Discover Hermosa Beach’s Rich History at the Hermosa Beach Museum
By Jason Rochlin, Redondo Beach Resident and Volunteer Writer
With contributions by Michelle Crispin
Nestled in the heart of Hermosa Beach, a charming coastal city spanning just 1.4 square miles, the Hermosa Beach Museum offers visitors a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the area’s vibrant history. Located at 710 Pier Avenue inside the Community Center, this hidden gem is open Wednesday through Sunday from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm, making it a perfect stop during your beach day or weekend getaway.
The museum, managed by the nonprofit Hermosa Beach Historical Society (HBHS), is a community treasure that celebrates the city’s heritage. From its early days in the 1900s, with families like the Koenigs helping shape the coastline, to its present-day cultural contributions, Hermosa Beach has a fascinating story to tell – and the museum brings that history to life. Founded in 1987 by nine residents, HBHS was created to preserve local history, foster community outreach through events, and provide educational opportunities.
According to Jamie Erickson, the museum’s director and curator, “People here are very invested in their local museum, in local history.”
Step inside and explore a wide variety of exhibits, including iconic surfboards shaped by local legend Dave Velzy, a wooden lifeguard tower from 16th Street, and fascinating memorabilia from the world-famous jazz club, The Lighthouse Cafe. The Lighthouse, a fixture on Pier Ave., was featured in the film La La Land – and this year, it celebrates its 75th anniversary. You can also dive into the city’s diverse musical legacy, which includes surf, punk, and jazz, all of which have roots in Hermosa.
One unique aspect of the museum is that its location is a former girls’ locker room of the old Pier Avenue School, a space made famous by the 1976 film Carrie.
The museum also honors the area’s earliest inhabitants with an exhibit dedicated to the Gabrielino Tongva Indians, the indigenous people who lived in the region long before modern settlers arrived.
The museum features rotating exhibits, offering visitors something new with each visit. From beach volleyball history to quirky showcases like the current “dive bar” exhibit, there’s always something intriguing to explore. Recent events have included Insomniac Night, a tribute to the beloved Insomniac Cafe, which gave attendees a sense of Hermosa’s creative past. Erickson adds, “Doing stuff like that is fun because it gives people a tangible experience of what something used to be like – especially when it took place before your lifetime.”
The HBHS’s biggest source of income is its Gala, an annual fundraiser held at St. Cross Church that was started by former board member Dorothy Courtney. August 24, 2024, marked the eighth Gala, now hosted by Dorothy’s son Jake. Erickson said the event continues to beat its record year-after-year, while being an opportunity for “old Hermosa” and “new neighbors” to mingle and celebrate.
Beyond its exhibits, the museum is a hub for community events and educational programs. Looking ahead, there are exciting plans for more student programming and interesting programs. The museum is currently working to receive accreditation from the American Alliance of Museums, a milestone that would provide even more opportunities to apply for grants and enhance programming.
Whether you’re a history buff or simply curious about the local culture, the Hermosa Beach Museum provides a fun and enriching experience for all visitors. ■