El Porto Beach

Located in quaint North Manhattan Beach, El Porto is the heart of Southern California surfer culture. Smaller and less developed than Manhattan County Beach, El Porto is unbelievably peaceful and offers beachgoers a frill-free and unpretentious beach day.

When you ask a Manhattan Beach native about El Porto, she’ll probably commend its beauty. The beach is wide and sandy, with clear turquoise waters, a backdrop of architecturally unique mansions, and a dramatic shoreline sporting panoramic views of the Los Angeles coast. Unlike Los Angeles’ other beaches which are known for sporting large and sometimes messy crowds, North Beach isn’t nearly as packed. Its lack of crowds preserves its natural and serene settings and makes parking on the street a breeze. El Porto’s beauty, serenity, and convenience make it a destination for families and friends looking to lounge on the beach and decompress.

She’ll also definitely rave about El Porto’s surfing. El Porto has an underwater canyon that creates waves that are much larger than those at neighboring beaches. Its swells have lefts and rights that break over sandbars and are consistently big when other beaches are flat. With its uniquely exhilarating waves, El Porto is a prominent destination for surfers of all ages and skill levels.

She’ll also definitely rave about El Porto’s surfing. El Porto has an underwater canyon that creates waves that are much larger than those at neighboring beaches. Its swells have lefts and rights that break over sandbars and are consistently big when other beaches are flat. With its uniquely exhilarating waves, El Porto is a prominent destination for surfers of all ages and skill levels.

When cravings start to set in, El Porto has multiple excellent local restaurants within walking distance. For possibly Manhattan Beach’s best breakfast, head to the North End Cafe, a globally-inspired hotspot loved by Guy Fieri. While you’re there, order their mouthwatering Huevos Divorciados and legendary Zachary sandwich. Prefer a more exotic dining experience? At Peruvian-Japanese hotspot Kotosh, enjoy some of LA’s best Lomo Saltado, seafood stews, and sashimi. Craving American comfort food? Visit Fishbar, a local favorite known for its delectable Fish and Chips, authentic New England Clam Chowder, and indulgent Lobster Mac and Cheese.

While El Porto itself doesn’t have great nearby hotels, it’s merely blocks away from Downtown Manhattan Beach’s ultra-modern Shade Hotel. At the Shade, experience five-star service and spacious rooms within walking distance of the ocean.