When in doubt how to spend a day in Los Angeles, add these 10 things to do in San Pedro to your weekend itinerary.
The 10 Best Things to Do in San Pedro, California
It’s hump day! The weekend is coming, and it means that we’re heading out to explore new locations. Our passion to discover new places every (ok… almost every) Saturday and Sunday slowly but surely turned into a family tradition. Cities, parks, lakes, landmarks, restaurants… Nothing is too small or too big for our adventure quests. Last Sunday we spent exploring some of the best things to do in San Pedro, California.
Located on the south side of the Palos Verdes Peninsula, San Pedro is very unique and multicultural part of Los Angeles. Formed as a fishing city occupied by European immigrants, the district merged with Los Angeles in 1909 and transformed into a working class community. Despite the change in primary activities and lifestyle of its residents, the place didn’t cease to attract new immigrants looking for better life. The flow and settlement of the foreigners eventually shaped the demographics of the district. Today San Pedro is considered a home to the largest Italian-American community in Southern California. On top of that, Croatian and Norwegian communities of Los Angeles are also centered in the former fishing city.
Along with the unique demographics, San Pedro arouses interest and fascination with its beautiful locations and landmarks, faithful witnesses of the history. Here is a list of the 10 best things that you can do in San Pedro on a Sunday afternoon.
THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN SAN PEDRO:
1. Marvel at Korean Bell of Friendship
A massive bronze memorial bell donated by South Korea in 1976 to residents of Los Angeles is one of the significant landmarks and the best things to do in San Pedro. Korean Bell of Friendship was built in the best Korean traditions and dedicated to reinforce friendly relations between two countries.
2. Enjoy Ocean Views at Angels Gate Park
Better known as home of the Koran Bell of Friendship, Angels Gate Park is one of the most beautiful things to do in San Pedro. Main features of the park include scenic views of rugged coastline and Santa Catalina Island. This along with the good location of Angels Gate Park entices weddings and big corporate events. So don’t be surprised if you happen to be an uninvited guest on one of them.
3. Cross over Vincent Thomas Bridge
Named after California Assemblyman Vincent Thomas, Vincent Thomas Bridge is the fourth longest suspension bridge in California. In 1996 this green structure that links San Pedro with Terminal Island became an official welcoming monument of Los Angeles.
4. Visit Point Fermin Lighthouse
Scenic views are not the only things to do in San Pedro. Built in 1874 Point Fermin Lighthouse, the first lighthouse in the San Pedro Bay, opens his doors to the public as a museum. The Victorian-era structure recounts the stories about the former days of the place and the whole district.
5. Have a Picnic at Point Fermin Park
Beautiful Point Fermin Park with its small amphitheater, playground, trails, and large turf areas is a perfect spot to relax and organize a picnic. After you are done with your meal, make sure to check out the panoramic views of the ocean. If you are lucky, you might be able to see dolphins playing in the water near the shore.
6. Take a Picture under Moreton Bay Fig
Located in the backyard of Point Fermin Lighthouse, Moreton Bay Fig often steals the visitors’ attention. Approximately four-feet-tall tree planted in the 1930s is one of the largest trees in the United States. The locals as well as the visitors love Moreton Bay Fig. Moreover, they never miss a chance to take those Instagram-worthy photos front of it as part of their fun things to do in San Pedro.
7. Explore Tide Pools at Point Fermin Beach
Set below the bluffs of Point Fermin Park, rocky Point Fermin Beach offers a great opportunity to explore tide pools and discover marine life. You can see sea crabs, chitons, sea urchin shells, mussels, and more here.
8. Take a Harbor Tour to See Los Angeles Harbor Light
Located at the end of a two-mile jetty in the breakwater, Los Angeles Harbor Light or Angels Gate Light is one of the most remarkable lighthouses in California. This 73-foot tower built on a forty-foot concrete square has been operated since 1913 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Unfortunately, the lighthouse is not open for walking tours. Nevertheless, you can get a pretty good view of it form harbor tour boats.
9. Get a Breathtaking View of San Pedro at Deane Dana Friendship Park
123-acre park Deane Dana Friendship Park with picnic area, children’s play area, hiking trails, natural history museum, and turf areas is a place to spend an afternoon when in San Pedro. The best things to do here include having picnic, connecting with nature, and admiring stunning views of San Pedro, Los Angeles – Long Beach harbor complex, and Catalina Island.
10. Indulge in Acai Bowl at Rock’n Juice
What can be better than cool acai bowl on a hot afternoon? Rock’n Juice will definitely satisfy your cravings. Let me warn you though, you might be overwhelmed by the variety of choices they have. Don’t be shy and ask for recommendations. I’m sure you’ll enjoy their acai bowls as much as I did.
