Hermosa Beach: Guided Audio Music History Tour
Hermosa Beach
Immerse yourself in the rich music history of Hermosa Beach on this guided audio tour. Explore the origins of jazz, surf, and punk in this vibrant beach town.
Duration: 1 hour, 15 minutes
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • Hermosa Beach Pier - We’ll take a walk out onto the pier and learn about Hermosa’s early history and people, from the local Native American Tongva tribe, to the area’s settlers. You’ll see a photo taken 100 years ago and stand in the exact spot it was taken. Listen to a 94 year old surfer, Tommy Rice describe what it was like to be a surfing pioneer and sleep under the pier where you stand. Then you’ll hear about how swing music came to Hermosa and changed this town forever.
  • The Lighthouse Cafe - You’ll hear the story of how a struggling musician and a down on his luck gambler transformed a dive bar in 1949 into one of THE most happening jazz clubs west of Chicago. Hear the stories from the people who were here in the 50’s. From Miles Davis, Chet Baker, Dizzy Gillespie, all the greats played The Lighthouse.
  • Abigaile Restaurant and Brewery - Visit the location that was “The Church”, where hardcore punk rock was born in the late 70’s. You’ll hear from voices like Keith Morris from Black Flag who lived and practiced there and Jim Lindberg from Pennywise. See photos of the punk scene from photographer, “Spot’.
What's Included
  • Free app and audio tour download
  • Lunch included
  • One speaker per group tour
What's Not Included
  • Smart phone and headphones or earbuds
Additional Information

JAZZ! SURF! PUNK!

Explore how this small coastal village turned into a hub for groundbreaking music over the span of more than 75 years. Embark on a historical journey through music with Joe Nolte, also known as “The Godfather of South-Bay Punk”.

Music serves as a bond linking one generation to another, but this contemplative and personal tale encapsulates more than just music. It’s a narrated account of Hermosa’s history.

Whether you’re an out-of-towner making your first trip, or a lifelong resident of Hermosa, you’ll encounter hidden treasures, hear unheard stories, and gain a deeper understanding of what makes Hermosa, truly Hermosa.

This one-of-a-kind guided tour integrates an enriching audio and visual experience through a complimentary app that you install on your phone, along with an in-person guide, who is the app’s developer.

NOTE: The starting times can be adjusted. Simply drop a message for exploring other possible start times.

Location
Watermans
Pier Avenue
Meet on the patio at Waterman's Restaurant (22 Pier Ave). Pier Ave by the pier is actually now a plaza, blocked off to cars. It's near the base of the pier on the south side, next to The Lighthouse Cafe.
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Select Date and Tickets
up to 8 guests
1
Adult
May 2024
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