Manhattan Beach CaliforniaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Manhattan Beach, California.
1. Manhattan Beach
SCENIC COASTAL HAVEN
Manhattan Beach is a beautiful coastal haven ideal for boogie boarding and leisurely beach activities. Visitors can enjoy the scenic shoreline complemented by a variety of local shops and eateries nearby. The beach offers a perfect setting for relaxation with its pristine sands and proximity to the ocean.
2. Manhattan Beach Pier
ICONIC CEMENT BOARDWALK
The Manhattan Beach Pier stretches approximately 928 feet from Manhattan Beach Boulevard over the Pacific Ocean. Built in 1920, this unique cement pier is noted as the only one of its kind on the West Coast. Visitors can enjoy stunning ocean views and access to the Roundhouse Marine Studies Lab and Aquarium at the end of the pier.
3. Roundhouse Marine Studies Lab and Aquarium
EDUCATIONAL OCEAN EXPERIENCE
The Roundhouse Marine Studies Lab and Aquarium offers an educational experience at the end of Manhattan Beach Pier. This small but informative facility showcases local marine life and ocean ecosystems. Visitors can learn about ocean conservation while enjoying interactive exhibits suitable for all ages.
4. Downtown Manhattan Beach
VIBRANT SHOPPING DISTRICT
Downtown Manhattan Beach serves as the city's vibrant commercial and social hub just steps from the beach. The area features charming boutiques, diverse restaurants, and specialty shops lining pedestrian-friendly streets. Visitors can experience the quintessential Southern California beach town atmosphere while enjoying upscale shopping and dining options.
5. Sand Dune Park
CHALLENGING NATURAL WORKOUT
Sand Dune Park features a steep 100-foot sand dune that provides a challenging natural workout for fitness enthusiasts. The park includes traditional playground equipment and grassy areas for relaxation after conquering the dune. Visitors come from all over Southern California to test their endurance on this unique natural feature.
6. Live Oak Park
PEACEFUL COMMUNITY RECREATION
Live Oak Park offers a peaceful retreat with sports facilities, playgrounds, and picnic areas for community recreation. The park features tennis courts, baseball fields, and open green spaces perfect for family outings. Visitors appreciate the shade provided by mature trees and the well-maintained facilities throughout the park.
7. Riley Arts Gallery
LOCAL ART SHOWCASE
Riley Arts Gallery showcases contemporary works by local and regional artists in a welcoming environment. The gallery hosts rotating exhibitions featuring various mediums including painting, sculpture, and photography. Art enthusiasts can engage with the vibrant local art scene and potentially purchase unique pieces direct from artists.
8. Manhattan Beach Art Center
CREATIVE COMMUNITY HUB
The Manhattan Beach Art Center serves as a creative hub featuring exhibitions, workshops, and cultural events for the community. The center promotes artistic expression through diverse programming for all ages and skill levels. Visitors can experience the local artistic culture through regularly changing exhibits and interactive opportunities.
9. The Strand
SCENIC BEACHFRONT PATH
The Strand is a popular paved pathway that runs along the oceanfront showcasing impressive beachfront real estate. Visitors can walk, run, bike, skate or skateboard along this scenic route while enjoying uninterrupted ocean views. The path offers excellent people-watching opportunities and connects Manhattan Beach to neighboring coastal communities.
10. Manhattan Village Shopping Center
UPSCALE RETAIL DESTINATION
Manhattan Village Shopping Center is an upscale open-air retail destination featuring a mix of national retailers and local boutiques. The recently renovated center offers a pleasant shopping environment with landscaped walkways and outdoor seating areas. Visitors can enjoy a variety of dining options from casual eateries to fine restaurants between shopping excursions.
11. North Manhattan Beach
LAID-BACK BEACH COMMUNITY
North Manhattan Beach offers a more laid-back alternative to the main beach area with its own distinct charm and character. This section features local shops, casual eateries, and a less crowded beach experience. Visitors appreciate the authentic neighborhood feel and more relaxed atmosphere compared to the bustling downtown area.
12. Universal Studios Hollywood
ICONIC MOVIE THEME PARK
Universal Studios Hollywood offers an exciting combination of thrilling theme park rides and behind-the-scenes movie studio experiences. The park features attractions based on popular films and TV shows, including immersive experiences like The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Visitors can also take the famous Studio Tour to see actual movie sets and special effects demonstrations.
13. Venice Beach
ECLECTIC BEACHFRONT CULTURE
Venice Beach presents a vibrant beachfront atmosphere with its famous boardwalk filled with street performers, vendors, and colorful characters. Visitors can enjoy people-watching, the famous Muscle Beach outdoor gym, and the Venice Skate Park. The area combines beautiful sandy beaches with a unique counterculture vibe that has made it an iconic Southern California destination.
14. Dodger Stadium
HISTORIC BASEBALL VENUE
Dodger Stadium is the historic home of the Los Angeles Dodgers baseball team and one of the most iconic sports venues in America. The third-oldest ballpark in Major League Baseball offers stunning views of the downtown Los Angeles skyline and the surrounding hills. Visitors can enjoy America's favorite pastime while experiencing the unique atmosphere and traditions that have made this stadium beloved since 1962.
15. Long Beach Cruise Terminal
GATEWAY TO ADVENTURE
The Long Beach Cruise Terminal serves as a gateway for cruise ships departing to destinations like Mexico and the California coast. Located in a scenic waterfront area, the terminal is adjacent to attractions like the Queen Mary and Aquarium of the Pacific. Visitors embarking on cruises appreciate the modern facilities and convenient access to pre-departure entertainment options.