{"ok":true,"data":{"id":2105,"slug":"redondo-beach-redondo-beach","name":"Redondo Beach","country":"USA","state":"California","city":"Redondo Beach","coords":{"lat":33.8492,"lng":-118.3884},"beachType":null,"tags":["urban","family","sunset"],"article":{"hero":"Redondo Beach doesn't pretend to be wild. The soundtrack here is the clatter of skateboards on the Strand bike path, the hiss of espresso machines along the pier, and the slap of volleyballs on sand courts where teenagers and retirees compete with equal intensity. The beach spreads wide and flat, framed by the iconic horseshoe pier—rebuilt after storms but still bearing the salt-worn charm of a neighborhood gathering spot rather than a tourist trap.\n\nYou'll find the sand softer near the lifeguard towers, packed firmer where the tide pulls back twice daily. Mornings belong to wetsuit-clad swimmers doing open-water laps and paddleboarders gliding out toward the break wall. By noon, umbrellas bloom in rows, and the scent of grilled mahi-mahi floats down from the pier's restaurants. King Harbor Marina sits just south, its forest of masts catching afternoon light.\n\nWhen the marine layer finally burns off—usually by 11 a.m.—the Santa Monica Mountains emerge across the bay, a hazy reminder that you're swimming in one of the few urban beaches where locals still outnumber visitors. Stay until the streetlights flicker on along the pier, and you'll understand why South Bay families have returned here, generation after generation, for their fix of salt air and fried zucchini.","teaser":"You'll smell funnel cake drifting from the boardwalk before you spot the horseshoe-shaped pier jutting into the Pacific. Redondo's wide strand pulls you into a rhythm of morning paddleboarders, lunchtime fish tacos, and sunsets that turn the King Harbor marina into a floating gallery of silhouettes.","uniqueAngle":"One of the few municipal piers in California shaped as a horseshoe, creating a sheltered swimming cove within its arc.","accessType":"Drive-up & boardwalk","thingsToDo":[{"icon":"surf","title":"Catch South Swell","subtitle":"Breakwater creates mellow inside waves"},{"icon":"food","title":"Pier Seafood Crawl","subtitle":"Grilled swordfish and clam chowder"},{"icon":"kayak","title":"Harbor Paddle","subtitle":"Calm water inside King Harbor"},{"icon":"camera","title":"Sunset from Horseshoe","subtitle":"Shoot pier pilings framing sailboats"}],"audience":{"surfer":"Redondo's break runs best on south swells during summer and early fall, when the pier's north side offers shoulder-high peaks for longboarders and learners. The breakwall at King Harbor kills most northwest energy, so winter means small, mushy days unless a solid south swell wraps around the Palos Verdes Peninsula. Locals stack up near the lifeguard towers at high tide; respect the lineup and you'll get waves. Water stays wetsuit-worthy year-round—bring 3/2mm minimum, 4/3mm November through April.","couples":"Claim a spot on the pier's outer arc an hour before sunset, when the sky ignites behind Catalina Island and sailboats drift back toward their slips. Afterward, walk south along the harbor promenade to Bluewater Grill for grilled swordfish on the patio, or grab fish tacos at the counter and eat on the break wall, feet dangling above the water. The Portofino Hotel overlooks the marina—request a harbor-view room and you'll wake to the ting of halyards against masts and pelicans diving for breakfast.","backpacker":"Park free on residential streets east of Pacific Coast Highway after 6 p.m., or catch the Metro Green Line to the Redondo Beach station and walk fifteen minutes downhill. The beach itself is free; rinse off at public showers near the pier. Fuel up on under-$10 fish tacos at Rubio's or grab a breakfast burrito from the taco trucks on Torrance Boulevard. For overnight, HI Los Angeles South Bay Hostel sits three miles inland in San Pedro—book the dorm, then bus back to the beach by 9 a.m.","local":"Hit the sand by 7 a.m. on weekdays, when the only footprints belong to surfers and the occasional metal-detector hobbyist. The volleyball courts south of the pier stay empty until noon—claim one for a private game. For the best fish, skip the pier restaurants and walk to Quality Seafood on the harbor's east side; buy whatever came off the boats that morning and grill it yourself. When June gloom lingers past lunch, locals know the sun breaks through first at Burnout Beach, the small pocket cove at the harbor's north jetty.","family":null,"party":null,"diver":null,"explorer":null},"faqs":[{"a":"Redondo Beach is generally safe for swimming during summer months when lifeguards are on duty daily. The beach features calm waters protected by the breakwater, making it suitable for families and less experienced swimmers. Ocean conditions vary seasonally, with winter bringing larger swells and stronger currents. Always check posted flags and signs before entering the water. Lifeguard towers are staffed year-round on weekends and daily from Memorial Day through Labor Day. The area near the pier can have stronger currents, so swim in designated areas and follow lifeguard instructions.","q":"Is Redondo Beach safe for swimming?"},{"a":"Redondo Beach enjoys pleasant weather year-round, but late spring through early fall (May-October) offers the warmest temperatures and calmest seas. Summer brings peak crowds, especially on weekends, with temperatures in the mid-70s to low 80s°F. For fewer crowds and comfortable weather, visit on weekday mornings or during spring and fall shoulder seasons. Winter months are cooler but still mild, averaging 60-65°F, ideal for beach walks and pier activities. Redondo Beach faces southwest, making it excellent for sunset views any time of year.","q":"What is the best time to visit Redondo Beach?"},{"a":"Redondo Beach offers several parking options near the pier and beach. Metered street parking is available along Catalina Avenue and surrounding streets, typically costing a few dollars per hour. The city operates paid parking lots near the pier, including the large Veterans Park lot. Rates vary by season and day, with summer weekends being most expensive. Some lots offer all-day rates. Free parking may be found on residential streets farther from the beach, but check posted signs carefully for restrictions. Arrive early on summer weekends as parking fills quickly.","q":"Where can I park at Redondo Beach and how much does it cost?"},{"a":"The Redondo Beach Pier and waterfront boardwalk feature numerous restaurants, from casual seafood spots to upscale dining with ocean views. The International Boardwalk area offers various cuisines and outdoor seating. You'll find restrooms, showers, and changing facilities at the beach. The pier has shops, arcades, and the Redondo Beach Marina. Nearby hotels and vacation rentals provide lodging options along the waterfront and inland. Beach equipment rentals, including bikes and water sports gear, are available seasonally. The area has ample amenities including convenience stores, ice cream shops, and cafes within walking distance.","q":"What restaurants and amenities are available at Redondo Beach?"},{"a":"Yes, Redondo Beach Pier is popular for fishing and no license is required when fishing from public piers in California. The horseshoe-shaped pier provides good access to deeper water where anglers catch mackerel, bonito, halibut, and various perch species depending on season. Bait and tackle shops operate near the pier, offering supplies and local fishing advice. Fishing is typically best during early morning and evening hours. Check current California Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations for size limits and seasonal restrictions on specific species before keeping your catch.","q":"Can I go sport fishing from Redondo Beach Pier?"}]},"seo":{"title":"Redondo Beach: South Bay's Pier, Marina & Sunset Playground","description":"Where wooden pier planks meet Pacific swells and harbor seals bask by kayak launches. Redondo Beach blends South Bay surf culture with family boardwalk evenings.","ogImage":"https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48101117788_13b768784f_b.jpg"},"images":[{"id":"512875","url":"https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48101117788_13b768784f_b.jpg","thumbnail":"https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48101117788_13b768784f.jpg","alt":"Redondo Beach CA USA 6/20/19"},{"id":"512878","url":"https://live.staticflickr.com/5501/30740268343_ea745f6844_b.jpg","thumbnail":"https://live.staticflickr.com/5501/30740268343_ea745f6844.jpg","alt":"Beach Cities"},{"id":"512882","url":"https://live.staticflickr.com/486/30758332023_58bbb647a7_b.jpg","thumbnail":"https://live.staticflickr.com/486/30758332023_58bbb647a7.jpg","alt":"Beach Cities"},{"id":"512892","url":"https://live.staticflickr.com/2691/4019261193_2bc9b51806_b.jpg","thumbnail":"https://live.staticflickr.com/2691/4019261193_2bc9b51806.jpg","alt":"Cotton Candy"},{"id":"512894","url":"https://live.staticflickr.com/2946/15235550340_2ab5877ecc_b.jpg","thumbnail":"https://live.staticflickr.com/2946/15235550340_2ab5877ecc.jpg","alt":"James Webb Space Telescope Sunshield Test Unfolds Seamlessly"},{"id":"512898","url":"https://live.staticflickr.com/2755/4276216114_30839a4ccf_b.jpg","thumbnail":"https://live.staticflickr.com/2755/4276216114_30839a4ccf.jpg","alt":"Self-Rejuvenation"},{"id":"512900","url":"https://live.staticflickr.com/5778/31455175831_7c4f43a791_b.jpg","thumbnail":"https://live.staticflickr.com/5778/31455175831_7c4f43a791.jpg","alt":"Beach Cities"},{"id":"512902","url":"https://live.staticflickr.com/3104/2850474054_cf0b76a905_b.jpg","thumbnail":"https://live.staticflickr.com/3104/2850474054_cf0b76a905.jpg","alt":"Escape From Bathcatraz"},{"id":"512904","url":"https://live.staticflickr.com/4302/35702977950_8a9ea10c0b_b.jpg","thumbnail":"https://live.staticflickr.com/4302/35702977950_8a9ea10c0b.jpg","alt":"Sunset Sailing in Santa Monica Bay."}]}}