Start your adventure right from the hotel! The famous Marvin Braude Bike Trail (known locally as "The Strand") begins just outside the front doors of the Portofino. This flat, paved path stretches 22+ miles along the beautiful coastline, taking you through Hermosa Beach, Manhattan Beach, Venice, and all the way to Santa Monica. The hotel offers complimentary beach cruiser bikes for guests, or you can simply take a leisurely walk alongside this iconic Southern California coastal path.
An uncrowded dream of surf and sand, Torrance Beach is a 1.5 mile stretch of pristine coastline and is a nearby neighbor to Redondo, Hermosa and Manhattan beaches. This soft sand beach is at the foot of the cliffs which extend to Palos Verdes Peninsula, Daniel's hometown. What makes Torrance Beach special is its relaxed, local vibe. Daniel and Ella have spent many beach days together here, and it's the beach that Daniel grew up going to. There is a large parking lot as well as side streets. Amenities include restrooms, a concession stand, showers, a bike path, and volleyball nets.
The Riviera Village is a hub for fashion and art, with galleries, boutiques, and an excellent restaurant scene. Nestled between Pacific Coast Highway and the ocean, you'll find over 300 shops and restaurants. Just steps from the beach, it's the perfect place to grab lunch, browse unique stores, or enjoy a sunset dinner after a day at the beach. Our favorite spots include the Riviera Mexican Grill, Hook & Plow, Coffee Cartel, and Locale 90 Pizza Market.
The Redondo Beach pier is special since it is the only pier in California shaped like a horseshoe. Come to the pier for everything from trinket shops to fine dining. There are plenty of places to sit and relax while taking in stunning views of the Pacific. Beyond dining and shopping, you can enjoy activities like glass bottom boat rides and water gear rentals.
Just steps from the hotel, visit Old Tony's on the pier—a Redondo Beach institution since 1952 with cheap drinks, killer ocean views, and live music nightly (except Monday). Naja's Place offers 100+ beers on tap with a dockside atmosphere. For the full South Bay experience, head to Hermosa Beach's famous Pier Avenue strip. The Lighthouse on Pier Plaza has been a music hotspot since the 1940s and became one of the USA's best jazz clubs in the 1960s. Sharkeez offers surf-style vibes, while Hennessey's Tavern provides Irish pub atmosphere with outdoor seating. American Junkie features live music and weekend DJs. Hermosa Beach offers one of LA's densest concentrations of nightlife, from dive bars to upscale lounges—all within walking distance.