If you’ve never explored San Pedro, California, I think you’re in for a really pleasant surprise. When I first visited, I expected a quiet port town. But what I found was a coastal gem packed with personality, history, and incredible views. You can start your day walking along the waterfront, and watching massive ships roll in. Then grab lunch at a local seafood spot where everything tastes fresh from the ocean. Whether you’re into maritime history, local culture, or just love a laid-back beach-town feel with real soul, I think you’ll really enjoy what San Pedro has to offer.
San Pedro, CA Highlights:
- Visit the Battleship USS Iowa Museum: Step aboard a WWII-era battleship and explore interactive naval exhibits right on the LA Waterfront.
- Stroll the scenic Point Fermin Park: Enjoy cliffside trails, picnic spots, and panoramic views of the Pacific.
- Tour the Cabrillo Marine Aquarium: Discover local sea life through touch tanks, exhibits, and tidepool walks.
- Explore the historic Ports O’ Call Village: Walk the waterfront, browse shops, and try fresh seafood with harbor views.
- Relax at White Point/Royal Palms Beach: Beachcomb tide pools and watch surfers in this hidden coastal gem.
Best Time to Visit San Pedro, CA
The best time to visit San Pedro is from March to November, when sunny weather allows for ocean breezes, beach time, and outdoor festivals. Summer is especially lively, with events and harbor cruises in full swing.
How to Get to San Pedro, CA
- If you are traveling by car: San Pedro is easily accessed via I-110 South from downtown Los Angeles (about 30–40 minutes depending on traffic).
- By public transit: Metro’s Silver Line and DASH buses serve San Pedro from the LA area. Nearby Long Beach also offers connecting buses and ferries.
- By cruise: San Pedro is home to the Port of Los Angeles World Cruise Center, welcoming travelers from international cruise lines.
Where to Stay in San Pedro, CA
- Crowne Plaza Los Angeles Harbor Hotel – Upscale waterfront hotel near the USS Iowa with harbor views and modern amenities.
- DoubleTree by Hilton San Pedro – Port of Los Angeles – Comfortable stay with a marina-side setting, pool, and shuttle service.
Best Things to Do in San Pedro, CA
1. Ring in Peace at the Korean Bell of Friendship
Rating: ★★★★★
The Korean Bell of Friendship is a Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument that can be found in the San Pedro neighborhood. The bell was given, as a gift, to the United States by the South Korean government as a way of symbolizing friendship between the two countries. The gigantic bronze bell is one of the largest in the world and is held in a stone pavilion in Angel’s Gate Park. It is a popular attraction with people visiting the area and if you find yourself there on the first Saturday of each month, you’ll be able to hear the bell run thirteen times for the public to enjoy.
3601 S Gaffey St, San Pedro, CA 90731, Phone: 310-548-7705
2. Dive into Discovery at the Center for Marine Studies
Established in 1992, the Center for Marine Studies has been rehabilitating seals and sea lions which are rescued from the L.A. County coastline for over twenty-five years. Many of the marine animals which are brought to the center were found stranded on beaches due to injury, illness, or malnutrition. The center focuses on treating and releasing them back to their natural habitats. During your visit there you’ll be able to see where the animals are safely kept in habitats that mimic what they’re used to, and which enable their natural wild behavior. Be sure to stop by the Visitor Center and Gift Shop to learn about behind-the-scenes activities and purchase souvenirs to remember your experience.
3601 S. Gaffey #8, San Pedro, CA 90731, Phone: 310-548-5677
3. Picnic with a View at Point Fermin Park
If you’re in San Pedro and want a relaxing spot with stunning views, I definitely recommend spending some time at Point Fermin Park.
I’ve gone there with friends, and it’s such a peaceful place to spend the day. Perched on the southernmost tip of Los Angeles, the park has this wide-open feel.
You can see the coastline, the Channel Islands, and even Santa Catalina Island on a clear day.
And if you’re lucky like I was, you might spot harbor seals sunbathing or dolphins playing in the surf below.
Point Fermin Park is one of those laid-back, beautiful spots I always tell people not to miss.
807 West Paseo Del Mar, San Pedro, CA 90731, Phone: 310-548-7705
4. Step Aboard the Past at the Los Angeles Maritime Museum
Held in the former Municipal Ferry Terminal building, the Los Angeles Maritime Museum was established in 1979 as a means of preserving maritime culture while also saving the historic building which was built in 1941. The building is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places and recognized as a Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument. You’ll see several exhibits at the museum including large ship models such as the ‘SS Poseidon’ from the 1972 disaster film and the U.S. Navy cruiser ‘Los Angeles’. Other popular exhibits are dedicated to the once-thriving fishing industry in San Pedro as well as the San Pedro Fishermen’s Fiesta.
600 Sampson Way (Berth 84), San Pedro, CA 90731, Phone: 310-548-7618
Activities and Attractions for Couples:
5. Explore the Bunkers at Fort MacArthur Military Museum
Located at the site of Battery Osgood-Farley, the Fort MacArthur Military Museum was established in 1985 while the fort itself guarded the harbor from 1914 to 1974. The museum displays several exhibits on the history of Fort MacArthur and the role of Los Angeles as a military port. You’ll be able to see artifacts and memorabilia from the U.S. Army defending the American coastline during the World Wars, Civil Defense, and other military campaigns. The museum hosts several events throughout the year including their popular Old Fort MacArthur Days which is one of the nation’s largest celebrations of world military.
3601 S Gaffey St, San Pedro, CA 90731, Phone: 310-548-2631
6. Feast by the Water at San Pedro Fish Market & Restaurant
The San Pedro Fish Market & Restaurant is open 365 days a year for residents and visitors of the area to come explore and enjoy a delicious meal. The restaurant initially started as a small corner store and is now a 3,000-seat, renowned establishment right in the center of San Pedro’s waterfront. They’ve won many awards over the years including four Guinness World Records as well as being identified as the ‘5th Most Instagrammed Restaurant in the US’. You’re sure to have a culinary experience like no other as you pick your choice of fish or other seafood, let the team know how you like it prepared, and add the perfect toppings to make your meal complete.
1190 Nagoya Way, San Pedro, CA 90731, Phone: 310-832-4251, (website link)
7. Cruise the Coast with L.A. Waterfront Cruises
L.A. Waterfront Cruises offers waterfront, harbor, and whale-watching cruises from San Pedro all year long. Spend your days aboard their state-of-the-art boats with the professional and friendly staff searching for dolphins, whales, and several other marine animals. Most common sightings include blue whales, gray whales, bottlenose dolphins, harbor seals, California sea lions, and much more. Tours of the harbor are educational and exciting for the entire family, while anglers may prefer going on a sport fishing tour or charter their very own boat. The Triton, their most popular option, is a sixty-foot-long boat that can hold up to 22 anglers overnight along with a 180-scoop bait tank, large RSW fish hold, a fresh water maker, and a side scan sonar.
Ports O’Call Village: Berth 79, 1150 Nagoya Way, San Pedro, CA, 90731, Phone: 310-547-9916
What to do if you are traveling with kids:
8. Escape to the Tide Pools at Royal Palms State Beach
Located on the former site of a hot springs resort, the Royal Palms State Beach is a wonderful spot to enjoy San Pedro’s lovely weather. It’s an excellent place to have a picnic while enjoying the stunning views that surround you, though much of the beach is rocky making it perfect for beach combing. The beach is popular with local surfers looking to ride a few waves while other activities you can partake in also include scuba diving, swimming, and fishing. You’ll find the White Point Nature Preserve adjacent to the beach and is a perfect place to go hiking and take in some of the amazing views of the beach.
Find it on the Map:
9. Watch the World Move at the Port of Los Angeles
Often called America’s Port, the The Port of Los Angeles is America’s premier gateway for international commerce. The thriving seaport, which is a main feature of the Los Angeles waterfront and is surrounded by historical landmarks, is recognized around the world for its record-setting cargo operations and progressive security measures. You’ll be able to see several ships, cruise and cargo, come and go at the port; there are also several fun, family-friendly events held there throughout the year. One of their most popular events is L.A. Fleet Week which is a multi-day celebration that includes public ship tours, aircraft flyovers, and much more.
10. White Point
Comprising a park, nature preserve, and a beach, White Point is a popular place in San Pedro to spend the day outdoors. Though you can’t enjoy sunbathing on the beach’s rocky shoreline, visitors can partake in several other activities such as beachcombing, tide pooling at low tide, and scuba diving at high tide. (website link)
The park is fitted with a large expanse of green that you can play and picnic on; it also has amenities such as benches and picnic tables from which you can enjoy stunning views of the bluffs. If you’re in the mood to get up close with the area’s flora and fauna, then head on over to the hiking trails at the nature preserve.
Where to Eat in San Pedro, CA
- San Pedro Fish Market – Famous for giant seafood trays, ocean views, and a lively, casual atmosphere.
- J. Trani’s Ristorante – Family-owned Italian restaurant serving seafood, steaks, and housemade pastas since 1925.
- Pacific Diner – Classic American breakfast spot known for big portions and local charm.
If you are interested in local events:
- San Pedro Lobster Festival (September) – Celebrate seafood with live music, food booths, and waterfront fun.
- First Thursday ArtWalk – Monthly downtown event featuring local galleries, street vendors, and music.
- Holiday Parade & LA Harbor Lights (December) – Festive boat parade and family activities along the harbor.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of San Pedro, California:
- Long Beach (25–30 min) – Visit the Aquarium of the Pacific, shop at Shoreline Village, or tour the Queen Mary.
- Palos Verdes Peninsula (20–25 min) – Hike oceanfront cliffs at Abalone Cove or see the Point Vicente Lighthouse.
- Torrance (20–25 min) – Relax at Torrance Beach or explore boutique shopping and ramen spots in its Japanese district.
- Redondo Beach (25–30 min) – Walk the pier, dine oceanfront, or rent bikes along The Strand.
- Wilmington (10–15 min) – Explore Banning Museum or visit Drum Barracks, LA’s Civil War-era outpost.
📔 I get asked this a lot so I decided to include it:
- Question: What makes San Pedro a great vacation destination?
- Answer: San Pedro has everything you dream your vacation destination will have: art galleries, cultural destinations, historical sights, children-centered attractions, and renowned dining establishments.
- Question: What are some must-see places in San Pedro?
- Answer: You are sure to have an amazing time as you spend your days exploring places such as the Cabrillo Marine Aquarium, Fort MacArthur Military Museum, Royal Palms State Beach, and the Port of Los Angeles.
Plan Your Trip