Experience the lively vibe of Los Angeles in August 2025 with festivals, outdoor fun, art exhibits, and more. Stay at the ITH Los Angeles Hermosa Beach Surf Hostel for a budget-friendly and convenient stay in the heart of it all.
Are you ready to experience the excitement of Los Angeles this August? LA is bursting with fun things to do, from lively festivals and outdoor adventures to art and sports events that will make your summer amazing. Whether you love trying new foods at Smorgasburg LA, or exploring art at places like The Getty Center and LACMA, there’s something here for everyone, and this guide is here to guide you through the month!
Come along as we discover the best of LA this August and create memories that will last a lifetime!
Outdoor Concerts and Festivals
Los Angeles in August 2025 is full of fun events for all kinds of interests. Big concerts include Lady Gaga at the Kia Forum (Aug 1–2), Hard Summer Festival at Hollywood Park (Aug 2–3), and Damian & Stephen Marley at the Hollywood Bowl (Aug 17). You can also see Dave Matthews Band (Aug 22) and Rüfüs Du Sol (Aug 16).
If you’re looking for free events, check out the Marina del Rey Summer Concert Series or live music at Grand Performances downtown. The Getty is also hosting relaxing sunset concerts, including one by Emile Mosseri on Aug 23.
For something different, enjoy outdoor movies on the beach in Long Beach, or sip wine with a view at Barnsdall Park on Friday nights.
Explore L.A.’s Beaches
August is the perfect time to soak up the sun and explore some of L.A.’s best beaches. Venice Beach is full of energy with its famous boardwalk and Muscle Beach gym. Santa Monica Beach offers classic fun with a pier, rides, and an aquarium. Malibu’s Zuma Beach is a favorite for clean sand and great surfing. Manhattan Beach is great for volleyball and its scenic pier views. Nearby, Hermosa Beach has a laid-back vibe, a lively pier area, and plenty of beachside cafés and shops. For evening bonfires, head to Dockweiler State Beach, and if you’re looking for hidden coves and dramatic rock formations, El Matador Beach is the place to go.
For more information on Los Angeles beaches, check out this article!
Take a Sunset Cruise
Experience the beauty of the Pacific Ocean with a sunset cruise departing from Marina del Rey or Long Beach. These cruises offer jaw-dropping views as the sun sets over the water, creating a magical atmosphere. It’s a perfect way to unwind and capture stunning sunset moments on the waters of Southern California.
Explore Griffith Park
Hike to the Griffith Observatory for the best views of Los Angeles’ skyline and the iconic Hollywood Sign. For an evening adventure, join a nighttime hike to the observatory for a unique stargazing experience. Away from the city lights, August skies provide optimal conditions to observe celestial bodies and learn about astronomy.
Visit Outdoor Art Installations
In August, explore outdoor art installations and exhibitions in LA at The Getty Center or LACMA. At The Getty, enjoy sculptures and gardens with city views. LACMA features outdoor installations blending art with urban surroundings, offering a dynamic cultural experience. It’s a great way to appreciate art in the lively atmosphere of Los Angeles.
Fiesta Hermosa
Fiesta Hermosa is one of the biggest and most fun events in Hermosa Beach, happening over Labor Day weekend (August 31 – September 2, 2025). It takes place in downtown Hermosa and goes all the way to the beach, bringing in big crowds every year. You’ll find over 250 booths with local art, handmade crafts, and cool gifts.
There’s also lots of food to try, live music on different stages (including rock, reggae, and cover bands), and a beer and wine garden for adults.
International Surf Festival
The International Surf Festival returns to Hermosa Beach on August 1–2, 2025, as part of a week-long celebration of ocean sports and beach culture. Highlights include the popular Charlie Saikley 6-Man Beach Volleyball Tournament, drawing big crowds with fun, competitive matches near the Hermosa Pier.
On August 2, the Bud Stevenson Lifeguard Relay lights up the beach at night, with lifeguards showing off their skills in swimming, paddling, and rowing. There are also youth ocean races during the day, including swim and paddleboard events for ages 10–17.
Beach Tennis Tournament
The Beach Tennis Association (BTA) is hosting a beach tennis tournament in Hermosa Beach on August 15–16, 2025. This event is part of the BTA’s regular tournament series, which includes multiple tournaments throughout the year. The tournament is open to players of all skill levels and will take place on the beach tennis courts located north of the Hermosa Beach Pier.
Participants can register for one, two, or three events, with pricing varying for BTA members and non-members. The tournament offers a fun and competitive environment for both seasoned players and newcomers to the sport.
Catch a Baseball Game
Last but not least, on our list of the best things to do in Los Angeles in August is to catch a baseball game! Catch a baseball game at Dodger Stadium to cheer on the Los Angeles Dodgers and soak in the atmosphere of America’s favorite pastime. It’s a great way to spend an afternoon or evening enjoying the excitement of Major League Baseball in one of the city’s most beloved venues.
In conclusion, Los Angeles in August promises the best of the city. Whether you’re exploring art at The Getty Center and LACMA, enjoying festivals like Nisei Week or Leimert Park Village Book Fair, or catching a Dodgers game at Dodger Stadium, LA has something for everyone. To make the most of your visit, book your stay at the ITH Los Angeles Hermosa Beach Surf Hostel. Conveniently located and budget-friendly, it’s the perfect place to stay while you explore LA in August!
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