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Manhattan Beach Pier: A Coastal Icon

Experience the timeless charm of the Manhattan Beach Pier: stroll its historic planks, soak in stunning ocean views, and discover marine life at the Roundhouse Aquarium, a true California treasure.

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The Manhattan Beach Pier, a beloved landmark stretching into the Pacific, offers stunning ocean views and a vibrant beach atmosphere. Built in 1920, it's the oldest concrete pier on the West Coast, drawing locals and tourists alike. Stroll along its 928-foot length, soak in the sunset, try your hand at fishing, or visit the Roundhouse Aquarium at the pier's end. The pier also features the Volleyball Walk of Fame, celebrating the sport's legends. With its blend of recreation, history, and scenic beauty, the Manhattan Beach Pier is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Southern California's coastline, offering a quintessential California beach experience.

A brief summary to Manhattan Beach Pier

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit the Roundhouse Aquarium at the end of the pier for free marine education and to see local sea life.
  • Arrive early, especially on weekends and during summer, to find parking and avoid crowds.
  • Check the local events calendar for festivals and tournaments happening near the pier.
  • Bring a light jacket or sweater, as it can get breezy on the pier, especially in the evening.
  • Walk or bike The Strand, a paved path along the beach, for scenic views and easy access to the pier.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From downtown Manhattan Beach, the pier is easily accessible by foot. Several Beach Cities Transit (BCT) lines also serve the area. Take either the 102 or 109 bus to the stops along Manhattan Avenue, a short walk from the pier. A single ride on BCT costs $1.00. Alternatively, the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) offers various bus lines that connect to the BCT routes. For example, from Los Angeles, take the 438 bus which drops you off at Manhattan Ave & 10th St, a 4 minute walk to the pier.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxi and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in the Manhattan Beach area. A ride from a nearby location in downtown Manhattan Beach to the pier will typically cost between $8 and $15, depending on demand and traffic.

  • Driving

    If driving, navigate to Manhattan Beach Blvd and follow it west towards the ocean. The pier is located at the end of Manhattan Beach Blvd. Several public parking lots are available near the pier, but they can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Parking rates in these lots typically range from $2.00 to $2.50 per hour. Street parking is also available, with rates around $2.00 per hour, but be sure to check posted signs for time limits and restrictions. Beach parking lots are enforced 24 hours a day.

  • Walking

    From most points in downtown Manhattan Beach, the pier is easily reachable on foot. Simply head west towards the ocean on Manhattan Beach Boulevard. The walk is generally flat and takes about 5-10 minutes from the heart of downtown.

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Discover more about Manhattan Beach Pier

The Manhattan Beach Pier stands as a proud symbol of the city, extending gracefully into the Pacific Ocean. More than just a structure, it's a vibrant hub of activity, a place where memories are made, and a testament to the enduring allure of the California coastline. Originally, the area was named “Potencia” with the vision of harnessing the ocean's energy. An iron pier was constructed for this purpose, but it was destroyed by a storm. The current concrete pier, designed by A.L. Harris, was completed in 1920, replacing an earlier wooden structure that succumbed to the elements. The pier quickly became a popular destination for fishing and enjoying the ocean breeze. In 1924, a 200-foot wooden extension was added, but it was later destroyed by winter storms in the early 1940s. Throughout the decades, the Manhattan Beach Pier has remained a focal point of the community. It has weathered storms, undergone renovations, and adapted to changing times, all while retaining its timeless charm. In the 1980s, the pier faced significant deterioration, leading to a comprehensive restoration project completed in 1992. This restoration ensured the pier's structural integrity and preserved its historical character. Today, the Manhattan Beach Pier offers a diverse range of experiences. Anglers can cast their lines and try their luck at catching local fish species. The pier is known for barred surfperch, and anglers can also catch pileperch and other common pier species. At the end of the pier sits the Roundhouse Aquarium, an octagonal building that provides marine education programs. Completely redesigned in 2018, the aquarium features marine displays and a working marine lab. It's a great place to learn about the local marine ecosystem and observe fascinating sea creatures. The aquarium is free to the public, making it accessible to everyone. The pier is also home to the Volleyball Walk of Fame, a tribute to the sport's rich history in Manhattan Beach. Bronze plaques embedded along the pier honor the winners of the Manhattan Beach Open, a prestigious beach volleyball tournament held annually since the 1960s. Beyond its attractions, the Manhattan Beach Pier offers simply a place to relax and soak in the beauty of the Pacific Ocean. The sunsets from the pier are particularly spectacular, painting the sky with vibrant colors. It's a popular spot for photographers and artists seeking to capture the essence of the California coastline. The area surrounding the pier is equally appealing, with a vibrant downtown area offering a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes. Visitors can explore the local boutiques, enjoy a delicious meal with ocean views, or simply stroll along The Strand, a paved path that runs parallel to the beach. Manhattan Beach itself boasts a rich history. Originally inhabited by the Tongva Native Americans, the area was later developed as a seaside resort in the early 20th century. The city's name was chosen by land developer Stewart Merrill. Today, Manhattan Beach is known for its upscale residential neighborhoods, excellent schools, and relaxed beach lifestyle. Whether you're a local resident or a first-time visitor, the Manhattan Beach Pier offers a quintessential California experience. It's a place to connect with nature, enjoy recreational activities, and appreciate the beauty of the Pacific Ocean. The pier's enduring appeal lies in its ability to offer something for everyone, making it a cherished landmark for generations to come. Throughout the year, Manhattan Beach hosts a variety of events and festivals, adding to the city's vibrant atmosphere. The Manhattan Beach Open, a professional beach volleyball tournament, draws crowds from around the world. The Hometown Fair, held annually in October, celebrates the community's spirit with arts, crafts, and live entertainment. And during the holiday season, the pier is adorned with festive lights, creating a magical atmosphere. The Manhattan Beach Pier has also made appearances in popular culture, further solidifying its iconic status. It has been featured in movies such as "Tequila Sunrise," "Point Break," and "Starsky and Hutch," as well as numerous television shows and commercials. As you stroll along the Manhattan Beach Pier, take a moment to appreciate its history, its beauty, and its significance to the community. It's more than just a pier; it's a symbol of the California dream, a place where memories are made, and a destination that will continue to inspire for generations to come.

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