Best Things to Do In Hermosa Beach
Explore the vibrant charm of Hermosa Beach with our self-guided audio tours, perfect for discovering coastal gems at your own pace.
Hermosa Beach: Fiesta Hermosa
What is it?
A bi-annual festival that transforms downtown Hermosa Beach into a vibrant fairground.
Why you should go?
Held every Memorial Day and Labor Day weekend, Fiesta Hermosa is a staple of fun things to do in Hermosa Beach. Revelers can enjoy live music, arts and crafts, a diverse array of food stalls, and a carnival atmosphere that brings the community and visitors together. The event exudes a festive spirit that captures Hermosa's lively essence, making it a can't-miss for those seeking a rich blend of culture and celebration among the Hermosa Beach activities.
Hermosa Beach: South Bay Bike Trail
What is it?
A scenic biking route offering breathtaking views and a full body workout.
Why you should go?
Spanning 22 miles, the South Bay Bike Trail is heralded as one of the best things to do in Hermosa Beach for fitness enthusiasts and nature lovers. It meanders alongside the Pacific coastline, providing an active adventure with picture-postcard vistas. Ideal for biking, jogging, or a leisurely walk, the trail offers a chance to witness the picturesque blend of sea, sand, and sky, making it an essential aspect of what to do in Hermosa Beach for outdoor activities.
Hermosa Beach: Hermosa Beach Farmers' Market
What is it?
A local market featuring fresh produce, artisan goods, and gourmet food options.
Why you should go?
Every Wednesday and Friday, the Hermosa Beach Farmers' Market is among the places to visit in Hermosa Beach for a taste of local life. Offering a bounty of fresh fruits, vegetables, and hand-crafted items, it is a foodie's delight and a window into the community's sustainable lifestyle. This market is a tangible expression of the city's ethos, intertwining things to see in Hermosa Beach with a sensory exploration of flavors and crafts.
Hermosa Beach: The Lighthouse Café
What is it?
An iconic jazz and live music venue with a rich history dating back to the 1940s.
Why you should go?
As part of the historical fabric of Hermosa Beach, The Lighthouse Café is one of the best Hermosa Beach tours for music lovers. Esteemed as a birthplace of West Coast jazz, the café has hosted legendary musicians and continues to be a lively spot for experiencing world-class performances. For an authentic taste of Hermosa Beach's cultural scene, this venue offers an intimate atmosphere that's as immersive as it is historic.
Hermosa Beach: Hermosa Arts Foundation
What is it?
A cultural hub dedicated to promoting and supporting the arts in the area.
Why you should go?
Art aficionados seeking Hermosa Beach excursions should not miss the Hermosa Arts Foundation. This non-profit organization champions local artists through exhibitions, performances, and educational programs. It provides a unique opportunity to engage with the creative heartbeat of the city, ensuring that visitors can appreciate the talent and diversity that make Hermosa an artistic haven. A visit here is undoubtedly one of the insightful things to do in Hermosa Beach for cultural enrichment.
Hermosa Beach: The Strand
What is it?
A picturesque walking and biking path that runs along the oceanfront.
Why you should go?
For an authentic Hermosa Beach experience, The Strand offers an unrivaled opportunity to soak in the California coast's beauty. As you traverse this bustling boardwalk, the panorama of the Pacific Ocean provides a breathtaking backdrop for the quintessential Hermosa Beach activities. Along this well-trodden path, the convergence of beachgoers, cyclists, and skaters creates a lively atmosphere ideal for those looking to immerse in the local vibe while ticking off a key thing to do in Hermosa Beach.
Hermosa Beach: Hermosa Beach Pier
What is it?
The iconic landmark extending into the Pacific, perfect for a stroll or fishing.
Why you should go?
Embark on a peaceful walk down the Hermosa Beach Pier, a focal point of the area's identity and one of the best places to visit in Hermosa Beach. The excursion promises panoramic ocean views, the chance to spot dolphins, and an intimate glimpse of the laid-back beach culture. Whether looking to cast a fishing line or simply enjoy a sunset, the pier remains an enduring draw for visitors, showcasing why it's high on the list of things to see in Hermosa Beach.
Hermosa Beach: Hermosa Beach Historical Museum
What is it?
A trove of Hermosa Beach history and culture located in a restored 1923 beach cottage.
Why you should go?
Diving into the rich tapestry of the city's past is a must for history buffs searching for things to do in Hermosa Beach. The Hermosa Beach Historical Museum serves as a gateway to the past, showcasing exhibits that detail the evolution of this once sleepy seaside village into a bustling South Bay community. Within these walls lies a valuable collection of memorabilia and photographs that constitute a pivotal element of the area's heritage and are central to what to do in Hermosa Beach for an enlightening excursion.
Hermosa Beach: Comedy and Magic Club
What is it?
An entertainment hotspot featuring live stand-up comedy and magic performances.
Why you should go?
Laughter is a timeless medicine, and there are plenty of fun things to do in Hermosa Beach, including a visit to the nationally renowned Comedy and Magic Club. Here, one can witness top-notch performers who are regulars on television and comedy circuits. It's a hub for both high-spirited entertainment and unexpected glimpses of celebrity comedians. A night at this venue is sure to leave visitors with fond memories of Hermosa Beach's vibrant nightlife.
Hermosa Beach: Valley Park
What is it?
A lush, green park ideal for picnics, sports, and playground fun.
Why you should go?
Embrace the serene side of Hermosa Beach excursions at Valley Park. Known for its ample open space, this urban oasis is perfect for family outings or a solitary retreat amidst nature. With its well-maintained play equipment, sports courts, and barbecue facilities, visitors can unwind or remain active, according to their preference. This verdant haven exemplifies the relaxed charm of the city and ranks highly among places to visit in Hermosa Beach for a tranquil day out.
TOP-5 tours in Hermosa Beach for first time visitors
- Survey the serene sands and delve into local history with an audio tour highlighting the top things to do in Hermosa Beach, encapsulating the essence of this sunny locale.
- Join the narrative on trendy spots and key landmarks while meandering the boardwalk; this tour covers what to see in Hermosa Beach for an engaging cultural experience.
- Unearth the hidden treasures with a guide to the best things to do in Hermosa Beach, featuring lively spots and serene vistas for a truly eclectic visit.
- Embark on an exploration of local arts and vibrant public spaces, uncovering Hermosa Beach activities that strike a perfect balance of leisure and discovery.
- Experience the best Hermosa Beach tours with an audio voyage along its iconic pier, providing insights into fun things to do in Hermosa Beach and its seaside allure.
Fun things to do in Hermosa Beach with kids
With its stunning coastline and family-friendly atmosphere, Hermosa Beach is brimming with activities perfect for the younger crowd. One of the favorite Hermosa Beach activities is visiting the Hermosa Beach Pier Aquarium, housed underneath the Hermosa Beach Pier and offering an up-close look at local marine life. Kids can engage in educational programs and observe sea creatures in this intimate setting. For an outdoor adventure, the sands of Hermosa Beach itself are a natural playground where families can build sandcastles, frolic in the gentle waves, or even take surf lessons at one of the many schools stretching along the coast. Lastly, AdventurePlex is a destination not to be missed—a facility packed with mazes, climbing walls, and play structures designed to stimulate and entertain children, making it one of the best things to do in Hermosa Beach with your little ones.
Things to do in Hermosa Beach with family
Hermosa Beach warmly welcomes families with a bouquet of attractions set against its scenic ocean backdrop. A trip to the wide, sandy expanse of the municipal beach is an all-time favorite, offering ample space for volleyball, sunbathing, and building sandcastles, securing its place as one of the best things to do in Hermosa Beach with family. The Hermosa Beach Pier is another jewel, inviting families to the stroll along its length, enjoy fishing, or simply savor the stunning sunsets that are a hallmark of California's coast. For a unique blend of recreation and learning, the SEA Lab offers hands-on educational experiences about marine life, conservation, and the environment. Here, touch tanks and interactive exhibits spark curiosity in both kids and adults, making it a rewarding inclusion on any list of things to do in Hermosa Beach.
Free things to do in Hermosa Beach
For those looking to enjoy Hermosa Beach without spending a dime, the beautiful beach city offers an array of complimentary activities. Starting with the soft, sprawling sands of Hermosa Beach itself, families, solo travelers, and groups alike can revel in seaside games, swimming, and the simple joy of a day under the California sun—certainly one of the top free things to do in Hermosa Beach. The Hermosa Beach Pier provides another cost-free delight, perfect for leisurely walks while taking in the ocean views, people-watching, and occasional live street performances. Lastly, the community is home to several parks, such as the welcoming South Park, which boasts a playground, picnic areas, and enough green space for a relaxing day out, all solidifying Hermosa Beach's reputation as a destination replete with things to do that don't require reaching for your wallet.
Cheap things to do in Hermosa Beach
Hermosa Beach offers an enticing mix of attractions that won’t break the bank. One of the most cost-effective Hermosa Beach activities includes taking a stroll or a bike ride along The Strand, a picturesque pathway with stunning views of the California coastline. As a premier spot, it vows visitors a feast for the eyes without any expense. For beach lovers, enjoying a day of sun and surf at one of the best places to visit in Hermosa Beach — the beach itself — is both free and exhilarating. Pack a picnic and relish the simple pleasure of the coastal ambiance. Finally, check out the community events at the Hermosa Beach Community Center. With a calendar rich in low-cost workshops, movie nights, and cultural events, it's a hub for entertainment that aligns with finding cheap things to do in Hermosa Beach. These budget-friendly excursions offer much to see and do, proving that an enriching vacation need not be lavish in cost.
Things to do in Hermosa Beach for couples
Couples visiting Hermosa Beach will find a romantic retreat with a blend of leisure and adventure. Hand in hand, partners can wander down the Hermosa Beach Pier, especially magical at sunset when the sky ignites in hues of orange and pink—undoubtedly one of the most romantic things to do in Hermosa Beach. For an active day date, couples can partake in Hermosa Beach activities such as tandem biking along The Strand, enjoying the rhythmic sounds of the waves and the shared joy of exploration. Culinary enthusiasts can savor intimate dining experiences at one of the many oceanfront eateries, turning a simple meal into a scenic indulgence with the backdrop of the Pacific. Each attraction offers a chance to create memorable moments together, solidifying Hermosa Beach as an ideal destination for those seeking a love-filled getaway.
Things to do in Hermosa Beach at night
As the sun dips below the horizon, Hermosa Beach transforms, promising a variety of nocturnal delights. First on the list for night owls is visiting the Comedy and Magic Club, where one can catch a show featuring up-and-coming talent as well as renowned comedians—a guaranteed evening of laughter and entertainment. Another of the prime Hermosa Beach activities after dark is taking a beachfront walk; the pier, in particular, comes alive with the glow of lighted fishermen's bobbers, and the sounds of the nocturnal ocean waves offer a serene experience. For those looking to savor the local craft beer scene, Hermosa Beach’s breweries provide not just a taste of artisanal brews but also an opportunity to mingle with locals in a laid-back setting, making it an alluring Hermosa Beach night activity for visitors and residents alike.