Why visit Redondo Beach
Redondo Beach delivers an old-fashioned California pier experience: a sprawling waterfront where you can slurp fresh seafood, ride a harbor cruise or go whale watching, rent a kayak or pedal boat, and stroll a bustling pier above the waves. It's more laid-back and budget-friendly than its glossier neighbors, with King Harbor, calm beaches, and miles of the South Bay bike path.
Redondo Beach was incorporated in 1892 and was one of Southern California's earliest beach resorts, served in its heyday by rail lines and famous for the grand Hotel Redondo and a saltwater plunge that drew crowds from across the region. In 1907 surfing pioneer George Freeth gave celebrated public surfing demonstrations here, helping introduce the sport to the U.S. mainland. The Redondo Beach Pier has been rebuilt several times after storms and fire, evolving into today's distinctive horseshoe-shaped pier and harbor complex lined with seafood markets, restaurants, and shops.
Top Attractions
- Redondo Beach Pier
A distinctive horseshoe-shaped pier packed with seafood eateries, shops, and ocean views above the surf.
- King Harbor / Redondo Beach Marina
A lively harbor with boat rentals, whale-watching and harbor cruises, kayaking, and waterfront dining.
- Seaside Lagoon
A family-friendly saltwater swimming lagoon (seasonal) within the harbor, ideal for young kids.
- The Strand
The South Bay's coastal bike and walking path, connecting Redondo to Hermosa and Manhattan Beach.
- Riviera Village
A charming, walkable shopping-and-dining district inland from the south end of the beach.
- Veterans Park
A grassy bluff-top park above the pier with ocean views, events, and easy beach access.
A Suggested Day
- 1Begin with a harbor walk and coffee around King Harbor and the marina.
- 2Take a morning whale-watching or harbor cruise (book ahead in season).
- 3Explore the horseshoe-shaped pier and have a fresh seafood lunch at Quality Seafood.
- 4Rent a kayak or pedal boat, or let kids splash at the seasonal Seaside Lagoon.
- 5Bike the Strand or relax on the beach in the afternoon.
- 6Browse Riviera Village and finish with dinner at HT Grill or sunset cocktails at Old Tony's.
Where to Eat
- Quality SeafoodSeafood market
A bustling pier institution where you pick fresh seafood and have it cooked to order; a classic Redondo experience.
- Old Tony'sSeafood / cocktails
A nostalgic, longtime pier restaurant and bar perched over the water, famous for its tiki vibe and views.
- Captain Kidd'sSeafood market & grill
A harborside fish market and casual eatery where you can dine on the water with fresh catches.
- HT GrillAmerican / California
A popular Riviera Village restaurant for a more refined, locals-favored sit-down meal.
Where to Stay
- BoutiqueThe Portofino Hotel & Marina
A waterfront hotel set on King Harbor with marina views, a popular restaurant, and resident sea lions nearby.
- Mid-rangeRedondo Beach Hotel, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
A reliable harbor-area hotel with a pool and easy access to the pier and beach.
- Mid-rangeCrowne Plaza Redondo Beach & Marina
A large marina-side hotel convenient to King Harbor and the waterfront.
Best Photo Spots
- 📸 Horseshoe-shaped Redondo Beach Pier
- 📸 King Harbor at sunset
- 📸 Sea lions and boats in the marina
- 📸 Veterans Park bluff overlook
Want this turned into a day-by-day plan?
Tell our free AI planner you want to visit Redondo Beach and it will build the rest of your day around it.
Top Attractions Near Redondo Beach
Redondo Beach FAQ
Can I go whale watching from Redondo Beach?
Yes, cruise operators in King Harbor run whale-watching trips, with gray whale season peaking in winter; check operators' official sites for schedules.
Is Redondo Beach good for families?
Very much so, with the seasonal Seaside Lagoon, calm beaches, the pier, and harbor activities suited to all ages.
What's the best place to eat fresh seafood at the pier?
Quality Seafood is the classic choice, where you select fresh seafood and have it cooked to order, though several pier and harbor spots serve great fish.