Manhattan Beach Visitor Frequently Asked Questions

Four square miles of comfortable beach life surrounded by reality.

Getting here is easy. Leaving is hard.

Your Questions, Answered

Planning a visit to Manhattan Beach? Find quick answers to common questions about getting here, parking, beach rules, dining, shopping, local attractions, and making the most of your time in our coastal community.

  • Manhattan Beach is a coastal city in Los Angeles County’s South Bay, just three miles south of LAX and between El Segundo and Hermosa Beach.

  • Manhattan Beach is known for its wide sandy beach, iconic pier, oceanfront Strand, walkable downtown, boutique shopping, restaurants, beach volleyball, surfing, and relaxed coastal atmosphere.

  • Where should I go first when visiting Manhattan Beach?

    A great first stop is a walk out to the end of the pier. Look to your left and right to see world class beach volleyball and local surfers. At the end of the pier, visit our Roundhouse Aquarium, featuring more than 100 marine animals from Southern California’s waters. From there, you can walk to restaurants, shops, The Strand, and the beach.

  • Yes. Downtown Manhattan Beach, the Pier, The Strand, Metlox, and North Manhattan Beach are very walkable. Some inland shopping and dining areas, including Sepulveda and Rosecrans, are easier to reach by car, bike, or rideshare.

  • Manhattan Beach has metered street parking, public parking lots, and beach-adjacent parking areas. Parking rules and time limits vary, so check posted signs carefully before leaving your car.

  • Yes. There are public parking areas near the Manhattan Beach Pier and Downtown, but they can fill quickly on weekends, holidays, and warm beach days. Arriving early is recommended.

  • Dogs are not allowed on the sand at Manhattan Beach. Some restaurants, patios, sidewalks, and nearby areas may be dog-friendly, but rules vary by business.

  • No. Fires, bonfires, and barbecues are not allowed on Manhattan Beach.

  • No. Alcohol is not allowed on Los Angeles County beaches, including Manhattan Beach. But there are plenty of fine restaurants and bars just steps away.

  • No. Smoking and the sale of tobacco are prohibited throughout the City of Manhattan Beach.

    This includes e-cigarettes and vaping.

  • Yes. The Marvin Braude Bike Trail runs along the coast through Manhattan Beach. Please use the bike path for cycling and keep The Strand walkway clear for pedestrians.

  • The Strand is the oceanfront walkway that runs along the beach, offering beautiful views of the ocean, beach homes, volleyball courts, and the Manhattan Beach Pier.

  • Yes. Fishing is allowed from the Manhattan Beach Pier. You do not need a fishing license or permit to fish from the Manhattan Beach Pier. The State of California allows free fishing from public ocean piers, though you must still follow standard state size, bag limits, and gear rules.

  • Yes. Manhattan Beach is popular with families thanks to the beach, pier, parks, casual restaurants, sweet shops, and walkable areas.

  • Manhattan Beach is enjoyable year-round. Summer and weekends are the busiest, while weekdays and shoulder seasons often offer easier parking and a more relaxed pace.

  • Public restroom facilities are available near the beach and pier area.

  • Bring sunscreen, water, towels, layers, and any beach gear you may need. Even sunny days can become breezy near the ocean.