Manhattan Beach is one of the most beautiful and walkable beach towns in Southern California. With oceanfront paths, boutique shopping, and incredible dining, you don’t need a car to experience the best of it. In fact, using a bike rental in Manhattan Beach is one of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to explore the area.
Here are the top things to do in Manhattan Beach without a car.
1. Ride The Strand Along the Ocean
The Strand is the highlight of Manhattan Beach. This paved beachfront path runs directly along the sand and connects to Hermosa Beach to the south and El Segundo to the north.
Starting with a bike rental in Manhattan Beach, you can cruise along the coastline with uninterrupted ocean views. The ride is flat, scenic, and perfect for all experience levels. Along the way, you’ll pass stunning beachfront homes, volleyball courts, and plenty of spots to stop for photos.
It’s the ultimate Southern California bike ride.
2. Visit the Manhattan Beach Pier
The Manhattan Beach Pier is one of the most iconic landmarks in the South Bay. Extending into the Pacific Ocean, it offers panoramic coastal views and is home to the Roundhouse Aquarium at the end.
Riding your bike to the pier is much easier than trying to find parking nearby — especially on weekends. With a bike rental in Manhattan Beach, you can explore the pier area, grab coffee nearby, and continue your ride without worrying about moving your car.
Sunset at the pier is especially memorable and well worth planning your ride around.
3. Explore Downtown Manhattan Beach
Downtown Manhattan Beach is filled with boutique shops, cafés, and award-winning restaurants. The area is compact and easy to navigate by bike, making it ideal for casual exploring.
Park your bike and enjoy:
- Oceanview dining
- Local coffee shops
- Upscale shopping
- Rooftop bars with coastal views
A bike rental in Manhattan Beach allows you to move between the beach and downtown in minutes without dealing with crowded parking structures.
4. Ride to Hermosa Beach
Hermosa Beach is just a short, scenic ride south along The Strand. In about 15–20 minutes, you can reach Hermosa’s pier plaza, known for its lively atmosphere and beachfront restaurants.
Many visitors enjoy biking between both beach towns in one afternoon. It’s a simple, relaxing ride with nonstop ocean views the entire way.
5. Head North Toward El Segundo
For a quieter ride, head north from Manhattan Beach toward El Segundo. This stretch of The Strand is typically less crowded and offers wide-open coastal scenery.
It’s perfect for those who want a peaceful ride away from busier pier areas.
Why Biking Is the Best Way to Explore
Manhattan Beach was designed for outdoor living. The flat terrain, oceanfront paths, and compact layout make it ideal for exploring without a car. Instead of dealing with traffic or limited parking, a bike rental in Manhattan Beach gives you flexibility, convenience, and a true coastal experience.
Whether you’re riding along The Strand, visiting the pier, or exploring neighboring beach towns, biking lets you see more while enjoying the fresh ocean air.
If you’re spending time in the South Bay, choosing a bike rental in Manhattan Beach is one of the best ways to experience everything this beautiful beach town has to offer.
