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The perfect way to spend a frugal day in Manhattan Beach - California

Looking for a fun and affordable date day or family outing in the Los Angeles area? Look no further than Manhattan Beach! This beach town has something for everyone, from surfing to shopping to exploring local history. Here's a suggested itinerary to make the most of your day in Manhattan Beach:


8:00 a.m. - Uncle Bill's Pancake House

Start your day off right with a delicious breakfast at Uncle Bill's Pancake House. This popular spot fills up fast, so be sure to put your name down for a reservation when you arrive. With a wide range of pancake flavors and other breakfast options, you're sure to find something you love.

10:00 a.m. - Roundhouse aquarium

After breakfast, head over to the Manhattan Beach aquarium for some marine life viewing. You'll walk across the Manhattan Beach Pier and get great views of the ocean and the coastline. This small aquarium is fully funded by donations and features a variety of California sea creatures, including the state fish, the Garibaldi, and an octopus. You can also check out the jellyfish tanks and other exhibits. It's a great spot to bring the whole family.

11:00 a.m. - Polliwog Park.

For a bit of local history, head over to Polliwog Park. The park is home to the Manhattan Beach Historical Society, which is housed in a small red cottage. You can learn about the history of the area and also explore the small botanical garden and exercise park. If you're visiting in the summer, be sure to check out the free concerts and bands that play in the amphitheater on the weekends Bring a blanket, and some snacks, and enjoy some live music by the grassy, well-shaded park.


12:00 p.m - Walk the shops

Take a leisurely stroll through the town and explore the many shops and boutiques in the area. Manhattan Beach is known for being dog-friendly and bike-friendly, so keep an eye out for furry friends and cyclists as you walk around. D

1:00 p.m. - Grab a snack at PresoTea or Paradise Bowls

For a midday snack or drink, check out PresoTea or Paradise Bowls. At PresoTea, try the matcha pearl milk tea, while at Paradise Bowls, the chocolate acai bowl is a must-try. Both places can get pretty busy, so consider ordering ahead on snack pass to save some time.

4:00 pm - Surf, swim, play some volleyball, or wait for the sunset

The beautiful beach is one of its most notable features of Manhattan Beach, where visitors can enjoy a day of relaxation, sunbathing, and swimming in the ocean. It's worth noting that the water is colder than on the Atlantic coast, so renting a wetsuit is recommended for East Coast visitors. Additionally, Manhattan Beach has a thriving beach volleyball culture, and watching some of the world's best players is a must-do activity. Finally, the sunsets at Manhattan Beach are simply breathtaking. Finding a spot on the beach to watch the sun go down over the ocean is the perfect way to end a day in this charming beach town.

6:00 p.m. - Sugarfish

Finish off your day with a delicious dinner at Sugarfish, a popular sushi spot known for its high-quality fish. Be sure to try the toro, a customer favorite. And here's a pro tip: you can find free parking at the local library, which is just a five-minute walk from the center of Manhattan Beach.

Pointing out the Toro piece that I love so much

Living in LA can be expensive, but a day trip to Manhattan Beach doesn't have to be. With the exception of food and drinks, all of the activities on this itinerary are free. So grab your friends and family and enjoy a fun-filled day in this charming beach town.

Tip: Go to the Manhattan Beach Library to get free parking.







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