King Harbor Lighthouse
A legendary jazz club and live music venue in Hermosa Beach, serving great food and drinks with a historic vibe.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Enjoy the Jazz Brunch
King Harbor Lighthouse
Best Time
Enjoy the Jazz Brunch
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A legendary jazz club and live music venue in Hermosa Beach, serving great food and drinks with a historic vibe.
"Step back into history at this iconic spot, a legendary jazz club with diverse music, great food, and an awesome vibe."
🎯 Arrive Early for Seats
Patio and good indoor seats fill up fast! Get there early, especially for popular shows or brunch.
🎟️ Check for Cover Charges
Some shows, especially on Sundays, have a cover charge. Be prepared for this added cost.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Legendary Jazz Club
Main Stage
Experience the historic heart of this iconic venue, famous for its jazz roots and diverse musical acts.
Vibrant Patio Seating
Outdoor Patio
Enjoy live music with ocean breezes on the popular patio. Arrive early to claim a prime spot.
Sunday Jazz Brunch
Dining Area
A delightful Sunday morning with delicious food, great drinks, and live jazz performances.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Secure Your Spot for Live Music
Embrace the Hermosa Beach Vibe
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Seats
Patio and good indoor seats fill up fast! Get there early, especially for popular shows or brunch.
🎟️ Check for Cover Charges
Some shows, especially on Sundays, have a cover charge. Be prepared for this added cost.
Concert at the Beach
48 hours in the South Bay
🅿️ Parking Strategy
No front parking. Use the parking in the back. Be patient, it can get busy.
🎶 Diverse Music Lineup
Don't just expect jazz! They host a wide variety of bands and acts.
I was in Hermosa Beach, CA during the summer of 1979. Sometimes when I close my eyes I’m still there
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Seats
Patio and good indoor seats fill up fast! Get there early, especially for popular shows or brunch.
🎟️ Check for Cover Charges
Some shows, especially on Sundays, have a cover charge. Be prepared for this added cost.
🅿️ Parking Strategy
No front parking. Use the parking in the back. Be patient, it can get busy.
🎶 Diverse Music Lineup
Don't just expect jazz! They host a wide variety of bands and acts.
🍔 Delicious Food Options
From burgers to nachos, the food gets rave reviews. Try the artichoke!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Lighthouse Cafe is a beloved, historic venue celebrated for its diverse live music, from legendary jazz to other genres. Patrons rave about the vibrant atmosphere, delicious food, and friendly service, making it a must-visit spot. Some visitors note that cover charges and parking can be considerations.
"The Lighthouse is a legendary live music venue with bar and restaurant on the Hermosa Pier Plaza. This place was world famous way before the movie.. and is known as a legendary jazz club. The musical acts they have are actually very diverse and there is something for everyone.. often having multiple bands and acts on per day. The patio is awesome but it fills up fast so be sure to get there early or book a table in advance. They have really good food with all the traditional favorites. The Lighthouse has always been about the music, and they continue the Hermosa Beach tradition of live bands, great food and drinks and awesome staff and service. We love this place and will be back again really soon!"
Swoon Lashes, Cosmetic Tattoo, Facial
"I’ve been here for drinks/dancing and also Sunday Jazz Brunch. Recommend both!
Jazz brunch is such a nice day to spend a Sunday morning, the breakfast is reasonably priced and the drinks are very good. Staff is super friendly amd the jazz duo who played both times we went was great!
Will definitely be back!"
Elicia Cano
"This was my first time here and it was great! They have a patio out front and seating inside on both sides of the stage which is in the middle of store. The bar runs almost the length of the place with the restrooms and kitchen at the back. When you enter you see the front end of the bar running along the left side of the store and the stage on the right side. They have a good sound system and great lighting too.
I had their burger (1/3 lb) and it was juicy and flavorful (and they use iceberg lettuce). They have a FULL BAR (cocktails, wine, beer, soda). The staff are fast, friendly and professional. Mia was my server and was fantastic! There is NO parking in front (it's a pedestrian zone), but there is parking in back. There is handicap ♿️ parking spots and the place is handicap ♿️ accessible. The hallway to the restrooms is narrow and not much maneuverability. So get there early enough for parking. Their menu is small, but it looks like they have something for just about everyone. ;)
This was my 2nd time here and it was just as good as the 1st time! ;)"
Rhiannon Britney
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Lighthouse Cafe is located in Hermosa Beach, California. It's in a pedestrian zone, so direct car access to the front isn't possible. Parking is available in the back. Public transport options might vary depending on your starting point in the LA area.
Yes, there is parking available in the back of the venue. However, it can be limited, especially during peak hours or popular events, so arriving early is recommended.
The venue is generally accessible, with handicap parking spots available. However, some areas like the hallway to the restrooms might be narrow, limiting maneuverability.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
For some shows, especially those with popular bands or on busy nights like Sundays, it's advisable to book a table in advance or arrive very early. Some events may have a cover charge. +1
The Lighthouse Cafe is open earlier in the day for dining and then transitions to its evening music schedule. Specific hours can vary depending on the day and scheduled performances. It's best to check their official schedule.
Yes, some performances, particularly on Sundays, have a cover charge, often around $10 per person. It's wise to check the specific event details for any entry fees.
Yes, booking a table in advance is recommended, especially if you want a good spot on the patio or inside for a show. This can help secure your place.
🎫 🎶 Onsite Experience
While legendary for jazz, the Lighthouse Cafe hosts an eclectic range of bands and musical acts, offering something for everyone. You can also catch Monday night jazz jam sessions. +1
The atmosphere is historic and vibrant, with a lively crowd enjoying live music. It's known for its great vibe, good sound system, and lighting, making it a fantastic place to experience music.
Yes, the venue is suitable for dancing, especially during certain performances. It's a place where you can enjoy the music and move to the beat.
There's seating inside on both sides of the stage, which is centrally located. The bar runs along one side of the venue. The patio also offers outdoor seating.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
They serve a variety of bar food and traditional favorites, including burgers, chorizo nachos, and lighthouse fries. The menu is described as small but offering something for most tastes. +1
The Sunday Jazz Brunch is highly recommended for a nice Sunday morning experience. The breakfast is reasonably priced, the drinks are good, and the live jazz duo is great.
Yes, they have a full bar with cocktails, wine, and beer. The drinks are noted as being very good, complementing the food and music. +1
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, the Lighthouse Cafe is an iconic location and offers great photo opportunities, especially with its historic ambiance and proximity to the beach. The patio and interior shots can be very appealing.
Golden hour, just before sunset, can offer beautiful lighting for exterior shots. For interior shots with live music, the stage lighting can create dramatic effects.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be mindful of the venue's nature; it's primarily a live music spot. While not explicitly a 'kid's club,' the daytime brunch can be a more relaxed experience. For evening shows, consider the age appropriateness of the music and the general crowd. Parking can be a challenge, so plan accordingly if you're bringing children.
🎶 Music Aficionados
To truly savor the experience, consider arriving early to get a prime spot, especially for sought-after performers. Monday night jazz jam sessions offer a more spontaneous and interactive musical experience. Don't hesitate to explore their schedule to catch your favorite genres or discover new artists.
✈️ First-Time Visitors to California
Be prepared for the unique aspects of LA-area parking and the possibility of cover charges for shows. Embrace the opportunity to enjoy good food, drinks, and a diverse musical selection in a historic setting. It's a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Legacy of Live Music
Visitors often describe stepping through its doors as stepping back into history. The intimate setting, combined with a good sound system and lighting, creates an immersive experience. Whether you're there for a dedicated jazz performance, a rock band, or a casual jam session, the focus remains on the quality of the music and the vibrant atmosphere it generates.
Beyond the stage, the Lighthouse Cafe is also celebrated for its lively patio and indoor seating arrangements. The central stage placement means good views are generally available from most spots. This commitment to live performance, coupled with its storied past, makes it a must-visit for music enthusiasts and those seeking an authentic cultural experience.
Dining and Drinks at the Lighthouse
For those looking for a more specific dining experience, the Sunday Jazz Brunch is a standout. It's praised for its reasonably priced breakfast options and well-made drinks, all enjoyed with the backdrop of live jazz music. The full bar ensures a good selection of cocktails, wine, and beer to accompany your meal or simply enhance your evening.
Reviewers consistently highlight the quality of both the food and drinks, noting that they contribute significantly to the overall positive experience at the venue. The friendly and professional staff also play a role in ensuring guests feel welcomed and well-cared for during their visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit