San Pedro’s Revitalized Waterfront: Battleships, Seafood, and the New West Harbor
The Los Angeles Waterfront in San Pedro is undergoing a massive transformation, moving past its former identity as "Ports O' Call Village." This vibrant area at the Port of Los Angeles is poised to become a world-class destination, blending rich maritime history with a new seaside charm. Even during construction, the waterfront remains an enjoyable spot for both locals and visitors.
The former Port-O-Call Village Plaza has been demolished to make way for the West Harbor development, a major revitalization project with an expected phased opening in 2025. The area still features the popular World Cruise Center and the renowned Battleship Iowa Museum. A scenic promenade connects the attractions, offering stunning harbor views and glimpses of the iconic Vincent Thomas Bridge, which links San Pedro to Terminal Island.
For easy exploration, a Metro Bike Share station is conveniently located right next to the USS Iowa. Bike rentals are affordable, making it an excellent option for budget travelers to explore the extended waterfront area and nearby parks.
Important Update: The Ports O' Call Village, including the Ports O' Call Waterfront Dining and other former businesses, has been permanently closed and demolished to make way for the West Harbor development. The new, modernized waterfront destination is projected to open its first phase in 2025. Click here for the latest West Harbor updates.
Visitor Parking at the Waterfront
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The most convenient parking is located at the LA World Cruise Terminal lot (shared with the Battleship Iowa Museum). The entrance is accessible from 1st Street & Harbor Boulevard.
Parking rates for this main lot are free for the first hour, then $2 per additional hour, with a daily maximum of $22. Accessible parking spaces are available near the main boarding ramp for the USS Iowa. For cheaper options, travelers can look for paid lots in Downtown San Pedro or use public transport.
Getting Around the LA Waterfront
The Los Angeles Waterfront is highly walkable, with a dedicated promenade connecting key sights. For longer distances, bike share is a great, affordable option.
Metro Bike Share has a station located right next to the USS Iowa, making it easy to explore the area. Bike rentals are affordable at $1.75 per half-hour, and occasional discounts make them even more accessible for budget travelers.
Harbor Boulevard Parkway Promenade
The Harbor Boulevard Parkway Promenade offers a clean, scenic walking path that runs approximately 1.8 miles parallel to the main shipping channel. This pedestrian-friendly route is your best way to explore the area on foot, connecting the USS Iowa, the Downtown Harbor, and providing spectacular views of the Vincent Thomas Bridge and the massive cargo ships.
Traveler Tip: Start your walk at the USS Iowa and head south along the promenade to take in the working port views. Wear comfortable shoes, as the full walk from the bridge area to the Downtown Harbor is a substantial, yet rewarding, journey.
The Downtown Harbor Plaza and Fountains
At the southern end of the Harbor Boulevard Parkway Promenade lies the Downtown Harbor, which features a beautifully landscaped public plaza and a signature water feature. The plaza provides a serene public space where visitors can unwind, take in the views of the marina, and keep an eye out for sea lions.
The decorative fountains serve as a popular focal point for community events, markets, and gatherings, acting as the primary gateway between the revitalized waterfront and the historic shops and restaurants of Downtown San Pedro. It's a perfect spot to pause and appreciate the blend of urban life and working port scenery.
Explore the Nearby Playground
Just a short distance from the San Pedro area, the Wilmington Waterfront Promenade offers a fantastic destination for families. Thanks to the collaborative efforts of the Port of Los Angeles, the play area now features a newly completed shade structure, ensuring visitors can continue to enjoy playing outdoors in cooler, more comfortable conditions, even on sunny days.
The play area boasts exciting features, including mountaineering ropes, climbing nets, rockers, and a custom tower slide. You can find this expansive play space conveniently located near the bluff above the Promenade, right next to Banning’s Landing Community Center. It is open daily, and free parking is available on site.
Dining at the Waterfront
While the new West Harbor dining options are under construction, San Pedro's waterfront and downtown area still offer an array of culinary experiences, from casual snacks to diverse international cuisine. Weekend brunches are popular, and food enthusiasts will find many reasons to linger and enjoy the local flavors.
San Pedro Fish Market (Temporary Location)
The famous San Pedro Fish Market, known for its "World Famous Shrimp Tray" and choose-your-own seafood selection, has moved to a temporary waterfront location called "The Landing" (706 S Harbor Blvd). This bustling spot keeps the tradition alive, offering quick fish and chips, clam chowder, or a customizable shrimp tray, all to be enjoyed on their expansive outdoor patio with harbor views. They plan to return to a spectacular new permanent location within the West Harbor development in 2025 or 2026.
Traveler Tip: For an authentic local experience at The Landing, try their signature fried fish plates or fish kabob skewers. They are always a popular choice!
Downtown San Pedro Dining
Many great eateries, like the former Acapulco restaurant, closed due to the development. However, the nearby downtown San Pedro area is vibrant, offering a diverse mix of cuisine. You can find everything from world-class Italian at J. Trani's Ristorante, local brews at San Pedro Brewing Company, and traditional Mexican fare, all just a short walk or ride from the waterfront.
Battleship Iowa Museum
The historic USS Iowa, commissioned in 1943, is a must-see attraction. It served through World War II, the Korean War, and the Cold War, earning the nickname "Battleship of Presidents" for hosting three U.S. Presidents. It now rests at the Port of Los Angeles, where visitors can take self-guided tours daily.
Interesting Fact: President Franklin D. Roosevelt met with General Douglas MacArthur and Admiral Chester Nimitz aboard the USS Iowa in 1943 to finalize planning for the Pacific Theater in World War II. It was a critical moment in history.
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The USS Iowa Museum is operated by the non-profit Pacific Battleship Center (PBC) and is supported by a dedicated team of volunteers. The museum offers an in-depth look into the lives of sailors and the ship’s significant role in American history. Highlights of the tour include exploring the living quarters, mess halls, and the meeting rooms where pivotal decisions were made. Before you leave, be sure to visit the museum's gift shop or try the exciting flight simulator ride.
User Comment (Source: Yelp): "The waterfront has such a great, relaxed atmosphere. The views of the bridge and the port are unbeatable. I highly recommend spending a day here before the new development opens up—it's a little piece of authentic San Pedro."
Beaches and Parks
San Pedro boasts several scenic beaches and parks within walking distance or a short bike ride from the main waterfront area, perfect for a day of relaxation and recreation.
Cabrillo Beach and Marine Aquarium
Cabrillo Beach is a well-loved spot for various activities, located just a 45-minute walk from the waterfront. Named after Portuguese explorer Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo, it features two distinct beach areas (inner and outer), a pier, and a historic bathhouse dating back to 1932. The beach is also home to the Cabrillo Marine Aquarium.
Traveler Tip: Be aware that the main Exhibit Hall at the Cabrillo Marine Aquarium will be closed from October 2024 to Spring 2026 for a major Life Support System replacement. Programs and the Gift Shop remain open during this time. Call ahead for the latest updates.
Adjacent to the beach, Point Fermin Park offers visitors a unique blend of beach and natural surroundings. This bluff-top location provides hiking trails, a playground, picnic areas, and stunning panoramic ocean views, including the historic Point Fermin Lighthouse.