Manhattan Beach

Manhattan Beach is located in Los Angeles County, south of the Los Angeles International Airport and north of Redondo Beach. Like many California beaches, the Manhattan Beach Pier is the main attraction here. The pier is located at the end of Manhattan Beach Boulevard and is a hot spot with the locals as well as the tourists. There is a free aquarium at the base of the pier and several benches along the sides to kick back and enjoy the view.

The sport of volleyball dominates this beach.Both east and west of the pier, there are lines of courts on flat, white sand. There is enough space to stretch out a beach towel and lay out just past the volleyball arena. There is also a bike path which connects Manhattan Beach to its northern and southern beach neighbors. This is a fantastic coastal ride which offers flat, paved trail with no traffic or stoplight interruptions. Fishing off the pier is also another popular pastime. There are fishing gear rental shops located near by.

Surfing in Manhattan Beach is consistent. The summer time is the best time to visit this beach for surfing. The beach offers both great lefts and rights and can get somewhat crowded around the pier during the summer months.The summer months are the most active and therefore the most fun. Summer concerts are held occasionally on Sundays near the beach, at Polliwog Park.

There is also an International Surf Festival, a Fourth of July fireworks display and several different types of running and cycling races located at this beach. Manhattan Boulevard is lined with cool shops and fun beach hangouts with decent food. There is metered parking at the base of the pier and along Manhattan Boulevard. You can park on distant side streets, but overall parking can be a difficult task anytime of the year.