A Manhattan Beach sunset is a breathtaking sight to behold. Set against a backdrop of lush palm trees, crashing ocean waves, and a radiantly colored sky, it’s something you’ll want to experience again and again. One of the best places to watch the sunset is right on the sand. But if the beach is crowded or you’re looking for a new vantage point, we recommend a few other amazing spots as well.
The Strand House
117 Manhattan Beach Blvd.
Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
(Currently Open in the Evening During COVID-19)
Located along the world-famous Strand (a scenic 22-mile path extending from Torrance to Pacific Palisades), The Strand House is a hip, cozy eatery that offers stunning 180-degree views of the Pacific Ocean.
Enjoy award-winning coastal cuisine courtesy of Chef Greg Hozinsky and Executive Chef Austin Cobb, and stay long enough to watch the sun descend over the ocean. The Ora King salmon is a local favorite, and the shellfish tower is great for sharing.
Pro Tip: Ask for a window or balcony seat. You can enjoy a spectacular view of the beach and sunset while indulging in a cold cocktail or glass of wine.
Manhattan Beach Pier
Located at the End of Manhattan Beach Blvd.
Manhattan Beach
Some of the best Manhattan Beach homes are located right near the pier; it’s simply the most exciting, historic, and beautiful part of town. It’s also a great place to watch the sunset.
When you walk to the end of this 928-foot pier, you get front-row access to the sunset coupled with all the excitement that surrounds you. Watch the surfers just below, stroll past the Volleyball Walk of Fame, and make your way to the Roundhouse Marine Studies Lab & Aquarium. Best of all, you can enjoy unique vantage points of the shore and hillside as you watch the sunset with that special someone.
Not only is the Manhattan Beach Pier the oldest concrete pier on the West Coast, but it’s quite famous. You may have seen it in films like Point Break and Tequila Sunrise. Just take Manhattan Beach Blvd. west until you reach this state historic landmark.
Pro Tip: Walk to the end of the pier and watch the sun disappear behind the ocean, its colorful rays reflecting off the water. Get there early and secure a spot, as it gets extremely popular around sunset.
Bruce’s Beach
2600 Highland Ave.
Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
Located just two minutes from the ocean on foot, Bruce’s Beach is a popular hillside excursion that’s rich with shade trees, grass, and benches. Despite the name, it’s actually a three-acre park, and it offers some of the most beautiful green surroundings in the city.
The history is what really makes Bruce’s Beach unique. The oldest park in Manhattan Beach, it was once home to Willa and Charles Bruce, an African-American couple who purchased the land in 1912. They used the area to establish one of the nation’s first integrated resorts, open to African-Americans. Their efforts were met with fierce resistance, and the resort was condemned by the city in the 1920s. The NAACP intervened, organizing a “swim-in” protest. Organizers were arrested, but they fought on. Ultimately, the condemnation was overturned and the resort was allowed to resume operations.
Now, a century later, Bruce’s Beach stands as a proud symbol of progress and unity. Guests can visit the plaque that commemorates the origins of the park and the courageous couple who fought to make racial desegregation a reality in their small corner of Southern California.
As you relax on the grassy hill and watch the gorgeous Manhattan Beach sunset, you can reflect on the tremendous significance of the park.
Pro Tip: The park features a dog-on-leash area, so feel free to bring your four-legged friends along for the journey.
El Porto Beach
Located From 45th St. to 38th St. Along the Coast
Manhattan Beach
If you want to watch the Manhattan Beach sunset from the sand but you’re not partial to crowded beaches, head north to El Porto. Because this beach is further from the pier, it’s more secluded and quiet.
El Porto Beach features volleyball courts, a paved bike path, and plenty of wide-open space. It’s also famous among surfers, as it boasts some of the tallest waves in the area. If you love to hang ten, you can enjoy the sunset from inside the water.
Pro Tip: Stay south of 45th St. for the best experience. As you head north, the beach narrows toward the Chevron oil refinery.
Sand Dune Park
3299 Bell Ave.
Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
Perfect for those who want to enjoy a workout while watching the sunset, Sand Dune Park is an athlete’s dream. It’s made up of massive public sand dunes along a steep slope just blocks from the beach. Kobe Bryant, Troy Polamalu, and Tony Gonzalez are just some of the pro athletes who have worked out here.
The dunes are located alongside a steep flight of 208 steps. As you ascend and descend, you can watch the setting sun eclipse the dunes. The park is especially popular at this time of the evening, so you can cheer on other exercise enthusiasts as you work toward your own fitness goals and take in the exquisite scenery overhead.
Because of COVID-19, the park is currently allowing guests by reservation only. Reservations must be made ahead of time at City Hall. It’s absolutely imperative that you make a reservation and follow all rules (such as no jogging on the steps), as violators are subject to hefty fines.
Pro Tip: The free parking lot fills up fast. If you can’t find a space, head over to the lot off of Rosecrans and Bell. Avoid street parking, as you may be fined or towed.
Let us know your favorite places to watch the Manhattan Beach sunset!
