Hermosa Beach Pier & The Strand, Los Angeles - a blue and yellow sign that says santa monica yacht harbor sport fishing and boating clubs
1 / 10

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

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late afternoon

Spectacular sunset views

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
Hermosa Beach Pier & The Strand, Los Angeles - a blue and yellow sign that says santa monica yacht harbor sport fishing and boating clubs

Hermosa Beach Pier The Strand Los Angeles

Best Time

Late afternoon

Spectacular sunset views

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Iconic pier and scenic Strand offering breathtaking ocean views, vibrant sunsets, and a classic California beach experience.

4.8
(8k reviews)

"Catching the sunset from the pier is unforgettable. The colors are incredible!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 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!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Hermosa Beach Pier

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

The Strand

Coastal path along Hermosa Beach

A scenic paved path perfect for walking, running, or biking with breathtaking ocean vistas.

Lighthouse Cafe

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

Parking near Hermosa Beach Pier can be tricky, especially on weekends. Consider Lot B for easy access, or be prepared for street parking challenges. The Strand is pedestrian-friendly, perfect for a stroll.

Sunset Spectacle

The sunsets at Hermosa Beach Pier are legendary. Plan your visit for late afternoon to catch the vibrant colors painting the sky over the Pacific. It's a must-see for any visitor.

Best Times

When
Late afternoon
Why
Spectacular sunset views
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday evenings
Why
Less crowded, live music
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

live out your la la land dreams and enjoy a jazz night at lighthouse cafe in hermosa beach 🎷✨💛 #losangeles #thingstodo #hiddengems
@realgoodplaces
67.5K likes • 364.9K views

🎯 Easy Pier Parking

Lot B near the pier offers convenient parking. Arrive early on weekends to secure a spot! Reddit

🌅 Sunset Magic

Catching the sunset from the pier is unforgettable. The colors are incredible! Instagram

Date idea: park by the beach, with a blanket, some dinner, and watch the sunset together 🥹 #dateideas #datenight #fyp #redondobeach #redondobeachpier
@vvidacampos
9.7K likes • 89.1K views
The razing of the Abigaile building gave a nice view of an orange sunset over the ocean in Hermosa Beach. #hermosabeach #90254 #sunset #orangesunset #oceanview #sunsetphotography #abigaile #abigailehe...
drsecrecy
19 likes • 0 views

🚶‍♀️ Evening Strolls

Walking The Strand from pier to pier at night is lovely and well-lit between Hermosa and Manhattan Beach. Reddit

🎶 Live Jazz Vibes

Enjoy a unique date night with live jazz at the Lighthouse Cafe near the pier. TikTok

Manhattan beach is very underrated when it comes to things-to-do in LA. Its so worth it, beautiful, and easily accessible. Cant wait to go back. Oh, and they have the cutest free aquarium at the end o...
@veganoz
7.7K likes • 233.5K views

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! Reddit

🌅 Sunset Magic

Catching the sunset from the pier is unforgettable. The colors are incredible! Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Evening Strolls

Walking The Strand from pier to pier at night is lovely and well-lit between Hermosa and Manhattan Beach. Reddit

🎶 Live Jazz Vibes

Enjoy a unique date night with live jazz at the Lighthouse Cafe near the pier. TikTok

🍦 Sweet Treat Stop

Capri Gelato, just a street inland from the pier, is a perfect spot for dessert. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(8k reviews)

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

Beautiful sunsets
Scenic Strand path
Relaxed atmosphere

What People Dislike

Difficult parking

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. TikTok

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🎫 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. TikTok

The pier is generally open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. However, specific facilities like restrooms may have limited hours. Reddit

You do not need a fishing license to fish from the pier, but check local regulations for any specific rules or catch limits. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

🎫 🧭 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. TikTok

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. Reddit

Yes, public restrooms are available near the Hermosa Beach Pier for visitors. TikTok

The area around the pier is bustling with various shops, cafes, and restaurants, offering everything from casual bites to seafood and gelato. Reddit

Yes, The Strand is a paved path, making it very accessible and smooth for strollers, wheelchairs, and bikes. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ 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. Reddit

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. TikTok

Yes, there are numerous cafes and breakfast spots within walking distance of the pier, perfect for starting your day or grabbing a coffee. Reddit

Many restaurants in Hermosa Beach cater to families, offering diverse menus that appeal to all ages. Casual spots are abundant. TikTok

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. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The pier itself, especially during sunset, offers incredible photo opportunities. The coastline along The Strand also provides beautiful backdrops. Instagram

The hour leading up to and including sunset provides the most dramatic light and colors. Golden hour is also fantastic for softer, warmer tones. Instagram

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. TikTok

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. Instagram

Drone regulations can be strict. Always check current FAA guidelines and local ordinances before flying a drone in public areas like beaches and piers. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Hermosa Beach Pier and The Strand are very family-friendly. The paved path of The Strand is perfect for strollers and little ones learning to ride bikes. TikTok The beach itself offers plenty of space for sandcastle building and playing in the shallow waves. While there isn't a dedicated aquarium directly on the Hermosa Pier, the general beach environment provides endless entertainment for children. TikTok

For a sweet treat, Capri Gelato is a hit with families, offering a variety of flavors just a short walk from the pier. Reddit 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. TikTok

couples

Hermosa Beach offers a romantic setting, especially during sunset. A walk along The Strand or out on the pier as the sun dips below the horizon is incredibly picturesque. Instagram Consider packing a blanket and some snacks for a simple, beautiful sunset picnic. TikTok

For a more curated evening, enjoy live jazz music at the Lighthouse Cafe near the pier for a memorable date night. TikTok Afterward, explore the charming streets for dinner or a sweet treat like gelato. Reddit The relaxed, beachy atmosphere provides a perfect backdrop for a romantic getaway. TikTok

budget travelers

Hermosa Beach Pier and The Strand are free to access, making them excellent budget-friendly attractions. Enjoy a leisurely walk, watch the surfers, and soak in the ocean views without spending a dime. TikTok Pack your own snacks and drinks to save on food costs. TikTok

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. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring The Strand

The Strand is a 22-mile paved path that stretches along the Los Angeles coastline, connecting several beach cities. In Hermosa Beach, it offers a smooth, accessible route for walking, jogging, and cycling. It's a fantastic way to experience the beach culture and enjoy panoramic ocean views without the sand. Many visitors enjoy renting bikes to cruise along The Strand, taking in the sea breeze and the vibrant atmosphere. TikTok

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. Reddit 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. TikTok

Evening Ambiance and Entertainment

Hermosa Beach truly comes alive as the sun sets, offering a unique blend of relaxation and entertainment. The pier becomes a popular spot for evening walks, with the sound of waves and the glow of the setting sun creating a magical atmosphere. Reddit Many visitors enjoy strolling from pier to pier, taking in the coastal scenery. Reddit

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. TikTok This combination of scenic beauty and accessible entertainment makes Hermosa Beach a great destination for both quiet evenings and fun nights out. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2