Hermosa Beach Events Guide

Nestled between the Santa Monica Bay and the attractive neighborhoods of Manhattan Beach and Redondo Beach, Hermosa Beach is a prime spot for fun, entertainment, and recreation. This energetic beach town has something for everyone – families, couples, surfers, foodies, and partygoers.

Keep reading to discover the very best of what Hermosa Beach has to offer. Below we cover the major annual events, festivals, as well as plenty of ongoing activities like yoga, farmers markets, happy hours, and more that you can enjoy during your visit.

Annual Hermosa Beach Events and Festivals

Several lively festivals and events take place right on Hermosa Beach’s gorgeous shoreline each year. These celebrations reflect the youthful vibe and surf culture spirit of the community.

Hermosa Beach Summer Concert Series

All summer long on Thursday evenings, you can enjoy free live music performances right on the sand. Bands play rock, reggae, blues, jazz, and more. Concerts start in early June and run through mid-August. Bring a blanket, snacks, friends, and get ready for an epic beach party.

International Surf Festival

Taking place every August, this is the oldest surfing competition in the world. Some of the best surfers come to catch waves and show off awesome tricks. There’s also a 3-mile pier swim, lifeguard races, stand-up paddle races, and even surfing dogs!

Hermosa Beach Sand and Strand Run

In late September, Hermosa closes its main oceanfront drag for this 5K and 10K running event. With courses flowing along the beach path, it’s a stunning scene. Live music and a beer garden up the fun at the finish line festival.

Hermosa Beach Ironman

In October, extreme athletes swim, bike, and run their way through this ultimate triathlon challenge. It draws international competitors who are watched and cheered by big crowds.

Fiesta Hermosa Arts and Crafts Festival

Each Memorial Day and Labor Day weekend, you’ll find hundreds of artisans, crafters, jewelers, and more displaying their unique wares at this high-quality show spanning multiple blocks. Expect live music, ethnic foods, cold drinks, and entertainment for all.

Hermosa Beach Film Festival

The surrounds provide a perfect backdrop for this long-running independent film fest each August. Screenings happen right on the sand while parties pop up at local venues.

Things to Do In Hermosa Beach Year-Round

Beyond the big special events, there are plenty of options for fun and recreation in Hermosa Beach year-round thanks to the welcoming weather and seaside setting.

Hit the Waves Surfing and Boogie Boarding

Rent a board and wetsuit or bring your own stick to catch waves in Hermosa. Pier Avenue, 26th Street, and Hermosa Beach Pier are a few of the most popular surf spots to hang ten. Beginner waves and lessons are available too.

Beach Volleyball

There are permanent nets and courts set up right on the sand for pick-up games. If you’re really good, join tournaments and competitive leagues happening year-round thanks to the iconic California beach volleyball culture.

Yoga Classes

Salute the sun and find your zen at yoga sessions happening on outdoor oceanfront platforms at Pier Avenue and 10th Street Park. Special events like yoga raves with live DJs take things up a notch.

Cycling the Strand

Pedal along a paved path that spans over 20 miles from Will Rogers State Beach all the way down through Hermosa, Manhattan Beach and Redondo. Rent a cruiser bike and take on the scenic coastal route.

Farmers Market

Running every Friday, the Hermosa Farmers Market brings out lots of excellent vendors selling fresh produce, breads, cheeses, flowers and more from eight in the morning until about one pm.

Stand Up Paddleboarding

Paddle out from the beach to get a killer upper body workout while floating atop a board. Lessons and rentals are available for all skill levels to try your hand at this popular SoCal activity.

Shopping and Dining

Hermosa’s Pier Avenue is full of boutique retail shops selling everything from beachwear to home goods. Find laidback bars, trendy cafes, happy hour and brunch hot spots, fine dining, and fast casual eateries to match all tastes and budgets nearby.

Comedy and Magic Club

Catch up and coming comics as well as nationally touring standup acts at this intimate club hosting shows 365 nights a year. Order a craft cocktail and enjoy some laughs.

Concerts and Events at Saint Rocke

Right on Hermosa Avenue, this venue brings in talented blues, rock, punk and indie musicians from near and far. Their calendar filling up nearly every night means lots of chances to catch a show.

Hit the Hermosa Beach Pier

Take a stroll to the end of this historic 1904 pier for awesome ocean views. Anglers can try their luck fishing. Have a drink and watch the sunset at Pier Plaza. The municipality also hosts concerts, movies and more at the pier.

Where to Stay

Being so desirably located right in the heart of things with a range of lodging options at various price points, Hermosa Beach makes an excellent home base.

Luxury hotels like Hotel Hermosa, beachfront mainstays like the Best Western Plus Heritage Inn, or affordable motels provide comfy rooms. Guest houses and vacation rentals allow you to settle in like a local.

Many are walking distance or a quick ride to the sand, strands, parks, restaurant row and more. Hermosa Beach definitely has the relaxed yet lively SoCal vibe on lockdown, with its beautiful sandy stretches, healthy lifestyle and abundance of entertainments.

Use our guide to discover the very best events, activities, sights and attractions waiting for you in this low key beach town that knows how to turn up the fun.