Hawthorne Travel Guide

Hawthorne, California, located near the Los Angeles International Airport is an area that is both commercial and residential. Because of its proximity to the Pacific Ocean and South Bay beach cities, like Manhattan Beach, Hawthorne is considered to be somewhat “up and coming”. Wedged between the sea and rolling California hills, Hawthorne has also leant itself to music history as it was the birthplace of The Beach Boys.

Things to Do in Hawthorne

One of the most unique things to do in Hawthorne involves flying, more specifically, taking a helicopter ride over the Greater Los Angeles area with Star Helicopters. It is an exhilarating way to see the dynamic expanse of LA.

Music history fans should make a brief drive past The Beach Boys monument, which is on display outside their childhood home. Hangar 18 Climbing Gym South Bay is a great place for fun physical activity, as it features top roping, bouldering, lead climbing, yoga, and fitness classes.

Hawthorne is located near a number of beautiful beaches, as well, including Hermosa Beach and Redondo Beach. The iconic Santa Monica Pier is not too far away either.

Hawthorne is also centrally located for classic Los Angeles tourist activities like Disneyland and Universal Studios, both of which offer family entertainment and can easily eat up a weekend.

Best Places to Stay in Hawthorne

When traveling to Hawthorne and staying for any period of time, it’s important to book the perfect rental home. Luckily, Hawthorne is home to dozens of wonderful vacation homes. We recommend the ones that are located on the western borders of the city, as the area is a bit nicer and visitors will be closer to the beach.

Best Time to Visit Hawthorne

September is a great time to visit Hawthorne. Los Angeles experiences a bit of a delayed summer, as June can be gloomy and high temperatures can extend through October. September is prime time as the waves of tourists will have subsided throughout LA's South Bay.

Best Events in Hawthorne

Hawthorne’s many events are an important part of the city’s culture. The Hawthorne 5K & Health Fair features a 5K run or walk, free health screenings, and general health information. The Winter Wonderland Spectacular includes fun holiday events such as a winter play area, snow slides, carnival games and prizes, inflatables, photos with Santa, hot cocoa, and snacks. The Hawthorne Halloween Spooktacular is Hawthorne’s spookiest event of the year, featuring contests and prizes, games, and snacks.

Things to Do for Families in Hawthorne

Located within close proximity to Hawthorne is Manhattan Beach’s AdventurePlex, featuring a multi-level play structure, a rock wall, ropes course, toddler area, a reading corner, sports courts, and a garden. Del Aire Public Fruit Park is a public park that contains fruit trees that guests can try fruit from simply by picking one off the tree. The park also has benches, walking trails, and a kids playground.