California - Manhattan Beach Area Attractions, Activities & Entertainment
Located in southwestern Los Angeles County just north of Hermosa Beach, Manhattan Beach is the home of beach volleyball and incredible surfing. The city is a very affluent beach town within commuting distance of Los Angeles, making it one of the most expensive coastal towns in America. It offers free pier fishing all year round, a public golf course, and incredible shopping and dining options.
Twelve and Highland
Twelve and Highland, a three mile drive from Portofino opened to the public in September, 2007. The clean modern lines of the structure and décor offer a new style of dining to the beach community. The owners were inspired to offer the best of both worlds in one space: a great dining experience with wonderful cuisine followed by an upscale lounge in which to enjoy the latest music and socialize. www.12andhighland.com
Sidedoor
A compact cathedral facade, complete with stained-glass windows and unmarked entry, conceals this slightly subterranean watering hole. At just 3 miles north, you can’t beat this cozy spot that features faux blue velvet couches, benches and rounded booths, along with a tiny bar in the middle of the room. Sunday through midweek, it's an egalitarian mix of local barhoppers, bohemian Venice commuters and the college contingent. Much the same crowd shows on the weekends, when all but the former are held behind a slow-moving velvet rope. www.lousings.com
The Shellback
The Shellback is a world famous surf tavern as it came to life as The Knothole and then The Surf after World War II. Situated just 3 miles north of Portofino and set out on the coast, The Shellback is a great hangout for locals and visitors alike. Famous for their pizza and reasonably priced drinks, the location became an instant hit on the beach bar scene. Be sure to get a seat before happy hour crowds arrive. www.shellbacktavern.com
Upper Manhattan
Take a quick drive north and check out the coolest venue in the hottest destination for food and an obsession with nightlife. Tuesday through Saturday 5:00 PM to 2:00 AM there is always something hip and happening. Join us for Happy Hour, Entertainment, Dancing and our Friday/Saturday Cabaret Shows.www.uppermanhattanlounge.com
Pancho’s
Pancho's restaurant is one of the oldest and best known landmarks in the South Bay and just 5 miles away. This famous Mexican restaurant features a uniquely beautiful atmosphere with the warmth & hospitality of an elegant hacienda. Gourmet Mexican dishes are prepared fresh daily. Our menu selections include an excellent variety of salads, seafood, chicken and meat dishes for your enjoyment. Constantly voted the South Bay's best Margarita. www.panchosrestaurant.com
Joey’s Smokin’ BBQ
A popular Los Angeles chow down spot, Joey’s Smokin’ BBQ offers award-winning baby back ribs and a menu that will tantalize your taste buds. Come see for yourself in downtown Manhattan just a 10 minute drive from Portofino. www.joeyssmokinbbq.com
Live Oak Park
The Live Oak Park spans nine acres in Manhattan Beach, just 10 minutes away and is one of the most popular outdoor spots in the South Bay. During the off-season, local basketball heroes from the Lakers take advantage of the great basketball courts in this park. There are also tennis courts and baseball fields. The playground is big and has a train that makes the kids squeal with delight. Throughout the park there are large, shady trees and plenty of spots for romantic picnics or family outings. www.gocitykids.com
Roundhouse Aquarium
If the marine flora and fauna in the oceans, tidelands and beaches of Southern California has caught your fascination, it's time to make a 10 minute drive north to the Roundhouse Aquarium. There's a lot to marvel at, from the Mattel Deep Ocean Habitat Tank which harbors White Plume Anemones, Rainbow Stars to the Living Reef Tank. Let your kids gaze in wonder at the Shark Tank and be amused by the eight-legged octopus. The Specimen Tank holds shark eggs, hermit crabs and tongue fish. Now before you bite your tongue, you should know that admission to this place is free, but you are always welcome to donate and make your contributions. Open on weekdays from 3pm and on weekends from 10am. www.roundhouseaquarium.org
Manhattan Village
From the Portofino, a quick 10 minute drive takes you to Manhattan Village. It is an indistinguishable from countless suburban shopping malls across America, but the atmosphere inside it reflects the beach community it serves. The tourist quotient is quite low, and the vast majority of shoppers are locals-including a few celebrities. Ninety stores and restaurants make up this mall, with one department store (Macy's) anchoring it all. Expect the usual chain stores (Gap, Bath & Body Works, Express) in addition to local establishments like Manhattan Village Florist. www.shopmanhattanvillage.com
Pacific Theaters Manhattan Village
Need to relax and catch a movie? Check out Manhattan Village for the Pacific Theaters for movies and show times in the heart of Manhattan Beach. www.shopmanhattanvillage.com
The Massage Spot
Just a few miles down the road, The Massage Spot is a popular place to go where Modern meets Zen. Our Vision is to create a boutique mini day spa. This mini day spa will aim at taking the full service day spa amenities and trimming them down while maintaining the spa atmosphere and great service. Our vision is to create an experience of affordable luxury for everyone to enjoy. We offer massages, facials, waxing, airbrush tanning and much more. The Massage Spot proudly serves the South Bay cities of Los Angeles. www.themassagespot.com