ENJOY SEASIDE DINING, COTTON CANDY SUNSETS, AND LAIDBACK SURF CULTURE
The stretch of coastline between El Segundo all the way down to San Pedro is known as the beautiful South Bay. Coastal towns like Manhattan Beach and Hermosa Beach give off a classic California vibe while further inland you’ll find some foodie gems and the SoFi Stadium in Inglewood.
Note: Before visiting venues, please call or check websites for possible menu/schedule updates and to confirm guest safety protocols.
Manhattan Beach Post
Open | Chef David LeFevre is no stranger to the South Bay with several standout restaurants under his belt including Fishing With Dynamite, The Arthur J, and his first solo restaurant in SoCal—Manhattan Beach Post. The rustic chic restaurant features a farm-to-table menu with shareable dishes like the blistering green beans in a sweet and spicy chili sauce, seared scallops in a pistachio puree, and the Nashville-style fried chicken are just a few of the must-haves here. The menu might be seasonal but the one item that will remain is the bacon cheddar biscuits. There’s a reason why diners order a second serving of these buttery beauties to-go. Times Vary. 1142 Manhattan Ave, Manhattan Beach, 310.345.5405.
Little French Bakery
Open | When you can’t make it to France, head to Little French Bakery, a family-owned bakery in Redondo Beach that captures the essence of an authentic Parisian boulangerie. A selection of enticing sweet and savory pastries fill the menu. Pick up a freshly baked almond croissant or a traditional ham and cheese baguette and start your morning the French way. Wed-Sun from 7am to 3pm. 1820 S Catalina Ave, Redondo Beach, 310.504.0245.
Hakata Ikkousha Ramen
Open | Slurp on a piping hot bowl of ramen made with handmade noodles from the no-frills Hakata Ikkousha Ramen in Torrance, also known as the unofficial ramen capital of Southern California. Order the signature Tonkotsu Ramen or the Black Tonkotsu made with black sesame paste and don’t forget a side of crispy fried chicken for the ultimate comfort food on a cold winter night. Times Vary. 21605 S Western Ave Ste J, Torrance. 424.558.3953.
The Spa at Terranea
Open | For a little R&R, treat yourself to a massage at the 102-acre coastal resort along the bluffs of California’s Palos Verdes Peninsula. Try the CBD massage for deep relaxation or one of the facials like the Botanical Brightening Facial or Gentlemen’s Facial for a tailored treatment that will cleanse, exfoliate, and increase circulation leaving your skin feeling as good as new. Daily 9am to 5 pm. 100 Terranea Way, Rancho Palos Verdes, 310.265.2740
The Point
Open | For a little retail therapy, stop by The Point in El Segundo where you can splurge on everyday brands like lululemon, Madewell, and Bonobos. If you’re up for a sweat sesh you can book a class at SoulCycle or show your skin some love with a facial at Face Haus. When you work up an appetite, you can choose from a selection of fast casual eateries including CAVA, Tocaya, True Food Kitchen, and a local favorite, Little Sister. Mon – Sat, 10am to 9pm. Sun, 11am to 7pm. 850 S. Pacific Coast Highway, El Segundo, 760.436.3036.
Esperanza Cocina de la Playa
Open | Nestled between an Irish pub and a 24-hour diner, this new Sonoran-inspired restaurant brings sultry vibes and a lively atmosphere to the heart of downtown Manhattan Beach. The swanky all-white interiors resemble a glitzy Los Cabos resort. You’ll likely need a drink after reading the extensive menu but don’t worry you’re in the right place. Choose from one of their fruity margaritas, a spicy michelada, or go straight on the rocks with one of their rare tequila and mezcal offerings. For bites, try the ceviche trio served with plantain chips, the guacamole, and the fried shrimp tacos served on homemade tortillas. Open daily, times vary (see website for more details). 309 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Manhattan Beach. 424.422.0057.
Tigres Fuego
Open | From the same team behind Baran’s 2239—the 2019 Bib Gourmand restaurant in a tiny strip mall—Tigres Fuego is a homegrown casual ceviche and taco spot along PCH dishing up equally tasty bites best enjoyed on-the-go or at the counter. Order the carne asada or Baja fish tacos and wash it down with a coconut horchata. Times: Tues 3pm-8pm. Wed – Sun: 11am – 8pm. 1223 S Pacific Coast Hwy, Redondo Beach. 310.921.8293.
Polliwog Park
Open | One of the largest parks in the South Bay, Polliwog Park is made of 18-acres of lush greenery with a pond that is home to many migratory birds. There are three gazebos, a playground, and a number of picnic tables and barbecues to spend a Sunday afternoon. Head to the southwest corner of the park and enjoy free admission to the Manhattan Beach Botanical Garden. Daily, 6:30am – till dawn. 601 Manhattan Beach Blvd, Manhattan Beach. 310.802.5448.
Alpine Village
Open | Stop by this German specialty market and stock up on German sausages and choose from over 200 beers including German and European imports. Daily 10am to 6pm. 833 W Torrance Blvd., Torrance, 619.231.1515.
Cafe Sevilla
Open | Aviation enthusiasts will geek out at the Western Museum of Flight at Zamperini Field. Get a close look at the impressive collection of aircrafts on display including the Grumman F-14A “Tomcat” and the Douglas A-4A Skyhawk. The non-profit organization in Torrance is committed to preserving artifacts from Southern California’s aviation history with over 300 models, prototypes, and historic photographs. Visitors also have the opportunity to sit in the cockpit of an “F5 Freedom Fighter” to recreate your own Top Gun photo moment. Fri – Mon, 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. $5 General Fee. 3315 Airport Drive, Red Baron #3. 310.326.9544.
Photo credit for Polliwog Park is by Joshua G. All other images are courtesy of the venues featured.
