If you’re looking for fun and free things to do in Hermosa and Manhattan Beach, you’re in for a treat! These two beautiful coastal towns offer plenty of activities that let you enjoy the ocean breeze, soak in the California sun, and experience the idyllic laid-back SoCal lifestyle—all without spending a dime! Whether you’re a local or visiting for the first time, here are 15 awesome free things to do in Hermosa and Manhattan Beach.
Stroll or Bike Along The Strand
The Strand is a scenic beachfront path stretching from Hermosa Beach through Manhattan Beach and beyond. Whether you walk, run, or bike, you’ll enjoy stunning ocean views, lively beach vibes, and gorgeous beachfront homes. Getting on The Strand is iconic, and should be one of the very first things on your list!
Find Sea Shells
One of the simplest and most enjoyable activities at Hermosa and Manhattan Beach is searching for sea shells. Head to the shoreline during low tide and explore the sandy beach. You’ll discover a variety of beautiful shells, colorful beach glass, and unique marine treasures. Collect your favorites as souvenirs from your time at the stunning Californian coast!
Watch the Sunset at Hermosa or Manhattan Beach Pier
Both Hermosa Beach Pier and Manhattan Beach Pier offer breathtaking sunset views. Bring a camera, relax, and soak in the beauty as the sun dips below the horizon. Going by the piers always has a gorgeous perspective view, or be up top on the pier for an aerial vantage point.
I took my kids for a “sunset watching” experience and we dug beach seats, watched the sun dip into the ocean, and a made a “thing” of it. Free…and fun!
Visit the Roundhouse Aquarium (Manhattan Beach Pier)
Located at the end of Manhattan Beach Pier, the Roundhouse Aquarium is free to enter and features a few small interactive marine exhibits, touch tanks, and local sea life, making it perfect for families and a quick activity with kids. It IS donation suggested.
Watch a Beach Volleyball Game
Hermosa and Manhattan Beach are known as the “Beach Volleyball Capitals of the World.” Head to the beach and watch talented players practice or compete at one of the many volleyball courts—sometimes even pro players!
Early in the morning is a great time to walk on The Strand and spot groups practicing. Afternoons on the weekends, closer to the Hermosa Beach Pier is a time when you’ll see more groups playing, and you might even catch a volleyball tournament event.
If you love volleyball, check out the “Volleyball Walk of Fame” on the Manhattan Beach Pier, featuring bronze plaques of beach volleyball champions.
Explore the Manhattan Beach Botanical Garden and Polliwog Park
Tucked away in Polliwog Park, the Manhattan Beach Botanical Garden is a small, but peaceful space filled with native plants, butterflies, and walking paths. It’s a hidden gem for little nature lovers!
You can also take a long walk around Polliwog Park which takes you by the duck pond and the perimeter of the park for a .8 mile loop.
Enjoy Pier Plaza People and Sounds (Hermosa Beach)
Pier Plaza in downtown Hermosa Beach is always bustling with people and sometimes music, especially on weekends. This lively pedestrian-friendly area features historic landmarks, unique architecture, and a fun beach-town atmosphere.
Hang out on a turquoise bench and people watch and take in the energy. Then, meander down to the Pier to watch some surfers or dip your toes in the sand.
Watch Surfers at El Porto
El Porto Beach, at the north end of Manhattan Beach, is a famous surf spot. Watch experienced surfers ride the waves—it’s mesmerizing and totally free!
Browse the Hermosa Beach Farmers’ Market (Wednesdays) and Manhattan Beach Farmers’ Market (Tuesdays)
Held every Wednesday from 1 PM to 6 PM at Pier Plaza, the Hermosa Beach Farmers’ Market offers fresh produce and a friendly community vibe. You don’t have to buy anything to enjoy the atmosphere!
Manhattan Beach has the Farmers’ Market on Tuesdays from 11am-3pm, located in Downtown Manhattan Beach near Metlox Plaza. (Civic Center, Upper Parking Lot Plaza, 320 15th St, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266)
Walk Through the Hills in Manhattan Beach
Get your workout on and soak in the small-town coastal charm by walking up and down the hills of Manhattan Beach. It’s a different view from the sand, but really gets the muscles working.
Visit the Veterans Parkway Greenbelt Trail
For a peaceful nature walk, check out the Veterans Parkway Trail, a 3.5-mile shaded path that runs from Hermosa to Manhattan Beach. It’s perfect for a morning jog or a quiet stroll.
Spot Dolphins in the Ocean
It’s not uncommon to see dolphins (and sometimes sea lions) playing in the waves near the piers and along the shores from Hermosa to Manhattan Beach. Don’t forget your sunshade and beach blanket. Keep your eyes peeled!
Enjoy a Beach Picnic
Pack a homemade meal and enjoy a picnic on the sand with ocean views. There’s nothing like eating lunch with the best ocean view of Hermosa or Manhattan Beach.
Setup near some yellow beach swings if you have little ones and you’ll have hours of fun and relaxation to be had.
Walk Pier to Pier
Both towns feature a unique beach vibe and landscape. Take half a day to cruise from downtown Manhattan Beach to Hermosa’s Pier Avenue. Snap pictures, stop at the beach, window shop, look at the architecture of the homes, check out both piers, and even catch the sunset if you stay later.
Take your time, or go as fast as you like for a workout. It’s a whole day you can make of simply being outdoors on this famous strecth of coastline.
Beach Cleanup and Treasure Finding
Maybe a little unexpected, but cleaning the beach can be rewarding for the soul and mind, as it is for the environment. Grab your gloves and a bag and help make the beach more beautiful…it will be a great deed for the day.
If you have a metal detector, you can also discover some hidden treasures (maybe)! This makes for a great kids activity and educational experience as well, teaching little ones how to enjoy and also appreciate nature.
Did you try any of these activities? Share your favorite thing to do in Hermosa to Manhattan Beach in the comments below.
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