A walk with family on a late summer evening. And captured this amazing picture
Redondo Pier – Redondo Beach, CA
Here are some interesting facts about Redondo Beach Pier:
Annual Events: The pier hosts several annual events, including kite festivals, outdoor concerts, and holiday celebrations, which attract large crowds and add to the community spirit of Redondo Beach.
Oldest of the South Bay Piers: Redondo Beach Pier is one of the oldest piers in the South Bay area. The first version of the pier was built in 1889, making it a historical landmark in the region. Over the years, it has been rebuilt and modified several times, particularly after storm damage.
Horseshoe Shape: Unlike many other piers, Redondo Beach Pier has a distinctive horseshoe shape. This unique design provides a panoramic view of the ocean and the coastline, making it a favorite spot for photography and sightseeing.
Film and TV Appearances: The pier has been featured in several films and TV shows. One notable appearance is in the movie The O.C., where it was portrayed as the setting for several scenes. It’s also been a backdrop for commercials and music videos, making it a recognizable landmark in popular culture.
Historic Gamble House: Adjacent to the pier is the Redondo Beach Historic Library, formerly known as the Morrell House, a classic example of Victorian architecture. This house was moved to its current location in the 1980s and now serves as a venue for special events.
Fishing Legacy: Redondo Beach was once a major fishing hub, especially during the early 20th century when it was home to the world’s largest fishing fleet. The pier still carries on this legacy by being a popular spot for fishing, with local anglers catching species like mackerel, perch, and even small sharks.
The Pier’s Multiple Lives: The current pier is actually the seventh iteration. The original pier and its successors were damaged or destroyed by storms and fires multiple times, leading to various reconstructions. The most recent version was completed in the 1990s.
Sea Life: The area around the pier is teeming with marine life. It’s not uncommon for visitors to spot dolphins, sea lions, and a variety of seabirds. During certain times of the year, you might even see migrating whales from the pier.
The International Boardwalk: Just next to the pier is the International Boardwalk, a lively area filled with shops, eateries, and entertainment options. It’s a great place to explore after spending time on the pier itself.
Surfing Culture: Redondo Beach Pier is close to some great surfing spots, and the area has a deep-rooted surfing culture. In fact, surfing legend George Freeth, often credited with bringing surfing to the mainland United States, gave demonstrations near the pier in the early 1900s.