Manhattan Beach is known as the birthplace of beach volleyball and a hotspot for surfing. Each year, the city hosts numerous events featuring these sports, including the Manhattan Beach Open and the International Surf Festival.
Outside of these big events, the beaches in the city are more laidback compared to Santa Monica, Venice, and other nearby beach destinations. If you’re not up for a day of surfing or swimming, you can take a leisurely stroll down Manhattan Beach Pier, which leads to a picturesque roundhouse with an aquarium with free admission.
You can also go running or biking along The Strand, a paved pedestrian-only path running alongside the beach. Downtown Manhattan Beach features upscale shops, hotels, restaurants, and bars.