Pacific Palisades
Updated on Apr 27 2024 5:04am
The Redondo Beach Pier, also known as Horseshoe Pier, is a prominent landmark in Redondo Beach, Southern California, offering not only breathtaking ocean views but also a wide array of attractions that cater to visitors of all ages and interests.
Situated in South Redondo Beach between the Esplanade and Redondo Beach Marina, the pier stands out for its unique feature of connecting to the shore in two places, creating a pleasant loop walking route. The scenic stroll along the pier provides a perfect opportunity to take in the picturesque surroundings and enjoy the soothing sea breeze.
A major draw of the Redondo Beach Pier is the diverse selection of restaurants and eateries it houses. Many of these establishments have windows that open up over the water, providing diners with an immersive dining experience. Moreover, several of the restaurants feature bars with happy hours and late-night operating hours, making it an ideal destination for both daytime and evening outings.
Beyond the culinary delights, the pier boasts an impressive variety of shops where visitors can find unique and interesting items to take home as souvenirs. With over 30 businesses on the pier itself and more establishments on the adjacent International Boardwalk, there's no shortage of opportunities for retail therapy.
For those interested in delving into the history of the area, the Path of History markers on the pier provide valuable insights into the historical significance of the Redondo Beach Pier and its surroundings. Additionally, a visit to Redondo Landing, a designated area on the pier, offers further opportunities to learn about the region's past.
The Redondo Beach Pier is not just a destination in itself; it also serves as a gateway to a wide range of outdoor activities. The nearby Redondo County Beach, located just south of the pier, is a picturesque Santa Monica Bay beach that beckons visitors to indulge in classic beach pastimes like building sandcastles, flying kites, and playing frisbee or smashball.
For those seeking more active pursuits, the Esplanade provides an excellent route for running, walking, biking, or skating along the coastline. South of the pier, beachgoers can enjoy boogie boarding, sailing, scuba diving, skimboarding, snorkeling, or surfing in the pristine waters of the Santa Monica Bay. Swimmers can take a refreshing dip at the beach or visit the Seaside Lagoon, a popular swimming facility nearby.
To explore the underwater world without getting wet, visitors can embark on a mini yellow semi-submarine tour that offers views of the local marine life. Alternatively, a narrated harbor nature cruise presents an opportunity to learn more about the area's coastal ecosystem. During the whale-watching season (December to April), seasonal whale-watching trips are available, allowing visitors to witness the majestic creatures on their migratory journey.
Water sports enthusiasts will find a range of rental options, such as kayaks, pedal boats, and stand-up paddleboards (SUPs), allowing them to enjoy a self-guided tour of King Harbor. For those interested in learning the ropes, sailing and SUP lessons are available, as well as storage options for personal watercraft.
Fishing enthusiasts can join a charter boat trip or opt for half or full-day sportfishing excursions. For a more relaxed fishing experience, designated fishing areas along the pier cater to anglers of all skill levels.
Throughout the day, the shops on the pier and the adjacent boardwalk cater to visitors' needs, providing essential beach items and souvenirs. After a day of family-friendly activities, visitors can enjoy a delightful lunch or dinner at one of the many restaurants on the pier or the International Boardwalk.
The Redondo Beach Pier holds a rich history as a historical landmark with a legacy dating back to 1888. Originally constructed to handle the vast lumber trade from the Pacific Northwest, Redondo's Wharf 1 marked the beginning of an era that saw the emergence of piers, wharfs, and harbors in the region. The present-day horseshoe-shaped pier, now in its seventh generation, stands proudly at 25 feet above the water, covering an expansive 70,000 square feet of open space, making it the largest "endless" pier along the California coast. Intriguingly, the current pier is also connected to a remnant of the wooden Monstad Pier, known as Wharf 3, which was built in the 1920s. As visitors approach The Pier, they are greeted by the Redondo Landing, which serves as the gateway building and boasts an architectural resemblance to the iconic Looff Hippodrome, a carousel building that once graced The Pier during the 1920s. Over the years, the Redondo Beach Pier has welcomed countless visitors from across the globe as well as generations of local families, who have created fond memories with their regular visits to this cherished historical landmark, making it a treasured part of Redondo Beach's heritage.