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57 Fun Things to Do in South Bay, Los Angeles (2024)

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If you’re looking for a unique spot to explore pristine southern California beaches, delicious restaurants, and some of the best activities – look no further than this guide to the best things to do in South Bay, Los Angeles! As someone who was born and raised in the South Bay (Torrance), I have explored every part of this interesting pocket of LA and can give you an insider’s scoop on the South Bay.

Though often overlooked by Orange County and Los Angeles, the South Bay LA is an absolutely stunning area with its own character and typically fewer crowds than the surrounding areas. It’s much bigger than many people first realize, and each city has its own unique vibe and things to offer visitors.

view of the ocean on Palos Verdes Peninsula

The South Bay of Los Angeles is sandwiched between Long Beach and Los Angeles, beginning just south of the Los Angeles International Airport. From north to south, the major cities that make up the South Bay include: El Segundo, Manhattan Beach, Redondo Beach, Torrance, Palos Verdes, and San Pedro.

There are a few other cities that make up the South Bay as well, including Lomita, Gardena, and Hawthorne. The South Bay is home to many of the safest cities in Los Angeles County, making it an excellent place to settle down or simply to explore.

Jump to…
#1 Best Thing to Do
Top Things to Do in South Bay, LA
Best Things to Do at Night in the South Bay
Free Things to Do in the South Bay Area
Best Things to Do With Kids
Museums in the South Bay
South Bay LA FAQs

Best Things to Do by City:
El Segundo
Manhattan Beach
Hermosa Beach
Redondo Beach
Palos Verdes Peninsula
Torrance
San Pedro

Best Thing to Do in South Bay, Los Angeles

1. Take a Scenic Helicopter Ride Over the South Bay LA

Hands-down a helicopter ride over the South Bay will be your favorite experience! There’s nothing quite like a low-level chopper flight over the South Bay area. You’ll learn a bit more about the area while you enjoy 360-degree views of Palos Verdes Penninsula, Torrance Beach, King Harbor, and the beach city piers. On a clear day, you can see all the way out to Catalina Island!

aerial view over South Bay LA

The tour starts in the adorable Torrance Airport, which is always full of old and unique small planes. Whether you’re a local looking for a new way to see the city or a visitor looking for unique things to do, a helicopter tour is a perfect way to see the South Bay.

This tour comes highly rated on Yelp over the past few years, and people rave about the wonderful experience at an affordable price.

reviews of JJ Helicopters

➡️ CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE + BOOK

Top Things to Do in South Bay, LA

2. Rent a Bike and Ride Along the Strand

“The Strand” is a 22-mile bike path that runs along the ocean starting at Torrance Beach (at the base of Palos Verdes Penninsula) and stretches north, all the way up through Santa Monica. It hits all of LA’s most popular beaches along the way, including all of the South Bay beaches.

Rent a bike from any spot along the strand (typically near any of the piers will be your best bet) and cycle for as long as you feel like – or even take your bike ride all the way up to Santa Monica!

The Strand in the South Bay LA

3. Or, Rent Roller Skates Instead

Roller skating is becoming the new popular beach activity! If you want to try something a little different, go for renting roller skates over a bicycle.

4. Go Whale Watching

It’s possible to spot whales just off the coast in the South Bay. Bring your binoculars and spend some time along the Palos Verdes cliffs (specifically Point Vicente is often a good spot) or even the Redondo Beach Pier to try and see whales.

People have spotted Humpback Whales, Pacific Gray Whales, and even Orcas (Killer Whales) off nearby shores. The best time for whale watching in the South Bay is usually January through April.

me and Peter on a boat

To get out on the waters and increase your chances of spotting a whale, try out one of these tours!

👉 Redondo Beach Whale Watch
👉 Newport Beach Whale Watching Day Cruise (includes more of Long Beach too)

5. Try Surfing in the South Bay LA

The South Bay has a rich surf culture and is a great place to try your hand at the fabulous sport. I have been surfing in the South Bay for a few years now and highly recommend trying surfing – there’s just nothing like catching a wave and seeing the whole of the coast from Los Angeles to Palos Verdes sprawl out in front of you!

me and some friends surfing in the South Bay LA

For beginner surfers, I VERY strongly recommend taking a surf lesson. It can be difficult to learn surfing, especially on your own, and you will greatly speed up your learning curve and have A LOT more fun if you take a lesson (or a couple) right off the bat.

Even as an intermediate surfer, I take a lesson every time I go to a new spot because it’s best to hear from a local expert surfer who can cover basic surf etiquette, tide, and wave dynamics of the area, plus safety and surf technique for new surfers. Additionally, surf lessons include the rental of your equipment for convenience.

surfing in California

🏄 There are three main spots you can try surfing in the South Bay…

Redondo Beach – the waves here are almost always very small and great for brand new beginners.

👉 CLICK HERE FOR INFO ON SURF LESSONS IN REDONDO BEACH

Hermosa Beach – another great beginner surf spot, the waves have a chance of being a bit bigger here but it’s still usually pretty calm to learn on. Best for people who want to be near a happening pier!

👉 CLICK HERE FOR INFO ON SURF LESSONS IN HERMOSA BEACH

El Porto in Manhattan Beach – There are usually surfboard rentals on the beach here (look for a tent near the snack shack) and people offering lessons. This is typically the best spot for the summer because other spots get pretty flat.

HOWEVER, El Porto is the top surf spot in the South Bay, and you will likely find yourself surrounded by experienced surfers. This spot is better for people who have some experience surfing and want to take a lesson more to learn the area.

Perfect Day Surf Club van in Redondo Beach

Best Things to Do at Night in the South Bay

6. Dance the Night Away in Hermosa Beach

Hermosa Beach is known for its nightlife. There aren’t many other places in the South Bay to dance and find a more rowdy night out, though there are plenty of great breweries and bars around. For those spending time in the South Bay, Hermosa Beach will be the closest, best night out, unless you make the trek to Long Beach or Los Angeles.

It’s easy to bar hop along the Hermosa Beach Pier at whichever places are calling your name! Try karaoke at Tower 12 for a beach-themed bar and chill night, catch live music and jazz at the infamous Lighthouse Cafe, or get a bit rowdier and dance the night away at American Junkie.

me and a friend on the Hermosa Beach Pier at night

7. Try One of the South Bay Breweries

There are a handful of great places to go for a pint of craft beer, including Common Space Brewery in Hawthorne (my personal favorite because of the big patio and delicious food trucks), Smog City in Torrance (you’ll find their beers being served around the South Bay), or George Lopez Brewing Company (the one in Torrance by the mall is best, they have a fun food menu and boozy milkshakes!).

8. Admire the City Lights From Rocketship Park

The Los Arboles Rocketship Park in Torrance has gorgeous, sweeping views of the South Bay and all the way out to Long Beach and Los Angeles on a clear night. For the best views, embrace your inner child and climb up to sit in the giant rocket ship!

Rocketship Park in Torrance

Free Things to Do in the South Bay Area

9. Enjoy the Sun and Go for a Swim at the Beaches

Pick any of the beaches in the South Bay and you will find fluffy, soft sand beaches with stunning blue waters. Enjoy an afternoon soaking up the sun or going for a swim in the water. The ocean is at its warmest from August to October, but you can enjoy dipping a toe in at all times of the year!

For the easiest parking, head to Torrance Beach. Redondo Beach has an interesting pier with plenty of dining and activities along it. Hermosa Beach is best for the bars and constant events, and Manhattan Beach is a bit more upscale.

Torrance Beach through a lifeguard tower

10. Play Some Beach Volleyball

Bring a volleyball to the beach and stake your claim at one of the many nets for beach volleyball courts that are set up along the beaches. Or, simply toss the ball in the sand and enjoy the gorgeous views!

11. Enjoy the Many Parks and Picnic Areas in South Bay Los Angeles

The South Bay Los Angeles is littered with parks and areas to picnic and enjoy the outdoors. Some of the best parks include Polliwog Park in Manhattan Beach and Wilson Park in Torrance.

overview shot of Torrance Beach and Palos Verdes

Best Things to Do With Kids in the South Bay LA

12. Explore the Madrona Marsh

Located in Torrance, the Madrona Marsh is 43 acres of protected, seasonal wetland. It’s a lovely place to take the kids on a nature walk and spot the local wildlife. You can spot birds, insects, spiders, frogs, reptiles, and small mammals. Check out the Visitor’s Center to learn more.

13. Veteran’s Park in Redondo Beach

Veteran’s Park is a 6.3-acre park located at the corner of South Catalina Avenue and Torrance Boulevard. It has green space with fields, a playground for kids, and overlooks the ocean.

kid playing in the ocean

14. Gymboree Play & Music

Gymboree Play & Music, located in Torrance, offers hands-on play classes for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers in art, music, and school skills. The venue also has an open gym and space for children’s birthday parties. 

Pay per visit or purchase a package for multiple visits.

15. Dave & Buster’s

At the Del Amo Mall in Torrance, enjoy this family-friend arcade venue. It’s a sports-bar-style place with plenty of games and entertainment to keep the whole family engaged.

kid and dad playing arcade games

16. Go Bowling

Check out one of the local bowling alleys to keep the kids entertained: Gable House Bowl, Bowlero Torrance, or Bowlero Los Angeles.

17. Play Laser Tag

Laser Storm or Battleground VR are both located in the South Bay and offer games for kids to run and enjoy a fun afternoon.

 

Museums in South Bay Los Angeles

18. Hermosa Beach Historical Society & Museum

The museum for this historic beach town features a wide variety of archival photos, documents, and artifacts. Visitors can view a collection of retro posters and vintage photographs. The historical society offers a variety of things to do in Hermosa Beach, including walking tours, lectures, and educational programs.

Museum Hours are Wednesday to Sun​day from 2pm to 4pm.

view of Hermosa Beach from on top of the pier

19. Lomita Railroad Museum

This adorable little museum in Lomita is devoted to California railroad history. The exhibits include a full-size steam locomotive, a station housing scale models, photographs, and paintings of trains.

Museum Hours are Friday to Sunday from 10am to 5pm.

20. Point Vicente Lighthouse

One of the South Bay area’s jewels, Point Vicente Lighthouse stands on the southwesterly point of the Palos Verdes Peninsula.

Point Vicente Lighthouse

The grounds and lighthouse are normally closed to the public but can always be viewed from the outside. However, the tower and a small museum are open to the public on occasion.

Museum Hours are the SECOND Saturday of the month from 10am to 3pm (*in March it’s the FIRST Saturday).

21. Torrance Art Museum

The Torrance Art Museum has two galleries focusing on contemporary art from Southern California. There are rotating galleries that feature both local and international artists. Admission is free to the public.

Museum Hours are Tuesday to Saturday from 11am to 5pm.

looking at art

22. Western Museum of Flight

The Western Museum of Flight is an aviation museum located at Zamperini Field in Torrance. The museum includes real and model aircraft and information on the history of aviation in Southern California.

Museum Hours are Friday to Monday from 10am to 3pm.

P.S. need help planning your trip to California? ✨
I’ve lived there my whole life and offer personalized travel consultations. 


Simply send an email to janelle@makethetripmatter.com with the information you’re looking for and where you’re at in your trip-planning process.

👉 Or, click here to learn more.

Fun Things to Do in El Segundo

23. Walk Along Main Street

From Imperial Highway to El Segundo Blvd. runs the adorable Main Street. Stroll down the few blocks and pass the beautiful high school (where many movies have been filmed), cute cafes such as the Blue Butterfly Coffee Co., and down to the trendy new breweries and bars.

24. Try Out the New Top Golf

Top Golf just opened somewhat recently in El Segundo and has been a huge success! It has a driving range, golf games, and a full-service restaurant and bar.

Top Golf

25. Sample Local Beers at the Brewport Tap House

The Brewport Tap House in El Segundo is one of my favorite places to go! They give you a wristband upon entry that’s tied to your credit card so you can walk along the row of beers and just “tap” in to pour out your beers.

26. Have a Beach BBQ at Dockweiler State Beach

About 40 fire pits are available on a first-come-first-served basis at Dockweiler Beach. Get there early with your hot dogs and s’mores fixings and claim your fire pit to enjoy a unique South Bay beach activity.

beach bonfire

Best Things to Do in Manhattan Beach

27. Watch the Surfers at El Porto Beach

Enter the parking lot to El Porto Beach at Highland Ave. and 45th St. for a very southern California experience! At all times of the day, the parking lot is full of surfers of all ages getting ready to head out into the water.

One of the most popular surf spots in the South Bay due to the consistent swell and larger wave size, El Porto draws some of the most experienced surfers in the area. Hang out on the beach and watch the surfers shred!

surfers in California

28. Stop at Cafes Along Highland Ave.

A few blocks up from the water, Highland Ave. runs parallel to the beach and is lined with boutique shops, restaurants, and great coffee shops and cafes to stop and enjoy the Manhattan Beach culture.

29. Have a Picnic at Bruce’s Beach

Pick up some food to go (or stop by Trader Joe’s on Rosecrans – that’s what we usually do!) and bring a picnic to Bruce’s Beach. The park runs up from the beach to Highland Ave. and provides big grassy lawns with great views of the ocean.

picnic in Hermosa Beach, CA

30. Have Brunch at the Kettle

The Kettle is an iconic symbol in downtown Manhattan Beach and is worth fighting the inevitable crowds for a delicious brunch. Pro-tip – you HAVE to try the muffins, they’re incredible!

On Fridays and Saturdays, it’s open 24 hours and becomes the best local spot after a night out exploring the many things to do in the South Bay after dark.

downtown Manhattan Beach, CA

31. Get Your Exercise in at the Sand Dune Park

The Sand Dune Park in Manhattan Beach is a high sand dune on a steep hill and provides a great place for some morning exercise before the sun makes the sand too hot.

32. Enjoy Beach Front Fine-Dining at the Strand House

The only restaurant on the Manhattan Beach pier with ocean views, the Strand House is incredible. With farm-fresh fine dining and a sleek setting, it’s one of the top-tier restaurants in the South Bay.

sunset view of Manhattan Beach

Check out more things to do in Manhattan Beach, below ⬇️

31 Incredible Things to Do in Manhattan Beach

Top Things to Do in Hermosa Beach

33. Walk Along the Pier and Stop In the Shops

Take a walk along the Hermosa Beach Pier and do some shopping. From quirky souvenir shops to adorable boutiques, you will find everything you need along Pier Ave.

34. Catch a Popular Event in Hermosa Beach

Hermosa Beach is probably the best spot in the South Bay for special events, the best of which happen over the summer. If you’re lucky enough to be looking for things to do in the South Bay Los Angeles while there’s an event going on at Hermosa Beach, you will have an unforgettable experience!

man skating down pier wearing an American flag

The best events in Hermosa Beach are: the 4th of July, Fiesta Hermosa (Labor Day weekend in September), the International Surf Festival (beginning of August), and St. Patrick’s Day (March).

35. See a Show at The Hermosa Beach Comedy & Magic Club

The popular Hermosa Beach Comedy and Magic Club has been serving up laughs for almost 40 years and has featured some of the biggest names in comedy, including Jay Leno, Jerry Seinfeld, Gabriel Iglesias, and Bill Burr.

a comedy show

The club also offers a delicious menu of appetizers, entrees, drinks, and desserts, so you can enjoy a meal while you laugh the night away. Shows are typically held Thursday through Sunday, so be sure to check the schedule and make your reservations early.

36. Learn More About South Bay Culture With a Walking Tour in Hermosa Beach

Hermosa Beach is a beautiful and historic place, and there’s no better way to explore it than on foot. This guided audio walking tour will take you out onto the pier and fill you in on Hermosa Beach and the South Bay’s early history and the people who shaped it.

View of Hermosa Beach with the town and a surfer

You’ll also hear the story of a struggling musician who found success in Hermosa, as well as stories from a surfer about the waves and the beach culture. Plus, you’ll learn how this tiny beach town became a mecca for trailblazing music for more than 75 years.

➡️ CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE + BOOK

Check out more things to do in Hermosa Beach, below ⬇️

Things to Do in Hermosa Beach, CA

Fun Things to Do in Redondo Beach, CA

37. Explore the Redondo Beach Pier

The Redondo Beach Pier is a great place to spend an afternoon. Stop in and try some locally caught seafood, or get ice cream and walk along above the ocean. Keep an eye out for seals and marine life! I’ve even seen some of the bright orange garibaldi (California’s state fish) swimming under the Redondo Beach Pier.

Redondo Beach Pier

38. Shop, Eat, and Drink in the Redondo Beach Riviera Village

Located along S. Catalina Ave. and between Palos Verdes Blvd. is an area known as the Riviera. It’s full of great boutique shops (my mom and my new favorite is the adorable “Beach DNA”) and restaurants.

Creme De La Crepe serves a delicious brunch, Kalaveras is fantastic for Mexican food and pitchers of margaritas, and the Rebel Republic has a great happy hour.

having a drink in the Redondo Riviera Village
Riviera House

39. Check Out the Funky Coffee Cartel

Coffee Cartel is a cozy, quirky coffeehouse with bookshelves, upholstered couches, art, and a chill vibe. They used to host open mic and poetry nights, I believe they are currently canceled but keep an eye on their social media to check if it gets started up again!

40. Rent a SUP and Paddle in the Redondo Beach Harbor

On the northern side of the pier, there’s a place to rent stand-up paddle boards (called the Paddle House) to take out into the harbor to enjoy the sun and being out on the water.

SUP in the Redondo Beach Harbor

41. Handel’s Ice Cream

Located on PCH, this is hands down my favorite ice cream shop and it’s even been listed as #1 in the world! They always have unique flavors (my favorite is their oreo-dough) and they usually have discounted scoops on Tuesdays. Back when I was in high school they had $2 Tuesdays! Nowadays, I believe it’s up in the $3 range.

PRO TIP: Take your Handel’s ice cream and sit in the parking lot above RAT beach and enjoy the sunset and beach views.

P.S. need help planning your trip to California? ✨
I’ve lived there my whole life and offer personalized travel consultations. 


Simply send an email to janelle@makethetripmatter.com with the information you’re looking for and where you’re at in your trip-planning process.

👉 Or, click here to learn more.

42. Watch the Sunset at RAT Beach

No, there are no rats on the beach!

Known locally as “RAT Beach” AKA “Redondo and Torrance Beach,” the southernmost section of Torrance Beach is a quiet stretch of sand with beautiful views of Palos Verdes all the way down to Los Angeles.

Walk along the top path for the best views, or stop and sit along the wall to enjoy the sunset.

sunset over Redondo Beach Pier

Check out more things to do in Redondo Beach, below ⬇️

29 Fantastic Things to Do in Redondo Beach, CA

Top Things to Do in Palos Verdes

43. South Coast Botanic Garden

These gorgeous botanical gardens feature 87 acres with more than 2,500 different species of plants. There are many different events happening throughout the year and popular gardens include the Mediterranean Garden, California Native Plants, Desert Garden, and Japanese Garden/Koi Pond.

Open daily from 8am to 5pm with free admission every 3rd Tuesday.

flower garden

44. See the Stunning Wayfarers Chapel

Also known as “The Glass Church,” the Wayfarers Chapel is noted for its unique organic architecture and location on the cliffs above the Pacific Ocean. It’s a church built of glass and perfectly melded with the trees and nature of the cliff it resides on.

The Chapel grounds are open to the public daily from 9am to 5pm. The sanctuary closes when events happen, but the grounds remain open.

Wayfarers Chapel Palos Verdes

45. Go Horseback Riding

Take a scenic horseback ride through the stunning peninsula. No experience is necessary for these guided trail rides.

46. Go For a Hike

Palos Verdes (PV) Peninsula has some of the only true hiking in the South Bay of Los Angeles, but the trails are absolutely gorgeous and many of them feature sweeping ocean views from above. Take a look through these AllTrails suggestions to find some of the best hiking in PV.

my dog, Lizzie on a hike in Palos Verdes
This is Lizzie 🙂

47. Go Tide Pooling

Head down the bluffs (try out Abalone Cove) to find tide pools at the base of PV Peninsula. Wander through the rocks and try to find the sea critters hiding in the tidepools.

48. Visit the Terranea Resort

This stunning, luxury oceanfront resort has plenty to offer both for guests of the hotel and visitors. Try your hand at the beautiful 9-hole golf course or dine in one of the many incredible locations on the property.

👉 CLICK HERE for more information and resort availability

view over Palos Verdes Estates

49. Take a Scenic Drive Around the Peninsula

Follow Palos Verdes Drive around the peninsula for scenic ocean views. Pull over and make stops along the way to sit along the bluffs and take in the views.

Check out more things to do in Palos Verdes, below ⬇️

25 Best Things to Do in Palos Verdes

Thinking About Renting a Car?

Unfortunately, you basically have to drive in California to get around. The public transportation system isn’t very reliable, everything is spread out, and Ubers add up.

My go-to car rental service in California is Discover Cars. They compare prices across the leading car rental services to find you the LOWEST prices and BEST deals.

🚗 CLICK HERE TO SEARCH FOR YOUR RENTAL CAR

Best Things to Do in Torrance, CA

50. Shop at the Del Amo Mall

One of the top 10 biggest malls in America, you will find anything and everything you would want to buy at this massive shopping center. From luxury shopping to quirky budget stores, this mall has it all. Enjoy some of the restaurants around the mall (especially in the outdoor sections) or see a movie at the AMC theater.

woman shopping

51. Visit the Torrance Farmers’ Market

The Torrance Farmers’ Market is probably the biggest (and best) Farmers’ Market in the South Bay. Find fresh, local produce and handmade goods, or eat at some of the yummy food stalls. A must-try is the kettle corn – the best you might ever have!

The market is open at Wilson Park on Tuesdays and Saturdays from 8am to 1pm.

stands at the Torrance Farmers Market

52. Have Dinner at the Mezcaleria – Madre

A go-to date night for me and my boyfriend! Madre is an adorable Oaxacan food restaurant and Mezcaleria. It has delicious food and fantastic mezcal cocktails.

date night at Madre in Torrance

>>> 21 Best Restaurants in Torrance

53. Explore Old Town Torrance

Old Town Torrance is a cute area with shops, cafes, and local businesses. Wander around and enjoy the adorable neighborhood or stop at my family’s favorite Mexican food restaurant – La Capilla.

Walk up to Torrance High School to see where Buffy the Vampire Slayer, She’s All That, and 90210 (the original) were filmed!

54. Stop For a Sweet Treat at the Torrance Bakery

Located in Old Town Torrance, the Torrance Bakery is a classic for delicious baked goods. Everything is fresh and will blow your mind! Try the brownies or cakes, they’re a local favorite.

bakery

Fun Things to Do in San Pedro

55. Visit Cabrillo Marine Aquarium

Located at Cabrillo Beach in San Pedro, this little museum is free to the public and is a fantastic institution for marine education (I’m only a little biased because my boyfriend worked as a Marine Biologist here for a few years!).

You can wander through the exhibits and learn more about California ocean life, touch the sea stars and urchins, watch the octopus play with its toys (they’re as smart as a 5-year-old!), observe endangered Giant Black Seabass, and see the baby animals in the nursery.

jellyfish at Cabrillo Marine Aquarium

Cabrillo Aquarium is open every day except Monday, from 12pm to 5pm.

To top off your day, enjoy the less-crowded Cabrillo beach. There’s a playground and children’s play areas, picnic tables, and fire pits, plus the parking lots are inexpensive and never full. After, head to the San Pedro Fish Market to try some of the best fish tacos.

(PSST… Can you swim with dolphins in LA? 👉🏽 Find out HERE!)

standing at Cabrillo Beach
Cabrillo Beach, San Pedro (great for snorkeling + free diving!)

56. Admire the Korean Friendship Bell

The Korean Bell of Friendship is a massive bronze bell located in a stone pavilion in Angel’s Gate Park, overlooking the ocean on a cliff in San Pedro. It’s a beautiful monument, 12 feet tall and 17 tons gifted from South Korea.

Located off the Rancho Palos Verdes side of the peninsula, this beautiful area is a great spot to visit and a must-visit place in the South Bay LA.

the Korean Friendship Bell in San Pedro

57. View the Point Fermin Lighthouse

This ornate Victorian lighthouse was built in the late 1800s to overlook the San Pedro Harbor and was active until 1941, two days after the attack on Pearl Harbor.

It’s situated just past the Korean Friendship Bell on picturesque grounds with sea views, Victorian cottage gardens, and frequent live music performances, making it one of the best places to picnic and enjoy a sunny southern California afternoon.

overview of San Pedro, CA

Where to Stay in the South Bay Los Angeles

💲Budget-Friendly: Best Western Plus Manhattan Beach Hotel

🏖 On the Beach: Beach House Hotel at Hermosa Beach

💰 Mid-Range: Redondo Beach Tapestry by Hilton

💎 Luxury: Shade Hotel Manhattan Beach OR Redondo Beach

Want a deeper dive into hotels in the South Bay? Check out my posts here:
>>> 19 Best Hotels in Manhattan Beach
>>> 11 Best Cheap Hotels in Redondo Beach

sky view of Redondo Beach, CA

Do You Need to Rent a Car to Get Around the South Bay?

Yes, unfortunately, you will probably need to rent a car to get around in the South Bay.

It could be possible to get around by foot and using Uber and/or Lyft. In that case, I would recommend you stay at the hotel on the beach in Hermosa or one of the above-mentioned hotels in Redondo Beach that are near the pier. You will definitely want to be by the action and closer to the ocean because it will be easier to walk in between activities and restaurants from there.

Tesla in Los Angeles

Public buses exist but they’re not great or very expansive. Uber and Lyft will add up pretty quickly, they’re not cheap in the Los Angeles area due to the constant traffic and distance you have to travel to get just about anywhere.

If you want to do a lot of exploring across the whole of the South Bay or any of the surrounding areas, then I highly recommend you consider renting a car, if even for a day or two for exploring.

To rent a car, check out DiscoverCars… they compare the prices of multiple car rental companies to find you the best deals and lowest prices.

 

Best Time of Year to Visit the South Bay

For the best weather with the fewest crowds, visit the South Bay in September or October.

Hermosa Beach during the summer

The summer months have great, sunny and warm weather but there will be more crowds with kids out of school and summer tourists. The South Bay also experiences what we call “June Gloom,” where it can be pretty grey and cool during the morning until mid to late afternoon when the sun comes out. Sometimes this extends into the beginning of July too.

The spring is a decent time to visit the South Bay. There may be a slight chance of rain, but the weather is typically sunny and mild.

Looking for resources to use for your next trip or move abroad?
CLICK HERE for my favorite travel and expat tools!

For the best things to do in the South Bay of Los Angeles – make sure to save and reference this guide! From fantastic beaches, incredible dining, and fun activities, you truly can’t go wrong with visiting this wonderful area in southern California.

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A Guide to Surfing in Los Angeles: 21 Best LA Surf Spots
Best Surf Spots in Santa Barbara
31 Awesome Day Trips From Santa Barbara
Top 20 Best Things to Do in Hawthorne, CA

☀️ FAQs About California ☀️

✈️ Where Can You Find the BEST Flight Deals to California?
1. Scott’s Cheap FlightsFREE flight deals alert, works best if you can be flexible
2. SkyscannerFREE search engine, great for budget flights + deal

Is Travel Insurance Required in the U.S.?
No, it’s not.
However, it’s always recommended to have travel insurance any time you travel in case of injury, accident, lost luggage, missed flight, etc. The best and most affordable travel/expat insurance is Safety Wing. It covers some medical as well, which is important in the U.S. due to the high cost of health care.
>>> CLICK HERE FOR INFO

☔️ When Is the Best Time to Visit California?
Summer (June-August) – is the warmest (in some parts it can be pretty hot) but you will have the most crowds. Some parts of the state get “June Gloom” where it can be cloudy during the morning and burn off by mid-day.
Spring (March-May) or Fall (September-November) – are cooler and have the potential of rain, but you will beat some of the crowds and see some incredible wildflowers (spring)/greenery (fall).

🏠 Where Should You Stay in California?
Hotels, vacation rentals, and house sitting are all available for accommodation. My top recommendations for each are:
Booking.com
Vrbo
Trusted Housesitters (watch a home/pets in return for a FREE place to stay)

🌴 Where Can You Find Tours?
I find incredible tours around the world >>> HERE with private and guided group tours of the most popular attractions and ones that fit your specific interests.

🚘 Should You Rent a Car in California?
I very highly recommend renting a car in California so you don’t miss out on the gorgeous scenery and wonderful things to do in between the big cities! California is fantastic for road trips – there is SO much to see up and down the coast. Plus, sites are often spread far out, even in the cities, so having a car is the most convenient option.
>>> Best car rental rates and deals

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