Hermosa Beach City Guide

Fresh seafood like fish tacos and California-style burritos are common. Good international variety and many vegetarian/vegan options. Pier Avenue offers late-night spots on weekends.

Active nightlife mainly on Pier Avenue with bars, pubs, and live music venues like Hennessey's and Tower 12.

Good coffee scene with specialty shops and cafes suited for beach lifestyle and work.

Tipping is expected. Around 15-20% at restaurants and for services. Baristas usually get $1-2 per drink.

SIM cards are available at AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon stores at LAX or shopping centers. eSIMs are widely available online from providers like Nomad and Airalo. No ID is needed for prepaid cards.

Streets are clean with regular waste and recycling services.

Some 24/7 pharmacies in surrounding areas. Limited late-night food and services in Hermosa Beach itself.

Supermarkets including Vons, Ralphs, Trader Joe's, plus a farmers market with fresh local produce. Stores open early to late and mostly open Sundays and holidays. No bargaining culture.

Most places accept credit and debit cards. Cash is rarely needed.

ATMs from major banks like Bank of America, Chase, and Wells Fargo are common. Out-of-network ATM fees can be $2.50 to $5 plus your bank's fees.

Local public schools include Hermosa View (K-3) and Hermosa Valley (4-8), teaching primarily in English. Admissions start in August/September.

Some coworking spaces and cafes support remote work, but a strong nomad community with frequent meetups is limited.

Over 20 parks offer green space, shaded for walking and running, including Valley Park and Hermosa Valley Greenbelt.

The Strand and Greenbelt paths are popular safe spots for runners with scenic views.

Options include yoga studios and group fitness centers, plus outdoor exercise along the Strand.

Public tennis courts at Hermosa Beach Community Center, booking usually required.

Padel courts are not common in Hermosa Beach.

Studios like SOHO YOGA offer heated and non-heated classes with English-speaking instructors.

Several gyms offering BJJ, Muay Thai, boxing, and other martial arts with English-speaking instructors.

No local skiing. Closest resorts are several hours away in mountain areas like Big Bear.

Paddleboarding and kayaking rentals are available, mostly in calm summer waters near the pier.

Good beach breaks for all levels right off Hermosa Beach Pier. Best surf in winter for experienced surfers, summer for beginners. Surf schools and rentals available.

Limited diving nearby. Better options at Palos Verdes or Catalina Island. Seasonal visibility varies.

High-quality private healthcare with several hospitals and clinics nearby. English-speaking staff are standard. Pharmacies are found in grocery stores and drugstores like CVS and Walgreens. OTC meds available easily.

Tap water meets all federal and state safety standards and is safe to drink.

Several parks with playgrounds, kid-friendly cafes, and popular family spots like the beach and skate park.

Generally very accepting and inclusive with legal protections and welcoming venues.

Pet-friendly city with leash laws and several dog parks nearby. Many hotels and restaurants welcome pets.