Manhattan Beach, CA

Travel Guide

A beach promenade with a wooden deck, outdoor seating, and a view of the ocean.
A beach with a person sitting on a bench, a bicycle, and palm trees in the background.
A coastal road with cyclists, beach, and ocean.
A yellow building with a balcony, potted plants, and outdoor seating.
A beach with a pier extending into the ocean, people sunbathing, and umbrellas on the sand.

Stroll along a pier and enjoy swimming, beach volleyball, surfing and many other outdoor activities in this beautiful coastal city.

Manhattan Beach is a small beach city on Santa Monica Bay. It features one of the prettiest piers in the region. Wander along an oceanfront sidewalk and enjoy the beach atmosphere.

Climb to the top of a tall sand dune for a breathtaking view of the city. Join a game of volleyball or relax on the sand. Visit Downtown Manhattan Beach for excellent shopping and some of the best restaurants on Santa Monica Bay. Manhattan Beach also hosts premier beach volleyball and surfing events.

Find Sand Dune Park just a short walk from the Manhattan Beach Pier. Climb the 100-foot (30-meter) sand dune in the park and bring your binoculars for bird watching. Spot more than 150 different bird species, including warblers and sparrows.

Walk along the historic Manhattan Beach Pier and notice the Roundhouse Aquarium at the end. This facility features classes for children and aims to educate all visitors on marine life and the environment. Watch a shark feeding and admire a remarkable collection of marine fish and invertebrates.

Manhattan Beach is also known for its excellent selection of restaurants, featuring award-winning chefs. Wander through Downtown Manhattan Beach and discover some of the best seafood in California. The downtown area also has a range of bars with craft beer and live music.

Experience the weekly Manhattan Beach Farmers Market every Tuesday. Purchase locally grown organic produce and enjoy hot gourmet food. Learn about sustainability and healthy cooking from the market’s exhibitors.

Rent a bicycle and explore Manhattan Beach and its surrounding beach towns. This city is located about 5 miles (8 kilometers) from Los Angeles International Airport. Find accommodations ranging from luxury oceanfront suites and less expensive lodges.

With sandy beaches, day spas, yoga and beautiful coastal sights, Manhattan Beach is one of the best places to relax on Santa Monica Bay.

Where to stay in Manhattan Beach

Find the best Manhattan Beach areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Manhattan Beach
Learn more about Manhattan Beach

Sand Section

While visiting Sand Section, you might make a stop by sights like Manhattan Beach and Bruce’s Beach.

Tree Section

If you're spending some time in Tree Section, Manhattan Village and Tropical Breeze Massage are top sights worth seeing.

Hill Section

While visiting Hill Section, you might make a stop by sights like Tropical Breeze Massage and SkinWorks by Melanie.

Downtown

While visiting Downtown, you might make a stop by sights like Manhattan Beach and Riley Arts Gallery.

The Strand

If you're spending some time in The Strand, Manhattan Beach and El Segundo Beach are top sights worth seeing.

Hilton Los Angeles Airport

Hilton Los Angeles Airport

4 out of 5
5711 W Century Blvd Los Angeles CA
$122 nightly
The price is $142 total per night from Sep 22 to Sep 23
$142 total
Sep 22 - Sep 23
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Los Angeles. Enjoy 5 restaurants, breakfast (surcharge), and a free airport shuttle. Our guests praise the helpful ...
Hilton Los Angeles Airport
Loews Hollywood Hotel

Loews Hollywood Hotel

4 out of 5
1755 North Highland Avenue Los Angeles CA
$250 nightly
The price is $291 total per night from Sep 11 to Sep 12
$291 total
Sep 11 - Sep 12
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Los Angeles. Enjoy free WiFi, 2 restaurants, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the breakfast and the ...
Loews Hollywood Hotel
Holiday Inn Los Angeles - LAX Airport by IHG

Holiday Inn Los Angeles - LAX Airport by IHG

3 out of 5
9901 S La Cienega Blvd Los Angeles CA
$125 nightly
The price is $145 total per night from Sep 8 to Sep 9
$145 total
Sep 8 - Sep 9
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Los Angeles. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and a free airport shuttle. Our guests praise the breakfast ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (4,797 reviews)
"Had a few ants in the room. Bathroom door would stick and require a little effort to close and open to the point I would tell my daughter, "dont get stuck in the bathroom". Location was good, not far from SoFi Stadium, which was the reason for visiting, but far enough away to avoid traffic. Our room ..."

Reviewed on Sep 5, 2026

Holiday Inn Los Angeles - LAX Airport by IHG
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Coastal Haven Steps to Sand w/Garage & Rooftop

Coastal Haven Steps to Sand w/Garage & Rooftop

Manhattan Beach CA
Stay at this condo in Manhattan Beach. Enjoy free WiFi, laundry facilities, and an in-room coffeemaker. Popular attractions SoFi Stadium and Kia Forum are located ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (21 reviews)
"Host was very responsive. Very easy to get to the beach. Overall a great place to stay."

Reviewed on Aug 18, 2026

Coastal Haven Steps to Sand w/Garage & Rooftop
Kasa Sunset Los Angeles

Kasa Sunset Los Angeles

3 out of 5
5825 Sunset Boulevard Los Angeles CA
Stay at this aparthotel in Los Angeles. Enjoy free WiFi, a fitness center, and parking (surcharge). Popular attractions Hollywood Walk of Fame and Hollywood ...
Kasa Sunset Los Angeles
Fenix Hotel Hollywood

Fenix Hotel Hollywood

4 out of 5
7070 Franklin Ave Los Angeles CA
Stay at this aparthotel in Los Angeles. Enjoy free WiFi, a rooftop terrace, and parking (surcharge). Popular attractions Hollywood Boulevard and Hollywood Bowl ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (450 reviews)
"Das Zimmer war sauber und soweit gut ausgestattet. Leider war die Tür sehr schwer zu öffnen, da Türrahmen und Tür nicht ineinander passen - man musste die Tür immer sehr fest zuschlagen. Das Hotel lag direkt an der Straße, weshalb es etwas laut Nachts war. Das weiß man aber davor und man bekommt ..."

Reviewed on Sep 4, 2026

Fenix Hotel Hollywood
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Stay near popular Manhattan Beach attractions

Things to do

Frequently asked questions

Is Manhattan Beach worth visiting?
Manhattan Beach is worth visiting for its iconic Manhattan Beach Pier and the beautiful Manhattan Beach itself. Travelers can also enjoy diverse dining, with options for Asian and Italian cuisine. The city offers distinct neighborhoods to explore, such as the Sand Section and Tree Section.
Where are the best neighborhoods to explore in Manhattan Beach?
The best neighborhoods to explore in Manhattan Beach depend on what you want to see and do:

  • Sand Section is a great choice for travelers interested in the Manhattan Beach Pier, along with places like Elegance Boutique Spa and Riley Arts Gallery.
  • Tree Section focuses on relaxation and wellness, featuring spots such as Trilogy Spa, Tropical Breeze Massage, and SkinWorks by Melanie.

What is Manhattan Beach known for?
Manhattan Beach is known for its iconic Manhattan Beach Pier and the beautiful Manhattan Beach itself. Travelers can also explore the shopping and dining at Manhattan Village, and discover a strong Asian food culture throughout the area.
What is a good itinerary length for Manhattan Beach?
A good itinerary length for Manhattan Beach is two to three days to enjoy Manhattan Beach itself, visit the Manhattan Beach Pier, and try a private surf lesson or a food tour. An extended stay of four to five days allows travelers to explore neighborhoods like the Sand Section and Tree Section, plus visit Manhattan Village, for a more in-depth experience. See Manhattan Beach Activities.
What are the top things to do in and around Manhattan Beach?
Manhattan Beach offers travelers a mix of coastal landmarks, outdoor activities, and local flavors to enjoy:

  • Visit Manhattan Beach Pier, a famous landmark.
  • Take a Private Surf Lesson in Manhattan Beach to experience the waves.
  • Explore Manhattan Beach on a food tour led by locals.
  • Stroll through Bruce's Beach, a historic natural area.
  • Wander through Polliwog Park, known for its green spaces.

How do I plan a trip to Manhattan Beach?
To plan your trip to Manhattan Beach, search for places to stay in neighborhoods like Sand Section or Tree Section. Book your flights, rental car, and activities like a private surf lesson or a food tour in advance. Explore attractions such as Manhattan Beach Pier and Manhattan Village, and enjoy the local Asian, Italian, and North American cuisines.
What cuisines can you find in Manhattan Beach?
In Manhattan Beach you can find New American cuisine, featuring dishes like gourmet burgers, artisanal pizzas, and fresh seafood. Travelers can also enjoy Italian favorites such as pasta and risottos, along with Japanese options like sushi, and Mexican dishes including tacos and enchiladas.
Can I book a refundable hotel in Manhattan Beach?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in Manhattan Beach by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to Manhattan Beach with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your Manhattan Beach trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in Manhattan Beach?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in Manhattan Beach can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my Manhattan Beach trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your Manhattan Beach trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my Manhattan Beach trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your Manhattan Beach trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to Manhattan Beach?
If it's your first trip to Manhattan Beach, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my Manhattan Beach hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your Manhattan Beach hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

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