The Best Places To Enjoy The Ocean In The South Bay

With miles of gorgeous shoreline stretching from Manhattan Beach down to Palos Verdes, the Beach Cities of the South Bay are a haven for anyone who wants to be near the water. Surfing, sailing, diving, volleyball, or just walking the Strand at sunset, it's all here. If you don't know where to start, here are some of the best spots to enjoy the ocean across the South Bay.

Rat Beach

No, this beach doesn’t have any rats at all – “rat” is actually an acronym for “right after Torrance,” which is where this sandy stretch of paradise is located. Though the waves in Rat Beach aren’t really what you would consider world-class, the place is a popular spot among many surfers and windsurfers, as the beach isn’t filled with massive crowds. Off the coast of Rat Beach you’ll find the famous giant kelp forests, a great spot for diving and spear fishing.

MANHATTAN BEACH

Manhattan Beach is home to El Porto, one of the most well-known surf breaks in the South Bay, sitting at the north end of the city where the swell tends to be more consistent. Even if you're not surfing, the Manhattan Beach Pier and the Strand, the paved path that runs the length of the beach, are two of the best places in the South Bay to watch the sunset over the water.

HERMOSA BEACH

Hermosa Beach is known for its pier and its own stretch of the Strand, but it's also home to the Beach Volleyball Hall of Fame, just steps from the sand, a good reflection of how central the sport is to life here. Beyond the pier, Hermosa's beach is wide and a little less crowded than the beaches further north, making it a popular spot for paddleboarding and casual swimming.

Malaga Cove

Malaga Cove is a great spot for visitors looking to go hiking, biking, kayaking, ocean fishing, diving, surfing, and more. The cove features breathtaking views of the ocean, which many visitors enjoy while walking the trail that starts from the gazebo all the way to its sandy shores.

Redondo Beach Sailing Harbor

Learn to sail when you head to Redondo Beach, which is home to several establishments that offer charters and sailing lessons for interested participants of all ages and skill levels. Different sailing programs include summer youth camps, American Sailing Association (ASA) Certification Courses, and 12-24 hour instructional cruises.

Flat Rock

Considered one of the top diving spots in the entire LA County, Flat Rock is a highly challenging diving site meant for very experienced divers. Adventurous divers are rewarded with a truly memorable experience, as the waters of Flat Rock are home to a vast array of marine life and beautiful corals reefs.

If you're spending your weekends at these spots, chances are you're thinking about your home nearby too. Levine Homes handles remodels and new construction throughout Manhattan Beach and Hermosa Beach.