HERMOSA TO MANHATTAN BEACH Guide

American Junkie (Hermosa Beach)

68 Pier Ave, Hermosa Beach, CA 90254

This is a given as an ultimate sports bar in Hermosa Beach. Not only is it steps from the beach, set in Hermosa Pier Plaza, America Junkie is spacious and boasts over 40 plasma TVs, in 2 sections of the restaurant and a HUGE screen in back, ensuring that sports fans never miss a game.

The space is very well lit, with lots of open air, a wide and open outside patio, skylight, and high ceilings. It’s great for fun from day to night.

No matter where you sit, you’ll have a great view of the action, making it an ideal place to catch your favorite teams in a lively and energetic setting. It’s an ideal place to wear sports gear and socialize with like minded fans.

Food & Drinks

The menu at American Junkie offers classic American fare with favorites like juicy hamburgers, fish tacos, and prawns. The bar boasts a diverse selection of draft beers, craft cocktails, and California wines, making it the perfect spot to enjoy a refreshing drink while watching the game. Whether you’re craving a casual bite or a hearty meal, the food pairs perfectly with the game-day experience.

Venue Size & Seating Options

The venue is spacious, providing ample room for both large groups and casual diners. It also features indoor and outdoor seating, so guests can enjoy the fresh ocean breeze while sipping on their drinks.

The massive outdoor patio adds to the beachside ambiance, making it a prime spot for people-watching and soaking up the Hermosa Beach vibes.

Music & Night Scene

As the sun sets, American Junkie transforms into a bustling nightlife destination with live music and DJ performances. The energetic atmosphere attracts both locals and visitors looking for a fun night out, whether it’s to celebrate a big win or just enjoy a laid back and lively social scene.

Special Team Affiliations

While American Junkie doesn’t appear to have a specific team affiliation (keep reading), its extensive sports coverage caters to fans of all teams. Whether it’s the NFL, NBA, MLB, or college football, the bar is a go-to destination for catching all the biggest games with fellow sports enthusiasts.

It’s important to note that this place IS AN EAGLE’S DEN! If you love the Philadelphia Eagles this spot lends towards signage and vibes that say Eagles bar all the way. I went by on Superbowl ’25 and it was Eagle’s everything. However, AJ is for everyone! Just on certain gamedays…you may be in a sea of dark green.

North End Bar & Grill (Hermosa Beach)

2626 Hermosa Ave, Hermosa Beach, CA 90254

The North End Bar & Grill (was called Critters from 1971 to 1999 and Esther’s before that) is a low key, casual, locals bar and historic neighborhood landmark. It’s super chill with outdoor seats, a Cheers-esqe vibe, and a no-frills spot for sports and beers.

Located off the beaten path, it’s a good one to know about because it’s away from the busy Pier Plaza of Hermosa, but literally across the street from the Strand for when you are ready to walk off some drinks and join in on the ocean views.

Televisions & Sports Viewing

The North End Bar & Grill has 12 HD tv’s around the circular bar area and good viewing in most spots inside. They have all sports with NFL, NHL, and NBA packages.

Food & Drinks

Craft beers and solid bar food. You have all the beers and the menu offers lots of chicken wings, wraps, and even salads. You’ll be good here.

Venue Size & Seating Options

This bar has plenty of seats inside around the bar, a wide outdoor patio, and also a pool table with free wifi and phone charging near the pool table.

Music & Night Scene

I’ve been to this bar at night and it’s pretty laid back. A great place to sit at the bar and chat with the bartender or listen to some music. Personally, I haven’t seen it overly crowded so it’s a nice, more mellow evening scene.

Hennessey’s Tavern (Hermosa Beach)

Hennessey’s is a well-known, OG sports bar located in the heart of Hermosa Beach, just steps from the ocean…you can literally see the ocean from the patio and it’s right ON The Strand. It offers a laid-back, beach-town feel with an Irish pub influence.

The venue features both indoor and outdoor seating, making it a great spot for catching a game while enjoying the ocean breeze. The rooftop patio provides stunning coastal views, making it one of the best rooftop bars in Hermosa Beach for a drink with a view.

TV & Sports Viewing Experience

• Multiple flat-screen TVs are strategically placed throughout the bar for optimal sports viewing.
• Features live games from the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, and college football.
• Hosts special watch parties for major sporting events, including championship games and playoffs.

Food & Drinks

Hennessey’s Tavern offers a mix of classic pub fare and California-inspired dishes, with an emphasis on quality ingredients and generous portions.

• Signature burgers, including the well-known Hennessey’s Burger and Turkey Avocado Melt.
• Fresh seafood options such as fish and chips and ahi tuna salad.
• Traditional Irish dishes like corned beef and cabbage.
• A variety of appetizers, including nachos, wings, and loaded fries.

The drink menu includes a selection of draft and bottled beers, handcrafted cocktails, and a full bar with a variety of spirits.

Nightlife & Music

• Live music performances and DJ sets on select nights.
• Casual but energetic crowd, especially on weekends and game nights.
• Happy hour specials and late-night drink deals attract both locals and tourists.

Outdoor Seating & Ambiance

• Rooftop patio with ocean views, perfect for sunset drinks.
• Sidewalk seating for a casual dining experience close to the Hermosa Beach Pier.
• Relaxed, beach-friendly atmosphere that transitions from a sports bar during the day to a lively social spot at night.

The Hangar Inn (Manhattan Beach)

1001 N Aviation Blvd., Manhattan Beach, CA 90266

This is a cool, discreet, and chill-vibes local establishment since 1957 that is away from the downtown and in a much more “you would have to know” location. I first noticed an airplane coming out from the roof…and that told me, this place is pretty cool!

Known for its feel-good atmosphere, it offers a casual spot for watching sports, playing pool, or having some good food. They have a full menu with breakfast, lunch, and dinner!

Televisions & Sports Viewing

Sports enthusiasts will appreciate the 14 TVs strategically placed throughout the bar, ensuring that fans can watch multiple games simultaneously. The Hangar Inn also features a shuffleboard and a pool table. Go early on sports days because it can start to get packed!

Food & Drinks

The Hangar Inn knows how to reel people in with fresh made food and a variety on the menu for any time of the day. Some offerings include breakfast specials, tacos, lots of burgers, salads, and plenty of appetizers.

In addition to food, The Hangar Inn offers a selection of beverages, including craft beers, wines, and cocktails.

Venue Size & Seating Options

The interior of The Hangar Inn is designed to be cozy and inviting, featuring a circular bar that’s the hot spot for socializing. There is some seating outside with umbrellas, keeping it cool and cozy.

You might be standing if you get there when it’s already very busy.

Music & Night Scene

The Hangar Inn is off the beaten path and another local gem so expect some neighborhood vibes at this place. It does get packed on game days and it’s always a good time. Uber or expect street parking, and the location is 2 miles from downtown Manhattan Beach.

Baja Sharkeez (Manhattan Beach and Hermosa Beach)

Baja Sharkeez is an OG sports bar and cantina known for its beachy vibes, strong drinks (think AMF’s and lots of draft beers), and high energy nightlife. Whether you’re looking to catch the big game, enjoy a Mexican-inspired meal, or party with friends, Sharkeez delivers a solid beach bar experience.

Televisions & Sports Viewing

• Multiple large HD screens for catching every major sporting event, from NFL to UFC fights.
• Loyalty to local teams, including the LA Rams, Lakers, and Dodgers.
• Game-day specials make it a top spot for sports fans.

Food & Drinks

• Mexican-style menu featuring street tacos, loaded nachos, sizzling fajitas, and fresh seafood.
• Famous for their legendary schooner margaritas, beer buckets, and signature Sharkeez mega drinks.
• Daily happy hour specials and weekend bottomless mimosas.

Size & Venue Features

• Spacious layout with indoor and outdoor seating.
• Rooftop patio in Manhattan Beach location offers ocean views and a breezy atmosphere.
• The Hermosa Beach Sharkeez is right by the beach, steps away from the sand (in Pier Plaza).
• Dance floor and live DJ nights keep the party going late.

Music & Night Scene

• Live DJs & theme nights make it one of the best party spots in the South Bay.
• Reggaeton, hip-hop, and throwback mixes set the mood for a high-energy crowd.
• Popular for college nights, birthdays, watching sports, bach parties, Sunday funday, and weekend celebrations.

Shellback Tavern (Manhattan Beach)

Shellback Tavern is a classic and iconic beachfront dive bar in Manhattan Beach, perfect for those looking for cold drinks, a relaxed vibe, and stunning ocean views. Known for its no-frills, local-friendly atmosphere, it’s a favorite watering hole for surfers, sports fans, and anyone wanting to grab a drink after a day at the beach. Flip flops, sandy shorts, and bikini tops welcome.

TVs & Sports Atmosphere

• Multiple flat-screen TVs showing major sports, from NFL games to college football.
• Popular with Dodgers, Lakers, and Rams fans, making it a go-to game-day spot.
• No over-the-top frills—just cold beer, great company, and solid game-day energy.
• Not too many seats as the night goes on, so people stand and it gets super crowded! Expect to bump shoulders with people on late nights.

Food & Drinks

• Casual bar food including burgers, sandwiches, tacos, and wings.
• Ice-cold beer on draft and classic cocktails to keep things simple and refreshing.
• Strong pours and budget-friendly pricing, making it a great alternative to pricier beachside spots.

Size & Venue Features

• Cozy and casual space with a no-fuss, old-school tavern feel.
• Located just steps from the Manhattan Beach Pier.
• Beach-goer friendly—sand on your feet is welcome.

Music & Night Scene

• Jukebox tunes and lively bar chatter set the tone for a laid-back but fun crowd.
• Not a full-on nightclub scene—more of a local dive with a social and easygoing energy.
• Perfect for post-surf drinks, weekend day-drinking, and casual night outs.

Outdoor Seating & Beach Vibes

• No official outdoor seating, but the beach is right across the street.
• Big windows let in the fresh ocean breeze, so you never feel far from the water.