Excercise and Fun at Sand Dune Park in Manhattan Beach

Who would have thought that in a town with a seemingly endless beautiful sand beach, one of the best places to go get some exercise would be on a hill....or more precisely a big sand dune. As there is some structure or another on just about every part of Manhattan Beach, most people are unaware that the hills we see and live on along the coast are really just big sand dunes. One great place to find this out is a small park just North of Rosecrans known as Sand Dune Park. The park is certainly aptly named as the main feature of the park is a big 100 foot high sand dune. As if running through sand isn't difficult enough....try it on a big slope! The dune isn't all that long but it sure feels that way about half way up the slop. It's a fantastic way to get some quick exercise while enjoying the weather outdoors. It's better than any stairmaster and certainly much better for the knees. (See Map)

In addition to being a great workout for you, it's a great place to bring the kids. There is a great little playground for the kids with swings and slides, and the city has designated the left side of the hill to be an area for kids to run and play.

Parking can sometimes be a challenge after work hours and during the weekend....and watch out for the streetsweeping signs. The park is located at 33rd and Bell in the Manhattan Tree Section and the park hours are 6:00AM - 9:00PM during daylight savings, and open till 8:00PM the rest of the year. The streets leading to the park and the park itself are nestled in a quiet neighborhood, so please be courteous.

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