Best Hotels in the Beach Cities, Los Angeles
The coastal cluster of Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach and Redondo Beach comprises the Los Angeles “Beach Cities.” If you’re feelin’ a sandy vacay, we got you. From hip suites with rooftop views to earthy boutiques with onsite happy hours, we’ll find you just the place.
The Beach Cities are beaming with that SoCal glow you’ve always pictured. Whether you’re biking down the boardwalks, checking out the piers, or jetting off to Catalina, Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach and Redondo Beach have plenty to offer with hotels to match. From high-end luxury suites to boutique rooms, HotelTonight will find you the best hotels for your budget.
Why We Love the Beach Cities
Here are just a few reasons why we think Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach and Redondo Beach are killer destinations.
- Hip hotels: Nice hotel by the shore? We’re all about it. The Beach Cities have an array of options from beach chic boutiques to chilled out classics.
- Sun fun: This is what you came for. From Manhattan to Hermosa to Redondo, all three have killer views of those ocean blues. Whether you take a dip, get a tan, or give surfing a try, you’ll get that SoCal experience.
- Pier to pier: All three of the Beach Cities have those classic California piers. Unlike the amusement park filled Santa Monica pier, these ones are a little more chill but still offer that picture-perfect vibe.
- Boat trip: After a quick boat ride from the Beach Cities, you’ll find one of California’s Channel Islands, Catalina. Lined with palm trees and cabanas, the island is the ultimate hideout from the buzz of Los Angeles. Go snorkeling, play golf, or take in the scenery with a hike.
What to Do in the Beach Cities
The laid back vibe and salt-loving fun of a Beach City are nearly impossible to replicate anywhere else. There's something about being close to the coast that's magical. Experience the feeling where the surf and sand are the heart of everything. Relax in Manhattan Beach, learn the history of Hermosa Beach, or soak up the energy of Redondo beach. While you're in the area, you should visit:
1. An Arts Gallery
The Riley Arts Gallery hosts the work of local artists of all varieties and visual mediums. The gallery is beachside, so you can wander in and explore the walls filled with pieces as you enjoy the coast. If you find a piece particularly striking, you may even be able to purchase it. The staff can also help you find an artist to hire for a commission or frame a piece you already own. Or, you can just enjoy the gallery.
The ShockBoxx creative space is small but ever-evolving with the tastes of local artists and crowds. Hosting live performances and pieces by visual artists, this garage-art gallery is about as modern as it gets. You can visit the gallery space or attend a performance and experience a night of underground culture.
2. The Roundhouse Aquarium
Free to the public and located at the end of the pier, The Roundhouse Aquarium teaches all its visitors about the ocean, marine life and the surrounding coastal environment. It's a great educational experience for children and adults alike, and with viewing and touch tanks, you'll get to see some of the native creatures up close and personal.
3. Parks
The historic Bruce's Beach, the oldest park in Manhattan Beach, has beautiful views of the ocean and three acres of terraced land. The Sand Dune Park offers a 100-foot high dune that you can reserve or, at certain times, use as a walk-on. It also has a nature walk with preserved areas for plants and a panoramic view of the city at the top.
In Redondo Beach, you can explore the 11-acre Hopkins Wilderness Park. A center for camping and conservation of natural habitats, the park features several ecological habitats, an amphitheater, three campgrounds and a picnic site.
4. The Beach Cities Piers
All the piers at the Beach Cities provide scenic views and great photo opportunities. The Manhattan Beach Pier allows you to walk out over the waves and see the beauty of the ocean from above. The Redondo Beach Pier offers the most activities, hosting live music events and festivals, seaside dining, boutique stores and a variety of water activities.
5. A Historical Museum
With approximately 3,500 objects and documents in its collection, the Hermosa Beach Historical Society tells the story of early Hermosa. They even have a Beach Volleyball Hall of Fame. The Redondo Beach Historical Museum is located in the iconic 1904 Queen Anne House and is home to an extensive collection of artifacts, documents and objects.
6. The Comedy & Magic Club
Hosting the likes of Jay Leno, Lachlan Patterson and Arsenio Hall, The Comedy and Magic Club is a place worth checking out. Visit on a weekend for a full ten-comedian lineup. See a show and enjoy a cocktail — you're guaranteed to have a few good laughs.
7. South Bay Galleria
Looking to do a little casual shopping? The South Bay Galleria has a variety of lifestyle and fashion stores, restaurants and entertainment centers throughout the building's three stories. The building features beautiful modern architecture, glass-paned ceilings and a bright, sunny atrium. Spend some time wandering, window shopping or looking for something new — treat yourself!
Where to Eat in the Beach Cities
With options for every palate and budget, the Beach Cities make for excellent dining. From classy steakhouses and fresh seafood to authentic Mexican and creative cafes, you're sure to find somewhere you'll love. Our top 10 favorites include:
1. The Strand House
With a stellar view of the Pacific, open-air balconies and a contemporary but comfortable ambiance, this family-owned establishment has the perfect beachside feel. The Strand House showcases the best of California, using locally sourced ingredients in their flavorful dishes and cocktails. Stop in, enjoy a meal and relax in the sea breeze.
2. Love & Salt
Named for the philosophy that these two ingredients make any dish great, Love & Salt serves up Italian-inspired cuisine a short walk from the Manhattan Beach Pier. The dining area is designed with wood and slate gray colors, giving off a refined and warm feeling, which leads into the open kitchen where you can watch the chefs go to work. This is a great place to share plates among a few friends.
3. Fishing with Dynamite
No Beach City is whole without a quality oyster bar. Between the light, friendly feel and the stunning seafood dishes, Fishing with Dynamite is a coastal classic. The dining area is intimate with modern ocean-themed decor, but this is certainly a place where no one will mind if you get your hands a little messy.
4. The Arthur J
Need an upscale place to take a date or business partner, or celebrate in style? With its retro decor and dry-aged steaks, The Arthur J will not disappoint. This place has a passion for beef, serving steaks and cuts of all kinds grilled over live fire, lovingly paired with hand-selected wines. They also have choices for those who aren't keen on beef. You'll likely rack up a pricey bill, but the expert menu is worth the expense.
5. Good Stuff Restaurant
Located on The Strand with beautiful oceanside views, Good Stuff is a great place for a morning bite or lunch during a day of beachcombing. It's a laid-back spot with healthy American and Mexican fare for any diet, including vegetarian, vegan and even dog menus. Swing by for a hearty breakfast bright and early before your day plans.
6. The Hook & Plow
A gastropub setting with seasonal and seafood dishes, this restaurant is a well-balanced blend of modern and rustic comfort. The Hook & Plow has an open front wall, allowing fresh air and sunlight in to create a patio feel. They serve dishes, wines and craft beers that reflect California's best, with a variety of flavors and inspirations. It's a perfect casual lunch or dinner spot.
7. Zane's Restaurant
About a block from the pier, local-favorite Zane's serves up Italian, seafood and steak dishes with a modern American flair. From gluten-free pasta to filet mignon, their menu has something for everyone, including wine selections and cocktails. If you're a seafood lover, then you have to try their signature dish, the cioppino.
8. La Playita
This authentic Mexican cafe has none of the frills but all of the flavor. At La Playita, you can get your fill of tacos, burritos and enchiladas without spending a ton of money. The outdoor patio area has a clear view of the beachside Noble Park, so you can enjoy your meal with pleasant scenery. It may be small, but there's a reason La Playita has been a popular spot since 1980.
9. Ortega 120
In California, it's easy to find good Mexican food, but certain restaurants stand out. Ortega 120 is one of these outliers. The dining space is down-to-earth rustic and filled with art pieces. Their menu is packed with traditional dishes and modernized seafood plates, as well as carefully crafted cocktails that focus on flavor.
10. Quality Seafood
The name says it all, but 65 years of business proves their value to the community. Quality Seafood has one of the broadest and freshest selections of seafood on the entire West Coast. While they were once a take-home market, they adapted by opening a kitchen, so you can pick out your selection, have it cooked to order and eat it right on their boardwalk patio space. It doesn't get any fresher than that!
Grab a Drink in the Beach Cities
Enjoying your evening with a view of the ocean and a crafted drink in hand sounds like the perfect Beach City experience. Whether you're looking for a swanky rooftop lounge or someplace to enjoy a casual drink and watch the sunset, there are plenty of excellent options. Our top 10 bars include:
1. StrandBar
With a location central to Downtown and just a block from the pier, StrandBar is The Strand House's spot for scratch-made cocktails and lively evenings out. This place has everything you need — live DJs on the weekends, sunset views and welcoming hospitality. It's a perfect post-beach rendezvous for friends to share a few drinks and make a few memories.
2. Brewco Manhattan Beach
If craft beer is more your fancy, head to Brewco, Manhattan Beach's premier location for local brews. They are home to over 50 bottled beer varieties, 48 rotating taps and more than 130 premium whiskey selections. With close proximity to the beach and pier, you can end your day by the shore with a few cold brews.
3. Laurel Tavern
For a laid-back, contemporary pub atmosphere with warm lighting and a broad variety of drinks, look no further than Laurel Tavern. This place manages to merge the classic bar feel with beach vibes, creating a warm venue for an evening out. Order one of their craft brews or many whiskeys to find a new favorite.
4. Ocean Bar
Boasting sunny rooftop views, a light lounge atmosphere, delicious plates and craft cocktails, Ocean Bar is a classic seaside establishment. Enjoy a glass of champagne or wine with friends or attend one of their live events and dance the night away.
5. Chelsea Pub & Lounge
British-inspired themes, modern American menus and a gastropub feel are what make Chelsea Pub & Lounge stand out. Weekend evenings are even more upbeat, as the lounge hosts DJs and live performers to encourage dancing as a sort of beachside afterparty. Have a drink and dance the night away with new friends, or bring a group of your own for a fun night out.
6. Tower 12
If there were a number-one place for surfers to grab some grub, it'd be Tower 12. With stacked sandwiches, dishes meant to share and American classics, this beachy bar and patio is a great place to chow down when you've still got some sand in between your toes. They've also got a killer cocktail program, from double-shots served in flasks to tiki-bar classics to shareable bowls for a table of friends.
7. Naja's Place
This dockside sports bar offers 88 beers on tap and 13 HD televisions for you and your fellow LA enthusiasts to cheer on your favorite teams. Naja's Place has an open front so you can enjoy the ocean view just as well, and often hosts live performers for dancing and entertainment. With such a lively feel, there's never a dull moment at Naja's.
8. R/10 Social House
This gastropub isn't just near the waves — it's on the marina waterfront. With farm-to-table plates, handcrafted specialty cocktails and two floors of nautically themed decor, the R/10 Social House is perfect for watching the sunset over the water. The upstairs is known as the Chesterfield Lounge, which has classy bartenders serving up vintage spirits and drinks. The views alone are enough to pull you in, but the warm atmosphere will have you coming back for more.
9. Hudson House
Dimly lit for a more intimate feel, Hudson House blends a classy atmosphere with a broad selection of beers, wines and cocktails. While it doesn't have a view of the beach, it is under a mile from the coast, and it provides a nice break from the crowded seaside bars. With no loud music, you'll be able to sit and chat with friends easily.
10. Bettolino Kitchen
With a relaxed, contemporary ambiance and fresh, handmade pasta, it’s easy to see why locals love Bettolino Kitchen. Located in an unassuming strip mall, this family-run restaurant has a history rooted in four generations of restaurateurs. They serve classic Italian recipes with modern spins, alongside scratch-made cocktails and freshly baked desserts.
Where to Find the Best Hotels in the Beach Cities, California
Looking for the best last-minute hotel deals in the Beach Cities? HotelTonight lets you book amazing hotels tonight, tomorrow or beyond at incredible rates. Just search Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach or Redondo Beach with HotelTonight and find a great hotel at an even better price.
