The South Bay is famous for its sun-soaked beaches, vibrant boardwalks, and lively nightlife, but beyond the well-known spots, Hermosa Beach and Manhattan Beach hold some of the best hidden gems that only locals know about. Whether you’re a visitor looking for a unique experience or a local ready to explore more, these off-the-beaten-path spots are worth discovering.
Secret Beaches & Quiet Coastal Escapes
🌊 27th Street Beach (Manhattan Beach)
- If you want to escape the crowded piers, head to 27th Street Beach, where you’ll find pristine sand, fewer tourists, and epic surf waves.
- Perfect for relaxing, sunbathing, or enjoying a peaceful walk.
🌅 Hermosa Beach Greenbelt
- A hidden walking trail lined with trees and flowers, stretching from Hermosa Beach to Manhattan Beach.
- A local favorite for morning runs, dog walks, or a peaceful stroll.
Underrated Cafés & Hidden Foodie Spots
El Porto Snack Shack (Manhattan Beach)
- This beach café with umbrellas, in the sand seats, and even some pint size tables and chairs for kids…is a hidden treasure among the beach goers at El Porto.
- A perfect spot to grab snacks, Peets coffee, and ice cream before hitting the beach. I love their nachos, fries, and veggie sandwich! A good spot with kids as well.
- Located at the end of the MB Strand at El Porto beach.
Offset Coffee (Hermosa Beach)
- A local favorite for strong espresso and solid lattes, on the main Pier Ave. but discreet on the outside. They have seasonal flavors like pistachio and Sobacha syrup, lots of beans, flaky pastries, and avo toasts. 308 Pier Ave, Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
Gitana Cafe (Hermosa Beach)
- This tucked away, corner cafe is at and Hermosa Ave. It has the best espresso drinks, fresh juices, a tiny upstairs loft that seats two for quiet conversation, and an outdoors patio with very few seats.
- It’s definitely a locals spot so I usually find a seat, otherwise, it’s steps to the beach for plenty of views there.
- Check to see if they have live entertainment.
- 2600 Hermosa Ave, Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
Tommy and Atticus (Hermosa Beach)
- This neighborhood bakery is pretty cool! My kids love watching the pastries being made through the windows as we wait.
- Yep, usually there is a line, but the pastries are beautifully flaky, golden, sweet, and fresh out the oven. The space is open, modern, and clean. Perfect to sit and sip.
- 1700 Aviation Blvd, Redondo Beach, CA 90278
Best Secret Sunset Spots
🌄 Bruce’s Beach (Manhattan Beach)
- A historic hidden park with stunning ocean views and a peaceful atmosphere.
- Bring a picnic and watch the sunset away from the crowds.
🌅 The Strand to the Breakwall (South End of Hermosa Beach)
- Instead of joining the crowded pier for sunset, walk to the south end of The Strand.
- This area is much less busy and offers unobstructed ocean views.
- Keep going to the end and get to the rocks at King Harbour and the Redondo Beach Breakwall where the scene is quiet and surreal. 210 Yacht Club Way, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
Off the Beaten Path Food and Drink
🍸 The Hangar (Manhattan Beach)
- The have tons of beers in this super low-key, casual, food and drink setting. Definitely a locals crowd. Grab some food, drink, and watch a game. They have several tv’s so it’s a lively spot during sport games.
- 1001 N Aviation Blvd., Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
Unique Local Activities & Experiences
🎨 Resin Gallery (Hermosa Beach)
- A hidden gem for art lovers, featuring local artists and surf culture-inspired artwork.
- Check out their art nights and community events.
🚴 Bike from Manhattan Beach to Dockweiler on the Marvin Braude Bike Trail
- Rent a bike and take the scenic route from Hermosa or Manhattan Beach to Dockweiler…even all the way to Playa Vista if you are feeling extra active on the 22 mile Marvin Braude Bike Train that goes all along the coast to Santa Monica.
- The ride can be as long as you want, but relaxing and offers some of the best ocean views in the nation. It is truly an epic trail.
🎤 Live Music at Saint Rocke (Hermosa Beach)
- A historic music venue that used to be a bank building in the 1920’s. It’s now a music hub in the Southbay.
- Enjoy live music in an intimate setting with a classic beach-town vibe. 142 Pacific Coast Hwy. Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
Hermosa Beach and Manhattan Beach are full of surprises beyond their famous Strand and piers. From a span of quiet beach spots to local-favorite cafés, these hidden gems make for an unforgettable coastal experience.
💡 Did we miss any of your favorite hidden spots? Share your local secrets in the comments below!
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