Itinerary: Manhattan Beach

When most Angelenos think of Manhattan Beach, surfing, beach volleyball and suntans come to mind. Those who really know Manhattan Beach think of million-dollar mansions, boutiques, art galleries that could give Melrose a run for its money and a cool night life scene that makes the Westside oh, so passe.

Friday

Watch the surfers riding the waves atop the Manhattan Beach Pier and pop your head into the Roundhouse Marine Lab Aquarium. The circular building at the end of the pier does more than sell soda and cookies; it offers the public a chance to shake hands with a sea star, pet a live shark and handle the sea life in the touch tanks that fill this mini-aquarium (the pier is at the end of Manhattan Beach Boulevard, [310] 379-8117). The Roundhouse is open weekdays from 3 p.m. to sunset, on weekends from 10 a.m. to sunset. The mini-aquarium is free, though donations are encouraged.

Saturday

Explore your creative side with a trip to Mudd Beach, a paint-it-yourself pottery studio around the corner from the pier (1113 Manhattan Ave., [310] 318-2242). Make a polka-dot coffee mug, personalize a plate, decorate a fruit bowl, customize a critter or just watch your family do it. It’s $6 for all your paint, glaze, use of tools and firing the pottery, which will be ready three days later. The price of pottery is separate and ranges from $5 on up.

You can’t very well go to the beach without taking in the sunset, so head over to Beaches for a breathtaking view (117 Manhattan Beach Blvd., [310] 545-2523. 21 and over after 9 p.m.). The newly renovated bar (formerly known as Sunsets) features a panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean and the Manhattan Beach Pier. When the moon comes up, the beach-side venue has a deejay and dancing.

Next, slide into the Side Door (900 Manhattan Ave., [310] 372-1684. 21 and over. $3 cover after 9 p.m.). This sleek martini bar is a hidden treasure among the in-crowd where you’ll find a rainbow of colorful drinks and the hippest night scene in town.

If you’re a night owl, head to the Kettle (1138 Highland Ave., [310] 545-8511). Open since 1973, the 24-hour diner is an institution among locals who know the skinny on late-night eats. Grab a cheeseburger, an order of potato skins or a cup coffee to get you home.

Sunday

When in Manhattan Beach, do as the locals do: Go to Manhattan Beach (there are several parking lots off Manhattan Beach Boulevard.) Half the reason most of us live in Southern California is to be near the sand and surf. Manhattan Beach has a long stretch of sand, dozens of volleyball nets and a walkway that fronts a row of seaside dream homes. Grab your swimsuit (weather permitting), in-line skates, running shoes or your most comfortable sandals and hit the Strand. Lazy days never felt so good.

If shopping is how you like to spend your Sunday afternoons, downtown Manhattan Beach has a plethora of art galleries, unique boutiques and trendy clothing shops. Get yourself a pair of platform shoes at Skechers (1115 Manhattan Ave. [310] 318-3116). Buy a set of blown-glass salt and pepper shakers at the Magpie (1141 Highland Ave., [310] 546-5132). Browse the Native American arts and crafts at Native (322 Manhattan Beach Blvd., [310] 372-7716). Or pick out a new bikini at Diane’s (125 Manhattan Beach Blvd., [310] 546-5869.)