24 Hours of Sunshine and Good Times in Hermosa Beach

 I started my crawl at around 8:00 am. Strolling down Pier Avenue, it is impossible to bypass the nice and classic farmhouse-chic facade of Gum Tree. And just like everybody else, there are just some things, like clockwork, you take with you even on vacation. To have with the vitamin sea, I ordered their Iced Oat Latte ($5.00). Not too milky and with just the right amount of kick, I was happy! On my way out, I couldn’t help but gravitate towards their quaint little boutique. From elegant home decor and tableware to lovely sun hats and tote bags, amazing finds await at this Aussie-American proud Hermosa gem. Settling my caffeine fix and my impulsive buying, I was off to the sea.

gumtreela.com

 📍238 Pier Ave, Hermosa Beach, CA 90254

At Hermosa Beach, everything seemed like it belonged in a slow-mo film supercut. It was glorious! I officially started my day by basking in the most perfect of waves. I was planning on riding one too with Perfect Day Surf Camp but you always got to keep a reason to come back! But, for now, a quick game of pickleball with the locals shall suffice! Exhilarated from my time under the sun, I headed towards the pier. The view was immaculate! With the birds and their stark silhouettes gliding against the clearest of blue skies, while the sound of waves crashing—drum underneath the dragging of my footsteps, I wished the end of the pier went a little farther.

perfectdaysurfcamp.com

 📍1 Pier Ave, Hermosa Beach, CA 90254

Feeling sunkissed and toasty, euphoric from the morning excursions, I grew famished. I located the most recommended brunch spot in the area: Java Man. The owner was the nicest! He went ahead and told me what his recommendations were. It was a meaty menu, but I still settled for the fan-favorite, Turkey Burrito ($5.75). It was packed and well-seasoned. The flavors were well-balanced, with the cheese and mushroom perfectly complementing the tender pieces of turkey. Perfect for brunch, it is also filled with the fluffiest of scrambled egg whites, and a light garnish of green onions. However, it was the side of homemade salsa that was truly the star of the dish. Fresh, light, and with a nice kick, it elevated the burrito even more. It was the fuel I needed for the next adventure: a scenic bike ride to Manhattan Beach!

 javamancoffeehouse.com

📍157 Pier Ave, Hermosa Beach, CA 90254

At Hermosa Cyclery, my fingertips were buzzing with excitement as I propped up my bike. I cruised down the scenic Strand, while the ocean breeze whipped through my hair. Manhattan Beach welcomed me with open arms (and even more stunning views). Riding on this glorious feeling, we rode back down the coast, with a few detours to soak up the sun on the beach and people-watch the surfers catching some afternoon waves.

Back in Hermosa, the energy was electric. I joined a pick-up beach volleyball game, the sand warm between my toes and the laughter of fellow players filling the air. It was a great way to get some exercise and soak in some more sunshine.

hermosacyclery.com

📍20 13th St, Hermosa Beach, CA 90254

If you’d ask me what the best part of this trip was? It’s meeting new friends by the boardwalk. Asking them what they like the most about Hermosa Beach, their eyes lit up and they gave me a smile. They marveled at the laidback and refined charm of this Southern California gem. The sweet lady best friends reminisced on how they made the most precious childhood memories, in the sand, in the ocean, in the pier, and in the community. What a wholesome bunch!

hermosabeach.gov

📍1 Pier Ave, Hermosa Beach Pier, CA 90254

Elation and appreciation were the two things I was basking on as I leisurely walk back up Pier Avenue. As I was crossing the street, I couldn’t help but beam at what was right in front of me. It’s like my feet, despite the dragging of my footsteps, knew where I should be heading. Finally! Fundamental Coast, in the flesh! The clean and effortless coastal cool of the physical store’s façade stretches on even in its interiors. Its refined charm reverberates in its curated wall décor and the nice touch of marvelous wood shelving. And of course! What is a staycation if I didn’t take home something with me. My eyes instantly zoomed in on the Bondi Catalina’s ($120.00) unique print. While the Later On Quarter Zip Pullover ($125.00) was such a scene stealer—the softest material I've felt! Their tagline, “Soft AF”, was definitely an understatement.

fundamentalcoast.com

📍112 Pier Ave, Hermosa Beach, CA 90254

Feeling pleasantly exhausted, whilst satisfying my need for retail therapy, we retreated to the Beach House Hotel for a quick nap right before we head back down for dinner. Talk about, having the ocean as your backyard! The views were epic from our balcony and as I retreated back into our suite, I let the calming sound of the crashing of the waves lull me to sleep.

Waking up refreshed, we head back down to the boardwalk for dinner. Palmilla Restaurant beckoned us closer with its oceanfront patio and promise of delicious food and drinks. And let me tell you, they didn't disappoint! Their Vegan Potato Taquitos ($14.50) were perfection as I sipped on one of the best margaritas I've ever had—with the sun in the background, dipping below the horizon, painting the sky with a fiery farewell.

beachhouse.com/hermosabeach

palmillarestaurant.com/hermosabeach

📍 1300 The Strand, Hermosa Beach, CA 90254

📍 39 Pier Ave, Hermosa Beach, CA 90254

Not ready for this staycation to end, just a few bars down, we headed to the Lighthouse Cafe just in time for some live music. Watching "Wais" perform was an incredible experience. His reggae vibes were magnetic, and the positive energy in the cafe was contagious. And as the stars emerged, I reflected on the perfect day. From watching the waves to meeting new friends at the pier, to swaying to reggae music and ending with a spectacular sunset, Hermosa Beach had offered everything I could have asked for in a 24-hour escape. This charming town is a must-visit for anyone seeking a dose of sunshine, good vibes, and endless California cool.

thelighthousecafe.net

📍30 Pier Ave, Hermosa Beach, CA 90254