46 Fun Things to Do in Redondo Beach With Kids: An Ultimate Guide!
Looking for things to do in Redondo Beach with kids? You're in luck. This laid-back South Bay city packs a working harbor, a horseshoe-shaped pier, a mile and a half of sandy beach and a surprising number of neighborhood parks into one easy drive from the rest of LA. Sea lions bark from the docks, fishing boats head out at dawn, and there's usually a shave ice line somewhere nearby.
Here, you'll find harbor adventures, free parks and beaches, rainy-day picks, kid-approved food, annual events and a handful of easy add-ons in Hermosa Beach, Manhattan Beach, Torrance and the Palos Verdes Peninsula.
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Kids Activities Near Me (Redondo Beach Edition): At a Glance
Where it is: Redondo Beach is a coastal South Bay city in Los Angeles County (ZIP codes 90277 and 90278), between Hermosa Beach to the north and Torrance and the Palos Verdes Peninsula to the south.
Best for: Toddlers through teens. Little ones love the beach, the glass bottom boat and the playgrounds, while older kids go for paddleboarding, sportfishing, skating and whale watching.
Getting there & parking: Most waterfront fun clusters around the Redondo Beach Pier and King Harbor, where you'll find paid parking structures and lots. Riviera Village in South Redondo has metered street parking and a paid garage.
Best time to go: Weekday mornings are calmest. Whale watching peaks with gray whales in winter and spring and blue whales in summer. Summer weekends get busy, so arrive early.
Free favorites: Redondo Beach, The Strand bike path, fishing off the pier (no license needed on a public ocean pier in California), Hopkins Wilderness Park, Dominguez Park, the Historical Museum, the libraries and free summer concerts on the pier.
Heads-up for 2026: Seaside Lagoon is closed for the 2026 season while the city plans renovations, the Redondo Fun Factory arcade and the SEA Lab are closed, and the South Bay Galleria building is closing for redevelopment.
Things to Do in Redondo Beach With Kids on the Pier and in King Harbor
Start here. The pier and harbor are the heart of Redondo, and you can easily fill a whole day without moving the car.
100 Fisherman's Wharf
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
Cost: Free to walk; food and activities vary
Best for: All ages
The Redondo Beach Pier isn't a straight line like most SoCal piers. It bends into a horseshoe, so kids get ocean views on both sides and a loop that feels like an adventure for small legs. Along the way you'll find seafood counters, snack stands, souvenir shops, fishing spots and wide-open views of the Palos Verdes hills.
Sea lions are the real stars. Listen for barking near the harbor end and you'll often spot a few lounging on docks and buoys. The pier is also the launch point for whale watching, sportfishing, paddleboarding and more, so treat it as base camp.
Parent tip: The pier parking structures fill fast on summer weekends. Arrive before 10 a.m., and keep a hand on little ones near the railings since some sections have wide gaps.
100 Fisherman's Wharf
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
Cost: Free (bring or buy bait and tackle)
Best for: Ages 5+
Here's a fun fact for budget-minded parents: California doesn't require a fishing license to fish from a public pier in ocean waters. That makes the Redondo Beach Pier one of the easiest places in LA to hand a kid a rod and let them try their luck. Local anglers are usually happy to share what's biting.
The pier association lists a bait and tackle shop right on the pier, so you don't need to arrive fully outfitted. Mackerel and small fish are common catches, which is perfect for short attention spans that need action.
Parent tip: Bring a small towel, hand wipes and a bucket. Pier fishing rules (bag limits and size limits) still apply, so check the California Department of Fish and Wildlife rules before you keep anything.
140 International Boardwalk
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
Cost: Paid; check the official site for current prices
Best for: Ages 4+
Redondo Beach Whale Watch runs daily cruises from the pier with a fleet of six boats. Gray whales pass through in winter and spring, and blue whales, the largest animals on Earth, show up in summer. Dolphins are a frequent bonus, and sometimes they put on more of a show than the whales.
Cruises and departure times change with the season, and the live schedule is posted on the operator's reservation site. It's a great "big day out" activity for school-age kids who can handle a couple of hours on the water.
Parent tip: Even on sunny days it's chilly offshore. Pack layers, snacks and motion-sickness remedies if your crew is prone to it, and sit near the middle of the boat where the ride is smoothest.
140 International Boardwalk
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
Cost: Half-day trips from $51.75 when booked online
Best for: Ages 8+
Ready to graduate from pier fishing? Redondo Beach Sportfishing runs half-day trips to local fishing grounds that the operator describes as perfect for families and first-timers. Full-day trips head toward the islands and offshore for older kids who've caught the bug.
Rod rentals, a tackle shop and fishing licenses are all available on-site, so beginners can show up with just sunscreen and snacks. Private charters are also available if you're planning a birthday or a family reunion.
Parent tip: The half-day trip is the sweet spot for kids. Book online for the lower rate, and remember that anyone 16 or older needs a California fishing license on the boat (you can buy it on-site).
181 N. Harbor Drive
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
Cost: Kids 12 and under $15; teens $25; adults $35
Best for: Ages 2–10
This yellow semi-submarine might be the best 45 minutes in Redondo for little kids. The tour starts on the top deck, where you'll cruise past California sea lions, then everyone heads below the waterline to peer through the underwater viewing windows at fish, kelp and whatever else swims by.
It's short, calm and easy, which makes it a great intro to boats for preschoolers. The operator even offers a wildlife guarantee, promising a refund if you don't see wildlife.
Parent tip: Toddlers do best on a morning tour before nap time. Check the online schedule before you go, since departures vary by season and weather.
164 International Boardwalk
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
Cost: Stand-up paddleboard rental $35 for 2 hours (includes a free lesson)
Best for: Ages 10+ and parents
King Harbor's protected water is one of the calmest places in the South Bay to try stand-up paddleboarding. Paddle House rents boards right on the International Boardwalk, and every rental comes with a quick lesson from staff who clearly love this sport.
Older kids and teens can paddle alongside you, and younger children can sometimes ride on the front of a parent's board once you're steady. Keep an eye out for sea lions popping up to see what you're doing. For something different, Paddle House also offers glowing LED night tours for groups of six or more.
Parent tip: Summer hours are weekdays 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and weekends 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; winter hours shift to Tuesday through Friday plus weekends. Ask about kids' age and life jacket requirements when you call ahead.
181 N. Harbor Drive
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
Cost: Paid; check with the rental desk for current prices
Best for: Ages 4+ with an adult
Pedal boats are the easiest way to get a whole family out on the water with zero experience. You pedal, you steer, you laugh when someone goes in circles. The harbor rental shops near the glass bottom boat also rent kayaks and paddleboards, so older kids can graduate to their own craft.
The inner harbor is sheltered from ocean swells, and you'll putter past sailboats, fishing boats and the resident sea lions. It's an easy one-hour adventure that kids talk about for weeks.
Parent tip: Read our kayaking safety tips for kids before you go. Afternoon winds pick up in the harbor, so mornings are easier for little paddlers.
181 N. Harbor Drive
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
Cost: Paid; check the official site for lessons and charters
Best for: Ages 10+ and families
South Bay Sailing is an American Sailing Association school based in King Harbor, offering sailing lessons and captained charters. A private family sail is a memorable way to see the coastline from the water, and teens who get hooked can go on to take real certification courses.
A sunset sail is a lovely splurge for a birthday or a visit from grandparents. Kids get to watch the crew work the sails, and some captains let older kids take a turn at the helm.
Parent tip: Ask about family-friendly charter options when booking. Bring closed-toe shoes with good grip and a warm hoodie for the ride back in.
N. Harbor Drive at Portofino Way
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
Cost: Free
Best for: All ages; stroller-friendly
Sometimes the simplest outing is the best one. King Harbor's walkways wind past docks full of sailboats and fishing boats, and kids love reading the boat names and spotting sea lions and pelicans. It's an easy, flat stroll that's great for strollers and scooters.
The harbor also connects to restaurants, rentals and cruises, so you can turn a walk into a longer outing whenever energy allows. Around the holidays, the docks become the stage for the King Harbor Holiday Boat Parade.
Parent tip: Pair a morning harbor walk with an early lunch at Captain Kidd's (see below), then head home before the afternoon parking crunch.
Western end of Marina Way
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
Cost: Free
Best for: All ages
Tucked at the far end of Marina Way, Moonstone Park sits right at the edge of King Harbor with views of boats heading in and out of the marina. It's a quiet little patch of green where kids can run while you soak up the harbor scenery.
It's a good spot for a picnic lunch or a break from the busier pier area. Watching the boats glide past is surprisingly entertaining for toddlers.
Parent tip: This is a lovely place for a low-key snack break. Bring a picnic blanket since there's not much else here, and that's the point.
500 Fisherman's Wharf
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
Cost: Free
Best for: Ages 6+ with boards, scooters or skates
Listed among the pier's official activities, this oceanfront skatepark gives young skaters a place to practice with a salty breeze and a view. It's a fun stop for kids who bring their own boards or scooters.
Watching the older skaters is its own form of entertainment for younger siblings. Just be clear with little ones about staying off the ramps unless they're riding.
Parent tip: Helmets and pads are a must. Go early on weekends before the park gets crowded with teens.
Beaches and Outdoor Fun in Redondo Beach
400–1700 Esplanade
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
Cost: Free (paid parking)
Best for: All ages
Redondo Beach stretches more than a mile and a half from the pier south to Torrance Beach, with sand for digging, waves for boogie boarding and lifeguards on duty during daylight hours. There are restrooms, showers and volleyball nets, and the county even offers beach wheelchairs.
The beach sits below a bluff along the Esplanade, so you'll take stairs down from street level in many spots. The payoff is a less crowded feel than many LA beaches, especially on weekdays.
Parent tip: The stairs can be a workout with a wagon full of gear. For the easiest access, park near the pier and walk south along the sand, or use one of the beach access points closest to the lifeguard towers.
Access at Redondo Beach Pier, 100 Fisherman's Wharf
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
Cost: Free (bike rentals available at the pier)
Best for: Ages 5+ on bikes; all ages in strollers
LA County's famous beach bike path runs along the sand through Redondo and north into Hermosa and Manhattan Beach. It's flat, scenic and car-free, which makes it ideal for kids who are still getting confident on two wheels.
The pier association lists bike and e-bike rental shops near the pier if you'd rather not haul bikes from home. Ride north to Hermosa Beach Pier for a snack stop and head back when legs get tired.
Parent tip: The path gets crowded on weekend afternoons. Ride in the morning, keep kids to the right, and remind them the path is for bikes, not a racetrack.
309 Esplanade
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
Cost: Free
Best for: All ages
Veterans Park sits on the bluff just south of the pier with wide lawns, shade trees and big ocean views. It's where the Thursday farmers market sets up, and it's an easy place to spread out a blanket before or after a pier visit.
The city has also been preparing a Veterans Historical Library at the park. Kids mostly come for the grass and the view, and on clear days you can see all the way down the coast to Palos Verdes.
Parent tip: This park works as a great "meet-up" spot if you're coordinating with other families. Use the pier parking structure and walk up.
1102 Camino Real
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
Cost: Free for day visits
Hours: 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.; closed Wednesdays
Best for: Ages 2–10
This 11-acre park feels like a secret forest tucked into a residential neighborhood. Hopkins Wilderness Park packs four little habitats into one place: a small forest, meadows, a stream and a pond. Kids can wander trails, look for birds and turtles, and pretend they're miles from the city.
There's an amphitheater, restrooms and picnic sites, and the rules keep it peaceful: no pets, no bikes, no alcohol and no smoking. It's a wonderful outing for preschoolers who want to explore without a big hike.
Parent tip: Remember it's closed on Wednesdays for maintenance. Wear closed-toe shoes, bring a magnifying glass or a nature bingo card, and pack your lunch since there's no food on-site.
1102 Camino Real
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
Cost: Staffing fee per overnight reservation (see city site)
Reservations: Required, 2 weeks to 6 months ahead
Best for: Scout troops, school groups and big family gatherings
Want to camp without leaving the city? Hopkins Wilderness Park offers overnight tent camping by reservation, with three campgrounds that can each hold a group of up to 40 people. It's a popular spot for scout troops, but a big group of families can book it, too.
Campers arrive at 2 p.m. and leave by noon the next day. Tent camping only, so no RVs. The city lists a staffing fee of $374 per overnight reservation, which becomes pretty affordable when you split it among several families.
Parent tip: Reservations are handled through the Alta Vista Racquet Center at 715 Julia Avenue. Book early for spring and fall weekends, and see our guide to family campgrounds near LA for bigger camping trips.
200 Flagler Lane
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
Cost: Free
Best for: All ages
At 24 acres, Dominguez Park is one of Redondo's biggest green spaces, with lots of shade trees, picnic areas, a playground and two Little League fields. It's the kind of park where you can set up for the whole afternoon.
It's also home to the Heritage Court and the Redondo Beach Historical Museum, so you can mix playground time with a quick peek into local history. Weekend Little League games add a fun, community-day energy in season.
Parent tip: Bring a picnic and plan a combo visit with the Historical Museum, which is open limited hours on Wednesdays and weekends.
Dominguez Park, 200 Flagler Lane
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
Cost: Free
Hours: Dawn to dusk; closed Wednesday mornings until noon
Best for: Families with dogs
If the family dog counts as one of the kids, this is their spot. The off-leash dog park inside Dominguez Park has separate areas for large and small dogs, so tiny pups don't get bowled over.
Kids who love animals enjoy watching all the breeds come and go, even if you don't have a dog of your own. Just keep little ones by your side and ask before petting.
Parent tip: Young children should stay outside the fence or close to a parent inside. Pair this with the playground on the other side of the park.
715 Julia Avenue
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
Cost: Free (court fees apply)
Best for: All ages
Alta Vista Park sits on a hill in South Redondo and is a true neighborhood hub. There's a playground, a picnic shelter, a big field, a dog run and the city's racquet center, where older kids can take tennis lessons or play pickleball.
It's a local favorite for weekend soccer and after-school play. And as the name hints, there are nice views from the higher ground.
Parent tip: This is where you'll reserve Hopkins Wilderness Park campsites, so it's easy to handle both errands in one trip. Check the racquet center for youth tennis programs.
2229 Ernest Avenue
Redondo Beach, CA 90278
Cost: Free
Best for: Ages 2–12
North Redondo families know Anderson Park for its playground, courts and party-friendly setup. The city has designated moon bounce areas here, which makes it a go-to for birthday parties, plus tennis, basketball and pickleball courts for older kids.
Scout houses and a senior center round out the park, giving it a real community feel. It's a solid everyday park when you just need to get the wiggles out.
Parent tip: Planning a party? Ask the city about moon bounce permits and picnic reservations well ahead of busy spring weekends.
807 Inglewood Avenue
Redondo Beach, CA 90278
Cost: Free
Best for: Ages 2–12
Franklin Park is another friendly North Redondo park with a playground, basketball and pickleball courts and even shuffleboard, which grandparents can teach kids in about 30 seconds. Like Anderson Park, it has designated moon bounce areas for parties.
It's a quieter alternative when the beach feels like too much. Pack scooters, a ball and a few snacks and you're set for a relaxed afternoon.
Parent tip: Shuffleboard is a great intro game for kids 5 and up. Bring your own ball and sidewalk chalk for extra play.
2301 Grant Avenue
Redondo Beach, CA 90278
Cost: Free
Best for: Ages 3–17
Perry Park covers a little over four acres in North Redondo, with play equipment, picnic areas, lighted basketball and pickleball courts and a sports field with a small stadium and dugouts. It's a nice all-rounder for siblings of different ages.
The park is also home to the city's Teen Center, a 4,000-plus-square-foot space for local teens. It's worth knowing about if you have a tween or teen looking for a place to hang out and join activities.
Parent tip: Check the city's Teen Center page for current programs and hours before sending teens over.
1935 Manhattan Beach Boulevard
Redondo Beach, CA 90278
Cost: Free for public areas; programs vary
Best for: Active kids and sports families
Aviation Park is Redondo's sports and recreation campus, with gyms, a dance room, a lighted track and a football and soccer field. Many city youth classes and sports leagues meet here, so it's a great place to find an after-school activity.
It's also home to the Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center, so you might find yourself here for a recital or a family show, too.
Parent tip: Browse the city's recreation classes before the season starts. Popular youth programs fill quickly.
Museums, Libraries and Rainy-Day Fun in Redondo Beach
302 Flagler Lane
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
Cost: No admission fee listed
Hours: Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m.–2 p.m.
Best for: Ages 6+
This little museum lives inside a 1904 Queen Anne house in Dominguez Park, and it's filled with photos, artifacts and old school yearbooks that show how Redondo grew from a seaside resort town. Kids enjoy spotting the differences between the old beach photos and the pier they know today.
Outside, Heritage Court has a rose garden, fountain and arbor that make a pretty backdrop for family photos. The neighboring Morrell House, built around 1906, is being restored to become more museum space.
Parent tip: It's closed on major holidays. Visit on a weekend, then walk over to the Dominguez Park playground afterward.
1935 Manhattan Beach Boulevard
Redondo Beach, CA 90278
Cost: Varies by show
Best for: Ages 4+
With more than 1,400 seats, the Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center hosts concerts, dance, theater and speaker events all year. Local dance companies and touring productions often bring family-friendly shows, especially around the holidays.
It's a great way to introduce kids to live theater without driving to downtown LA. The schedule changes constantly, so check what's coming up and look for shows geared toward children.
Parent tip: Buy tickets only through the center's website or its official ticket links. Aisle seats make bathroom breaks much easier with little kids.
303 N. Pacific Coast Highway
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
Cost: Free
Hours: Mon–Thu 11 a.m.–7 p.m.; Fri 10 a.m.–6 p.m.; Sat 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
Best for: All ages
The Main Library is a lifesaver on gray June mornings and rainy winter days. Kids can browse picture books, chapter books and graphic novels, and the library hosts children's programs throughout the year.
Free parking in the structure beneath the building makes this an easy stop. A library card also unlocks plenty of free perks, from e-books to special programs.
Parent tip: Check the library's events calendar for storytime days and times. Read our guide to free perks with your library card to get even more out of it.
2000 Artesia Boulevard
Redondo Beach, CA 90278
Cost: Free
Hours: Mon–Thu 11 a.m.–7 p.m.; Sat 9 a.m.–5 p.m.; closed Fri and Sun
Best for: All ages
North Redondo families have their own branch on Artesia Boulevard. It's smaller and cozier than the Main Library, which many parents prefer when they're wrangling toddlers.
It's a handy stop before or after errands in the neighborhood. Grab a stack of books for the week and let the kids pick one "just because" title each.
Parent tip: Park for free behind the library on Green Street. Remember this branch is closed on Fridays.
Shopping, Strolling and Farmers Markets
S. Catalina Avenue at Avenue I
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
Cost: Free to stroll
Best for: All ages
Riviera Village is South Redondo's walkable shopping district, just a few blocks from the beach. More than 200 boutiques, restaurants, galleries and cafes line the streets, and it has a friendly small-town feel that's easy to enjoy with a stroller.
Kids love the treat shops and the festive events, including Halloween trick-or-treating on October 31, 2026, and the annual Holiday Stroll with Santa in December. It's the perfect place to wander, grab ice cream and walk down to the sand.
Parent tip: Use the metered street spots or the paid Plaza Riviera garage. Weekday mornings are quietest, and Sunday brings the Riviera Village farmers market.
309 Esplanade (George Freeth Way and south side of Veterans Park)
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
When: Thursdays, 8 a.m.–1 p.m.
Cost: Free to browse
Best for: All ages
The city calls this its "market with a view," and it lives up to the name. California farmers sell fresh seasonal produce, nuts, eggs, honey, baked goods, flowers and plants just steps from the pier.
Farmers markets are a sneaky-good learning outing for kids. Let them pick a new fruit to try, count out the money and chat with the growers. Then walk down to the pier for a picnic with your haul.
Parent tip: Park in the pier parking structure. Bring small bills and a reusable bag, and visit our roundup of LA farmers markets for families for more ideas.
Riviera Village, S. Catalina Avenue
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
When: Sundays, 8:30 a.m.–1 p.m.
Cost: Free to browse
Best for: All ages
Can't make a Thursday? The city-run Sunday market in Riviera Village is an easy weekend ritual. Browse produce and flowers, then turn it into a morning out with coffee, pastries and a stroll to the beach.
It's a relaxed way to start a Sunday, and kids love sampling fruit in season. Strawberries in spring and stone fruit in summer tend to disappear fast.
Parent tip: Arrive early for the best selection and easiest parking. Combine it with a scoop at Hand & Spoon afterward.
Family Eats and Sweet Treats in Redondo Beach
Seafood rules in Redondo, but there's plenty for picky eaters, too. Here are our verified-open family favorites.
209 N. Harbor Drive
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
Cost: $$
Hours: Restaurant opens at 10 a.m. daily
Best for: All ages
Captain Kidd's is a casual harbor-front fish market and restaurant where you pick your seafood from the case and they cook it up. The vibe is relaxed, the portions are big and the harbor views keep kids entertained while you wait.
Fish and chips, shrimp and grilled plates make it easy to feed everyone, and the market side lets you take fresh fish home for dinner. It's a classic Redondo meal without the white-tablecloth fuss.
Parent tip: Go for an early lunch to beat the weekend lines. Grab a table by the windows so kids can watch the boats.
130 S. International Boardwalk
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
Cost: $$
Best for: Adventurous eaters of all ages
Quality Seafood has been a pier institution since 1953, and eating here is half meal, half aquarium visit. Tanks of live crab, lobster and shellfish line the counter, and kids love pointing at the creatures before they're steamed.
It's messy, casual and loud in the best way. Grab a table on the boardwalk, crack some crab legs and let everyone get their hands dirty.
Parent tip: Bring wet wipes and expect weekend crowds. Ask for simpler items like shrimp or fish if your kids aren't ready for whole crab.
1882 S. Pacific Coast Highway
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
Cost: $
Hours: Daily 11 a.m.–10 p.m. (subject to change)
Best for: All ages
Handel's makes its ice cream fresh in small batches, and the menu is long enough to cause at least one family debate about flavors. The walk-up window and outdoor setup make it a favorite after-dinner stop.
Scoops are generous, so kids' sizes are plenty for little ones. It's a sweet way to end a beach day in South Redondo.
Parent tip: Evening lines can stretch on summer weekends. Go earlier in the afternoon or send one parent to hold a spot.
800 S. Pacific Coast Highway
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
Cost: $
Best for: All ages
Hawaiian-style shave ice is the perfect hot-day treat, and Wanna Chill? lets kids go wild with it. Pick up to three syrup flavors, add a base like ice cream or mochi bites, and top it off with sweetened condensed milk.
They also serve frozen yogurt, ice cream, smoothies and acai bowls, so there's something for everyone. The bright colors alone make it a kid magnet.
Parent tip: Order a bowl instead of a cone for little kids. It drips a lot less.
320 Avenue I
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
Cost: $
Best for: All ages
Right in Riviera Village, Hand & Spoon scoops handmade ice cream and gelato that makes a perfect reward after a stroll or a farmers market morning. It's small, cheerful and easy to find.
Pair it with a walk down Avenue I to the beach and you've got an easy, happy afternoon.
Parent tip: Check the shop's Instagram for current hours and rotating flavors. Grab napkins, since beach breezes and melting scoops are a real combo.
Annual Events and Seasonal Fun in Redondo Beach
Save these dates. Some are free and all of them are local favorites.
When: Sunday, February 14, 2027
Where: Starts at 200 Portofino Way, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
This beloved Super Bowl morning race includes a Kids 1K Fun Run for children 12 and under, plus a 10K Baby Buggy Run and a 5K Stroller Walk. The course winds along the pier and King Harbor, and the whole morning has a festive, community feel.
Parent tip: The Kids 1K starts at 7 a.m., so plan to arrive early. Register ahead online since race day gets hectic.
When: Usually in March (2027 date to be announced)
Where: Redondo Beach Pier, 100 Fisherman's Wharf, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
This free festival has been filling the sky over the pier for more than 50 years. Expect kite-flying competitions, music, face painting and demonstrations. The 2026 festival took place on March 8.
Parent tip: Bring your own kite, or buy one early before the wind picks up. The festival is weather-permitting, so check the official page that morning.
When: Summer evenings, usually July and August (2027 dates to be announced)
Where: Redondo Beach Pier, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
Free live music on the pier is a summer tradition. In 2026, concerts ran on Thursday and Saturday evenings from early July through late August. Kids dance, parents relax and the sunset does the rest.
Parent tip: Bring low beach chairs or a blanket and grab dinner from a pier counter to eat during the show.
When: Saturday, October 31, 2026
Where: Riviera Village, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
Riviera Village turns Halloween into a costume parade as kids trick-or-treat through the shops. It's a safe, walkable alternative to neighborhood door-knocking for younger kids.
Parent tip: Arrive early for parking and check the Riviera Village site for times. See our list of the best LA neighborhoods for trick-or-treating for more ideas.
When: Usually the first week of December (2026 date to be announced)
Where: S. Catalina Avenue, Riviera Village, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
The Holiday Stroll kicks off the season with evening shopping, kids' activities and visits with Santa. In 2025, the event closed South Catalina Avenue to cars and added photo spots and lighted holiday displays.
Parent tip: Bring your camera for Santa photos, and browse our photos with Santa guide for more options.
When: Saturday, December 12, 2026
Where: King Harbor, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
Boats decked out in holiday lights parade through King Harbor in one of the South Bay's most magical holiday traditions. A paddle craft parade runs from 3:30 to 5 p.m., followed by the main boat parade from 5:30 to 7 p.m., with a community viewing party.
Parent tip: Claim a harbor-side spot before sunset and dress warmly. For more twinkly outings, see our guide to the best places to see holiday lights in LA.
When: Traditionally in late September (check the official site for current plans)
Where: Redondo Beach
This long-running festival celebrates lobster with food, music and family activities. Its traditional home, Seaside Lagoon, is closed for 2026, so check the official site for the latest details before making plans.
Parent tip: Look for kids' pricing and family hours when details are announced.
Nearby: Easy Add-Ons Within 15 Minutes of Redondo Beach
Redondo sits in the middle of the South Bay, so these nearby favorites make great add-ons. Each one is in a neighboring city, which we've labeled.
Pier Avenue at Hermosa Avenue
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
Cost: Free
Best for: All ages
Just north of Redondo, the Hermosa Beach Pier and the pedestrian-only Pier Plaza make a lively beach-town stop. Walk to the end of the pier, grab a snack on the plaza and watch the surfers and volleyball players.
It's an easy bike ride from Redondo along The Strand. Every Memorial Day weekend, Fiesta Hermosa brings rides and crafts to town.
Parent tip: Evenings on Pier Plaza can get rowdy, so daytime is best for families. Read our Fiesta Hermosa guide for event details.
2 Manhattan Beach Boulevard
Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
Cost: Check the official site; donations welcome
Hours: Oct–Mar: Mon–Fri 2–5 p.m., Sat–Sun 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Best for: Ages 2–10
At the very end of the Manhattan Beach Pier, the Roundhouse Aquarium Teaching Center is a small nonprofit aquarium with hands-on ocean exhibits and local marine life. It's the perfect size for little kids, and the pier walk to get there is half the fun.
The nonprofit's mission is hands-on ocean learning, so expect curious kids asking a lot of questions. Plan a longer day with our Manhattan Beach family guide.
Parent tip: Weekday hours start at 2 p.m. from October through March, so plan a weekend or afternoon visit. Hours are longer April through September.
387 Paseo de la Playa
Torrance, CA 90277
Cost: Free beach; check the county site for parking fees
Best for: All ages
At the southern end of Redondo's sand, Torrance Beach and the nearby area locals call RAT Beach (short for "Right After Torrance") feel quieter and more local. The beach curves toward the Palos Verdes cliffs, and the scenery is gorgeous.
It's a great choice when the pier area feels too crowded. The bike path also begins here, so you can start a ride right from the sand.
Parent tip: The county lot fills on summer weekends, so arrive early. There's a concession stand, restrooms and showers, but packing your own snacks and water is still smart.
3201 Plaza del Amo
Torrance, CA 90503
Cost: Free (donations welcome)
Hours: Tue–Sat 10 a.m.–5 p.m.; closed Sun & Mon
Best for: Ages 3+
Madrona Marsh is one of the last vernal marsh habitats in LA County, surrounded by the city of Torrance. A nature center with exhibits sits across the street from the preserve, and trails let kids look for birds, lizards and seasonal ponds.
After winter rains, the marsh fills up and birdwatching gets especially good. It's a peaceful, educational outing that feels far from the city.
Parent tip: Check the Friends of Madrona Marsh site for docent-led walks and preschool Nature Storytime (pre-registration required). Bring binoculars if you have them.
2200 Crenshaw Boulevard
Torrance, CA 90501
Cost: Free
Best for: All ages
Wilson Park is one of Torrance's biggest parks, with playgrounds, wide lawns and plenty of space for bikes and scooters. It's also home to a seasonal splash pad (the 2026 season runs through November 11) and the popular Torrance Farmers Market.
Bring bikes, a ball and a picnic, and plan to stay a while. It's an easy stop on the way home if you're heading inland from the beach.
Parent tip: The Torrance Farmers Market runs Tuesdays and Saturdays, 8 a.m.–1 p.m., rain or shine, at 2400 Jefferson Street. The splash pad is unsupervised, so stay close to little ones.
4045 190th Street
Torrance, CA 90504
Cost: Free
Best for: All ages
Columbia Park is Torrance's largest park, spanning 52 acres with a playground, four soccer fields, walking paths, a cherry tree grove and lots of grass. It's a local favorite for weekend soccer and big family picnics.
With so much space, it's an easy place to let kids run while you relax in the shade.
Parent tip: Bring a ball, a kite and a picnic blanket. Weekend mornings bring soccer crowds, so afternoons can be quieter.
3525 W. Carson Street
Torrance, CA 90503
Cost: Free to visit
Best for: Rainy days, all ages
When the weather turns or the South Bay Galleria isn't an option, Del Amo Fashion Center is a huge indoor-outdoor mall in Torrance with plenty of shops, restaurants and seasonal events. It's a go-to for rainy-day walks and holiday shopping.
Look for kid-friendly stores, treats and seasonal Santa photos. It's easy to spend an afternoon here without anyone getting bored.
Parent tip: Check the mall's website for current kids' events and holiday activities. See our 75+ indoor activities for kids in LA for more rainy-day ideas.
26300 Crenshaw Boulevard
Palos Verdes Peninsula, CA 90274
Cost: Adults $18; kids 3–12 $8; ages 2 and under free
Hours: Daily 8 a.m.–5 p.m. (last entry 4:30 p.m.)
Best for: All ages
South Coast Botanic Garden is a sprawling garden on the Palos Verdes Peninsula with paths that wind through themed gardens, including a rose garden, a Japanese Garden and a Garden for the Senses. Right now, kids can hunt for Thomas Dambo's giant recycled-wood trolls, which are included with general admission.
It's a lovely stroller-friendly outing any time of year, and the seasonal events can be a highlight for families.
Parent tip: Check the garden's website for current hours, prices and any special family events. Bring water and hats for sunny days.
31501 Palos Verdes Drive West
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
Cost: Free; donations accepted for the museum
Best for: Ages 4+
Perched on the cliffs of the Palos Verdes Peninsula, Point Vicente Interpretive Center is one of the best spots in the area for whale watching from land. Exhibits explain local marine life and history, and the views over the Pacific are breathtaking.
Winter and spring bring migrating gray whales past the bluff. It's a lovely add-on for families who want whale watching without a boat.
Parent tip: Bring binoculars and layers since it can be windy on the bluff. Check the city site for current hours before you go.
3720 Stephen M. White Drive
San Pedro, CA 90731
Cost: Check the official site
Hours: Tue–Fri noon–5 p.m.; Sat–Sun 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Best for: Ages 2–12
Cabrillo Marine Aquarium is a local aquarium focused on Southern California sea life, with exhibits and touch tanks that are perfect for curious kids. It's a bit farther than the others on this list, but worth the drive.
Pair it with a walk on nearby Cabrillo Beach for a full ocean day.
Parent tip: The aquarium is closed Mondays and some holidays, so check the website for admission details before you go.
Paseo del Mar at Kay Fiorentino Drive
San Pedro, CA 90731
Cost: Free (paid parking)
Best for: Ages 4+
White Point is a rocky San Pedro beach known for its tide pools, where kids can look for crabs, snails and sea anemones at low tide. It's a great hands-on nature outing for curious explorers.
Our full guide to White Point Beach with kids covers what to expect and when to go.
Parent tip: Check a tide chart and visit at low tide. Wear water shoes with good grip, and remind kids to look but not take.
Parent Tips for Visiting Redondo Beach With Kids
Park once, walk a lot. The pier, King Harbor, Veterans Park and the beach are all walkable from the pier parking structures.
Mornings win. Parking, rentals and restaurants are easiest before 11 a.m., and harbor winds usually pick up in the afternoon.
Pack layers. The coast can be cool and foggy even in summer, especially on the water.
Know what's closed. Seaside Lagoon is closed for the 2026 season, and several older attractions have closed. Always double-check official sites before a big outing.
Mix free and paid. Pair one paid activity like the glass bottom boat or whale watching with free fun like the beach, pier fishing or a park.
Watch the tide and waves. Check lifeguard flags at the beach and tide charts before tide pooling nearby.
Takeaway
From sea lions barking in King Harbor to a quiet forest at Hopkins Wilderness Park, there are so many fun things to do in Redondo Beach with kids. Most of the best moments, like beach days, pier fishing and farmers markets, are free or cheap.
Mix a harbor adventure with a park, add a scoop of ice cream and you've got a perfect South Bay day. For another beach-town adventure, see our Manhattan Beach family guide or our roundup of the best aquariums in Southern California.
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the best free things to do in Redondo Beach with kids?
The best free things to do in Redondo Beach with kids are the beach, the pier, fishing off the pier and Hopkins Wilderness Park. You can also ride The Strand bike path, explore Dominguez Park and the Historical Museum, visit the libraries and catch free summer concerts on the pier.
2. Is Seaside Lagoon open in 2026?
No, Seaside Lagoon is closed for the 2026 season. The City of Redondo Beach says to check back for updates on renovations for the 2027 season.
3. Do kids need a fishing license to fish off the Redondo Beach Pier?
No, California does not require a fishing license to fish from a public pier in ocean waters. Size and bag limits still apply, and a license is required on sportfishing boats for anyone 16 or older.
4. When is the best time to go whale watching in Redondo Beach?
The best time to go whale watching in Redondo Beach depends on which whales you want to see. Gray whales migrate through in winter and spring, and blue whales usually appear in summer, with dolphins spotted year-round.
5. What are the best things to do in Redondo Beach with toddlers?
The best things to do in Redondo Beach with toddlers are the glass bottom boat, the beach, Hopkins Wilderness Park and the neighborhood playgrounds. The harbor walk and library storytimes are easy, low-stress outings too.
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