28 Best & Fun Things to Do in Manhattan Beach (CA)

In search of the best and fun things to do in Manhattan Beach, CA?

Manhattan Beach is a popular tourist destination; people all around the come to this stunning city to experience its sandy beaches and lovely parks.

This is a lovely city with lots of value for its culture, history, and people. Manhattan Beach has so many beautiful places, which shows how magnificent nature is and its importance.

Manhattan Beach is a popular destination for many tourists due to its remarkable beauty and all it has to offer. Visit the city, and you will forever cherish the time you spent here and want to visit again.

Are you planning a vacation in Manhattan Beach?, Here are the best things to do in Manhattan Beach, CA.

Things to Do in Manhattan Beach

1. Fun at Manhattan Beach

Manhattan Beach is the city’s main beach, making it a popular destination for tourists and residents.

The beach stretches over 2 miles which features several fun activities coupled with the picturesque views of the beach.

Manhattan Beach is the perfect place for sunbathing due to the vastness of the beach, which also makes it great for a walk on the sandy shore, where you get to enjoy the scenic views while listening to the sound of waves crashing.

It also features about one hundred volleyball courts open to the public; you can engage in a friendly competition with locals.

Ensuring everyone is safe, lifeguards are made available throughout the beach. The beach is crowded during the summer season, especially on weekends.

Address:Manhattan Beach Blvd and The Strand, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 United States

2. Manhattan Beach Post

If you’re in search of a place where they serve a mix of Seafood, vegetable dishes, and Meat dishes in Manhattan Beach, Manhattan Beach Post is the right place for you.

Manhattan Beach Post is highly recommended to both locals and tourists. They serve delectable delights and a full bar with unique and tasty beers you can’t get elsewhere.

The meals are prepared using contemporary ingredients, textures, and flavors you should definitely try out.

Manhattan Beach Post serves meals like White Oak Grilled Sword Squid, Slow Steamed California White Sea Bass, Soft Shell Blue Crab, Roasted Brussel Sprout, Asparagus And Poached Jidori Egg, Bacon Cheddar Buttermilk Biscuits, Fleur De Sel Pretzel Bites and more.

The restaurant staff is welcoming and always wears a smiling face creating a comfortable environment.

Manhattan Beach Post is open from Wednesday to Friday from 4-9:30pm, and Saturday & Sunday from 10am-9:30pm(closed Monday & Tuesday)

Address:1142 Manhattan Ave, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266, United States

3. Roundhouse Marine Studies Lab and Aquarium

One of the best things to do in Manhattan Beach is visiting Roundhouse Marine Studies Lab and Aquarium.

Roundhouse Marine Studies Lab and Aquarium is an educational facility located in Manhattan Beach.

The facility serves as an innovative center for Oceanographic teaching stations featuring touch tanks and viewing tanks that contain different varieties of marine invertebrates and fish on display.

Roundhouse Marine Studies Lab and Aquarium is a non-profit environmental organization that features a reserved area for children.

The Aquarium displays beautiful and amazing marine creatures like sea snails, octopuses, lobsters, jellies, sea cucumbers, sea urchins, and lots more.

Roundhouse Marine Studies Lab and Aquarium also host tours that enlighten the public on the importance of marine life and their habitat. The Aquarium is open from Monday to Friday from 2pm-8pm, Saturday and Saturday from 9am-8pm.

Address:Manhattan Beach Pier, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266, United States

4. Love and Salt

If you haven’t had a meal at Love and Salt in Manhattan Beach, you are missing out.

Guy and Sylvie Gabriel built love and Salt in 2015; they are also the owners of the famous Cafe Pierre.

The 100-seat restaurant is located near the Manhattan Beach pier, to satisfy the visitors.

Love and Salt serve excellent meals prepared with local ingredients, which speaks volumes when it comes to quality, taste, and freshness.

They offer a comprehensive menu that contains Italian-inspired meals made with a touch of southern California style.

Love and Salt serve meals like Grilled Octopus Salad, Freekehlicious, Shaved Black Kale, Wood Oven Meatballs, Spaghetti Alla Chitarra Cacio e Pepe, Creste Di Gallo Midollo, Roasted Free-Range Chicken, Grilled Hanger Steak, and more.

Their famous wood-oven pizzas are served in different toppings and recipes, coupled with their delicious desserts.

Address:317 Manhattan Beach Blvd, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266, United States

5. Sand Dune Park

Sand Dune Park is a favorite park for tourists and residents, which is open to everyone regardless of age.

The park is a great workout area featuring one hundred feet high sand dunes, which gave it its name as Sand Dune Park.

Sand Dune Park consists of a beautiful small play area featuring a merry-go-round, swings, climbing equipment, and more.

There are picnic areas great for lunch with your loved ones and natural trails, all surrounded by scenic natural amenities.

Sand Dune Park has been featured in several magazines and is popular for many athletes. You can take a walk around the park, browsing through the different plants while enjoying the city’s scenic views from the park.

Address:3299 Bell Ave, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266, 424-634-2842 United States

6. Manhattan Beach Art Center

If you’re an art buff, a visit to Manhattan Beach Art Center is one of the fun things you will do in Manhattan Beach.

Manhattan Beach Art Center is an essential sector in Manhattan Beach, and it plays a vital role in promoting and developing the artistic and educational levels of the people.

The center focuses on the relationship between artists, cultural organizations, community groups, businesses, visitors, and locals that will yield and elevate the diverse and creative part of the city.

Manhattan Beach Art Center hosts classes and programs accompanied by exhibitions that talk about urban residents’ modern lifestyles.

The park is open to the public free of charge, coupled with a free parking garage. Make sure you add Manhattan Beach Art Center to your bucket list.

Address:1560 Manhattan Beach Blvd, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266, United States

7. El Porto Beach

El Porto Beach is a beautiful beach located in the northern region of Manhattan Beach; it is a popular location for many families.

The beach features well-paved trails perfect for skating and biking, referred to as “Marvin Braude Bike Path.”

El Porto Beach is popular among surfers due to the great waves produced by the beach, which gives them a more exciting experience.

This beach contains many volleyball courts open to everyone, so you may engage in a friendly competition with locals.

El Porto Beach has a surf food stand which sells delicious food at the beach, with covered tables and chairs available for you to sit and enjoy your meal.

The beach offers surfing and stand-up paddleboarding lessons either in groups or private classes. El Porto Beach’s water and environment are clean and well maintained, coupled with the soft white sand.

8. Riley Arts Gallery

One of the top places to visit in Manhattan Beach is the Riley Arts Gallery, which displays the incredible talents of the city.

Riley Arts Gallery has been active since 1999 and has been serving the people with incredible works of art.

The art gallery combines fine art, photography, gifts, art & photo framing, and sculptures, with every piece made to meet the quality standard the visitors desire to suit their personality.

At Riley Arts Gallery, you will find amazing oils and watercolors featured in small gifts, limited edition posters, prints, and more.

The staff is friendly and knowledgeable about the artworks on exhibition and their artists. Riley Arts Gallery is open from Monday to Saturday from 10am-6pm, and Sunday from 12pm-5pm.

Address:1007 Manhattan Ave, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266, United States

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9. Manhattan Beach Creamery

A shop where you can get amazingly delicious ice cream in Manhattan Beach is Manhattan Beach Creamery.

Manhattan Beach Creamery serves hand-made ice cream prepared with fresh and locally made ingredients.

They offer about twenty-eight flavors daily, regularly changing with new additions of colorful and tasty flavors.

Manhattan Beach Creamery makes sure there is something for everyone, including their famous ice cream sandwich.

They also display acai bowls, cupcakes, macarons, candies, frozen bananas, and more to complement the ice cream.

Manhattan Beach Creamery is open from Monday to Thursday from 12pm-8pm, Friday & Saturday from 11am-9pm, and Saturday from 11am-8pm.

Address:1120 Manhattan Ave, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266, United States

10. Bruce’s Beach

A visit to Bruce’s Beach is one of the best things to do in Manhattan Beach, especially with your friends and family.

Bruce’s Beach is located southwest of Los Angeles, and just along the coast in Manhattan Beach, it is a charming park and a popular destination for locals and visitors.

There are nice designated picnic areas with beautiful grasslands near the shore, providing panoramic views. There is a half-court for basketballs, numerous shade trees, and benches for relaxation.

Bruce’s Beach organizes yoga classes, and it’s a perfect place for dog walks or strolling and enjoying the calm & scenic environment.

The beach is clean and well-maintained, coupled with a fantastic atmosphere that is relaxing and relieving.

Address:2600 Highland Ave, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266, United States

11. Nick’s Manhattan Beach

Visiting Nick’s Manhattan Beach is one of the top things to do in Manhattan Beach for a wonderful experience.

Nick’s Manhattan Beach has been consistent in serving the public, with a great display of hospitality.

They offer a unique dining experience, serving fresh, tasty, and healthy meals and a vast collection of drinks.

Nick’s Manhattan Beach serves meals suitable for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with other options ensuring something for everyone.

Some of the delicious meals served are Scottish salmon, California omelet, Chilean sea bass, seafood enchiladas, and many more.

Nick’s Manhattan Beach has a lovely staff who help create a comfortable and relaxing atmosphere by offering excellent customer service.

Address:451 Manhattan Beach Blvd, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266, United States,

12. Metlox Plaza

A visit to Metlox Plaza is one of the best things to do in Manhattan Beach with your friends and family for an unforgettable family day out.

Metlox Plaza has been in existence for ten years; its building was originally the Metlox Pottery grounds before it was later transformed into a Plaza.

The Plaza features a huge outdoor fireplace with tables and a water playscape open to the public. There is a nice place to sit and relax with our companions.

Metlox Plaza offers meals for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, with drinks like coffee & smoothies for everyone to enjoy.

Live entertainment and cultural gatherings are held in the outdoor patio during the festive periods.

Address:451 Manhattan Beach Blvd, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266-5345 United States

13. Simmzy’s

A visit to Simmzy’s is one of the best things to do in Manhattan Beach, especially with your travel companions.

Simmzy’s is a family-friendly pub that serves high-quality and tasty American cuisine with a twist to it, coupled with a comprehensive list of craft beers.

Simmzy’s features large flat-screen television making it a favorite place for people who want to watch games and have drinks with their buddies.

There is an outdoor seating which is a perfect place to sit, especially during the sunny weather due to the fantastic fresh air enjoyed.

Simmzy’s serves meals like Oak Charred Simmzy’s Burger, Bacon Blue Burger, cheeseburgers, Fire Grilled Street Corn, Sweet Potato Fries, Minute but Worth the Wait Wings, Grilled White Shrimp Salad, and more.

You definitely have to check this place out when you visit; it is advisable to make reservations most, especially when you want a seat at the outdoor patio.

Simmzy’s is open Monday to Thursday from 11am-10pm, Friday from 11am-11pm, Saturday from 10am-11pm, and Sunday from 10am-10pm.

Address:229 Manhattan Beach Blvd, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266, United States

14. Manhattan Beach Pier

One of the best things to do in Manhattan Beach is visiting the Manhattan Beach Pier for a memorable experience.

Manhattan Beach Pier has been in existence for decades, right from the 1920s, although it isn’t as long as the California standards having a length of nine and twenty-eight feet.

The beach is a historic site, the oldest concrete pier, and it was later renovated in the 1990s.

Manhattan Beach Pier has been used to shoot many Hollywood movies such as Starsky and Hutch, Falling Down, Point Break, and several others.

Its photogenic roundhouse is characterized by the steel turquoise-colored railing that runs the Manhattan Beach Pier’s length and the red roof at the end of the pier.

Address:Manhattan Beach Blvd and Ocean Dr, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 United States

15. Rock’N Fish

Rock’N Fish is a real example of a fabulous restaurant in Manhattan Beach, with great hospitality qualities.

The restaurant is located at the bottom of the Manhattan Beach Pier; they offer a unique ” American Regional Cuisine menu.”

Rock’N Fish’s food menu is a blend of the best American Cuisines made with quality local spices such as Seafood Jambalaya or Kapalua Rib-Eye.

They serve meals like San Francisco Cioppino, ultimate burger, steak frites, Shrimp Scampi, Blackened Fish Tacos, Beer Battered Fish and Chips, Oak Grilled Artichoke, Chocolate Lava Cake, and more.

They also serve different drinks, including Mai Tai, oyster, Sole Sparkling Water, Sole Still Water, Ginger Beer, Red Bull, and more.

Rock’N Fish’s utmost goal is to ensure the visitors are satisfied at the end of the service and comfortable while having a meal or delightful drink.

Address:120 Manhattan Beach Blvd, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266, United States.

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16. Downtown Manhattan Beach

A visit to Downtown Manhattan Beach is one of the top things to do in Manhattan Beach, which defines how gracious the city is.

Downtown Manhattan Beach is the center point or the heart of Manhattan Beach, established in 1912.

It is often called the “Pearl of the South Bay,” located near Manhattan Beach. The beach is filled with many attractions.

Downtown Manhattan Beach has more than fifty restaurants, including cafes, coffee shops, and diners which serve a wide variety of dining options to suit everyone.

It also contains over one hundred and fifty shops that offer different services; some of the shops include home furnishing stores, clothing stores for men, women & children, and art galleries.

Make sure you stop Downtown Manhattan Beach, visit the dome of the restaurants, and try out local meals.

Address:Manhattan Beach, CA 90266, United States

17. Fishing with Dynamite

Chef David LeFevre built fishing with Dynamite, which serves delicious seafood from different cuisines, which showcases the hard work and passion with culinary experience.

An awesome place where you can sit, chill, and relax with your buddies or family over a meal or drink in Manhattan Beach is Fishing with Dynamite.

Fishing with Dynamite is open to everyone, including tourists and locals, every day of the week, all year round.

They offer a vast food menu which includes meals perfect for lunch and dinner, although the menu is updated every season, putting in something new and fresh.

Fishing with Dynamite restaurant also offers a full cocktail bar and raw bar, combined with dining tables in the dining room.

Fishing with Dynamite is open every day from 11:30am-9pm, don’t forget to try out their Oysters Sampler Platter, Grilled Octopus, Yellowtail Tacos, Peruvian scallop, key lime pie, fish & chips, and lots more.

Address:1148 Manhattan Ave, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266, United States

18. One Wave Surf

Visiting One Wave Surf is one of the fun things to do in Manhattan Beach for a wonderful, fun experience.

Tyler Trafas founded one Wave Surf in 2003, a local of Los Angeles with experience of over fifteen years in surfing.

After its establishment, it has steadily added more services besides surfing services like advanced coaching, adventure travel, surf guide services, and surf-oriented yoga classes.

One Wave Surf offers a package of one hour and thirty with all the lessons combined; they also offer long-term and single-day classes.

The lessons are taught by well-experienced and skilled instructors with wide knowledge about surfing, always willing to answer any questions thrown at them.

Address:Manhattan Beach, CA 90266,

19. Live Oak Park

A visit to Live Oak Park is one of the fun things to do in Manhattan Beach for a fantastic experience with your family and friends.

Live Oak Park is one of the oldest parks in Manhattan Beach, which is well equipped with lots of exciting activities.

The park contains playgrounds for the little ones and a separate play area for older kids making it the favorite park for children.

Live Oak Park also contains two lighted large multi-purpose fields, a lighted basketball court, a baseball field, and six tennis with lights.

The park also features nice picnic areas, which have a capacity of about fifty people coupled with two grilling sites.

There is a park for dogs, batting cages, and several other facilities for visitors to explore. Live Oak Park is a nine acres park located near the beach; given the park, its beautiful scenery.

Address:1901 N Valley Dr, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266, United States

20. Two Guns Espresso

If you’re a coffee-lover, Two Guns Espresso in Manhattan Beach is a place you will love to visit.

Two Guns Espresso is a cafe that originated from New Zealand in Wellington, which opened a branch here at the Manhattan Beach. The city of Wellington was nominated as the second-best city in the world for coffee drinking.

They offer a wide variety of fresh fruit, smoothies, teas, and brewed-to-order flat whites, with well-organized communal tables in the shop and a few benches outside for those who would like to sit at the Espresso and enjoy their coffee.

Two Guns Espresso also serves amazing candied pecans, sandwiches, brioche French toast with banana, and many pastries.

The staff is friendly and attentive when taking orders, giving suggestions when needed, ensuring that the visitors are comfortable.

Address:350 N Sepulveda Blvd, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266, United States

21. Manhattan Beach Food Tour

Touring a new city is definitely one of the fun things to do; if you’re in Manhattan Beach and in search of a tour guide, visit Manhattan Beach Food Tour.

Manhattan Beach Food Tour takes visitors to the Downtown District of Manhattan Beach, where you find the best facilities.

They take you to few of the most unique restaurants in the city, where you get to try out some of their delicious local meals.

Manhattan Beach Food Your also offers wine tasting at the different restaurants or breweries in the city.

This is a chance to interact and learn from the locals during the three-hour tour and find out more about the city’s culture.

Address:Manhattan Beach, CA, 90266, United States

22. The Belamar Hotel

One of the best hotels to lodge in Manhattan Beach is The Belamar Hotel; they provide an atmosphere that feels like a home away from home.

The Belamar Hotel ensures that you are provided with every necessary amenities to help you feel comfortable.

The facility features an outdoor pool, bicycle rental, fitness center, allergy-free rooms, and valet parking lot.

The Belamar Hotel rooms are well furnished and equipped with Flat Screen Tv, soft beds, sofas, tables, microwaves, and well-decorated walls.

The facility, including bathrooms, is well maintained and spotless, making it a very conducive hotel to reside in.

The Belamar Hotel offers delicious breakfast and drinks, with great customer service who are ready to offer services anytime they are called on.

Address;3501 N Sepulveda Blvd, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266, United States

23. AdventurePlex

AdventurePlex is a family-friendly complex perfect for hanging out with your family and friends for an unforgettable moment.

The complex has one of the best indoor playground facilities in the city; it serves as a fun center for different families to have a unique and fun Time.

AdventurePlex is a sixteen thousand square feet facility that contains camps for a great adventure; they also offer classes.

Free Wi-Fi network is provided throughout the facility, delicious meals, and play opportunities are also available.

You will also find rock walls, tunnels, mazes, and more fun amenities. AdventurePlex is a perfect venue for several kinds of parties; they offer catering services for birthday parties.

Address:1701 Marine Ave, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266, United States

24. Manhattan Beach Strand

Manhattan Beach Strand is a perfect place to visit if you want a great afternoon. It is a beautiful sidewalk on the beach that provides residents and tourists with magnificent views of the blue ocean and sandy beaches. There are lots of restaurants and eateries close by.

It is an ideal way to relax and immerse yourself in the outstanding beauty of Manhattan Beach. You can even bring a camera to take pictures of the surrounding views to post on your social media accounts.

You do not want to miss the sunset at this place; watch the sunsets on the horizon with the beautiful colors of the ocean. It creates a magical feeling and is a lovely sight to behold.

Address: Manhattan Beach, CA 90266

25. Downtown Manhattan Beach Farmers Market

If you are looking forward to stocking up on what you have in your home kitchen, then one of the best things to do during your tour in Manhattan Beach is to check out Downtown Manhattan Beach Farmers Market.

The Farmers Market, which is in the downtown area, is open to the entire public each Tuesday from 11 am to 3 pm.

The Farmers Market is an ideal place to sample varieties of local products, and the vendors to meet here are super friendly. Their fresh farm products and organic items, including vegetables, fruits, and ready-prepared products like preserves, cheese, hummus, jams, yogurt, and others, are reasonably priced.

There are food trucks available, so you can check them out in case you go hungry to eat delicious local foods.

Address: 326 13th St, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266, United States

26. Sea View Inn

If you intend to spend the weekend in Manhattan Beach, one place to consider and is highly recommendable is the Sea View Inn. It is an intimate seaside hotel a few distances away from the sand. It is very near to the beach, offering beautiful ocean views.

The hotel provides natural comfort and modern facilities and is characterized by its “Home Away From Home” ambiance.

You can have an incredible dining experience at any of the local restaurants, explore the beautiful shops, or have a free beachfront bike trail tour using their Beach cruisers while also enjoying the views of the ocean and other attractions. 

You can go swimming in their heated pool. They also provide many entertaining and free facilities, including Beach chairs, Beach Umbrellas, Beach Chairs, WiFi, Bikes, and Beach Toys for the children.

Sea View Inn currently has 38 well-equipped rooms. Every bedroom comes with free WiFi, a Simmons Posturepedic mattress, a coffee maker, air conditioning, a hair dryer, a refrigerator, and many others.

Address: 3400 Highland Ave, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266, United States

27. West drift Golf Course

If you are an avid golfer or professional, one of the best things to do during your vacation in Manhattan Beach is to test your swing skills at the West Drift Golf Course.

The West Drift Course is a premier golf facility nestled on the northern border of Manhattan Beach. Its lush habitat, natural features, and stunning landscape of Western were utilized properly in designing this amazing golf course.

The West Drift Golf Course comprises 24 rolling acres of land area, lakes, designated sand traps, and palm trees. It has a full-service pro shop that provides guests with all the gear they need to have a nice golfing experience. 

It is such a lovely place to play golf, and no matter your skill level in golfing, you are sure to have the very best golf experience at the West Drift Golf Course. Do well to stop by the clubhouse to relax and enjoy a delicious meal and drink.

Address: 1400 Parkview Ave, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266, United States

28. Manhattan Beach Botanical Garden

 

The Manhattan Beach Botanical Garden is a 66 acres garden situated inside Polliwog Park in Manhattan Beach, CA. It is free for everyone who wants to visit. It is an excellent destination for anyone who loves ornamental plants.

Construction of the garden began in 1994, and in 1997 the Manhattan Beach Botanical garden turned a non-profit organization. Its official opening day was in 2001. The garden is made of chiefly plants homegrown in California.

An ideal way to explore Manhattan Beach Botanical Garden is to have a walk around, it is such delightful scenery, and if you have a camera with you, you can take photos of its colorful blooms. The garden is available for weekly visits from 6 am to 8 pm.

Address: 1237 N Peck Ave, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266, United States

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Plan your Trip to Manhattan Beach

Manhattan Beach has much more than just beaches; there are numerous eateries, shops, museums, and entertainment.

In this city there is so much of everything, starting from lively malls, relaxing parks, and exciting recreational centers, there is something that everyone in your family or group will love.

Plan a trip to Manhattan Beach, make sure you explore all the places listed above for fun. Bring your loved ones and a good camera to capture all the exciting moments.