Hermosa Beach

Hermosa means “beautiful,” and few places live up to their name quite like Hermosa Beach. Founded in 1906, Hermosa Beach sits right along the Pacific Ocean, just South of Manhattan Beach. Hermosa Beach has held onto its laid-back, small-town charm. At just over one square mile, this tight-knit coastal community offers an intimate, friendly atmosphere with all the energy of classic Southern California beach living.

Life in Hermosa revolves around the ocean. The wide sandy beach and scenic Strand draw surfers, paddle boarders, runners, and cyclists year-round. The city is especially famous for beach volleyball — with deep roots in the sport and a long list of professional and Olympic players who have called Hermosa home. Whether it’s a casual weekend match or a major tournament, volleyball is part of the city’s identity.

At the heart of town is the iconic Hermosa Beach Pier and Pier Plaza, a lively gathering place just steps from the sand. The plaza’s transformation into a pedestrian-friendly space helped create a vibrant hub filled with restaurants, cafés, and nightlife, all centered around ocean views and sunset skies. Upper Pier Avenue has also been beautifully revitalized, with landscaped medians, improved lighting, wider sidewalks, and welcoming public spaces that make strolling through downtown a pleasure.

Over the past two decades, thoughtful renovations and beautification projects have enhanced the city while preserving its authentic beach-town character. Today, Hermosa Beach offers a unique blend of relaxed coastal living and lively social energy. It’s a place where neighbors know each other, where beach days turn into sunset evenings downtown, and where the ocean is never more than a few blocks away.

With its rich history, strong community spirit, and unmistakable coastal vibe, Hermosa Beach isn’t just beautiful by name — it’s beautiful by nature.