Best Activities in Manhattan Beach, California: What to See and Do

Located just southwest of Los Angeles, Manhattan Beach is a coastal haven that blends laid-back charm with upscale appeal. If you’re looking for the best activities in Manhattan Beach, California, you’re in for a treat. From scenic beach walks and outdoor sports to historic sites and fine dining, this beach town offers a little something for everyone.

Enjoy Iconic Views at the Manhattan Beach Pier

Start your journey with one of the best activities in Manhattan Beach—a visit to the Manhattan Beach Pier. It’s the oldest concrete pier on the West Coast, offering panoramic ocean views, dolphin sightings, and unforgettable sunsets. At the end of the pier, you’ll find the Roundhouse Aquarium, ideal for families or anyone fascinated by marine life.

Locals and tourists alike stroll this pier daily. Many say it captures the essence of Manhattan Beach—where nature, community, and relaxation meet effortlessly.

Stroll and Shop in Downtown Manhattan Beach

A walk through downtown Manhattan Beach introduces you to the town’s vibrant core. Here, coastal luxury meets casual charm. This area is packed with independent boutiques, stylish galleries, and critically acclaimed restaurants.

Visiting downtown Manhattan Beach is easily one of the best activities in Manhattan Beach for those who enjoy exploring on foot. Don’t miss the farmers market, where you can sample local produce and listen to live music in a relaxed, oceanside setting.

Get Active with Beach Volleyball and Biking

Sports enthusiasts will find some of the best activities in Manhattan Beach on the sand. The city is known as the birthplace of beach volleyball, and the public courts are always buzzing. Whether you’re a pro or just playing for fun, it’s a great way to connect with the community.

For something less competitive, rent a bike and cruise The Strand, a scenic path that hugs the coastline. This route offers a continuous view of the Pacific and leads through other iconic beach towns as well.

Explore Local History at the Naval Yard Site

One of the most underrated yet fascinating attractions is the historical naval yard area near Manhattan Beach. Though mostly redeveloped today, this yard once played a role in U.S. military operations during wartime.

Historical markers and occasional guided tours help visitors connect with the city’s past. The influence of the naval yard is also captured in literature, especially in Jennifer Egan’s novel Manhattan Beach, which fictionalizes life at the Brooklyn Naval Yard and features characters like Dexter Styles and Anna Kerrigan.

Dining with Ocean Views in Downtown Manhattan Beach

If you’re hungry after a full day of exploring, you’ll find that downtown Manhattan Beach has some of the region’s best restaurants. Many eateries feature oceanfront patios, perfect for enjoying California cuisine while watching the sun set over the Pacific.

Locally sourced seafood, gourmet burgers, and global flavors dominate the menus here. Food critics from the New York Times, USA Today, and Washington Post have all praised the culinary scene in downtown Manhattan Beach, making dining one of the absolute best activities in Manhattan Beach.

Beach Reading: A Literary Tribute to Manhattan Beach

Jennifer Egan’s award-winning Manhattan Beach—which won the Andrew Carnegie Medal for Excellence—offers a unique, immersive way to experience the city. Though set mostly in New York, the story’s themes resonate deeply with this community. The novel follows Anna Kerrigan, the first female diver at the Brooklyn Navy Yard, as she uncovers secrets about her missing father and meets mysterious figures like Dexter Styles.

Reading this magnificent novel while sitting on the beach is a contemplative and immersive experience—definitely one of the best activities in Manhattan Beach for book lovers and history buffs alike.

Sunset Picnics and People-Watching on the Bluffs

Few things top a sunset picnic along the grassy bluffs overlooking the beach. Pack a light meal, bring a blanket, and settle in as the sun dips below the ocean horizon. This is one of those best activities in Manhattan Beach that costs nothing but offers everything.

From here, you’ll spot joggers on The Strand, surfers finishing their last wave of the day, and families enjoying quality time together.

Capture Art and Architecture Around the City

Manhattan Beach is also a hub for creativity. Public murals, sculptures, and sleek architecture can be found across the city—especially in downtown Manhattan Beach. For art lovers and amateur photographers, this makes for a visually rewarding walk.

Art galleries double as cafés and boutique stores, showcasing new and local talent. Architectural tours are available as well, offering insights into the evolution of beachside design from classic to contemporary.

Final Thoughts: Experience the Best Activities in Manhattan Beach

From beach volleyball games and sunset bluffs to literary adventures and historical landmarks, the best activities in Manhattan Beach offer something for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re drawn by the allure of downtown Manhattan Beach, the history of the naval yard, or the thrill of ocean sports, this California gem has more to offer than meets the eye.

So pack your sunscreen, bring a book like Manhattan Beach, and prepare to discover why this city continues to inspire writers, athletes, and dreamers alike.