The Manhattan Beach Pier

Popular with locals and tourists alike, the Manhattan Beach Pier is a great place to catch some of the best views in South Bay. Located in the heart of Manhattan Beach at the end of Manhattan Beach Boulevard, the pier is more quiet and peaceful than many of its more developed cousins in Southern California.  

Whether you're out for some exercise, guiding a tour of out-of-town friends or just have some free time to kill, the pier can offer a quaint experience. It's a great place to watch the surfers, enjoy the waves, add a bit of distance to your run or bike ride or simply sit back and people watch while you relish the ocean breezes. 

What really makes Manhattan Beach Pier special are the breathtaking views, particularly at sunset. Take in the wide beaches that stretch for miles in both directions, sand volleyball games, beautiful Manhattan Beach homes on the hill and the rising Santa Monica Mountains to the North. The pier is popular among photographers and is a great backdrop for any sunset photo, even if you're an amateur. 

Manhattan Beach Pier is popular among both pier fishers and surfers. If you're not adventurous to get in the water yourself, chances are you will be able to watch the surfers navigate the waves. Fishing off the pier is popular and anglers will find common surf species, including mackerel, barracuda and white seabass in the deeper waters.

At the end of the 928-foot pier sits its only building, the Roundhouse Marine Lab and Aquarium, a gem of a spot to take the kids.

A big advantage for the pier is its proximity to downtown and many local shops and boutiques, coffee shops and restaurants, making it a great stroll after dinner. 

For more on what you might do on your trip to the pier, check out the city website or Downtownmanhattanbeach.com and see what the Yelpers suggest.