What's Happening in the Manhattan Beach and South Bay August 2026
August is peak South Bay season.
The days are long, the pier crowds are out, and the Manhattan Beach community calendar is packed — from a sunrise triathlon to a two-week restaurant crawl to a sidewalk sale that takes over downtown.
If you're looking for things to do in the South Bay this August, here's the full calendar—in order, so you can actually plan ahead.
Quick list — this month's South Bay events:
August 8–10
Kick off the month with some serious deal-hunting.
More than 70 local shops along the Boulevard spill their racks onto the sidewalk for a weekend of markdowns up to 70% off. It's a great excuse for a Friday-to-Sunday stroll through downtown Manhattan Beach, with plenty of coffee and lunch stops built in along the way.
August 9
Rise early and cheer on the athletes—or sign up yourself.
This beginner-friendly sprint triathlon runs right along The Strand, with a ¼-mile ocean swim, 10-mile bike, and 3-mile run starting at 6:30 AM at the Hermosa Beach Pier. Even if you're not racing, it's worth grabbing coffee and watching the start.
Sundays, August 9–September 6
Manhattan Beach's free Sunday concert series returns to Polliwog Park for the rest of the summer. Pack a blanket, bring a picnic, and settle in for an evening of live music from 5–7 PM.
This month's lineup:
August 13–16
The sport of beach volleyball was born on this sand, and the pros come back every August to prove it.
Four days of professional competition take over the south side of the Manhattan Beach Pier, and it's free to watch. Bring a chair, stake out a spot in the sand, and enjoy some of the best volleyball in the world with the ocean as your backdrop.
August 14–28
Two weeks, hundreds of restaurants, and prix-fixe menus starting at $15.
DineLA is a great excuse to finally try that restaurant you've been meaning to book, or revisit a favorite at a great price. Reservations are recommended—this one fills up fast across the county, including plenty of South Bay spots.
August 15
El Segundo's Main Street fills with classic cars, hot rods, and motorcycles for the 28th year running.
It's free for spectators and runs from 10 AM to 3 PM, making it an easy midday outing—pair it with lunch on Main Street while you're there.
August 15–16
Hermosa's turn to take over the sidewalks.
More than 30 local shops and pop-up vendors line Pier Avenue and Pier Plaza with markdowns, in-store promos, and live music both days. It pairs easily with a walk down to the pier or lunch along Hermosa Avenue—and with the Main Street Car Show happening the same weekend in El Segundo, it's a solid two-stop Saturday.
August 16–17
A South Bay summer tradition: families pitch tents right on Stevenson Field for a night under the stars.
The evening includes dinner, family activities, s'mores around the campfire, and an outdoor movie, with breakfast the next morning before everyone packs up. A fun, low-lift way to introduce the kids to camping without leaving town.
August 16
Start your Sunday with a sweat.
Manhattan Village brings back its outdoor fitness and wellness pop-up, featuring Coreology's signature strength-based classes in the open air. A great way to make a morning of it before browsing the shops.
August 22
Close out the month with a self-guided evening through El Segundo's galleries, studios, and Smoky Hollow creative spaces.
Now in its 11th year, expect live music, food trucks, and a laid-back crowd from 3–9 PM. It's free and easy to work into a weekend evening.
August 29
Torrance's Summer Nights concert series wraps up its August run with a Coldplay tribute show at the Wilson Park Amphitheater. Free parking, lawn seating, and a solid excuse for a Saturday night out.
If you're not planning around a specific date, these recurring South Bay favorites are worth building into your routine:
August doesn't leave much room to be bored in the South Bay.
Between the pier, the park, and downtown, there's a plan for every kind of weekend—and most of it is walkable, bikeable, or a short drive away.
We'll see you out there.
🏡 Thinking About Moving to the South Bay?
There's a reason people fall in love with life here—ocean breezes, walkable neighborhoods, and a true sense of community. If you or someone you know is considering a move, let us help you find your perfect beachside fit.
📩 Reach out or follow @JustAskMolly on Instagram for real estate updates, local happenings, and the inside scoop on all things South Bay.
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