Dreaming of ocean breezes, golden sunsets, and that laid-back SoCal surf town vibe? Welcome to Redondo Beach, one of Los Angeles’ most beloved coastal gems. Whether you’re craving outdoor adventure, fresh seafood, or boutique shopping, Redondo delivers it all. 

I grew up in Los Angeles, and Redondo Beach has always been a favorite local destination for getting out of the typical chaos of LA for a more peaceful, relaxing staycation. We just went back to Redondo Beach for a 3 day weekend, and couldn’t recommend it enough for any couple or family looking to get outside and adventure in Southern California! 

From whale watching to cruising the iconic Strand, here’s your ultimate guide to the best things to do in Redondo Beach, plus a few local tips to make your trip unforgettable.

Things To Know Before You Visit Redondo Beach 

Before you packing, here are a few handy tips to make the most of your Redondo Beach getaway:

Where to Stay

Redondo Beach has a ton of great hotel options no matter what your budget is. Many are right on the water with amazing views and all are ideally situated near top-tier restaurants and attractions. We stayed at the Shade Hotel which we cannot recommend enough — we loved our time there!

This chic, boutique hotel is perfectly positioned right on the harbor, making it easy to stroll to the pier, restaurants, and paddle board rentals. What truly set it apart for us?

• A gorgeous rooftop with a small pool, perfect for lounging with a drink and soaking in those ocean views
• Delicious breakfast buffet option to fuel your day of exploring
• A fantastic port-side restaurant right on site — ideal for sunset dining
• Spacious, modern rooms with thoughtful touches
  Exceptionally friendly staff who made us feel right at home
• And our favorite part: an outdoor bathtub overlooking the beautiful harbor

For couples, families, or even a solo escape, the Shade Hotel strikes the perfect balance of luxury and laid-back beach vibes.

🏨 Check out Hotel Options and book your stay at https://www.redondobeachtourism.com/hotels

When to Visit

Redondo Beach shines year-round, but the best weather usually hits from late spring through early fall. Summers bring that classic California sunshine, while fall offers mild temps and fewer crowds. If you’re coming for whale watching, aim for December through April when the gray whales are migrating.

Getting Around

Redondo Beach is super walkable, especially around the pier and Riviera Village. But if you want to explore the neighboring beach towns (like Hermosa or Manhattan Beach), consider renting a bike on the Strand or bringing/renting a car. 

There’s metered parking near the pier and free parking in parts of Riviera Village; just make sure to arrive early on weekends! We would recommend downloading the Park Mobile App to easily pay for your parking around the city without having to worry! 

What to Pack

Besides your beachwear, don’t forget:

• Sunscreen and sunglasses (even in winter)
• Reusable water bottle — many shops and restaurants have refill stations
• Light jacket or hoodie — it can get breezy in the evenings
• Camera or smartphone for those pier and sunset shots

10 Best Things to Do in Redondo Beach

1. Go Whale Watching (December–April is Magic!)

If you’ve ever wanted to witness a massive gray whale breaching just yards from your boat, Redondo Beach is the place. Hop on a whale watching tour from Redondo Beach Pier or King Harbor and cruise along the coast looking for gray whales (December–April), blue whales (summer), dolphins, sea lions, and even orcas on rare occasions. You can book the one we did here. 

We saw a baby gray whale breaching and we got so lucky because we saw THOUSANDS of dolphins on our way back into the harbor. It was seriously such a magical experience. 

Pro tip: Bring a camera with a zoom lens and a few extra layers — you’ll thank me later. If you’re prone to sea-sickness, make sure to pack some dramamine or nausea bands as well. 

Book Your Whale Watching Tour

2. Bike the Strand (One of LA’s Most Iconic Coastal Rides)

The Strand Bike Path is a legendary 22-mile coastal trail stretching from Torrance all the way to Santa Monica. Rent a beach cruiser near the pier and pedal your way past Redondo, Hermosa, and Manhattan Beaches. You’ll get nonstop ocean views, funky beach houses, volleyball courts, and plenty of people-watching. 

We decided to go the e-bike route and rented ours through Beach E-Biking and they were great! You can book them here, or you can walk up and get a rental the same day! 

Tip: Sunset rides are pure magic and way less crowded!

3. Explore Riviera Village: Shop, Sip, and Snack

Riviera Village is Redondo Beach’s charming shopping district with laid-back SoCal vibes. Stroll through tree-lined streets packed with local boutiques, coffee shops, surf shops, cafés, wine bars, and restaurants. Whether you’re after a cute sundress, artisan gifts, or a post-beach craft beer, Riviera Village delivers.

4. Go Paddle Boarding in King Harbor

There is no better way to start your day in Redondo than by renting a stand-up paddleboard (SUP) in King Harbor and glide past sailboats, sea lions, and maybe even a dolphin or two. The harbor’s calm, protected waters make it a perfect spot for beginners or anyone who just wants a peaceful ocean escape.

Bonus: Some rental shops offer sunset SUP tours or even guided night tours which is super cool and unique! 

You can book your Paddle Board Rental here!

5. Watch the Sunset over Coastal Bluffs 

If you’re craving a jaw-dropping sunset, make the short drive from Redondo Beach to the Bluff Cove Trail in Palos Verdes. This easy, scenic trail hugs the cliffs above the Pacific, offering panoramic views of crashing waves, rugged coastline, and (on clear days) even Catalina Island in the distance. 

It’s only about .25 miles each way so it’s pretty short, but it’s the perfect golden-hour escape after a day at the beach. Make sure to bring a camera, a light jacket, and prepare to be blown away. Bonus points if you pack a little picnic to enjoy while the sun dips into the ocean.

There’s no parking lot here, but you can park on the street next to the trailhead! This is definitely an underrated hidden gem of the area. 

6. Take a Surfing Lesson at the Beach

Redondo Beach isn’t just a pretty spot to learn how to surf, it’s part of California’s surfing legacy. Surfing in Redondo dates back to the early 1900s when Hawaiian watermen like George Freeth helped introduce the sport to the mainland. In fact, Freeth famously gave the first surfing demonstrations in nearby Huntington Beach and Redondo Beach, sparking California’s long love affair with wave riding.

By the mid-20th century, Redondo became a hotspot for local surfers, especially around the Redondo Breakwater and the nearby Torrance Beach breaks. The area helped shape the Southern California surf culture, with surf shops, competitions, and a laid-back beach vibe that still defines the community today.

If you’ve always wanted to learn to surf, Redondo Beach is the perfect place to paddle out. Book a surf lesson with one of the local surf schools and they’ll get you riding waves in no time. Beginner-friendly breaks like Redondo Beach Pier and nearby Torrance Beach are ideal for first-timers. Morning sessions often have gentler waves and fewer crowds so we’d definitely recommend booking your time slot then! 

7. Stroll Redondo Beach Pier

You can’t visit Redondo without checking out the iconic Redondo Beach Pier. This horseshoe-shaped pier is packed with seafood restaurants, ice cream stands, souvenir shops, and arcades. Watch street performers, try your luck at the arcade, or just soak in those sweeping ocean views.

This is also a great spot to come and watch the sunset!

8. Feast on Fresh Seafood

Seafood lovers, rejoice! Redondo Beach has some of the freshest catch in LA. Grab a seat at Tony’s on the Pier (affectionately called “Old Tony’s”) for mai tais and clam chowder, or hit up Quality Seafood for oysters, crab, and lobster rolls.

If you’re looking for something other than seafood, we also loved dining at Kincaids Fish, Chop & Steak House and the Cal Mex Cantina for some delicious Mexican food. Make sure to get the table side guacamole – it was delicious! 

9. Relax at Redondo Beach

Sometimes the best plan is no plan. Kick back on Redondo Beach’s wide sandy shores, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or playing beach volleyball. Bring a picnic, a good book, or just your sunscreen! 

10. Enjoy a Sunset Cocktail

End your day with a sunset drink at one of Redondo’s oceanfront bars. Whether it’s a rooftop cocktail at The Shade Hotel or a beachside beer at The Slip Bar & Eatery, there’s no better way to toast to your Redondo adventure.

Ready to plan your Redondo Beach escape? 

From paddling alongside sea lions to chasing sunsets on the bluffs, Redondo Beach is packed with unforgettable experiences that capture the very best of Southern California’s coastal magic. Whether you’re whale watching in the harbor, learning to surf, or shopping and sipping your way through Riviera Village, there’s something here for every kind of traveler.

Have you been to Redondo Beach or are you planning a trip? Drop your favorite things to do or any questions in the comments below! I’d love to hear from you!

And don’t forget to share this guide with your beach-loving friends or save it for your next LA getaway!