
Hermosa Beach
After the town incorporated in 1907, it purchased two miles of beach from the Hermosa Beach Land and Water Company reserving the beachfront in perpetuity as a beach playground. Later dubbed “The Strand” this broad walkway is free from commerce and available for the residents but also for all beach lovers in Southern California. As the town grew it became a popular vacation destination during the summer months.
In the 1940’s, Hermosa became a well-known jazz spot with the opening of the Lighthouse nightclub boasting a nationally renowned house band in addition to playing host to many jazz greats including Miles Davis and Chet Baker. The 1960’s saw Hermosa Beach become the ultimate beach town populated by surfers and counter-culture types. But in recent years Hermosa has evolved into an upscale community with a palm tree-lined main street called Pier Avenue offering gastropubs, coffee shops, fine dining, and upscale home goods stores.