Background

Bruce's Beach: A Story of Resilience and Remembrance

Discover the scenic beauty and rich history of Bruce's Beach in Manhattan Beach, CA, a landmark of resilience and a reminder of the fight for justice.

4.7

Bruce's Beach, located in Manhattan Beach, CA, is more than just a scenic public beach; it's a landmark of historical significance. It stands as a reminder of the early 20th century when Willa and Charles Bruce created a beach resort for Black families, only to have it unjustly taken by the city. Today, it symbolizes resilience and the ongoing pursuit of racial justice.

A brief summary to Bruce's Beach

  • Monday 6 am-10 pm
  • Tuesday 6 am-10 pm
  • Wednesday 6 am-10 pm
  • Thursday 6 am-10 pm
  • Friday 6 am-10 pm
  • Saturday 6 am-10 pm
  • Sunday 6 am-10 pm

Local tips

  • Arrive early to secure parking, especially on weekends, as the beach can get crowded.
  • Take time to read the historical plaques to understand the rich legacy of Bruce's Beach.
  • Pack a picnic to enjoy on the grassy areas overlooking the ocean.
  • Check the local weather and tide schedules for the best beach experience.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    For those arriving via public transportation, the Beach Cities Transit line 109 stops at Highland Avenue and 26th Street, which is a short, 2-minute walk to Bruce's Beach. Single fares are typically around $1.

  • Walking

    Bruce's Beach is located off Highland Avenue, between 26th and 27th streets. If you are in the general vicinity of the Manhattan Beach Pier, head north along The Strand, then walk east on 26th or 27th to Highland Avenue. The park will be on your right. This is about a 30-minute walk.

  • Ride Share

    If using a ride-sharing service, set your destination to 2600 Highland Ave, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266. Typical fares from the Manhattan Beach Pier area range from $15-25, depending on traffic and demand. Be sure to confirm your driver and vehicle before entering.

  • Parking

    Parking is available in two lots on the western edge of the park and on the surrounding streets: Manhattan Ave, 26th and 27th Streets, and Highland Ave. Metered parking costs around $2 per hour, or $8 for the day. Street parking is also available, but can be limited, especially on weekends.

Unlock the Best of Bruce's Beach

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Bruce's Beach

Bruce's Beach is a poignant reminder of a difficult chapter in American history. In the early 1900s, Willa and Charles Bruce, an African American couple, purchased land and established Bruce's Lodge, a resort that welcomed Black beachgoers during a time of segregation. It quickly became a thriving destination for the Black community, offering a safe and enjoyable space that was otherwise denied to them. However, the success of Bruce's Beach was met with hostility and racism from the surrounding white community. In 1924, the Manhattan Beach City Council used eminent domain to seize the property, claiming the need for a public park. The resort was demolished, and the Bruce family, along with other Black families who had settled nearby, were displaced. For decades, the land remained undeveloped, a stark reminder of the injustice that had occurred. It wasn't until 2006 that the city recognized this wrongdoing and renamed the park Bruce's Beach. In 2022, a historic decision was made to return the land to the Bruce family's descendants, marking a significant step towards reconciliation. The family later sold the land back to the county. Today, Bruce's Beach is a place where visitors can reflect on the past while enjoying the beautiful California coastline. The park features grassy terraces, walking paths, and benches offering stunning ocean views. A commemorative plaque tells the story of the Bruce family and the struggle for equality, ensuring that their legacy is never forgotten.

Popular Experiences near Bruce's Beach

Popular Hotels near Bruce's Beach

Select Currency