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2019 San Pedro Gift Guide

Santa Claus sits at Royal Palms State Beach in San Pedro, CA.

2019 San Pedro Gift Guide

You can download the 2019 Gift Guide in pdf form by clicking here.

SAN PEDRANS KNOW HOW IMPORTANT IT IS TO SHOP LOCAL.
It’s no secret that our strong, independent, multi-generational, small business community is the fabric that binds our town together. These business owners are our friends, family, and neighbors. They greet us by name when we walk through the door and say hi when we run into them at the grocery store. For San Pedrans, shopping local is very personal.

We know how tempting it is to spend your hard-earned dollars at the big-box stores during the holiday season. That’s why, for our very first official holiday gift guide, we’ve tried to make it easy for you to find local businesses that may be able to cater to all your shopping needs. As we discovered while putting this gift guide together, you can find something for everyone (including yourself) within our town’s small footprint. While this list is far from complete, we hope this gift guide encourages you to try and keep your dollars local as much as possible, not only during the holidays but all year long.

San Pedro Surf and Sport

San Pedro Surf & Sport

GIFTS TO SHOW YOUR PEDRO PRIDE

Whether you’ve lived here 50 years or 50 days, hometown support never goes out of style. From the local surf and skate shops that embody the off-the-cuff spirit of San Pedro to wares from local artists who are beautifying and celebrating this town that we love dearly, here you will find gifts for any proud San Pedran.

GOOD TO BE BAD Established in 2015, Badfish Clothing Co. is the bastion of San Pedro skate and surf swag (they are the only local retailer with official “Three-Eyed Fish” gear, too). Roll on in for a myriad of Pedro-centric tees, or head on over to their Western Ave./Summerland location for custom gear and skateboards. 337 W. 6th Street, (310) 521-9965, badfishclothing.com.

COASTAL STYLE The new kid on the block in Downtown San Pedro, Coastline Shop features original San Pedro-inspired designs on t-shirts, caps, and gear. 437 W. 6th Street, instagram.com/the_coastline_shop.

John Mattera Photography

John Mattera Photography

INDOOR BEAUTY Showcase the beauty of San Pedro in your home with some amazing local photography. John Mattera Photography has captured and archived many impressive images of San Pedro during his decade as lead photographer for San Pedro Today. These images can now be purchased as high-quality prints, canvases, or coasters. Mattera’s collection also includes a variety of college football action photos on canvas from Notre Dame, UCLA and USC games. johnmatteraphotography.com.

EVERYBODY’S GONE SURFIN’ San Pedro Surf & Sport carries many items any San Pedro lover would want, along with beach clothing, custom-made surfboards, wetsuits and everything else you need to paddle out. Their unique San Pedro logos are designed in-house and can be found on t-shirts, sweatshirts, hats, zip-ups, and pullovers. 2234 S. Pacific Ave., (310) 519-SURF.

Urban Feet and Skate

Urban Feet & Skate

EXPLORE The perfect gift for the curious explorer! Experience another angle of San Pedro with Townee Tours (San Pedro Walking Tours). Join local historian Angela Romero as she guides you through the sights and highlights of this remarkable port town. Her monthly tours include “Hollywood in San Pedro” and “Downtown Now & Then,” as well as tours with themes that change seasonally. For tickets and info, call (310) 808-7800.

ALL-AROUND KICKS San Pedro’s unofficial shoe headquarters, Urban Feet & Skate has been serving San Pedro for more than 20 years. They carry everything from classy to sporty to work shoes, including popular brands like Ugg Australia, Vans, and Rainbow Sandals. Urban Feet also carries an array of skateboarding gear, including decks and helmets. 329 W. 6th Street, (310) 832-9364, urbanfeetandskate.net.

 

GIFTS FOR HIM, HER & THE LITTLE ONES

For many of us, shopping for those closest to us is nearly impossible. Whether it’s your significant other, kids, or picky family and friends, these local hidden treasures could be the spot where you find that perfect gift for those hard-to-shop-for loved ones.

The Bike Palace

The Bike Palace

NEW WHEELS What’s a more classic holiday gift than a brand-new bike with a bright red bow? Since 1973, The Bike Palace has been catering to the community’s two-wheeled needs, and no matter your age, we can all agree that popping a wheelie is still pretty cool. They’re stocked with plenty of sizes and models to choose from for any age. 1600 S. Pacific Ave., (310) 832-1966, thebikepalace.com.

SOMETHING SHINY A necklace for her? Cufflinks for him? Maybe wedding rings for both? Captain’s Treasure Chest has been in business for more than 30 years, carrying a stellar reputation for personal service and affordable prices. From 14K white and yellow gold to sterling silver or costume jewelry, even watches and class rings, gift ideas abound at this beloved family-owned business. 28901 S. Western Ave., Suite 219, RPV, (310) 519-1856, captainstreasurechestjewelry.com.

STAND OUT IN STYLE Owned and styled by Lisa Martinez, Her Escape Boutique is the definitive spot in town for the latest in young women’s trends and fashion. Sassy, flashy, and fun, you are sure to find the perfect outfit for the holidays here. 410 W. 7th Street, (310) 522-9852, herescapeboutique.com.

HOBBY HIJINX Did you know building scale models helps with skill development, stress relief, and is a great form of artistic expression? If you’re looking for a gift to help expose one’s creativity, take a look inside JD Hobby Center. Their 10,000 square foot retail space on 6th Street is full of various models, including cars, planes, tanks, ships, military vehicles, and terrain in both kit and pre-built forms. They also carry an array of books, movie memorabilia, and pop culture items. 471 W. 6th Street, (310) 514-3702, jdhobbies.yolasite.com.

Mandyz

Mandyz

VINTAGE VINYL JDC Records has been producing, distributing, and selling vinyl records since 1977 and was one of the premier independent vinyl distributors during its heyday. If you have an audiophile in your life, their “super cool” retail store in Downtown San Pedro is chockfull of new and used vinyl records that would make a great gift. 447 W. 6th Street, (424) 264-5335, jdcrecordstore.com.

STYLIZE & ACCESSORIZE The husband and wife team of Mona and Robert Khalbourji have been beautifying visitors at their Weymouth Corners shops for more than a decade. Mona’s Mandyz Boutique (1442 W. 8th Street, (310) 521-8400, mandyzboutique.com) features hand-picked, trendy, and fashionable clothing and accessories, while across 8th Street, Robert’s Golden Treasure Jewelers (1453 W. 8th Street, C, (310) 548-4008) specializes in 14k yellow and white gold, diamonds, and sterling silver.

McKenna's Pendleton

McKenna’s Pendleton

NEVER OUT OF STYLE The essential shirt shop among California surfers and South Bay dockworkers alike, McKenna’s Pendleton has been keeping the South Bay community warm since 1986. The Lomita store carries the largest selection of Pendleton products in Southern California, featuring current men’s and women’s clothing, accessories, and home goods, including Pendleton’s iconic pure virgin wool blankets and throws. 2304 Pacific Coast Highway, Lomita, (310) 539-2725, mckennaspendleton.com.

ISN’T SHE LOVELY? Holding court in the Arcade Building in Downtown San Pedro, Ms. Alexander Women’s Boutique offers a variety of high-quality women’s clothing. They also carry a great selection of jeans in sizes 1- 22, along with jewelry and gifts for any occasion. 479 W. 6th Street, (310) 953-6110.

OH BABY! The perfect spot to find quality gifts for newborns and more, Rok ‘n’ Ell Baby Boutique in Weymouth Corners carries a sweet collection of baby and kids’ clothing, accessories, and goods for anyone knee-high to a grasshopper. 1438 W. 8th Street, (310) 832-4145, roknellbaby.com.

GET IT FIXED Home of the San Pedro Slap sandal and the Gabbag handbag, San Pedro Shoes & Repair is a great option for someone looking for a unique, local gift, or for those just looking to repair a shoe, bag, or belt before the holiday parties start ramping up. 1434 W. 8th Street, (310) 831-1733.

Street Sole

Street Sole

GET ACTIVE Get your kids off the screen and into some healthy activity by gifting them enrollment in one of the many programs at the San Pedro YMCA. With a multitude of programming for kids and teens, the Y is a great place to focus all that youthful energy. From swim lessons to gymnastics, youth ball hockey and flag football, this community-based gym has you covered when it comes to activities. 301 S. Bandini St., (310) 832-4211, ymcala.org/san-pedro-peninsula.

GET YOUR KICKS A sleek shop in the heart of Downtown San Pedro, Street Sole serves up the latest trends in kicks and footwear. Owner and true sneaker connoisseur, Jean Grisard, has assembled an impressive collection of custom and consignment sneakers, hats and apparel. 317 W. 6th Street, streetsole.com.

CLEAN HIM UP If you have a man in your life who could use a stylish clean-up, new Downtown San Pedro salon Subterranean is the perfect spot. Treat your man to a straight razor shave and an ear and nose waxing before taking those holiday photos. He’ll appreciate it more than he’ll let on. 263 W. 7th Street, (424) 287-0161, subterraneanhair.com.

HARDCORE PARKOUR! Give your kids the experience of next-level play at Urban Youth Park’s brand-new parkour and ninja warrior training facility in RPV. With experienced coaches, active kids can learn new skills by tackling the Urban Jump Building, Super Trampoline, warped walls, and climbing ropes. 550 Deep Valley Dr., Suite 341, PV, (323) 431-3533, urbanyouthpark.com.

TIMELESSNESS Timepieces make beloved gifts and heirlooms. Family owned and operated for more than six decades, Vilicich Watch & Clock has long specialized in watch and antique clock repair with a special emphasis on Rolex sales and service. Knowledge, skill, and meticulous attention to detail remain a time-honored hallmark of the watchmakers and clockmakers at this Weymouth Corners establishment. 714 S. Weymouth Ave., (310) 833-6891, vilicichwatch.com.

 

GIFTS FOR THE STOCKING

They say good things come in small packages, and we agree. If you’re looking for the perfect stocking stuffers, we’ve got you covered with these unique local goodies.

Assistance League Gift Shop

Assistance League Gift Shop

TANTALIZING TREATS Skip the customary orange or apple in the toe in favor of a sweet treat from a wide selection of sugary confections from Sweet Suzie Candy Store (437 W. 6th Street). If savory is more your thing, head on over to B.U.L.K. Beef Jerky for your pick of beef, turkey or vegan jerky. Or, give the gift of year-round jerky with their “Jerky of the Month” membership (1931 N. Gaffey St., Ste. E, (424) 536-3050, bulkbeefjerky.com).

TRINKETS & TREASURES For pocket-sized holiday items, trinkets, and treasures check out the Assistance League Gift Shop (1441 W. 8th Street, (310) 832-8355). Visit The Corner Store for throwback sodas and curios (1118 W. 37th Street, (310) 832-2424). You can also find plenty of San Pedro-inspired clothing and accessories, including the popular “Old Guys Rule” brand, at Drop-In Gifts (385 W. 6th Street, (310) 548-1239). For the sea-loving child, a piece of abalone jewelry or a brass compass from the Los Angeles Maritime Museum Gift Shop (Berth 84, (310) 548-7618, lamaritimemuseum.org) could make a stocking extra special.

 

Crafted at the Port of Los Angeles

Crafted at the Port of Los Angeles

THAT ONE PLACE TO FIND SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE

If the holidays have you too busy to hit everyone on your list, there’s one spot in town that’s got your back. San Pedro’s fortunate to be the home of one of the best one-stop shopping experiences at Crafted at the Port of Los Angeles. With dozens of local artisans selling everything from hand-crafted jewelry and artisanal food to fine art and one-of-a-kind items, one can easily find something for everyone on your Nice List. 112 E. 22nd Street, craftedportla.com.

 

GIFTS FOR HEALTH & WELLNESS

Why is it that taking time for self-care can be so challenging, especially during the holidays? Help your loved ones get a head-start with these ideas for pampering, healthy living and re-centering. (And maybe, treat yourself, too!)

REJUVENATE Jasmine’s Day Spa runs the gamut of pampering treatments – from massage to aromatherapy. But Jasmine’s specialty and passion, after almost two decades in the field, is skincare. Guests of the spa can choose from a menu of services such as anti-aging, hyperpigmentation, and acne treatments. 28719 S. Western Ave., RPV, (310) 519-0436.

Healing Octaves

Healing Octaves

RELAX With all the hustle of the holidays, it’s no wonder that our shoulders feel like they are attached to our earlobes. The team at Harbor Health & Spa, led by Dr. Scott Sanders, D.C., is on hand for all your chiropractic and massage needs. If you aren’t sure what to gift, check out their holiday gift bundles and spa packages. 29050 S. Western Ave., #102A, RPV, (310) 519-9690, harborhealthandspa.net.

SOOTHING SOUNDS Specializing in Vibrational Sound Therapy and Reiki, Dona Lafaurie’s Healing Octaves has been helping people around the South Bay to manage stress and anxiety for the past 20 years. Traditional Tibetan “singing bowls” harness the power of vibrational sound to cleanse and heal the spirit. 771 W. 9th Street, (310) 433-4640, healingoctaves.com.

THE GIFT OF ZEN Looking for sage smudge bundles, unique geodes or artisan jewelry? Zen Den has a lovely selection of functional and inspirational items for health, beauty, and other magical moments in life. 360 W. 6th Street, zendensanpedro.com.

GET A JUMP ON JANUARY The indulgences of the year might be catching up with us, but thankfully Nuda Juice & Wellness Shop offers doorstep delivery of plant-based meal plans and juice cleanses. Added bonus: you can find Joe’s Vegan Shop in residence at Nuda, Tuesday-Saturday. 407 W. 6th Street, (323) 769-9713, nudajuiceshop.com.

 

GIFTS TO EXPAND THE MIND

Some gifts you can’t put a bow on — a sunset, a delighted expression, the joy of learning something new. Here’s a handful of ideas if you are thinking outside of the box (literally!) for the holidays.

CRACK THE CODE If your child has a knack for technology, maybe gifting classes at Code Ninjas in Rolling Hills Estates could help encourage his or her technical skills. Serving kids ages 7-14, the coding school teaches children at their own pace the basics of video game and program development using a game-based curriculum. 60 Peninsula Center, Rolling Hills Estates, (424) 903-0355, codeninjas.com/locations/ca-palosverdes.

Tango San Pedro

Tango San Pedro

STEP IN TIME Sometimes the best gifts are the ones that take us out of our comfort zone. Few things do that more than dance lessons and few dances are as intimidating as the tango. Fortunately, Silvia Askenazi, founder of Tango San Pedro, replaces the fear with fun. Dance lessons are the perfect gift for couples or singles wanting to learn something new (and meet someone new in the process). 601 W. 8th Street, (310) 902-8503, tangosanpedro.com.

CREATE ON CANVAS If you know someone in need of a creative outlet, Parkhurst Galleries Oil Painting Classes could be a great choice to give someone a fulfilling, artistic experience. Taught by professional teachers, classes include lunch or dinner and the freedom to paint whatever you like. 439 W. 6th Street, (310) 547-3158, parkhurstgalleries.com.

UNDER THE SEA It’s one thing to see whales breaching along our coast from the safety of the Point Fermin Park benches; it’s another thing to see them live and up close on a whale watching tour. If you’re looking to give someone an amazing life experience, whale watching tickets with Harbor Breeze Cruises is a great idea. See our oceanic neighbors up close and personal while also gaining a new appreciation for our friends in the Pacific. 100 Aquarium Way, Dock #2, Long Beach, (562) 432-4900, 2seewhales.com.

ARTISTIC LICENSE If you’re looking to spark a loved one’s artistic drive, exposing them to Angels Gate Cultural Center’s Community Class Program is a solid choice. The center provides arts classes to the local community, offering affordable space for developing and professional artists to teach classes and workshops for students of all ages and experience levels. Classes include ceramics, drawing and painting, printmaking, metal sculpture, yoga, dance, guitar and ukulele, and kyudo – Japanese archery. 3601 S. Gaffey St., (310) 519-0936, angelsgateart.org.

 

GIFTS FOR A NIGHT ON THE TOWN

You don’t have to get on a freeway to find quality entertainment. Catch the best in local music, theatre, and dance minutes from home with these gift ideas.

NOTHING BEATS LIVE MUSIC The gift of music is always special, and San Pedro is fortunate to have a number of exceptional live music venues with programming that will appeal to anyone’s musical tastes. For a unique, intimate musical experience, a show at Alvas Showroom is not to be missed (1417 W. 8th Street, (310) 833-7538, alvasshowroom.com). Managed by the Grand Vision Foundation, the Grand Annex in Downtown San Pedro hosts world-class talent ranging from roots rock to jazz and world rhythms (434 W. 6th Street, (310) 833-4813, grandvision.org).

San Pedro City Ballet's "The Nutcracker"

San Pedro City Ballet’s “The Nutcracker”

SPEAK THE SPEECH Tickets to experience San Pedro’s thriving live theatre community are always a great gift idea. Little Fish Theatre in downtown is our town’s premier live theatre venue, mounting classic and contemporary plays year-round (777 Centre St., (310) 512-6030, littlefishtheatre.org). For the kids, give them a dose of theatre magic by gifting them tickets to an upcoming performance by Encore Theatre Group at the Warner Grand Theatre (encoresouthbay.org). And don’t forget to get your tickets for San Pedro City Ballet’s 26th annual performance of The Nutcracker Dec. 13-15 (sanpedroballetschool.com).

FOODIE FANATICS For most of us, the way to our hearts is through our stomachs, which is why giving gift cards to our local restaurants is probably the most ideal San Pedro gift one can give. With so many places and cuisines to choose from, there’s no doubt you can find the perfect spot to share with a loved one. Gift cards are available at most restaurant locations.

 

GIFTS FOR THE HOME & GARDEN

While San Pedro might not experience the bitter cold and snow that winter is known for, it is still a wonderful time of year to snuggle down and dream of springtime flowers. Regardless if you are shopping for a new homeowner or simply helping a friend feather their nest, you are sure to find inspiration and unique gifts here.

House 1002

House 1002

REPURPOSE RENAISSANCE With 6,000 square feet of showroom, it’s hard to imagine not finding some pretty awesome and unique gifts from the selection of collectibles, vintage items, art, and architectural salvage at House 1002. Co-owner Cathie Goldberg has an uncanny eye for color, texture, and finding extraordinary eclectic pieces. 1002 S. Pacific Ave., (310) 833-1002, house1002.com.

TOOL TIME A perennial go-to, South Shores Ace Hardware is home to all your DIY and home improvement needs. Power tools (and gift cards) are great stocking stuffers, and if you decide to barbecue instead of roasting turkey, Terry Katnic and his staff can set you up with the right grill for the occasion (weather permitting, obviously). 2515 S. Western Ave., Ste. 101, (310) 833-1223, acehardware.com.

GET FRAMED Since 1981, Distinctive Edge Framing & Gallery has been helping the peninsula “deck the halls” year-round. In addition to framing, they specialize in art sales, restoration, and decorating tips. 28639 S. Western Avenue, RPV, (310) 833-3613.

SWEET DREAMS What better way to conjure up visions of sugarplums than laying down on a new mattress or sinking into fresh pillows? Goodnight Mattress has you covered, with a comprehensive inventory to suit all sleep needs. 28733 S. Western Ave., RPV, (310) 832-9600, goodnightbeds.com.

KNOCK, KNOCK Family owned and operated since 1980, Coppa Woodworking screen doors can be found in thousands of homes across San Pedro. While an unorthodox gift idea, a screen door upgrade would make any homeowner happy. With more than 300 styles of doors in several wood types to choose from, you’re bound to find the perfect door for you or a loved one. 1231 Paraiso St., (310) 548-4142, coppawoodworking.com.

 

GIFTS FOR THE EXPERIENCED PALATE

San Pedro is full of lively libations. From beer to coffee with some vino in between, these picks are sure to please the palates of the pickiest of people.

Brouwerij West

Brouwerij West

ANOTHER ROUND San Pedrans can’t spell it, but we can certainly drink it. For the beer connoisseurs on your list, a growler or hoodie from Brouwerij West makes for an excellent gift. The independent brewery, which opened its doors in 2016, serves its own take on classic Belgian-style ales, pilsners, IPAs, and more. 110 E. 22nd Street, Warehouse No. 9, brouwerijwest.com.

Sirens Java & Tea

Sirens Java & Tea

PUT A CORK IN IT For the wine lovers in your life, there’s only one place you need to go. Off the Vine wine shoppe in Downtown San Pedro specializes in carrying small production wines and craft beers from around the world. Surprise a loved one with a bottle, gift basket, or gift membership to their wine club. 491 W. 6th Street, #103, (310) 831-1551, offthevinewines.com.

COFFEE CRASH Downtown San Pedro’s beloved Sirens Java & Tea reopened its doors just in time for the holidays. In addition to their own custom roast and pastries, you can also pick up a Sirens mug or gift card as a perfect last-minute gift on the go. 402 W. 7th Street, (424) 477-5603. spt

SPT Staff

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