Manhattan Beach, California, USA

Manhattan Beach, California, USA: A Coastal Paradise

Overview
Manhattan Beach, located in Southern California, is a charming coastal town known for its pristine beaches, vibrant community, and diverse recreational activities. This seaside gem offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures, art, culture, and relaxation. Its close proximity to Los Angeles makes it easily accessible while maintaining a peaceful, small-town atmosphere.

How to Get There

Manhattan Beach is about 12 miles southwest of downtown Los Angeles, making it a convenient destination for both locals and tourists. The closest major airport is Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), which is roughly 3 miles away. From LAX, visitors can take a taxi, rideshare, or rental car to reach Manhattan Beach. The town is also easily accessible by car via the 405 Freeway.

Beaches

The town is renowned for its wide sandy beaches, including Manhattan Beach itself, which is ideal for sunbathing, picnicking, and beach games. The beach features a scenic, iconic pier and the nearby Strand—a walking and cycling path that runs along the coast. The surrounding beaches, like Hermosa Beach and Venice Beach, are also popular for their vibrant atmospheres.

Key Attractions & Landmarks

• Manhattan Beach Pier: A historic landmark and popular spot for fishing, strolling, and taking in ocean views.
• The Strand: A 22-mile coastal pathway for walking, cycling, and jogging.
• Roundhouse Aquarium: A family-friendly destination located at the end of the pier, featuring marine life exhibits and educational programs.
• The Manhattan Beach Boulevard: A scenic and lively area filled with shops, cafes, and restaurants.

Water Sports and Beach Activities

Manhattan Beach is known for its ideal conditions for various water activities:

• Surfing: A hot spot for surfers of all levels, with waves suitable for both beginners and pros.
• Volleyball: The beach volleyball courts are one of the town’s most famous attractions.
• Swimming: The calm waters are perfect for swimming, especially in the summer months.
• Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP): Popular in the calmer morning hours.
• Beach Soccer & Frisbee: Expansive beach areas make for great soccer and frisbee spots.
• Kayaking: Coastal kayaking and exploring the nearby waters is a favorite among locals and tourists.

Water Temperatures by Season

• Winter (December – February): 58-62°F (14-16°C)
• Spring (March – May): 60-64°F (16-18°C)
• Summer (June – August): 64-70°F (18-21°C)
• Fall (September – November): 64-68°F (18-20°C)

Marine Life

The waters off Manhattan Beach are home to a variety of marine life, including sea otters, dolphins, seals, and migrating whales. The area is also rich in fish species, making it popular for recreational fishing. The nearby kelp forests provide shelter for many marine creatures, and the Roundhouse Aquarium offers opportunities to explore this fascinating ecosystem.

Outdoor Activities

• Cycling & Rollerblading: The Strand and other local paths are perfect for cycling or rollerblading.
• Hiking: While Manhattan Beach itself is flat, nearby areas such as the Palos Verdes Peninsula offer scenic hiking trails with ocean views.
• Beach Bonfires: Some beaches in the area permit bonfires, creating a cozy atmosphere for gatherings.

Things to Do

• Shopping & Dining: The downtown area features a variety of boutique shops and eateries, ranging from casual cafes to fine dining.
• Art Galleries: Several local galleries showcase the work of talented artists, including pieces inspired by coastal life.
• Fitness: The community is health-conscious, with a variety of fitness classes, yoga sessions, and gyms.

Tours

• Bike Tours: Explore the beach cities along the coast via guided bike tours.
• Whale Watching: Seasonal whale watching tours leave from nearby harbors and are popular in the fall and winter.
• Sightseeing Tours: Take a guided tour to explore nearby landmarks like the Hollywood sign, Venice Beach, or Santa Monica Pier.

Festivals

Annual Festivals in Manhattan Beach

• Manhattan Beach Open (August): One of the most prestigious beach volleyball tournaments in the world.
• Manhattan Beach Hometown Fair (October): A family-friendly event featuring live entertainment, food, crafts, and local vendors.
• Holiday Fireworks (July 4th): The town puts on a fantastic fireworks display over the ocean to celebrate Independence Day.
• Summer Concerts in the Park (Summer): Free concerts held at Polliwog Park, offering a variety of live music genres.

Art and Culture

Manhattan Beach is home to several art galleries and cultural events, including outdoor art shows and community theater performances. The town emphasizes local artists and creative expressions, often hosting public art installations and cultural festivals.

Nightlife

The nightlife in Manhattan Beach is low-key yet vibrant, with beachside bars, lounges, and live music venues. Visitors can enjoy a relaxed evening with ocean views, often accompanied by local craft beer, cocktails, and fresh seafood.

Food

Manhattan Beach offers a diverse culinary scene, ranging from casual beachside eateries to upscale dining. Seafood is a highlight, with many restaurants offering fresh catches from the Pacific Ocean. The town also features a variety of international cuisines, including Mediterranean, Mexican, and Asian-inspired dishes.

Accommodations

Visitors will find a wide range of accommodations, including beachfront resorts, cozy boutique hotels, and vacation rentals with ocean views. The town offers lodging options for various budgets, from luxury resorts to more affordable stays just a short distance from the beach.

Peak Season

Peak Season by Month
The peak season in Manhattan Beach is during the summer months, when tourists flock to the area for warm weather, beach activities, and outdoor events.

• June – August: Peak summer season, with warm weather and lots of tourists.
• July – August: These months are particularly busy due to summer vacation and holiday weekends.

Best Time to Visit

Best Time to Visit by Month
The best time to visit Manhattan Beach is during the spring and fall when the weather is still pleasant, but there are fewer crowds compared to the summer months.

• April – June: Perfect for those looking to avoid the summer crowds while enjoying mild, sunny weather.
• September – November: Ideal for quieter beaches and pleasant temperatures.

Best Time to Enjoy Water Activities

Best Time to Enjoy Water Activities by Month
The best months for water activities are in the summer, but late spring and early fall also offer great conditions with fewer crowds.

• June – September: Warm water temperatures and ideal conditions for swimming, surfing, and paddleboarding.
• April – May: Water temperatures are still cool but perfect for those looking for less crowded water sports.