Day trip: 10 fun things to do in Manhattan Beach

Long notable for its photogenic pier, thriving beach volleyball and surfing scenes, and direct access to a 22-mile oceanfront bicycle path, Manhattan Beach has in recent years seen a steady arrival of new boutiques and critically acclaimed restaurants.

If the foot traffic along downtown Highland and Manhattan avenues is any indication, the nearly 4-square-mile South Bay neighborhood is more than a posh suburban enclave—it’s a bona fide SoCal destination. Here are 10 fun places to explore and things to do in Manhattan Beach.

1. Grab an Americano at GoodBoyBob

This coffee shop expanded from Santa Monica and Culver City to its newest, Highland Avenue location. Try the house avocado toast (pictured), with beet cream, pickled carrots, and pistachios.

2. Enjoy breakfast with a view at Uncle Bill’s Pancake House

Across the street from GoodBoyBob is longtime café Uncle Bill’s Pancake House, where sweet flapjacks come with a side of ocean view.

3. Bike by the beach

Cruise along the beach path on your own bicycle or with a rental from Manhattan Beach E-Bike Rentals ($50 for 1 hour; $100 for a half day; $150 for a full day).

4. Learn to surf

Take a surf lesson with One Wave Surf, which runs 90-minute private and group classes at El Porto beach. Individual lesson, $138.

5. Grab lunch at Tacolicious

Dig into made-to-order guacamole, mushroom tacos, and albondigas at this indoor-outdoor eatery that debuted during the pandemic. Foodies will appreciate that the restaurant uses La Finca masa for its tortillas and Rancho Gordo beans.

6. Indulge at Sweet Lady Jane

Craving dessert? Visit Sweet Lady Jane’s Manhattan Beach outpost for a slice of its legendary triple berry cake.

7. Shop local

Support neighborhood indie shops such as Pages, a beloved bookstore that hosts engaging author events.

8. Buy made-in-L.A. goods

At Go Gently Nation, browse the gorgeous selection of made-in-L.A. children’s and women’s wear, as well as home goods by Fog Linen. Founder Kristin Coia opened up shop after she gave birth to her son and saw a need for more eco-minded kids’ wear.

9. Kick back at Culture Brewing Company

Enjoy the sunny patio at this brewery originally from San Diego. Sample the Manhattan Beach Hazy IPA, Belgian Saison, or Seven Berry Sour, among other brews. (Be sure to designate a driver if you plan to drink alcohol.)