California's
coastal piers are one of the state's most popular attractions. The
earliest Redondo Beach Pier dates back to 1889, but the unique
V-shaped construction you'll find today debuted in 1916 as one of the
most unique piers along the coast.
The current pier was reconstructed
in 1996 with many historical similarities to the past.
Along
the horseshoe-shaped Pier, you'll find plenty of specialty shops and
great Redondo Beach pier restaurants, including Kincaid's Bayhouse and the historic Old
Tony's, which offer beautiful sunset views of the coast.
The
pier is also the spot to pick up some fresh saltwater taffy, buy an
oyster pearl, check out a shark exhibit, or take a 25-cent look at the
coast.
For Redondo Beach pier fishing, a license is not required,
but all other regulations apply. Just watch out for the hungry
pelicans, who wait anxiously for fresh fish to fly up on the boardwalk.
While
you're on the pier, check out the tribute to George Freeth, the first
surfer in the United States. Freeth helped Henry Huntington build the
largest saltwater plunge in the world here in 1907.
Below
the pier you'll find the International Boardwalk, a marina that boasts
live music, several seaside boutiques, and the Redondo Beach Fun
Factory, where kids can play arcade games or ride the Tilt A Whirl.
This
is also the place to rent a kayak or pedal boat for a closer look at
Redondo's resident sea lions, who live out beyond the jetty. You can
also book a speed boat ride on the Ocean Racer or ride a glass-bottom
boat for a glimpse at underwater sea life.
One
of my favorite spots is Quality Seafood, a live fish market that's been
in Redondo Beach since 1953. It's one of the largest retail seafood
markets on the West Coast, and they'll grill your fresh fish to order.
For more information about the pier, go to www.redondopier.com