Hello, fellow adventurers! I’m thrilled to be back in Minneapolis after an incredible eight-day journey through the sun-drenched landscapes of California. This trip marked Mark and my much-anticipated annual vacation, and every single moment was cherished. For the duration of our getaway, I made a conscious effort to disconnect, limiting my online presence to quick morning email checks and the occasional Instagram update. More importantly, this allowed for some truly precious, uninterrupted time with Mark, though he still insists I drop the nickname “Marky.”
Our adventure began in the vibrant coastal city of Hermosa Beach, California, a destination we meticulously chose for a very special reason. We were on a mission to be the ultimate superfans for Tim Bomgren as he competed in the AVP Beach Volleyball Tournament. And what an experience it was! Tim impressively secured a 5th-place finish, making our cheering efforts even more rewarding. Honestly, if watching high-energy beach volleyball every weekend were an option, I’d sign up in a heartbeat! Hermosa Beach exceeded all our expectations. We fell in love with its pristine sands and the inviting ocean breeze. Spending quality time with our dear friends Lindsey and Tim was a true highlight, filled with laughter and shared experiences. The culinary scene captivated us with an array of truly delicious food and refreshing drinks. Our days were often spent exploring the area on foot, enjoying leisurely strolls along the coast. The trip was made even more special by the unexpected visit from Kelsey from Little Bits of Real Food and her husband Matt, and catching up with my cousin Louis, who was interning at Space X for the summer and living locally in Hermosa. It was a perfectly packed long weekend, brimming with good company and unforgettable moments.
Finding Your Perfect Stay: Accommodations in Hermosa Beach
When planning our Hermosa Beach getaway, our initial hope was to secure a charming Airbnb near the beach to fully immerse ourselves in the local vibe. However, by the time we finalized our plans, all the prime rentals were already booked, a common challenge in popular coastal destinations. When faced with such a dilemma, a reliable hotel with complimentary breakfast often becomes the smart backup plan! Mark and I opted for the Holiday Inn Hermosa Beach. It was situated about a mile and a half from the beach, a distance we happily traversed multiple times a day. We found it amusing that locals often looked at us as if we were crazy for walking back and forth, sometimes twice daily, but for us, these walks were one of the most delightful parts of our routine. It gave us the perfect opportunity to admire the unique architecture and charming character of the little beach houses that line the streets of Hermosa.
The Holiday Inn served its purpose admirably, providing comfortable and clean accommodation, exactly what one expects from the brand. We had no major complaints, apart from a slightly unhelpful manager, but that was a minor blip in an otherwise pleasant stay. Its location proved to be quite convenient, situated right off scenic Highway 1. This meant easy access to nearby amenities, including a CVS store right next door. This was incredibly handy for restocking on snacks and picking up any forgotten essentials, ensuring our focus remained on enjoying our vacation.
Embracing the Coastal Lifestyle: Activities and Adventures in Hermosa Beach
As mentioned, our primary reason for visiting Hermosa Beach was to enthusiastically support Tim Bomgren in the AVP Beach Volleyball Tournament. Mark, being a huge sports enthusiast, was absolutely captivated by the competition, especially since we knew one of the players. The atmosphere of the tournament was electric, with the sound of cheers and the intensity of the games filling the air. We were privileged to watch all five of Tim’s matches up close, experiencing every spike, dig, and block. He truly played exceptionally well, winning his first three games before facing tough challenges in the final two. Finishing 5th in the entire tournament, among the nation’s best, was an incredible achievement that filled us with pride. Watching the games alongside Lindsey, who is undeniably one of the most amazing mothers I know, made the experience even more special, adding a layer of shared joy and camaraderie.
Beyond the thrilling volleyball action, Hermosa Beach offered a wealth of other activities that allowed us to fully embrace the Southern California coastal lifestyle:
- **Scenic Coastal Run from Hermosa to Manhattan Beach:** One of our most invigorating experiences was a long, picturesque run along the ocean from Hermosa Beach to its equally stunning neighbor, Manhattan Beach. The paved path, known as The Strand, offered breathtaking views of the Pacific, with surfers catching waves and beachgoers enjoying the sun. The fresh ocean air and the rhythmic sound of the waves made for a truly meditative and energetic experience. It was fascinating to observe the subtle differences in ambiance and charm between the two beach communities as we moved between them.
- **Unwinding on the Beach:** Of course, no beach vacation is complete without simply laying on the sand and soaking up the sun. We spent glorious hours relaxing, listening to the soothing sounds of the ocean, feeling the warm sand beneath us, and watching the world go by. It was the perfect antidote to our busy schedules, providing ample opportunity for pure relaxation and rejuvenation.
- **Magical Sunsets from Hermosa Beach Pier:** Each evening, we made it a point to gather at the iconic Hermosa Beach Pier to witness the spectacular California sunsets. The sky transformed into a canvas of vibrant oranges, purples, and pinks as the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the ocean. The pier buzzed with a gentle energy as locals and tourists alike paused to appreciate this daily natural wonder, creating truly unforgettable moments.
- **Indulging in Culinary Delights:** This trip was undeniably a foodie’s paradise, with a significant portion of our time dedicated to exploring the diverse and delicious culinary landscape of Hermosa Beach.
In addition to these planned activities, we also enjoyed leisurely strolls along the bustling Hermosa Beach Pier, browsed the charming local shops, and simply relished the relaxed, friendly atmosphere that permeates the entire town. Hermosa Beach effortlessly blends a laid-back beach vibe with a lively social scene, making it an ideal destination for both relaxation and exploration.
Savoring Hermosa: A Guide to the Best Eateries
As true food enthusiasts, our trip to Hermosa Beach was a delightful culinary expedition. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who shared their recommendations; getting authentic suggestions from real people always trumps generic online lists. Here’s a rundown of the fantastic places where we savored the flavors of Hermosa:
Paradise Bowls: This spot is an absolute must-visit for anyone craving refreshing and healthy options. Paradise Bowls is synonymous with incredible smoothie and acai bowls, bursting with fresh fruits and superfoods. Despite the consistently long line, which speaks volumes about its popularity, every spoonful is completely worth the wait. It’s the perfect vibrant start to a sunny beach day or a post-workout treat.
Greenbelt: Standing out among the pier’s offerings, Greenbelt immediately impressed us with its inviting farm-to-table philosophy reflected in their menu. Our first visit was intended just for drinks, and we were thrilled by their extensive selection of local craft beers on tap—a definite win in our book! The atmosphere was so appealing that after a brief attempt to find another dinner spot, we quickly returned to enjoy a full meal. Their commitment to fresh, quality ingredients made for a truly satisfying dining experience.
Patrick Malloy’s: We stumbled upon this lively Irish restaurant for lunch one day, drawn in by their enticing half-off entrees special. While an Irish pub might not be your first thought for Mexican food, Patrick Malloy’s surprised us with a fantastic selection. I opted for the carnitas burrito, and it was absolutely phenomenal – perfectly seasoned, tender pork wrapped in a warm tortilla. It’s a great spot for a casual, delicious meal with a lively ambiance.
La Playita: Our quest to find the best authentic Mexican food in Hermosa Beach triumphantly concluded at La Playita. When you encounter an hour-long wait for a table, you instantly know you’re in for something special, and La Playita certainly delivered. The vibrant decor and bustling atmosphere set the stage for an incredible meal. If you’re a connoisseur of genuine Mexican cuisine, make La Playita your top priority – you won’t be disappointed!
Cafe Bonaparte: Nestled charmingly on the pier, Cafe Bonaparte is an excellent choice for a relaxed breakfast or lunch. We enjoyed a couple of their delicious sandwiches for lunch, and they were perfectly crafted – fresh ingredients, flavorful fillings, and satisfying portions. It’s a quaint spot ideal for grabbing a bite while enjoying the quintessential pier views and ocean breeze.
Paciugo Gelato: Talk about a line stretching out the door – Paciugo Gelato is a testament to the irresistible allure of authentic Italian gelato! The night Kelsey and Matt joined us, we made a crucial stop here for dessert. With an incredible array of rich, creamy flavors, it was the perfect sweet ending to a fun evening. Truly, a day without ice cream (or gelato!) feels incomplete!
The Rockafeller: This restaurant came highly recommended by Kelsey and Matt, and it lived up to every expectation. It was SO GOOD! Seriously, guys, if you go, you absolutely MUST order the sweet potato tots – they are divine. All I had wanted that night was fish and chips, but to my slight disappointment, they had just taken it off their menu. No worries, though! I opted for their fish tacos instead, and they were a fantastic, flavorful alternative that hit all the right notes.
Dia de Campo: For an excellent evening out, especially if you’re looking for superb drinks, Dia de Campo is the place to be. They craft incredible margaritas with a creative twist, and their beer selection is equally impressive, offering a variety of local and craft brews. The vibrant atmosphere and delicious libations make it a perfect spot for unwinding after a day of beach activities.
Hermosa Beach truly offers a diverse and exciting culinary journey, from healthy bowls to authentic Mexican, charming cafes, and vibrant nightlife. Every meal felt like a discovery, contributing wonderfully to our overall vacation experience.
If you’ve made it this far into our Hermosa Beach adventure recap, you are indeed a champion traveler! Thank you for reading and sharing in our joy. Stay tuned for the second thrilling installment of our California trip, where we venture into the majestic landscapes of Yosemite National Park. That post will be coming your way in just a few weeks!