Top 15 Activities and Attractions in Hawthorne, CA

Hawthorne is a city of approximately 85,000 residents situated in the southwestern region of Los Angeles County.

This location boasts convenient access to several of Southern California’s major interstate highways, facilitating visitors’ exploration of the diverse attractions in the vicinity.

Hawthorne lies a short drive inland from numerous exceptional beaches and coastal towns, making it a favored choice for beachgoers and sun-seekers looking to avoid the elevated rates associated with hotels located nearby.

Presented below are 15 enjoyable, informative, and captivating activities to experience in and around Hawthorne that frequently rank highly on travelers’ itineraries.

1. Beach Boys Monument

While it may not be widely recognized outside the realm of dedicated music enthusiasts, Hawthorne is the birthplace of the Beach Boys.

The humble Wilson residence, where the band’s founders were raised, was formerly situated on West 119th Street adjacent to the downtown area, only a short distance from the monument that honors their remarkable ascent to international fame.

Although most visitors should expect to spend no more than thirty minutes at this official California Historical Landmark, it constitutes a worthwhile stop for those wishing to engage with a distinctive element of American pop culture.

Though the Wilson home was removed to accommodate a new highway several decades ago, the monument remains easily accessible from the 105 freeway.

2. Hawthorne Historical Society Museum

Local historical societies in small cities and towns across the United States often remain unnoticed by all but the most discerning travelers; however, for those keen on uncovering the history of a region, they serve as valuable community resources that merit exploration.

Established in 2011 as a not-for-profit organization, the Hawthorne Historical Society Museum has been dedicated to preserving and showcasing the city’s rich heritage.

Situated in Jim Thorpe Park on Prairie Avenue, the museum features an impressive yet compact collection of local historical artifacts.

Due to limited operational hours, it is advisable to consult their website or contact them prior to visiting.

3. Star Helicopter Tours

Los Angeles, along with adjacent smaller cities such as Hawthorne, covers a vast geographical area that significantly exceeds that of most cities in the Midwest and Northeast.

This expansive landscape typically necessitates considerable driving time between different attractions for travelers opting for car transport rather than helicopter tours.

Star Helicopter Tours ranks among the leading aerial tour providers in the Los Angeles area, with their base located on West 120th Street in Hawthorne.

A variety of flight packages are available to accommodate a range of schedules and budgets. These flights include views of the Pacific coastline, Hollywood, downtown areas, and various additional sights.

4. Eagle Rider Rentals and Tours

Eagle Rider Rentals and Tours stands as one of the largest motorcycle tour organizations globally; in addition to branches in Europe, Australia, and other cities in the United States, they maintain a location in downtown Hawthorne.

Whether you are a licensed motorcyclist seeking to rent a vehicle or prefer to enjoy the experience from the comfort of the backseat behind an experienced guide, motorcycle tours represent some of the most exhilarating activities during many travelers’ vacations.

Their inventory includes motorcycles from renowned brands such as Harley-Davidson, BMW, and Honda, all meticulously serviced to guarantee a safe and enjoyable ride.

5. Continental Gourmet Market

Situated on Prairie Avenue in Hawthorne, Continental Gourmet Market had the honor of being visited by Food Network host Alton Brown, who journeyed cross-country on a motorcycle to sample their acclaimed empanadas.

It appears that they truly live up to the hype. Unlike typical Mexican empanadas, these are crafted with Latin American spices, ingredients, and recipes that continue to attract return customers.

The market specializes in gourmet foods from Argentina, Chile, and Peru. Additionally, they have a thriving catering service and a vast selection of takeout options, including gourmet sandwiches, homemade soups, and traditional South American BBQ.

6. Azucanela

What could be more satisfying for a hungry individual than a steaming cup of Latin American coffee accompanied by one or two warm churros?

Not much, based on the feedback from previous patrons who have visited Azucanela for a delightful morning or afternoon indulgence.

Azucanela functions as a coffee shop, bakery, and traditional café, adorned with authentic Latin American décor that creates an ambiance typically absent elsewhere.

Located on Inglewood Drive in Hawthorne, the establishment offers an extensive menu, comfortable seating arrangements, and a diligent staff ensuring efficient service even during peak hours.

7. Westdrift Manhattan Beach Golf

In light of the numerous attractions surrounding Hawthorne, travelers often find their time to be quite constrained in their quest to optimize their vacation experiences.

While golfing is a prominent draw in Southern California, even the most avid golfers might prefer not to dedicate four or five hours to a full course away from their companions.

Located on Parkview Avenue in Manhattan Beach, just ten minutes west of Hawthorne, Westdrift Manhattan Beach Golf presents a compelling alternative to traditional 18-hole courses.

This 9-hole course can typically be completed in under 90 minutes and offers manicured greens and fairways comparable to those found on larger, more prestigious courses.

8. Al Watan Halal Restaurant

Set on Inglewood Avenue in Hawthorne, Al Watan Halal Restaurant has established itself as one of the region’s most sought-after Middle Eastern dining experiences.

The menu includes authentic dishes such as kabobs, tikka masala, naan bread, and an array of tandoori specialties. Patrons have consistently expressed satisfaction that their visits exceeded expectations.

Al Watan frequently features popular specials on particular days of the week, such as lamb pulao, available exclusively on Fridays, presenting an excellent opportunity for those seeking an exceptional dining experience.

Accompanied by a diverse selection of traditional sides, diners have noted that the portion sizes are generous, especially given the reasonable pricing.

9. Old Town Music Hall

Located in El Segundo, just a few short minutes west of Hawthorne, the Old Town Music Hall is a must-see destination for those with an appreciation for vintage music.

This historic venue, which has served as a significant live entertainment space since the late 1960s, specializes in presenting classic and silent films, accompanied by live musical performances utilizing one of the largest Wurlitzers globally.

This remarkable instrument is equipped with thousands of individual pipes that produce powerful music, adding an enchanting dimension to the cinematic experience.

Due to high demand, especially during peak periods, it is advisable to secure seating in advance.

10. Cafe Cuba & Cakes

Southwest Los Angeles County boasts a diverse array of internationally inspired restaurants, with those specializing in Cuban and Latin American cuisine being particularly popular.

Visitors who have explored many of these establishments assert that Café Cuba & Cakes offers one of the most authentic experiences outside of a flight to the small island nation located just 90 miles off the South Florida coast.

This establishment combines the ambiance of a restaurant with that of a laid-back coffee shop, featuring a menu that showcases items ranging from robust Cuban coffee and flavorful rellenos to meat-filled potato balls and delectable baked goods.

Located on Hawthorne Boulevard, the café offers comfortable seating and high-speed Wi-Fi.

11. Sand Dune Park

Despite its remarkable natural beauty, many of Southern California’s sights can begin to appear somewhat uniform after several days; however, Sand Dune Park in Manhattan Beach is a striking exception.

The park features magnificent dunes that seem more akin to the landscapes of an Arabian desert or a science fiction film; this site represents one of the region’s most extraordinary natural wonders.

The tallest dune reaches nearly 100 feet in height, and visitors can easily access the summit via a winding path.

The park also includes a playground equipped with swings, climbing structures, and a merry-go-round.

Located just a few minutes west of Hawthorne, it serves as an excellent spot for enjoying a sunset.

12. Randy’s Donuts

Established in 1953, Randy’s Donuts in downtown Los Angeles has become one of the city’s most iconic culinary landmarks.

Over the years, it has been featured in numerous films and music videos, distinguished by its notable 30-foot fiberglass donut perched atop its roof.

The architecture of Randy’s harkens back to the glitzy chrome era of the 1950s. Each year, it draws countless donut enthusiasts from all corners of the nation eager to experience this charming slice of Americana.

Prepare to find a wide array of traditionally made donuts at a conveniently located site, just 15 minutes from Hawthorne off the I-405.

13. Light Gate

Although the Light Gate in Manhattan Beach is only ‘unlocked’ on two occasions each year, it remains an engaging attraction regardless of when visitors come to the area.

This distinctive piece of contemporary art is intentionally positioned to capture the sun’s rays perfectly on two specific days annually—once at the end of January and again in mid-November.

On these occasions, the gate’s glass centerpiece refracts the sunlight into a stunning array of vibrant colors.

Dedicated in 2015 amidst much enthusiasm, the Light Gate adds an intriguing feature to the coastal city’s extensive array of natural and cultural attractions.

14. Redondo County Beach

Only a brief 15-minute drive south of Hawthorne, Redondo County Beach serves as a favored destination for those who relish the combination of surf, sand, and sunshine.

The municipal beach stretches over a mile along some of the most picturesque Pacific coastline this area has to offer, featuring numerous amenities, including a park, shaded seating areas, a playground, and lifeguards on duty for much of the year.

While relaxing on the beach is the most common activity enjoyed, a multi-use trail running alongside the coastline is also popular among bikers, runners, walkers, and those who appreciate stunning ocean vistas.

15. The Manhattan Beach Art Center

The adjacent coastal town of Manhattan Beach is widely recognized for its beaches; however, it also boasts a variety of significant cultural attractions.

The Manhattan Beach Art Center hosts a range of events throughout the year, such as arts and crafts expos, live performances, and guest speaker sessions designed to engage the local community.

Located on Manhattan Beach Boulevard, the center is easily accessible from other attractions, making it an ideal stop for those looking to combine beach time with enriching cultural activities.

Traffic permitting, Manhattan Beach is typically less than a ten-minute drive from Hawthorne.