Hermosa Beach

For one of the best beach days in Los Angeles County, head to Hermosa Beach, a sun-soaked coastal town with a lively pier and buzzing nightlife. This vibrant beach community is home to surfers, cyclists, night owls, and folks who take beach volleyball seriously. From standout brunch spots to top-notch happy hours, this Hermosa Beach guide covers everything you need to plan the perfect visit.

Where Is Hermosa Beach? 

Tucked between Manhattan Beach and Redondo Beach, Hermosa Beach spans just 1.4 square miles, including the fabled pier and 2 miles of public beach traced by “The Strand”—the accessible paved walkway and bike lane that follows the shoreline. The city is built for easy beach days, with public restrooms, waterfront playgrounds, water refill stations, and mobi mats that make the sand more accessible. 

Where to Rent Bikes and Beach Gear in Hermosa Beach

Just steps from the sand, Hermosa Cyclery and Jeffers Beach Rentals offer beach cruisers for laid-back rides along the shoreline. Keep an eye out for walking zones, as signs will let you know when it’s time to hop off your bike and stroll through the busy pier intersections. Jeffers also stocks boogie boards, umbrellas, volleyballs, wetsuits, surfboards, and other beach day accessories. Several hotels in the neighborhood—such as the H20 Hermosa—offer gear and bike rentals for guests. 

Where to Surf and Play on Hermosa Beach

Hermosa is a great place for surfers of all levels. The consistent waves and long stretches of shore allow for everyone to find their own little patch of sunshine. If you’re looking for a little instruction or just want to brush up on your skills, Camp Surf and Soul Surf Sessions both offer private surf lessons and group classes.

If you’re looking for something a bit calmer, Paddle House next door in Redondo Beach is stocked with paddle boards, oars, and has day and LED night tours available. 

Or stay dry on the sand with over 70 volleyball courts available. The beach courts between 10th and 15th street are all public and operate on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Where to Eat in Hermosa Beach 

Breakfast and Brunch
Locals love Martha’s, which has a stacked brunch menu with five different takes on eggs Benedict, including the Hermosa style (with Canadian bacon, garlic, tomato, and spinach). Get there early—most seating is outdoors and fills up quickly. More breakfast options include Mexican cafe La Playita, which serves huevos rancheros and chilaquiles, and Good Stuff, a go-to for scrambles and healthy smoothies. 

Lunch and Dinner
The Mediterranean restaurant AttaGirl, helmed by Chef Alice Mai and Manhattan Beach restaurant veteran Chef David LeFevre, is an absolute must-stop. Boasting a gorgeous wood-fire grill and meticulously selected local produce, this spot is known for its housemade breads and spreads and entrees big enough for your whole table. Try the chef’s plate, which includes all four dips paired with focaccia. 

On the pier, Tower 12, blends West Coast beach-bum vibes with a sports bar feel. Dine under vintage surfboards and black-and-white photos of punk rock bands like Hermosa Beach natives Black Flag. The staple margarita or Bloody Mary are both solid choices and pair perfectly with the burger and sharable wings and warm soft pretzel with house cheese dip. The “Grom Menu” is great for picky eaters under 12. 

The playful Huddy’s at the Beach has a bottomless brunch with caviar bumps and a cheeky menu. Don’t miss the fantastic happy hours scheduled throughout the week including a “girl dinner” special—Caesar salad, fries, and a martini for $25—or the oyster happy hour that offers $5 mini martinis and $1.50 oysters. 

Grab-and-Go Beach Eats
For a quick beach picnic, head to the The Green Store. Established in 1914, the deli makes fresh wraps, paninis, and sandwiches to order. The fridge is always stocked with a variety of trendy NA drinks, wine, beer, and canned cocktails. Keep an eye out for Green Store merch while walking The Strand. 

Brother’s Burritos is a beach shack beloved for its breakfast burrito, though menu items can be prepared in burrito, quesadilla, or bowl form. You can’t miss with the classic B. Avocado, folded tightly with avocado, egg, bacon, green onion, and cheddar.

Local chain Paradise Bowls is worth the short wait for fresh pitaya bowls, acai bowls, and smoothies.

For something sweet, head to the Creamy Boys ice cream shop, which specializes in mixing real fruit with homemade ice cream. Or snack on a pastry from the Cafe Bonaparte, where the blue-hued Cookie Monster treat is a kid favorite. 

Where to Stay in Hermosa Beach 

There are several beach-adjacent accommodations located in the heart of the city. The Sea Sprite Beach Club is pet-friendly and hosts the charming restaurant Surfer Girl. Dig into a double charcuterie board order (one of the fromage and one meat-centric), an order of chips and guacamole, and a seaside spritz while facing the ocean. 

The luxurious Beach House hotel has suites with in-room fireplaces, private patios, and a mini kitchen. Reserve a beachfront room and bring your walking shoes for sunset strolls on the beach. 

The H20 Hotel, opened in 2020, brings a modern touch with a rooftop bar, firepit, and a well-equipped gym.

Nightlife in Hermosa Beach 

Hermosa’s nightlife is fueled by a mix of locals, visitors, and nearby college crowds. Expect everything from budget-friendly happy hours and karaoke to mechanical bull rides and drag bingo.

Order a flaming cocktail at the new Tiki Kai, where tropical decor, floating puffer fish, and rows of skulls make for a photo-op setting. Sip on the super-tall Navy Grog, which blends rum, honey, and citrus, served in their signature mug.

Catch a standup set at The Comedy and Magic Club. Fun fact: Former late-night host Jay Leno hosts a comedy show here almost every Sunday. Or snag a table at the beloved Lighthouse Cafe, featured in the movie La La Land, where you’ll find jazz nights as well as rock, blues, bluegrass, and even Prince tribute bands.

More: Create Your Own La La Land Tour