El Segundo Beach – Hermosa City Beach loop from Marina del Rey

If you're looking for a quintessential Southern California coastal experience on two wheels, the El Segundo Beach – Hermosa City Beach loop from Marina del Rey delivers. This moderate mountain biking route covers 28.6 miles (46.1 km) with a gentle 485 feet (148 metres) of elevation gain, making it a perfect ride for about 2 hours and 25 minutes. It's an ideal choice for anyone seeking continuous ocean views and a relaxed, scenic pedal without major climbs.

What to expect on El Segundo Beach – Hermosa City Beach loop from Marina del Rey

This loop is primarily a paved journey along dedicated bike paths, offering a largely flat ride that's suitable for most skill levels, though some sections can gather sand. You'll start with views of Marina del Rey's bustling man-made harbor, filled with boats and yachts, before heading south. The route then opens up to continuous Pacific Ocean vistas, passing iconic Southern California beach scenes with sunbathers, surfers, and volleyball players. While some parts near El Segundo Beach might offer a glimpse of industrial areas due to LAX, the overall experience is one of open coastline and vibrant beach communities, requiring good fitness for the distance but not for technical skill.

Planning your visit

This popular route, largely part of the Marvin Braude Bike Trail, can get very busy, especially on weekends, so consider an early start to avoid the heaviest crowds. You might even need to walk your bike through some of the most congested sections. The trail connects several beach towns, offering plenty of opportunities to stop for food or drinks, particularly in Hermosa Beach. Parking is available in Marina del Rey, but check local signage for specific regulations and availability, as it can fill up quickly.

Trail details

• Distance: 28.6 miles (46.1 km)
• Elevation gain: 485 feet (148 metres)
• Difficulty: moderate
• Estimated time: 2 hours and 25 minutes