Redondo Beach, California: Ocean Pier, Boardwalk and Fun Activities

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Surfing, sailing, sea life – it’s all in one convenient beachside location.

In Redondo Beach, life revolves around the pier, boardwalk and marina. No wonder the locals think of this place as "L.A.’s Ocean Adventure Capital." After spending a day in the water, take a short stroll to Riviera Village to explore shops, spas and restaurants. Round out your vacation at Hopkins Wilderness Park, a hidden gem less than three kilometers from the pier.

Stand-Up Paddleboarding Whale Tours

You’ve probably heard of stand-up paddleboarding (SUP); it’s one of the hottest water sports today. Around the pier, you’ll find outfitters offering lessons that include all of the equipment you need.

If you’re an experienced paddleboarder, why not try something different – yoga SUP, anyone? Or, imagine paddling within the splash zone of a whale. From roughly December through May, you can get within 50 meters of these majestic creatures on a guided SUP whale tour.

Trio paddleboarding in King Harbor

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Underwater Discovery

Pet a shark, bat ray, sea star and more at SEA Lab, a hands-on educational marine lab located just north of the marina. Head out to sea and learn more about local marine life on a harbor boat tour. And experience Mother Nature’s aquarium aboard the Looking Glass, a semi-submarine with two large viewing windows under deck.

Your kids will love getting an up-close look at their favorite marine animals at Redondo’s interactive science center, SEA Lab.

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SEA Lab

Diving

Certified divers will enjoy a dive at Veteran’s Park, a popular shore dive spot just south of the pier with convenient facilities including easy entry/exit and nearby dive shops. Be on the lookout for mating squid (in season), bat rays, sharks, sea lions and crabs.

New and experienced divers are welcome to dive from shore at Veterans Park, where beach entry is easy and the current is typically light to moderate.

Mike Balzer

Surfing

It’s the quintessential California activity: surfing! If you’re a novice, book a lesson with an experienced teacher who will show you the basics of the sport, followed by board time in the water. The first time you catch a wave will be a moment you’ll never forget!

Redondo Beach offers some of the best surfing along the beautiful Southern California coastline. Don’t forget to put on your wetsuit; the water can get chilly.

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Whale-Watching Tours

From roughly December to May, narrated whale-watching tours give you a chance to view gray whales, humpbacks, sperm whales and other visitors such as dolphins and sea lions. With any luck, you’ll go home with some amazing photos to share with your friends.

Gray whales annually migrate to the cool local waters at Redondo Beach, and local boats lead regular tours to spot these giants.

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Sailing

Rent your own boat or learn to sail from an expert at the Redondo Beach Marina. If you prefer to leave the navigating to the professionals, book a daytime cruise or scenic sunset sail and enjoy the view from the water.

Explore Redondo Beach by sailboat and soak up that famous California sunshine

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Redondo Beach Marina

Wildlife Watching

Even landlubbers will have plenty to enjoy in Redondo Beach. Hang out on the pier and you’ll spot pelicans, shore birds, dolphins, sea lions and even whales – a perfect photo opportunity while you stay on dry land.

Bottlenose dolphins frequently play in the water right off Redondo Beach.

Randy Ruby

Biking

It’s not a water sport, but biking is a popular activity due to the beautiful scenery and fantastic weather year round. A 35-kilometer bike path called The Strand extends from just south of Redondo Beach past Santa Monica to the north. Enjoy endless beach views and plenty of shops, restaurants and amenities along the way.