It’s safe to say, this year’s holiday season will be much more festive than last year’s. As the pandemic numbers continue to decline, San Pedro’s small business community continues to grow, with several new retail shops and home-based businesses opening in the past year.
With indoor shopping back and people feeling a sense of normalcy again, now is the perfect time to support the many independently owned and operated “mom-and-pops” our town is known for. From the artisans at Crafted to the new apparel shops and boutiques in downtown, San Pedro’s shopping choices have grown quite a bit the past few years.
As 2021 comes to a close, let’s all be mindful of where we spend our gift-giving dollars. San Pedro may not have everything, but you can find something for everyone (including yourself) in town. While this list is far from complete, we hope this gift guide encourages you to keep your dollars local, not only during the holidays, but all-year round.
SPECIALTY GIFTS
ASSISTANCE LEAGUE HOLIDAY BOUTIQUE The Assistance League of San Pedro-South Bay’s Holiday Boutique offers a full selection of stunning holiday décor, beautiful ornaments, and eye-catching gift ideas, including jewelry and crystal items. The gift shop also carries cookbooks, apparel, greeting cards, and a full selection of See’s Candies! 1441 W. 8th St., (310) 832-8355, assistanceleague.org/san-pedro-south-bay.
CABRILLO MARINE AQUARIUM GIFT SHOP The Cabrillo Marine Aquarium Gift Shop is a true treasure by the sea. The shop features ocean-themed ornaments and art, fun family puzzles, and a great selection of books. They also offer a wide selection of products online. Plus, all proceeds go towards programs at the aquarium. 3720 Stephen M. White Dr., (310) 548-8394, shop.friendsofcabrilloaquarium.org.
CRAFTED AT THE PORT OF LOS ANGELES Come discover handmade, heartfelt gifts for everyone on your list at Crafted, Southern California’s largest permanent modern makers’ market! Over 100 talented artists are represented, offering everything from Astralcreaciones to Zia’s Finds. Hand-thrown platters and bowls from Adewole Arts make a thoughtful gift for the host or any entertainer in your life. Check out new looks for the kids at Koala Charm and new looks for your home at Ten Thousand Villages. Make a date at Color Play Studio (colorplaystudio.com) to dye your own fashion creations. Don’t miss the San Pedro Art Association Member Show kicking off on Small Business Saturday, November 27. Take a beer break at Brouwerij West and enjoy the rotating selection of food trucks and entertainment. As always, free parking and admission! Please visit craftedportla.com for extended holiday hours and information. 112 E. 22nd Street, craftedportla.com.
DISTINCTIVE EDGE FRAMING & GALLERY 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 Ave., RPV, (310) 833-3613.
GRAND STREET ARTS Give the gift of artistic inspiration! Award-winning photographer Annie Appel offers photo restoration services, remote photography workshops, and private photography instruction, while tango instructor Silvia Askenazi offers group and private dance lessons and remote Spanish language classes at the Grand Street Arts center. More info at grandstreetarts.com.
DIVINE ELYSIAN WELLNESS Located in The Terraces (second level), the brand new Divine Elysian Wellness offers a wide variety of services to help one relax, rejuvenate, and improve your life. Whether you’re interested in increasing your energy or would like to explore alternative medicine, chances are they can help. For Black Friday, they’re offering a Buy Any Package of Six (Any Service) and get 30% off, among other specials. 28901 S. Western Ave., Ste. 225, RPV, (424) 267-6251, divineelysianwellness.com.
A canvas by John Mattera Photography.
JOHN MATTERA PHOTOGRAPHY Display the beauty of San Pedro in your home! 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 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. (310) 308-9766, johnmatteraphotography.com.
Zip Code Pillows from Rustic Charm & Petals.
RUSTIC CHARM & PETALS A welcome addition to 7th St. in Downtown San Pedro, Rustic Charm & Petals offers a variety of clothing, accessories, home décor, and charming gifts, including Pedro-inspired tees and sweatshirts and their best-selling Zip Code Pillows — a perfect gift or addition to your home this holiday season! They also offer various workshops for the community, including flower arranging, wreath-making, kids cookie decorating, and more. 251 W. 7th St., (310) 755-4576, rusticcharmandpetals.com.
Susan Drawbaugh Studio’s Santa Paws Ornament.
SUSAN DRAWBAUGH STUDIO Local artist Susan Drawbaugh creates humorous and relatable illustrations in her pet-inspired collection, “Playful Art of Pets & Peeps.” Her adorable dog and cat artwork can be purchased on various products like stationary, mugs, and art prints through her online store. Popular products include her Santa Paws Ornaments and Playful Pups notepads and mugs, which make great stocking stuffers for friends and family with four-legged furballs in their lives. Purchase online at drawbaughdraws.com.
FOR THE HOME
SOUTH SHORES ACE HARDWARE Home improvement projects have become more popular than ever. If you have an upcoming project, South Shores Ace Hardware is stocked for all your holiday DIY and home improvement needs. Power tools (and gift cards) always make great stocking stuffers! 2515 S. Western Ave., Ste. 101, (310) 833-1223.
HOUSE 1002 With 6,000 square feet of showroom, it is 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. They acquire new pieces daily, so check in often! 1002 S. Pacific Ave., (310) 833-1002, house1002.com.
Beacon House Thrift Shop.
BEACON HOUSE THRIFT SHOP The Beacon House Thrift Shop boasts a wide array of household appliances, books, and clothing at affordable prices. All proceeds benefit the Beacon House’s primary mission to help men recover from alcoholism and addiction. 812 S. Pacific Ave., (310) 514-4940, beaconhousethrift.org.
CLOTHING & APPAREL
THE COASTLINE SHOP Located in the heart of Downtown San Pedro, The Coastline Shop carries a selection of apparel, including San Pedro-themed shirts, hoodies, caps, and more. 437 W. 6th St., thecoastlineshop.com.
BADFISH CLOTHING COMPANY Badfish Clothing Company has become one of San Pedro’s favorite local clothing brands. Chockfull of originally designed t-shirts, hoodies, and caps, this popular store in Downtown San Pedro has become a bastion for the skate and surf crowd. Also, they’re the only local retailer with official “Three-Eyed Fish” merch! Check out their new, bigger location just down the block from the original store. New location: 363 W. 6th St., (310) 521-9965, badfishclothing.com.
LUDIC Just off the corner of 9th and Grand is one of San Pedro’s most stylish boutiques, LUDIC (short for “ludicrous”). The shop carries an array of women’s and kids’ clothing and offers all-inclusive sizes, from small to 3X, plus accessories, gifting, and home goods. 915 S. Grand Ave., (562) 999-1347, shopludic.co.
Mandyz Boutique.
MANDYZ BOUTIQUE Mandyz is capping 2021 with their annual 24 Days of Savings, featuring a different sale every day from Dec.1 through Dec. 24 on their stock of hand-picked, trendy, and fashionable clothing and accessories. On Dec. 9, they’ll be hosting a Sip and Shop event from 5-8 p.m., offering 20% off select merchandise, a HOBO bags trunk show, and a free bottle of wine with purchase! 1442 W. 8th St., (310) 521-8400, mandyzboutique.com.
McKenna’s Pendleton.
MCKENNA’S PENDLETON The essential shirt among South Bay surfers and dockworkers alike, McKenna’s Pendleton has been keeping the Harbor Area warm since 1986. Located a short hop away in Lomita, the store carries the largest selection of Pendleton products in Southern California, featuring current men’s and women’s clothing, accessories, and home goods. 2304 Pacific Coast Hwy., Lomita, (310) 539-2725, mckennaspendleton.com.
ROOTZ UNCHARTED Founded in 2017, Rootz Clothing Company opened their first brick and mortar shop in Downtown San Pedro earlier this year. Promoting their philosophy of “Live. Love. And Explore.” the shop features Rootz-branded apparel for menz, womenz, and gromz (kids). They also carry a collection of hats and jackets. 418 W. 6th St., (310) 480-1262, rootzuncharted.com.
ROUNDTRIP COLLECTIVE New threads with a vintage vibe! This Downtown San Pedro boutique features high-quality women’s clothing, accessories, and gifts. Their winter collection includes a wide selection of sweaters, jackets, jeans, and loungewear. 617 S. Mesa St., (310) 935-8295, roundtripcollective.com.
URBAN FEET & SKATE San Pedro’s shoe headquarters! Urban Feet carries everything from classy to sporty to work shoes, including popular brands like Ugg Australia, Vans, and Rainbow Sandals. 329 W. 6th St., (310) 832-9364, urbanfeetandskate.net.
JEWELRY & ACCESSORIES
CAPTAIN’S TREASURE CHEST 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. For December, Captain’s Treasure Chest is offering sterling silver & cubic zirconia stud earrings with a penguin gift box for only $20. They also have Christmas pins, earrings, and bracelets for only $10 each! 28901 S. Western Ave., Ste. 219, RPV, (310) 519-1856, captainstreasurechestjewelry.com.
GOLDEN TREASURE JEWELERS One of the jewels of Weymouth Corners, Golden Treasure Jewelers specializes in 14k yellow and white gold, diamonds, sterling silver, and watches. In December, they’re offering 10-50% off storewide, plus free sterling silver cubic zirconia studs with any purchase of $50 or more. With their jewelry cleaning service, you can get your jewelry all sparkly and shiny for the holidays. 1453 W. 8th St., Ste. C, (310) 548-4008.
DIAMOND FACTORY Serving the South Bay since 1977, the Diamond Factory offers a large selection of fine jewelry, including 14k jewelry in prices ranging from $10 and up, precious stones, silver jewelry, watches, and of course, diamonds. They also specialize in appraisals, ear piercing, jewelry repair, custom designs, and diamond settings. The knowledgeable staff will be happy to help you find that special gift for that special someone. 28370 S. Western Ave., RPV, (310) 833-8605, diamondfactoryinc.com.
VILICICH WATCH & CLOCK 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.
SAN PEDRO SHOES & HANDBAG REPAIR Another Weymouth Corners institution and home of the San Pedro Slap sandal and the Gabbag handbag, San Pedro Shoes & Handbag Repair is a great choice for someone looking for a unique, local gift, or for those just looking to repair a shoe, bag, or belt that they’ve been putting off all year. 1434 W. 8th Street, (310) 831-1733.
HOBBIES
The Bike Palace.
THE BIKE PALACE 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.
JD HOBBY CENTER If you’re looking for a gift that sparks creativity and relaxation, take a look inside JD Hobby Center. Their 10,000 square-foot retail space on 6th St. is full of various models, books, collectible toys, movie memorabilia, and pop culture items. 471 W. 6th St., (310) 514-3702, jdhobbies.yolasite.com.
JDC Records.
JDC RECORDS Vinyl continues to be as popular as ever these days. If you have an audiophile in your life, JDC Records’ “super cool” retail store in Downtown San Pedro is chockfull of new and used vinyl records that would make a great gift. In addition to all the popular titles, they also carry the limited-edition colored vinyl LP, Bukowski Reads His Poetry. 447 W. 6th St., (424) 264-5335, jdcrecordstore.com.
FOR THE KIDS
THE CORNER STORE Open since 1947, San Pedro’s charming neighborhood café carries a full selection of old-fashioned bottled sodas and candy that make for perfect stocking stuffers. The Corner Store also has a unique assortment of handmade toys and games. While you’re there, make sure to grab a pastry and coffee to go! 1118 W. 37th St., (310) 832-2424.
ROK ‘N’ ELL BABY BOUTIQUE 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 St., (310) 832-4145, roknell.com.
HOLIDAY TREATS
POLLY ANN BAKERY Polly Ann Bakery in Weymouth Corners has been sweetening up San Pedro since 1938. They have a full array of delicious holiday cookies, cakes, and pastries that make for great gifts this time of year. Don’t forget to pick up a treat for yourself! 1440 W. 8th St., (310) 519-0966.
COLOSSUS BREAD Colossus Bread opened its café on Alma St. in August 2018, and they’ve been growing ever since, recently adding a second location in Long Beach. The bakery/café offers handcrafted seasonal morning pastries, carefully brewed coffee, and hot loaves of bread. Order online or in-person. 2311 S. Alma St., (213) 444-0077, colossusbread.com.
COMPAGNON WINE BISTRO You can’t go wrong with gifting a bottle of wine. Fortunately, Compagnon Wine Bistro in Downtown San Pedro has a wonderful selection of more than 60 unique wines from around the world, mostly between $30-$90 (be sure to check their Instagram story highlights for a full list of retail options). You’re bound to find a great bottle, even for the most refined palate. Gift certificates are also available. 335 W. 7th St., (424) 342-9840, compagnonbistro.com.
SIRENS JAVA & TEA The coffee shop that’s become the hub of Downtown San Pedro, Sirens Java & Tea offers an assortment of homemade pastries and muffins, as well as a full menu of coffee and espresso drinks. They also offer a selection of products from local artisans, such as candles and cookies, including vegan and gluten-free options. While you’re waiting for your latte, pick up a Sirens mug or tumbler as a gift (or use it yourself on your return visit). 402 W. 7th St., (424) 477-5603.
BROUWERIJ WEST San Pedrans still can’t spell it, but we definitely love to drink it. For the beer connoisseurs on your list, Brouwerij West offers an array of gift options, including a unique selection of craft beer and hard seltzer, Brouwerij West merchandise, and gift cards, most of which are available for pickup or shipping. 110 E. 22nd St., Warehouse No. 9, brouwerijwest.com.
PET PICKS
THE DOG GROOMER Located on 6th Street in the heart of Downtown San Pedro, The Dog Groomer offers both professional grooming services and self-wash stations for your furry family members. They also offer an array of CBD pet products and flea medicine, as well as gift certificates. If you adopt a dog from the shelter during the holidays this year, you can bring that pup in for a free Premium Self-Wash or $20 off a Professional Grooming. (Paperwork from the shelter required.) 461 W. 6th St., #103, (310) 832-7387, Instagram @thedoggroomer310.
CREATIVE PET SUPPLY Since 1996, Creative Pet has catered to the needs of San Pedro’s critters of all sizes. From dogs, cats, and fish to chickens, reptiles, and rodents, this family-owned shop has everything you need to care for and pamper your pet. 305 N. Harbor Blvd., (800) 227-0001, creativepet.com.
PEDRO PET PALS & HARBOR ANIMAL CARE CENTER Don’t have a furry friend to shop for and thinking about adopting? Check in with Pedro Pet Pals or Harbor Animal Care Center to get the process going on expanding your family this holiday season. (Remember: gifting a pet as a surprise is not recommended but visiting shelters and adopting a pet in need as a family can be gratifying for both humans and fur-babies alike). Pedro Pet Pals: pedropetpals.com, Harbor Animal Care Center: 957 N. Gaffey St., (888) 452-7381, laanimalservices.com/shelters/harbor.
FOR THE READER
The cover of Angels Gate by Rafkin & Pagano.
ANGELS GATE by Andrew J. Rafkin and Louis Pagano San Pedro authors Andrew Rafkin and Louis Pagano are back with a new thriller set in and around San Pedro called Angels Gate. Synopsis: In 1983, the rapidly growing city of L.A. and beachfront communities were active in the illicit drug trade, successfully operating through Angels Gate Lighthouse and LAX, the gateway to the City of Angels. This true story is a recounting of the largest monetary heist in history, carried out by four local surfers and August Taracina, a successful marijuana smuggler. The novel can be ordered online through barnesandnoble.com and amazon.com. For more info, visit andrewjrafkin.com. spt
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