South Bay, California, is an amazing destination for families with kids. Located along the southwestern edge of Los Angeles County, South Bay offers an array of activities and attractions that will captivate children of all ages. Whether you’re a local resident or visiting the area, there’s no shortage of things to do in South Bay for kids. From sandy beaches and outdoor parks to interactive museums and fun-filled entertainment centers, South Bay has something for everyone.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore some of the best things to do in South Bay, California, with kids. Get ready for a fun-filled day with your little ones as you discover the best attractions the area has to offer!
1. Explore the Beautiful Beaches
South Bay is home to some of the most picturesque beaches in Southern California. These beaches are perfect for kids to run around, play, and even learn to surf. Here are some of the best beach destinations for families:
Manhattan Beach
Known for its golden sands and family-friendly atmosphere, Manhattan Beach is an ideal spot for kids. The beach has a designated area for volleyball, plenty of space for kids to play in the sand, and calm waves that make it a great spot for beginners to try surfing. The Manhattan Beach Pier also offers an aquarium at the end, providing a fun and educational experience for kids.
Things to Do:
- Build sandcastles
- Swim or boogie board
- Visit the Roundhouse Aquarium
- Take a bike ride along the beach path
Redondo Beach
Redondo Beach features a long, scenic pier with a variety of kid-friendly activities. The Redondo Beach Pier offers great opportunities for fishing, eating at family-friendly restaurants, and even riding the carousel. The beach area is also great for kids to play in the sand, and there are often outdoor events and festivals that kids will love.
Things to Do:
- Ride the carousel at the pier
- Play in the sand or explore the tide pools
- Have lunch at a local restaurant with an ocean view
Hermosa Beach
Just south of Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach is another kid-friendly spot with a laid-back vibe. The Hermosa Beach Pier is often less crowded, providing a quieter spot for families to enjoy. You can rent bikes or rollerblades and cruise along the beach path, or simply relax and watch the kids play in the surf.
Things to Do:
- Rent bikes or scooters
- Spend time on the beach
- Enjoy the local cafes and ice cream shops
2. Visit the South Coast Botanic Garden
For a peaceful and educational experience, head to the South Coast Botanic Garden in Palos Verdes. The garden features beautiful landscapes, walking trails, and even a dedicated children’s garden. The children’s garden includes fun features like a butterfly garden, a treehouse, and a natural play area where kids can run, climb, and explore nature.
Things to Do:
- Explore the children’s garden and interactive exhibits
- Have a family picnic in the garden
- Attend seasonal events like nature walks or educational workshops
3. Check Out the Children’s Museum of La Habra
The Children’s Museum of La Habra is a fantastic place for kids to explore and engage in hands-on learning activities. This interactive museum offers a variety of exhibits designed for children of all ages, with a special focus on creative play, science, and art. From pretending to be a firefighter in a mini fire truck to experimenting with interactive science exhibits, there’s always something new and exciting for kids to enjoy.
Things to Do:
- Engage in hands-on exhibits and learning stations
- Explore the art studio and get creative
- Participate in educational workshops and events
4. Go on a Nature Hike at the Palos Verdes Peninsula
For families who love to be outdoors, the Palos Verdes Peninsula offers beautiful hiking trails that are perfect for kids. The Palos Verdes Nature Preserve is a vast area of protected land that features easy-to-moderate trails, stunning ocean views, and plenty of wildlife. Hikes like the Ocean Trails Reserve or Abalone Cove Shoreline Park are relatively short, making them perfect for young adventurers.
Things to Do:
- Hike the family-friendly trails
- Look for wildlife such as birds, rabbits, and lizards
- Enjoy a picnic with a scenic ocean view
5. Visit the Cabrillo Marine Aquarium
Located in San Pedro, the Cabrillo Marine Aquarium is a fun and educational destination for kids. This waterfront aquarium showcases local marine life from the waters of Southern California. Children will love seeing everything from sea lions and dolphins to starfish and sea anemones. The aquarium also offers hands-on exhibits and educational programs for kids to learn about marine biology.
Things to Do:
- Explore the exhibits showcasing marine life
- Participate in interactive programs and touch tanks
- Learn about the conservation of local ecosystems
6. Go Mini-Golfing at Golf N’ Stuff
For a fun and competitive family outing, visit Golf N’ Stuff in Torrance. This entertainment complex features a miniature golf course, go-karts, bumper boats, and an arcade. It’s a great way for kids to engage in some friendly competition while having fun in a safe and exciting environment.
Things to Do:
- Play a round of mini-golf
- Ride the go-karts and challenge each other to races
- Try your luck at the arcade games
7. Explore the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)
The Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), though not technically in South Bay, is an easy drive from the area and offers a wonderful experience for kids who love art and culture. LACMA is home to an extensive collection of art from around the world, and the museum also offers kid-friendly programs and hands-on activities through their Family Art Studio. Additionally, the famous Urban Light installation outside LACMA is a fun and iconic photo opportunity for families.
Things to Do:
- Visit the Family Art Studio for creative activities
- Explore the interactive exhibits and outdoor sculptures
- Take a picture with the famous Urban Light installation
8. Attend the Farmers Market at Torrance
If you’re looking for a relaxed yet fun activity, take the kids to the Torrance Farmers Market. This vibrant market, held weekly, offers fresh produce, local goods, and a family-friendly atmosphere. The market also features live music, making it an enjoyable outing for all ages. Kids can explore the different stands, sample some fresh fruit, and enjoy the lively community vibe.
Things to Do:
- Explore the farmers market and sample local treats
- Pick up fresh fruits and vegetables to bring home
- Listen to live music and enjoy the outdoor atmosphere
9. Experience the Los Angeles Air Force Base Museum
Located in El Segundo, the Los Angeles Air Force Base Museum offers an exciting opportunity for kids to learn about aviation, space exploration, and the history of aerospace technology. With various exhibits featuring aircraft, models, and interactive displays, this museum provides a hands-on experience for young aviation enthusiasts.
Things to Do:
- Explore the aircraft exhibits and models
- Learn about the history of space exploration
- Attend a special event or demonstration
10. Visit The Aquarium of the Pacific
Although not directly in South Bay, the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach is a short drive away and offers a truly immersive experience for children. The aquarium showcases marine life from the Pacific Ocean and includes interactive exhibits, touch tanks, and a variety of sea creatures like sharks, penguins, and jellyfish. Kids will love the hands-on experiences and learning about ocean conservation.
Things to Do:
- Explore the diverse marine life exhibits
- Participate in animal encounters and touch tanks
- Attend educational programs or workshops
11. Take a Ride on the Beach Cities Transit Trolley
For a more laid-back activity, hop on the Beach Cities Transit Trolley and take a scenic ride around South Bay. The trolley offers a fun and easy way to explore the area, stopping at key points like Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, and Redondo Beach. Kids will enjoy the open-air ride, and it’s a great way to see the local sights without having to walk long distances.
Things to Do:
- Ride the trolley and explore South Bay
- Stop at the beaches for a fun break
- Have a picnic at one of the local parks
12. Spend a Day at Alondra Park
Alondra Park, located in Lawndale, is a great spot for outdoor play with the family. The park features spacious picnic areas, playgrounds, and a beautiful lake where kids can feed the ducks or go fishing. The park also has sports fields and walking paths, making it perfect for an active day out.
Things to Do:
- Have a picnic or barbecue in the designated areas
- Feed the ducks by the lake
- Play on the playgrounds or sports fields
Conclusion
South Bay, California, is packed with family-friendly activities that are perfect for kids. From the sunny beaches of Manhattan Beach and Redondo Beach to interactive museums and nature trails, there is something for every interest. Whether you’re in the mood for a relaxing day at the beach, an educational trip to a museum, or an adventurous hike, South Bay has it all. So pack your bags and get ready for a memorable adventure with your kids in this beautiful part of Southern California!
