Sand Dune Park is a great place to work out and enjoy a beautiful ocean view. This once super busy park is a victim of its success. Regulations now require a reservation to use the dune and keep the crowd down to not more than fifty climbers.
Located in Manhattan Beach, the dune was once used as a dumpsite and is the last remaining coastal dune in an area that used to be covered with them. Celebrities, sports figures, and common flocked to the dune for the ultimate workout.
So many people were using the dune neighbors complained about parking, noise, and traffic. The dune was fenced off and closed for nearly a year before new regulations were implemented to address the locals’ concerns.
The dune is much more civil these days but not as fun as the good old days. Adjacent to the dune is a series of steps that go up the bluff. No reservations are required for the steps. But they are posted “No Jogging.” Tickets are given for jogging, so watch your step.
Manhattan Beach Dune is about 100 feet high. You have to be in good shape to walk up the dune. Jogging up the dune is not for lightweights. The dune is a challenging workout; if this is your first trip to the dune, you will have to stop and rest every few feet to make it to the top.
Sand Dune Park Before you go
- You will need to register online and create an account.
- Only one reservation per day and person is allowed.
- Reservation hours are only available during daylight hours.
- The dune attendant needs a reservation receipt and picture ID.
- You have one hour to play in the sand with a dune reservation.
Persons 55 and over can use the dune on a walk-up basis, with no reservation if not all the slots are filled.
Sand Dune Park is in the middle of a residential area. Parking is minimal. Many users wear socks while on the dune, especially on sunny days. Be sure to bring along some water. You are going to need it.
Sand Dune Park is at 33rd & Bell Avenue, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266. There are 30 parking spaces along Bell Avenue. There is also a small children’s playground at Bell Avenue’s bottom of the dune. The garden is where the dune attendant can be found.