The Magic of North Hermosa Beach
While downtown Hermosa Beach around Pier Avenue is famous for its energetic nightlife and weekend volleyball crowds, North Hermosa Beach—centered along Hermosa Avenue between 22nd and 30th Streets—retains an authentic, tranquil neighborhood charm. Here, locals walk their dogs without hurry, surfers check the morning break, and neighbors greet each other by name.
Anchoring this quiet coastal strip is Gitana Cafe at 2600 Hermosa Avenue, situated right at the corner of 26th Street.
Step 1: The Gitana Cafe Pit Stop (7:30 AM – 8:00 AM)
Start your morning by ordering ahead on ToastTab or stepping up to our warm timber counter. For a morning walk, we recommend:
- An Iced Blueberry Lemonade Matcha ($6.75): Energizing, antioxidant-packed, and beautifully layered for a refreshing beach stroll.
- An Iced Colombian Panela Latte with Oat Milk ($6.50): Rich, caramel-toned, and completely plant-based at no extra charge.
- A Warm Chorizo Cheddar or Guava Croissant: Packed securely in an eco-friendly pastry pouch for easy snacking along the way.
Step 2: Head West Down 26th Street to The Strand (2 Blocks)
Step outside Gitana Cafe and head directly west down 26th Street toward the Pacific Ocean. Within two short blocks, you'll reach The Strand, the legendary 22-mile paved pedestrian and bike path spanning the Los Angeles coastline from Santa Monica to Torrance.
At 26th Street, the beach opens into wide, sunlit sands. The morning surf here is often gentle and glassy, with pelicans gliding in formation along the breaking wave crests.
Step 3: Stroll South Toward Hermosa Pier or North to Manhattan Beach
Once on The Strand, you have two scenic choices:
- Head South (1.2 miles): Enjoy a flat, scenic walk to the historic Hermosa Beach Pier. You'll pass historic beach cottages and modern coastal architecture before reaching the lively plaza.
- Head North (1.0 miles): Walk across the city boundary into south Manhattan Beach, climbing the scenic bluffs toward Manhattan Beach Pier and the Roundhouse Aquarium.
Step 4: Return to Gitana's Covered Patio
After soaking up your morning negative ions and sea breeze, loop back along Hermosa Avenue to 2600. Grab a seat on our umbrella-shaded patio, sip a cold water or fresh Agua Fresca, and relax under the California sunshine with your four-legged companion.
Experience This In Person
Ready to taste our Colombian heritage drinks and house-baked morning pastries? Stop by our covered sidewalk patio just two blocks from Hermosa Beach Strand or order ahead online for quick counter pickup.
Article FAQ
Gitana Cafe is just two short residential blocks (under a 3-minute walk) from the sand and The Strand at 26th Street.
Street parking is available along Hermosa Avenue and 26th Street. Be sure to check posted street sweeping signs on weekday mornings.
