Itinerary: Redondo Beach

Redondo Beach has long been a seaside oasis. Hollywood guys and dolls once considered it a vacation hot spot, and throngs of people flocked to the gambling ships that docked off the coastline in the 1930s.

Nearly a century later, thousands still go to Redondo Beach to enjoy the sand and surf, the city’s sprawling waterfront, state-of-the-art pier, boating and seaside dining. Sure, times have changed, but Redondo still keeps alive the endless days of summer.

Friday

Start the evening with a stroll through the shops, boutiques and galleries in Riviera Village (between Catalina Avenue, Pacific Coast Highway and Avenue I). Situated at the southern tip of Redondo Beach, Riviera Village is where Melrose meets the sea, so to speak. You’ll find a plethora of eclectic stores selling antiques, collectibles, art, books, high-end fashions and cappuccino.

Just before sunset, make your way to the waterfront for a gondola ride with Gondola Amore (181 N. Harbor Drive, [310] 376-6977.) You’ll enjoy sunsets, moonlit nights and harbor lights as a Venetian-style gondola cruises the waterways of Redondo Beach. A one-hour gondola ride includes fruit, cheese, appetizers and an ice bucket so you can take along your favorite champagne or wine. Cost: $75 for two people. $10 for each additional person. Daily, noon to 9 p.m. Reservations suggested.

Saturday

Redondo Beach is a water sports center. You can rent kayaks, pedal boats and wave runners, go parasailing or hop on a fishing charter. Water sports equipment is available at Beach Cities Water Craft (161 N. Harbor Drive, [310] 372-7477) and Rocky Point Fun (310 Portofino Way, [310] 374-9858). Prices vary depending on the craft you select. If you’re on a budget, you can simply enjoy the ocean at Redondo Beach (the beach is at the end of Torrance Boulevard).

If you’re looking for something a little tamer, try Seaside Lagoon (200 Portofino Way, [310] 318-0681). This large, saltwater, sandy-bottom lagoon is a favorite among kids. The lagoon features a large sand area for sunbathing, water slides, play equipment and a sand volleyball court. Open daily in the summer from 10 a.m. to 5:45 p.m. Cost: adults, $3.50; children 17 and younger, $2.50.

After your day at sea, grab a drink and something to eat on the Redondo Beach Pier or the adjoining International Boardwalk (where Torrance Boulevard ends at the ocean). The pier features dozens of bars and elcectic restaurants, including hole-in-the-wall eateries. Naja’s Place is a long-time favorite, offering 77 beers on tap and access to 777 beers from around the world (154 the International Boardwalk, [310] 376-9951). 21 and older. No cover.

Sunday

In the 1970s, Redondo Beach razed dozens of old homes in favor of new oceanfront condominiums. Glimpse the city’s past with a visit to Heritage Court at Dominguez Park (302 Flagler Lane, [310] 372-0197). A restored Queen Anne-style cottage built circa 1904 houses the Redondo Beach Historical Society Museum, which features artifacts from Redondo’s storied past. Next door is the Morrell House, a turn-of-the-century Queen Anne Craftsman-style home soon to be restored. Open Saturday and Sunday, 1 to 4 p.m. Free.

After visiting the historic homes, drop by the adjacent Redondo Beach Dog Park (Flagler Lane and 190th Street). Opened in 1996, this pooch playground was one of the first dog parks in Southern California. The park has two fenced-off areas: one for big dogs, the other for small dogs. Soon the park will be getting some new turf and an agility course. Open from sunrise to sunset.