Experience the Magic: Manhattan Beach Pier Lighting & Holiday Open House

It is beginning to feel a lot like Christmas in the South Bay! If you are planning a visit to Sea View Inn at the Beach, you should mark your calendar for Wednesday, November 19. On this night, the community comes together to celebrate the start of the holiday season with the Manhattan Beach Pier Lighting. This tradition is one of the area's most beloved events, and it offers something for everyone.

The Main Event: Manhattan Beach Pier Lighting Celebration

At the heart of this magical evening is the lighting of our historic landmark. The Manhattan Beach Pier has stood as a beacon on the California coast for over a century. Because it is the oldest concrete pier on the West Coast, it holds a special place in local history. The structure stretches 928 feet into the Pacific Ocean and houses the charming Roundhouse Marine Studies Lab & Aquarium.

What to Expect at the Pier

• Live Choir Performances: Starting at 6:00 PM, talented local choirs fill the air with traditional carols. The acoustics near the ocean create a memorable backdrop, and the community spirit is truly palpable.
• The Grand Lighting: At 7:00 PM sharp, the pier transforms into a glowing spectacle. Thousands of holiday lights illuminate the iconic structure. Consequently, the reflection on the water creates a stunning visual that is perfect for holiday photos.

Event Details

• Date: Wednesday, November 19, 2025
• Time: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
• Location: Manhattan Beach Pier, 2 Manhattan Beach Blvd
• Admission: FREE

Downtown Holiday Open House at Metlox Plaza

While the Manhattan Beach Pier Lighting is the centerpiece, the festivities extend throughout the downtown area. Specifically, the hub of activity is at Metlox Fountain Plaza from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM.

Family-Friendly Activities Include:

• Visit with Santa: Children can meet Santa Claus and his sleigh for a perfect photo opportunity.
• Complimentary Treats: You can enjoy festive refreshments as you stroll through the downtown shops.
• Live Entertainment: Look for face painters, balloon artists, and live music stationed throughout the plaza.
• Special Guests: Meet real reindeer up close—a rare chance to see the North Pole in Southern California!

Perfect for Sea View Inn Guests

If you are staying at Sea View Inn at the Beach (located at 3400 Highland Avenue), you are in the perfect position. The pier is approximately 1.2 miles from our front door. Therefore, you have several easy ways to reach the festivities without worrying about heavy traffic.

Getting There from Sea View Inn

• Walking: The stroll takes about 27 minutes. You will pass local restaurants and beautiful homes along the way.
• Biking: This is where staying with us really pays off. We offer complimentary beach cruiser bikes to all guests. The ride takes just nine minutes via The Strand, our famous beachfront path.
• Rideshare: Since street closures are common during the Manhattan Beach Pier Lighting, using Uber or Lyft is a smart choice.

Important Planning Tips for the Best Experience

To ensure your evening goes smoothly, please keep these tips in mind. First, you should arrive early. The event draws large crowds from across Los Angeles. If you arrive by 5:00 PM, you can find a prime viewing spot for the 7:00 PM lighting.

Furthermore, be aware of street closures. Portions of downtown Manhattan Beach will be closed to vehicle traffic. This creates a safe, pedestrian-friendly environment, but it makes parking very difficult. For this reason, we highly recommend walking or using our complimentary bikes.

Finally, remember to dress in layers. November evenings on the coast can get chilly once the sun goes down. Bring a light jacket so you can stay comfortable while enjoying the Victorian carolers and "Bubblemania" activities.

Why This Tradition is Special

The Manhattan Beach Pier Lighting represents the best of small-town community spirit. Unlike commercialized holiday events, this celebration is authentic and free. It showcases the warmth of our coastal community and provides a unique way to experience Southern California.

After the lights go up, many families continue the celebration with dinner downtown. We suggest making a reservation at a local restaurant to complete your evening. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a returning local, the magic of the pier lighting is an experience you will never forget.

Join us on November 19 and kick off your holiday season in style! For more information, you can visit the official city calendar or speak with our front desk staff during your stay.

For more information, visit: 

https://www.manhattanbeach.gov/Home/Components/Calendar/Event/79595/35?backlist=%2f 

Sea View Inn at the Beach: 3400 Highland Avenue, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 | (310) 545-1504