Hawthorne Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Hawthorne with our detailed guide featuring the best places to visit, hike, bike, dine, and stay in the area.


Introduction to Hawthorne

Located in South Bay, Los Angeles County, Hawthorne is a city in Southern California that offers an array of attractions for visitors of all ages. With its rich history, beautiful natural scenery, and cultural hotspots, it’s no wonder that Hawthorne has become a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at some of the must-see places, hiking and biking routes, food and drink spots, and nearby attractions to help you plan a memorable trip to Hawthorne.

List of Places to Visit in Hawthorne

Here is a list of top attractions to explore in Hawthorne.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Hawthorne Historical Museum: Learn about the city’s history and its famous residents like The Beach Boys and the airplane manufacturer, the Northrop Corporation.
  • Holly Park and Holly Glen / Del Aire: These two areas are home to a number of historic sites that are well-worth exploring, such as the Hawthorne Police Museum and LAX Imperial Terminal.

Natural Attractions of Hawthorne: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • El Segundo Sand Dunes Natural Preserve: This 97-acre park is perfect for hiking, biking, and enjoying the scenic views.
  • Hawthorne Memorial Park: A 48-acre park featuring picnic areas, playgrounds, a swimming pool, and walking trails.

Hiking/Biking Routes in Hawthorne

With its warm and sunny climate, Hawthorne is an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts to hike and bike. Some great hiking and biking routes in and around Hawthorne include:

  • The Ballona Creek Bike Path
  • The Grand Canal Trail
  • The Manhattan Beach Pier to Redondo Beach Pier Bike Path
  • The Marvin Braude Bike Trail along the coast

Best Things to Do in Hawthorne: Activities and Tours

  • The Automobile Driving Museum: This museum features a collection of classic cars and offers visitors the chance to ride in some of them.
  • South Bay Galleria: A shopping center with plenty of dining, entertainment, and retail options.
  • Star Eco Station: This wildlife rescue center is perfect for families looking to learn more about animals and the environment.

Week-Long Itinerary for Hawthorne

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Hawthorne, here’s an itinerary that will allow you to see and do as much as possible:

Day Activity
Monday Visit Hawthorne Historical Museum and tour Holly Park
Tuesday Go hiking at El Segundo Sand Dunes Natural Preserve
Wednesday Explore Star Eco Station
Thursday Visit the Automobile Driving Museum
Friday Go shopping at South Bay Galleria
Saturday Take a bike ride along the Marvin Braude Bike Trail
Sunday Relax at Hawthorne Memorial Park and have a picnic

Food and Drink Scene of Hawthorne

When it comes to food and drink options, there’s plenty to try in Hawthorne.

Must-Try Dishes

  • The Classic Burger from In-N-Out: This fast-food chain has its roots in Southern California and is famous for its burgers and fries.
  • The Green Tea Matcha Latte from Boba Time: A refreshing and unique beverage that is perfect for warm days.

Local Beverages

  • The Berries and Cream Frappuccino from Starbucks: A drink that is popular in the Los Angeles area, this frappuccino combines fresh berries with cream for a delicious treat.
  • The Oat Milk Latte from Blue Bottle Coffee: Made with oat milk, this latte is a tasty and healthy alternative to regular coffee drinks.

Where to Stay in Hawthorne: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

If you’re looking for accommodation options in Hawthorne, here are some top recommendations:

  • Ayres Hotel Manhattan Beach: A beautiful hotel with an outdoor pool, fitness center, and elegant rooms.
  • Ramada by Wyndham Hawthorne/LAX: A mid-range hotel that offers comfortable rooms and easy access to nearby attractions.
  • Del Aire Inn: A smaller hotel with affordable rates, free parking, and a convenient location.

What to Buy in Hawthorne: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Hawthorne T-Shirts and Hats: Celebrate your trip to Hawthorne by buying some t-shirts or hats that feature the city’s logo and designs.
  • Local Food Products: Try some of the delicious and unique snacks and ingredients that are produced in and around Hawthorne, such as LA Fruits or Melissa’s Produce.

Local Culture and Customs of Hawthorne

Hawthorne is a diverse city with a lot of different cultures and customs. Some of the most notable cultural events and celebrations in the area include:

  • Cinco de Mayo: A popular holiday in the area that celebrates Mexican culture and heritage.
  • Black History Month: Many events and celebrations are held in recognition of black history during February.
  • The Hawthorne Art Walk: A monthly event where local artists showcase their work and creativity.

Best Time to Visit Hawthorne

The best time to visit Hawthorne is during the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and comfortable for outdoor activities. Summers can be hot, and winters can be rainy, so plan accordingly.

Do’s and Don’ts of Hawthorne

Do:

  • Wear comfortable clothes and shoes for outdoor activities.
  • Try some of the local food and drink options.
  • Be respectful of the diverse cultures and customs in the area.

Don’t:

  • Leave your belongings unattended in public areas.
  • Ignore traffic and pedestrian laws when hiking and biking.
  • Make noise or disturb the peace in residential areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Hawthorne

As in any city, it’s important to take safety precautions when visiting Hawthorne. Some tips include:

  • Lock your car doors and avoid leaving valuables visible in your car.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and avoid walking in unfamiliar areas alone at night.
  • Avoid getting involved in confrontations with strangers, and report any suspicious behavior to the authorities.

Health in Hawthorne

Make sure to bring plenty of sunscreen and stay hydrated when spending time outdoors in Hawthorne. Additionally, make sure you have adequate health insurance coverage, in case of any medical emergencies.

Getting to Hawthorne: Transportation Options and Logistics

Hawthorne is easy to get to, with several transportation options available.

Airports Near Hawthorne

  • Los Angeles International Airport (LAX): This is the nearest airport to Hawthorne, and it’s only a 10-minute drive away.

Bus Stations Near Hawthorne

  • Hawthorne Transit Center: This bus station is conveniently located in the heart of Hawthorne and offers connections to other nearby cities.
  • Harbor Gateway Transit Center: Located just a few miles north of Hawthorne, this transit center offers buses to many other cities in the LA area.

Other Options

If you’re driving, there are several major highways that run through the area, including I-105 and I-405.

How to Get Around in Hawthorne

The best way to get around Hawthorne is by car, with many major roads and highways linking the city to other nearby attractions. However, there are also several public transportation options available, including buses and trains.

Where to Go Next from Hawthorne: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you want to keep exploring Southern California, there are several nearby destinations and excursions that you can add to your itinerary.

  • Manhattan Beach: A classic beach town with plenty of shopping, dining, and other entertainment options.
  • Santa Monica: A popular tourist destination with many attractions, including the Santa Monica Pier and Third Street Promenade.
  • The Getty Center: This museum features a collection of art and sculptures from around the world and is located in nearby Brentwood.

Conclusion

Hawthorne is a city that has something to offer everyone, with its diverse culture, natural scenery, and cultural attractions. Whether you’re planning a short weekend trip or a longer stay, there’s plenty to explore in this Southern California gem.