Mission 002: Redondo Pier to Dockweiler State Beach
Last Updated: May 28, 2025 – Recon Confirmed
Mission
Launch from the Redondo Beach Pier and cruise north along the Marvin Braude Bike Trail to Dockweiler State Beach. This mission delivers oysters on the International Boardwalk, music history at The Lighthouse Café in Hermosa, and wide-open coastal views past Manhattan Beach.
For those riding double and not driving, the legendary Mai Tai at Old Tony’s upstairs at the pier is the ultimate bonus reward. And if you’re real lucky like we were last time we took this trip you’ll run into David Goggins. Not familiar with the name? Look him up. The man is a legend.
Mission route: Redondo Beach Pier to Dockweiler State Beach — ~12 miles of flat, paved coastal path. Intel confirmed: boardwalk diversions at Hermosa and Manhattan, but the ocean views never break.
Mission Execution
Route Overview
Start: Redondo Beach Pier
End: Dockweiler State Beach
Distance: ~12 miles one way
Terrain: Paved beach path, flat and scenic
Time: 1.5–2 hours with stops
Difficulty: Easy Ride
PARKING INTEL
Redondo Beach Pier offers pay-by-hour options at the underground structure (100 W Torrance Blvd) and the Marina lot (137 N Harbor Dr). Payment accepted via cash, card, or mobile app.
While generally safe, weekends get crowded. Arrive early to secure a spot and avoid tight maneuvering with cars.
NAVIGATION NOTES
Hermosa & Manhattan Piers: Expect heavy crowds and brief street detours before reconnecting with the boardwalk. Slow down, ride smart, and take advantage of the restaurants, snacks, and cold drinks — prime mid-mission stops and photo ops.
Hermosa Pier intel: Expect heavy foot traffic and boardwalk crowds. The trail diverts briefly onto the street here before reconnecting north of the pier. Plenty of restaurants and spots to grab a cold beverage make this a solid mid-mission stop.
Manhattan Pier intel: The trail bends inland briefly near the pier and volleyball courts before returning to the beachfront. Crowds are heavy, but it’s worth slowing down — this is a prime photo op with plenty of restaurants, snack stands, and cold drinks nearby.
SUGGESTED STOPS
Mandatory stop: Fresh oysters at the International Boardwalk, Redondo Pier. Fuel up seaside before launching north — mission morale doesn’t get fresher than this. (122 International Boardwalk, Redondo Beach, CA 90277)
Sweet intel: The self-proclaimed ‘world’s best homemade churro’ awaits at the International Boardwalk, Redondo Pier. A mandatory morale boost before rolling north—or grab it on the way back if you still have room for great food! (122 International Boardwalk, Redondo Beach, CA 90277)
Bonus intel: Upstairs at Old Tony’s, the world-famous Mai Tai comes with pier views and a souvenir glass. Riders only — make it your post-mission reward if you’re not driving. (Old Tony’s on the Pier, 210 Fisherman’s Wharf, Redondo Beach, CA 90277)
Hollywood intel: The Lighthouse Café in Hermosa Beach — where Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone shared their La La Land moment. Snap your own shot outside this legendary jazz club and keep the mission rolling.
Be sure to snap a pic with your bike and make it your own. (30 Pier Avenue, Hermosa Beach, CA 90254)
Risk Assessment Report
Boardwalk Crowds (Redondo, Hermosa, Manhattan): High foot traffic, joggers, strollers, skaters, and beachgoers crossing without warning. Peak afternoons are especially congested.
Pier Crossings: Areas near Redondo Pier, Hermosa Pier, and Manhattan Beach Pier funnel riders and pedestrians into tight spaces — slow roll recommended.
Sand Drift on Path: Wind often blows sand onto the trail, especially between Hermosa and Manhattan. Can cause quick slips if you’re not paying attention.
Alcohol Safety: Heading to Old Tony’s? You know the drill, so drink responsibly — if you drink, don’t drive.
Disclaimer: Conditions change. Ride smart, obey local laws, and use common sense. [Read My 10 Commandments of E-Bike Safety]
Photo Intel
Loadout & Logistics
What to Pack
Helmet (boardwalk traffic can get heavy)
Sunglasses + sunscreen
Lock for pier and café stops
Cash/card for food + drinks
Gear & Gadgets
5.11 Tactical Pouch, Lightweight MOLLE Utility Bag which can be mounted to the handlebars for long sleeve that might come into play later in the evening. I prefer 5.11 Tactical products for clothes and bags. High quality product worth the extra money.
Bike lights if returning at sunset (This 3 Riga LED Headlight by EVMOD is the latest addition to my Super73. It’s bright!)
FAMILY RIDE INTEL (IF APPLICABLE)
Flat, scenic path makes this great for families, but ride early or late to avoid peak crowds.
Shorter family-friendly option: Redondo → Hermosa round trip (~6 miles).
Dockweiler adds fun with open sand and plane-watching.
Final Brief
The Redondo-to-Dockweiler mission is classic SoCal: oysters, ocean, music, Hollywood history, and endless beach views. Bonus points if you wrap it with Old Tony’s Mai Tai — but the real win is the ride itself.
Your orders: Cruise steady, ride smart, savor the sights — and make this mission yours.
After Action Report
Share your ride shots from the trail, the Lighthouse Café, or a Dockweiler sunset and tag @ridethemission to log your recon.