Hermosa Beach Pier The Strand Los Angeles
Iconic pier and scenic Strand offering breathtaking ocean views, vibrant sunsets, and a classic California beach experience.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Spectacular sunset views
Hermosa Beach Pier The Strand Los Angeles
Best Time
Spectacular sunset views

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic pier and scenic Strand offering breathtaking ocean views, vibrant sunsets, and a classic California beach experience.
"Catching the sunset from the pier is unforgettable. The colors are incredible!"
🎯 Easy Pier Parking
Lot B near the pier offers convenient parking. Arrive early on weekends to secure a spot!
🌅 Sunset Magic
Catching the sunset from the pier is unforgettable. The colors are incredible!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Hermosa Beach Pier
End of Pier Avenue
Iconic 1,140-foot pier offering stunning ocean views, fishing spots, and a classic California beach vibe.

The Strand
Coastal path along Hermosa Beach
A scenic paved path perfect for walking, running, or biking with breathtaking ocean vistas.

Lighthouse Cafe
Near the pier
Experience live jazz nights for a magical evening with ocean sounds and a vibrant atmosphere.
Planning Your Visit
Parking & Access
Sunset Spectacle
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Easy Pier Parking
Lot B near the pier offers convenient parking. Arrive early on weekends to secure a spot!
🌅 Sunset Magic
Catching the sunset from the pier is unforgettable. The colors are incredible!
🚶♀️ Evening Strolls
Walking The Strand from pier to pier at night is lovely and well-lit between Hermosa and Manhattan Beach.
🎶 Live Jazz Vibes
Enjoy a unique date night with live jazz at the Lighthouse Cafe near the pier.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Easy Pier Parking
Lot B near the pier offers convenient parking. Arrive early on weekends to secure a spot!
🌅 Sunset Magic
Catching the sunset from the pier is unforgettable. The colors are incredible!
🚶♀️ Evening Strolls
Walking The Strand from pier to pier at night is lovely and well-lit between Hermosa and Manhattan Beach.
🎶 Live Jazz Vibes
Enjoy a unique date night with live jazz at the Lighthouse Cafe near the pier.
🍦 Sweet Treat Stop
Capri Gelato, just a street inland from the pier, is a perfect spot for dessert.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning sunsets and the classic Southern California beach vibe at Hermosa Beach Pier. The Strand is praised for its scenic beauty and accessibility for walking and biking. Some find parking challenging, especially on busy weekends.
"As a portrait photographer, this is one of my favorite spots to shoot couples at sunset and even capture spontaneous street portraits of interesting strangers. It’s a lively, cinematic place — no surprise it was one of the filming locations for La La Land. The crowd brings great energy, and the golden hour light here is simply magical.
If you’re a fan of dreamy light and city vibes, you’ll love shooting (or being photographed) here too!"
chao peng
"Charming, sunny, and full of life.
Hermosa Beach is the whole package—clean beach, scenic pier, and a vibrant downtown lined with palm trees, street art, and colorful boutiques.
You can surf in the morning, shop for quirky tees by lunch, and enjoy fruit-blended ice cream before sunset.
Super walkable, great for families and couples, and filled with good vibes."
Tita Friday PH
"Parking is a challenge, sometimes. The pier has plenty of benches. They had a volleyball competition the day I visited. The bathroom might be without toilet paper at times. I noticed the area to be clean. There are restaurants and shops near the boardwalk. Very lively. I noticed a skateboarding group riding together. I also noticed a live band playing music on a Thursday night in July in one of the outdoor bars."
Elkie Ingels
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Los Angeles, you can drive south via I-405 S and CA-1 S (Pacific Coast Highway). Public transport options are limited, so driving or ride-sharing is recommended. Parking is available in lots and on streets near the pier.
Yes, there are several parking lots and street parking options. Lot B is frequently recommended for its proximity to the pier. Be aware that parking can fill up quickly, especially on weekends.
Absolutely! The Strand is a fantastic paved path that runs along the coast, making it ideal for biking. You can rent bikes nearby or bring your own.
Public transport to Hermosa Beach is less direct than driving. You might need to take a bus and then walk or transfer. Check local transit schedules for the most up-to-date routes. For convenience, ride-sharing or driving is often preferred.
From Disneyland, it's best to drive or use a ride-sharing service. The drive typically takes about 45-60 minutes depending on traffic, heading west towards the coast.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entrance fee to walk on the Hermosa Beach Pier or access the beach. It's a public space for everyone to enjoy.
The pier is generally open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. However, specific facilities like restrooms may have limited hours.
You do not need a fishing license to fish from the pier, but check local regulations for any specific rules or catch limits.
Entry to the pier itself is free. If there are special events or concerts, like jazz nights at the Lighthouse Cafe, separate tickets or cover charges may apply.
The beach is public and operates on a first-come, first-served basis. You can set up your spot with towels and umbrellas, but reservations are not available.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can walk, fish, enjoy the ocean views, watch the sunset, and visit nearby shops and restaurants. The Strand offers opportunities for biking and jogging.
The area between Hermosa and Manhattan Beach piers is generally well-lit and has foot traffic, making it relatively safe for evening walks. It's always wise to be aware of your surroundings.
Yes, public restrooms are available near the Hermosa Beach Pier for visitors.
The area around the pier is bustling with various shops, cafes, and restaurants, offering everything from casual bites to seafood and gelato.
Yes, The Strand is a paved path, making it very accessible and smooth for strollers, wheelchairs, and bikes.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You'll find a variety of options, from seafood restaurants to casual eateries and cafes. Capri Gelato is a popular dessert spot just inland from the pier.
While the pier itself is more for strolling and fishing, the surrounding area has several highly-rated seafood restaurants offering fresh catches and ocean views.
Yes, there are numerous cafes and breakfast spots within walking distance of the pier, perfect for starting your day or grabbing a coffee.
Many restaurants in Hermosa Beach cater to families, offering diverse menus that appeal to all ages. Casual spots are abundant.
Look for restaurants with ocean views or patios along the coast. Many places offer great vantage points to enjoy dinner as the sun sets over the Pacific.
📸 📸 Photography
The pier itself, especially during sunset, offers incredible photo opportunities. The coastline along The Strand also provides beautiful backdrops.
The hour leading up to and including sunset provides the most dramatic light and colors. Golden hour is also fantastic for softer, warmer tones.
Consider capturing the surfers, the pelicans, or the vibrant street art often found in the area. The Lighthouse Cafe can offer a unique atmosphere for night photography.
For sunsets, consider a tripod for stability and a slightly longer exposure. For general beach shots, a polarizing filter can help reduce glare and enhance colors.
Drone regulations can be strict. Always check current FAA guidelines and local ordinances before flying a drone in public areas like beaches and piers.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a sweet treat, Capri Gelato is a hit with families, offering a variety of flavors just a short walk from the pier. The pier is also a fun place for kids to watch people fish and enjoy the ocean views. Remember to bring sunscreen and hats, as the California sun can be strong.
couples
For a more curated evening, enjoy live jazz music at the Lighthouse Cafe near the pier for a memorable date night. Afterward, explore the charming streets for dinner or a sweet treat like gelato. The relaxed, beachy atmosphere provides a perfect backdrop for a romantic getaway.
budget travelers
For affordable dining, look for casual eateries and taco shops away from the immediate beachfront. Many local spots offer great value. Consider visiting during weekdays when parking might be easier and less expensive, and the crowds are smaller.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring The Strand
For those looking for a more active experience, running on The Strand is popular. It's well-lit between the Hermosa and Manhattan Beach piers, making it a relatively safe option even in twilight hours, with other people often around. The path is wide enough to accommodate various activities, from leisurely strolls to more vigorous exercise, all while offering stunning vistas of the Pacific Ocean. It's a quintessential Southern California experience that shouldn't be missed.
Evening Ambiance and Entertainment
For those seeking a more lively experience, the area around the pier boasts numerous bars and restaurants. A standout recommendation is the Lighthouse Cafe, which hosts live jazz nights, providing a perfect setting for a date or a relaxed evening out. This combination of scenic beauty and accessible entertainment makes Hermosa Beach a great destination for both quiet evenings and fun nights out.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit