Things to do in Redondo Beach

This South Bay landmark is 10 minutes south of LAX, and offers a slew of restaurants, shops and typical entertainment. There's almost always live music, the views are great and special events are hosted frequently—including the Festival of the Kite each spring. In recent years, visitors have been able to spot whales from the pier during the springtime. A $300-million redevelopment of the pier is expected to break ground in 2017.

As you may infer from its name, Redondo Beach features a mile and a half of sandy beachfront as you venture south of the marina and pier area. Facilities are scattered along the way and you'll only find street parking, save for a small metered lot at George Freeth Way and Esplanade and another just over the Torrance border, which tends to keep the beach pretty low-key.

You'll find everything from recreational yachts to fishing vessels harbored in this functioning marina. Embark on water sport, fishing or whale watching trips or stay onshore and explore the restaurants that dot the vast parking lots here; it's admittedly mostly chain restaurants, but make sure to swing by Captain Kidd's Fish Market and Restaurant.

This isn't your typical swimming pool. Seaside Lagoon is a seasonal saltwater lagoon (complete with sandy sloped entrance) just steps away from the Pacific Ocean. Visitors can swim under lifeguard supervision, and there are also water slides, a playground, beach volleyball and picnic areas.

Officially known as the Marvin Braude Bike Trail, this 22-mile bicycle path traces nearly the entire extent of L.A.'s westward-facing coastline. Though the Redondo Beach Marina and Pier briefly interrupt the trail, it picks back up again just to the south as it resumes its route along beachfront condos and a sandy bluff.

Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center is a staple of arts and culture in the South Bay. From theatrical performances to concerts and ballets, visitors can choose from a wide array of entertainment here.