Hit the sand at Manhattan Beach

Attractions
 AVP Manhattan Beach Open. Premier event on the beach-volleyball calendar is also one of the area's liveliest weekends of the year. Aug 10-13. 310/426-8000.

Metlox. New commercial development has added another destination to the downtown retail mix. The project is home to the Shade Hotel and Petros restaurant. Valley at Manhattan Beach Blvd.

Sand Dune Park. Always busy with kids and fitness fanatics who challenge themselves on the dune's sheer face. Limited parking on Bell and Rosecrans Avenues, so it's best to walk up from the Strand. 33rd St. at Bell Ave.

The Strand. Bike, blade, walk, and gawk your way along this Southern California beach classic. The bike path is part of the 22-mile South Bay Bicycle Trail.