach Farmers Markets is set up in the Pier Plaza. This must be one of the most scenic markets in the area since it has the beach as a background.
The market features fresh fruits, vegetables and fish, jams, preserves, honey, flowers, baked goods, BBQ chicken and much more!
Another market takes place every Friday from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at 1035 Valley Drive (in the downtown area).
Beach Skate Park
If you are visiting Hermosa with kids, you can pack their skateboards and give them some use at the city’s skate park. There is plenty of space to skate on The Strand but the park may be a bit more fun.
Location: 710 Pier Avenue
The Comedy and Magic Club
This is probably one of the most popular venues in the South Bay. Many renowned comics such as Gabriel Iglesias and Arsenio Hall have performed and continue performing here. As a matter of fact, Jay Leno performs weekly (most Sundays).
And, let’s not forget about the magic. I have magician friends who describe the tricks performed as impressive.
The club is open Tuesday to Sunday. Food is served on site and reservations can be made. Find more details here.
Fiesta Hermosa
The organizers of Fiesta Hermosa state this is the largest arts and crafts fair in Southern California. Every Memorial and Labor Day Weekend (Saturday, Sunday, and Monday) they bring together 300 artists including painters, photographers, jewelers, sculptors, and artisans. There is a food court, mechanical rides and petting zoo.
I have attended the festival for years and still find it fun. It is a great way to spend a day if you are in the area.
Thousands of people come down to the beach for Fiesta Hermosa. Make parking arrangements if you are thinking about visiting (park at designated lots and ride a shuttle or arrive via Uber).
Hermosa Beach Restaurants: What to Eat
There are a lot of things to do in Hermosa Beach but, in my opinion, the food alone is a reason enough to visit the city.
There are tons of options along Pier Avenue, Hermosa Avenue, and The Strand. You will have no problem finding something delicious.
My biggest tip is to eat between 3:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. Many restaurants offer great specials during this time. On top of that, some restaurants have special during weekends. This is a good way to save some bucks!
Breakfast
Good Stuff and Martha’s 22nd Street Grill are excellent options for breakfast. They offer various healthy choices and have outdoor seating next to the beach.
I love the food at The Grindz. My favorite dish is the Kalua Pork served with scrambled eggs, black beans, and pico the gallo.
Do not forget to check out the Australian vibe at Gum Tree Café.
Brunch
During weekends, the following places have delightful options for brunch:
- Dia de Campo – owners describe this place as a modern surf lodge, fish house, and raw bar. I describe it as modern Mexican food done right. For brunch, they serve burritos, clilaquiles, chile verde, hanger steak and chicken & churros. All of these have a surprising twist.
- The Hook & Plow – the local California dishes serve in here include short rib hash, pear and burrata salad and roasted pork sandwich
- Crème de la Crepe – this beach favorite offers options such as crepes, waffles, French toast, omelets and benedict eggs
- Palmilla Cocina Y Tequila – this establishment takes Mexican food to the next level and serves dishes such as crab benedict, mole negro enchiladas, and salchichon scramble
Lunch and Dinner
Here is a sample of where to have lunch and dinner in Hermosa Beach. Notice this is a limited list since the options are many.
- Greenbelt – Dishes: kale chicken Caesar, braised short rib pizza, truffle fries
- Abigaile – Dishes: poutine, Moroccan lamb, lomo saltado, spicy tuna poke
- The Standing Room – American-Korean fusion burgers, sandwiches, and appetizers
- The Rockefeller – Dishes: seared ahi tacos, prime beef burgers, pan roasted chicken
- Steak & Whiskey – Dishes: a variety of steaks, lamb osso buco, stuffed chicken breast
Casual Eats
The following establishments offer quick and cheap eats.
- The Pita Pit
- Paisanos Pizza and Pasta
- Brother’s Burritos
- Slater’s 50/50
- Hermosa Beach Fish Shop
- Paradise Bowls
Ice Cream
And, if you are at the beach, you need some ice cream to deal with the heat.
- Paciugo
- Paradis Ice Cream
Hermosa Beach Parking
Parking next to the beach is available on a multi-level structure, lots and individual spots. Payment is through a meter. Be aware that many of the parking spots close to the beach have a 2-hour limit.
There are free parking lots with 6 to 12-hour limits next to the Hermosa Beach Community Center and at Valley Drive and 11th Street.
Hermosa Beach Weather and Seasonality
Hermosa Beach is blessed with an excellent year-round weather. In summer, temperatures reach the 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Winter temperatures oscillate around the 60 degrees.
Even though the weather is pleasant all the time, some businesses observe shorter operating hours during winter. Other businesses are only open during the weekends. If you are visiting during this season and have your eyes set on a particular place, make sure it is operating during your visit.
The beach gets crowded during summer weekends. I recommend arriving early to secure a parking spot.
More of the South Bay
If you are in Hermosa Beach, make some time to visit its gorgeous southern neighbors!
- Redondo Beach Pier: What to Do, See and Eat
- Palos Verdes Hikes and Trails
More of Los Angeles
Oh, and Los Angeles is cool too!
More of Southern California
Have you been to Redondo Beach and its pier? Let me know in the comments section.
If you enjoyed this post, please remember to share!
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This post is part of The Weekly Postcard at Travel Notes and Beyond, Faraway Files at Sandcastles and Suitcases, Follow Me Friday at Feet Do Travel and Weekend Wanderlust at Travel Latte.
Hi! I like all of your photos,Especially ,I like your sun set photo very much. Thanks for sharing.
A great place for a beach vacation – pinned and shared.
This post is a bit long in one post, but inspiring. I will come back to read more of the other details. You write well and photographs finely too. I said inspiring as it gives me an idea of what to do for my supposedly touristy town! I have to do this too. Thanks much.
What a beautiful place. Lovely shots.
You have a beautiful post about Hermosa Beach.
Now I feel as if I’ve been there. Thank you for the tour.
Kay
An Unfittie’s Guide to Adventurous Travel
It looks like a great place. I’d love a beach vacation!
I love the beach cities! I’m jealous that you’re so close to them. The quirky shops and independent restaurants are my favorite part of this area. I feel like it’s so much more authentic and comfortable than Santa Monica. Thanks for sharing some more restaurant ideas for my next trip.
Hermosa Beach seriously looks like so much fun, and I never would have guessed that it was that close to the hustle and bustle of LA! This area really reminds me a lot of Pacific Beach in San Diego, probably because we did a lot of similar things, we walked the pier, walked along the beach, did some shopping, and of course ate at some delicious restaurants. I pinned so I could have this handy for another trip to LA!
Hermosa beach is one of the few beach cities in Southern California that I haven’t had a chance to visit. I really enjoyed reading about it, and being inspired by your vibrant photos. I will have to spend an afternoon there soon!
Gosh I love a good small town beach! It’s so much more fun in my opinion to discover those gems. And give me alllll the murals! great post!
What a cool beach town! I love the murals – this is a really comprehensive guide! Thanks!
I’ve been to the Pier! What a beautiful place for long walk on the beach 😛 I miss the sunshine and soft sand of west coast so much! You just brought a smile to my face with these photos girl. Thank you!
I need to add Hermosa Beach to my Southern California bucket list – now that I live in Arizona, it’s not all that far away and I’ll be planning some SoCal road trips this year 🙂
Thanks for this comprehensive guide! I don’t think I’ve ever heard of a beach museum before, what a great idea:) Between that, the magic shows, and the vegemite toast, I think Hermosa beach just took a trip to the top of my bucket list!
ohh you described so many things to do at place !!! those pictures of murrels are beautiful and beach colours are insane.Would love to go here.Informative post.Thanks for sharing,
I’ve lived in Southern California for over 25 years and I’m kinda embarrassed to admit that I’ve never been to Hermosa Beach. This post gives me inspiration to check out this beach city. There’s a lot about it that reminds me our San Diego beach towns. Love those murals and thanks for all the great tips especially where to eat.
I love that this is a relaxing escape so close to such a big city! I’d probably be hanging out on the beach for sunset every day if I visited. It seems like a great spot to cruise along the beach and enjoy the calming sounds of the waves.
This looks like a very nice beach community!! #wanderfulwednesday
Love how detailed this guide is! I haven’t spent much time on the west coast but I’m hoping to do a longer trip out there next year (hoping for a 2 week road trip starting in San Diego) – so I’ll definitely save this for my trip!!
Love beach towns that have a wide open area for strolling along the coastline! And that street art definitely ads some flair! Another part of Cali I never visited but would now like to see! Thanks for bringing this to my attention! #FarawayFiles
Don’t laugh, but your photos of the beach areas and pier remind me of the Baywatch episodes I loved as a kid!
Your blog is an inexhaustible resource for beautiful beaches in Southern California. You made miss going to Hermosa Beach. I can’t remember visiting the Farmer’s Market. Well, maybe next time we’ll go there. #TheWeeklyPostcard
There is just something so appealing about California beach towns. My favorite is Huntington Beach but Hermosa looks like a winner, too!
We often find our way south! This list will be so useful! #farawayfiles
Hermosa Beach is one of my favorite areas in LA. I love the laid-back vibe. I used to love Sharkees but then there was a fire sadly. I still need to check out the museum and the comedy clubs. Thanks for sharing on #TheWeeklyPostcard.
Oh I love the look of this place, Ruth! The beach, that coastline and all that dreamy food. Definitely adding to my list of things to do in Los Angeles. Thanks for sharing on #FarawayFiles
So in depth, thank you!!
This is a great, comprehensive guide to Hermosa Beach! I’ll definitely keep this in mind for when I (finally) make it to California!
What a comprehensive guide! The murals look interesting, and the antique market as well! Thanks for the list!
I’ve been to a number of the beach cities in S. California but I have never made it to Hermosa beach. It looks very cute. Thanks for the addresses of the locations of the street murals. That will come in handy when I visit.
We never know that our World has most wonderful specific places. Our world has full of natural beauty Hermosa beach is one of them. Those pictures sound so wonderful and after seeing this I want to go there.
Your photos are great! I love beach vacations and a small town is perfect for them. #theweeklypostcard
Hermosa Beach looks stunning! I’ve only been to LA once and , of course, visited Hollywood, Santa Monica, Venice Beach – good to know where the locals go! The comedy/magic club and mural hunting would be a must for me! #TheWeeklyPostcard
I just love Hermosa Beach and you have included all my favorite things to do there and more. My next trip I must find the murals. I also love to visit the Comedy/Magic Club then head over and find a bite to eat. I pinned this for later use. Thanks for sharing! #feetdotravel