North Manhattan Beach: Epic Surf Culture and Some of the Best Restaurants in Manhattan Beach
If you’re looking for things to do in Manhattan Beach beyond the pier and downtown, head north to the stretch locals call El Porto. Technically part of North Manhattan Beach, this pocket of the city feels different from the polished downtown area. It’s grittier, more casual, and deeply rooted in surf culture. You’ll see wetsuits drying on balconies, surfers heading out to catch a wave with boards tucked under their arms, and breakfast often comes after an early session in the water.
El Porto’s appeal is that it still feels like a true beach neighborhood. The streets are compact, the ocean is close, and the vibes are more local than resort. The waves here have long attracted surfers, and today it remains one of the best places in Manhattan Beach to watch experienced surfers paddle out, take lessons, or simply walk the Strand and take in the action.
Of course, one of the best things to do in Manhattan Beach is eat, and North Manhattan Beach has plenty of options when it comes to food.
Start with Sloopy's Beach Cafe, a neighborhood favorite that feels exactly like you want a beach café to feel: casual, leafy, and relaxed. It’s a great stop for breakfast or brunch after a walk or surf session, with everything from breakfast burritos and eggs to burgers, salads and sandwiches.
Right nearby, The Local Yolk is another classic breakfast option, known for big omelets, hearty plates and a cool atmosphere that works perfectly before or after the beach.
For something lively, Baja Sharkeez brings the energy. It’s part sports bar, part Baja-inspired restaurant, and part late-night hangout, with tacos, margaritas, big shareable plates and plenty of TVs. This can feel completely different depending on the time of day you go… casual for lunch, busy for game day, and much louder later at night.
A few doors away, OB's Pub & Grill has the feel of a true local beach pub. It’s been part of the neighborhood for decades, and you can grab breakfast, watch a game, order pub food, and settle in without worrying about being dressed up.
Then there’s Pancho's Restaurant, one of North Manhattan Beach’s most recognizable restaurants. The hacienda-style interior, lush greenery, margaritas, and traditional Mexican dishes make it feel completely different from anywhere else nearby. It’s also become known for its comedy nights and karaoke.
For seafood, FISHBAR is another North Manhattan Beach staple, with oysters, seafood classics, cocktails, and a cool bar atmosphere. And if you want something more refined, JACK MANJIRO brings sushi, tempura, hand rolls and Japanese comfort dishes to the neighborhood.
You’ll also find one of the area’s most old-school casual stops at El Tarasco on Rosecrans. Family-owned and serving the South Bay since 1969, it’s the place you stop for tacos, burritos, or a late-night bite after the beach.
What makes North Manhattan Beach worth adding to your itinerary is that it doesn’t feel polished for visitors. It feels authentic. You can surf in the morning, grab breakfast in flip-flops, walk the Strand, stop for tacos or seafood, and end the day with a margarita or a beer, all without leaving the neighborhood.
If you’re searching for Manhattan Beach restaurants with edge, personality, and local flavor, or you’re simply looking for more things to do in Manhattan Beach, North Manhattan Beach and El Porto deserve a spot on your list.
