I lived in Los Angeles for a very long time before I ever made my way down the 110 to San Pedro.
In fact the first time I visited was just because my sister moved there. I think it’s like that for many people who live in West LA.
Why drive all the way to San Pedro when there are so many other cool places that are much closer?
Well I am telling you now that it’s worth the trip. San Pedro, which is situated right by the LA Waterfront is one of the most unique and fascinating areas in all of Los Angeles.
And besides, even though its a trek to get out there you will not need to go far to see everything it has to offer once you get there. All of the best San Pedro attractions are mere minutes apart and you can see them all in one day.
So dont make the mistake I did and sleep on sleepy San Pedro. Get out there and see what this incredible little LA beachtown has to offer.
1 – Busy Bee Sandwich
Description:
In a nondescript little working class neighborhood in San Pedro you will find a beloved local gem.
Busy Bees is a small market where you can find a hidden deli that serves some of the largest and most delicious sandwiches you will find.
Monday through Saturday from 9 am until 6 pm, the Busy Bee Market has delightful hot and cold sandwiches to please all crowds but especially week day workers.
You will see them forming huge lines at lunchtime so make sure you get there a bit early to beat the crowd.
Location:
2413 S Walker Ave, San Pedro, CA 90731
Pic Credit:@lafoodmap
hack:
Here is an insider Pedro hack. Locals like to grab their massive sandwich from Busy Bees and then head to the Korean Friendship Bell to enjoy their bite on the grass with a view.
2 – Angels Gate – Korean Bell
Description:
Donated by the people of the Republic of Korea to the people of Los Angeles in 1976, the Korean Friendship Bell sits atop Angels Park and is a historical landmark. The Bell was given to celebrate friendship between the two countries, independence and to honor veterans.
The Bell is struck every year on New Years Eve, Korean American day, Forth of July, Korean liberation day, Constitution day and September 11.
Come visit this beautiful and remarkable landmark, and take the gorgeous views of the pacific ocean and memorable views of the Los Angeles Harbor, Catalina Channel and the Sea Terraces of San Pedro hill.
This is also a popular place to fly Kites as the windy area makes for great conditions.
Location:
3601 S Gaffey St, San Pedro, CA 90731
PIC Credit:@gabrielsantana527
hack:
The Bell is without a doubt the star of the show but you will also find other Instaworthy gems at Angels Gate Park. Like the full length basketball court and a large grassy area that both feature stunning views of the Ocean, the LA waterfront and San Pedro.
3 – Cabrillo Beach
Description:
Cabrillo Beach is a great place to go for a walk, bike ride or chill on the sands withs awesome views of the Pacific. It offers its visitors plenty of places for picnics and multiple areas that are bicycle and pedestrian freindly.
Although Cabrillo Beach has now been recognized as unsafe for swimming due to high levels of contamination and bacteria it’s still a great place to visit and stroll around our lay on the sand.
The charming little San Pedro Aquarium is also located at Cabrillo Beach. Although its under the shadow of the much larger and more famous Long Beach Aquarium just a few miles away, its still worth a visit if you are already at Cabrillo. And besides its much cheaper and less crowded than the LBC Aquarium!
You can take friends of any age and visit the aquarium, there is no cost to visit just a donation is suggested.
Location:
PIC Credit:@mafioso90731
hack:
Go on a Grunion Run at Cabrillo! Grunion are a species of fish that leave the Ocean waters at night to spawn on beaches during the Spring and Summer months throughout Southern California.
Cabrillo Beach is one of the best beaches to see this amazing natural phenomenon of thousands of these silvery fish getting busy and the Aquarium even gives night tours right on the beach while its happening!
Here is a schedule.
4 – SP Fish Market Waterfront
Description:
Gigantic Shrimp Tray! That is what it comes to mind when you think of The San Pedro Fish Market. This mega restaurant is most famous for its remarkable shrimp tray which easily feeds 4 people.
Big crowds are always at this fish market to enjoy other signature delights such as shrimp cocktails, large draft beers and micheladas or to get that authentic fish market experience where you buy fresh fish and they will cook it for you!
The Fish Market has been opened since the late 60s and it continues serving its costumers with the same good quality and flavors. Enjoy your food with a view of the Port of Los Angeles.
Location:
PIC Credit@sanpedrofish
hack:
I would not necessarily recommend the other food options at the Waterfront. As of this writing (August 2019) they are starting construction on new places but the places to eat there now are not very tasty with the exception of course being the San Pedro Fish Market and their famous Shrimp tray.
5 – Royal Palms Beach
Description:
In the 1920s hot springs were discovered in this section by the sea of sleepy San Pedro. 2 Japanese brothers decided to build luxury resort on the site to take advantage of its natural gifts.
After a devestating landslide and the imprisonment of many Japanese Americans during WWII (the owners and most of the customers were Japanese) the resort was abandoned and in ruins.
Many years later the State put in some bathrooms and park benches and made it a public park.
The rocky beach and Palm trees mixed in with the ruins of the former luxury hotel makes this is an excellent destination for pictures and picnics for visitors.
If you are looking for a new place to do your jogging or fitness walk and have not been here yet, we recommend you check it out, you won’t be disappointed with your reward of the beautiful cliff and ocean views that look like they popped out of a postcard.
Location:
Royal Palms Beach Park, Los Angeles CA 90732
PIC Credit:@fiacuzziphotography
hack:
When you drive down the big hill to go to Royal Palms Beach you take a right at the bottom to get there. But if you take a left you will reach a small parking lot. And just a few feet away are the amazing natural tide pools of White Point. Wade out (when its safe) and check out all kinds of amazing sea creatures living in the jagged rocks.
6 – Downtown Pedro
Description:
Downtown San Pedro is one of the most historical towns in all of Los Angeles county. Located right near the waterfront Pedro has a unique feel of beach town charm with some grittiness of a tough working-class neighborhood anchored by decades of the Long Shoreman who live there.
Although a little quiet for a downtown there are several restaurants and shopping areas, businesses, and a pretty cool Pirate vibe and decor around.
You can find some unique vintage boutiques that stock pirate outfits, costumes and jewelry that are perfect for Halloween party shopping!
Some new restaurants and bars (with more to come) have opened recently in Downtown San Pedro offering visitors plenty of different choices including trendy coffee shops, vegan restaurants, pubs and of course the signature seafood spots.
The town also conserves the classic and traditional cafes that offer breakfast, lunch and dinner and have been serving the town guests for a long time.
Location:
San Pedro CA
PIC Credit:@downtownsanpedro
hack:
Downtown San Pedro is a little understated and sleepy but it really comes alive every first Thursday of the month. That is when ‘First Thursdays Art Walk’ takes over Downtown San Pedro and turns it into an epic party.
7 – Flights at Brouwerij West
Description:
A huge warehouse and real live brewery that features a beer tasting room and beer garden. Enjoy their craft beers and you can also get a flight of 4 tasters at a time to help you decide which beer you prefer. They don’t serve food but you can find food trucks right outside.
They also offer live music and summer concerts ( need to buy tickets for the concerts, check their website for schedule). This Belgian inspired craft brewery uses traditional and experimental methods to make saisons. It has an ample sitting area and also good size parking lot.
Location:
110 E 22nd St, San Pedro, CA 90731
PIC Credit:@pellegrinosfoodtruck
hack:
Parent to rambunctious kids or even a fur baby? No worries, this is the spot for you! This brewery is extremely kid and dog friendly. They have a patio out front where you can keep a close eye on your kids and pups while you enjoy your tasty craft beers.
Do you agree with our list or did we miss an obvious one? Let us know by commenting below!