Here Comes Santa Claus - Right Down South Bay's Lanes!
It’s one of the South Bay’s most heartwarming traditions — a twinkling sleigh, a jolly wave, and the sound of sirens signaling that Santa Claus is on his way. What began decades ago as small, community-led holiday processions has become a cherished coastal custom, bringing neighborhoods together year after year.
In the 1950s and ’60s, local volunteers and service organizations built the first Santa floats to bring holiday cheer to families who couldn’t make it downtown for the big parades. Those grassroots efforts — often featuring wooden sleighs, homemade lights, and plenty of heart — evolved into the organized, citywide tours we celebrate today.
From the hilltops of Palos Verdes to the palm-lined avenues of Manhattan Beach, Santa still rides each December, delighting generations old and new. Here’s where you can catch him this holiday season:
Lomita, Rolling Hills & Rancho Palos Verdes
The Lomita Sheriff’s Station Santa Sleigh brings the spirit of the season to neighborhoods throughout Lomita, Rolling Hills, and Rancho Palos Verdes. Keep an ear out for sirens and carols as deputies escort Santa through the South Bay’s most scenic hilltop streets.
Redondo Beach
Redondo Beach hosts its beloved Santa Float, a long-standing local favorite that tours neighborhood by neighborhood. Bundle up, bring cocoa, and wave from your driveway as Santa and his helpers light up the night.
Manhattan Beach
Santa trades his sleigh bells for surfboards at the Manhattan Beach Santa Float, cruising through neighborhoods from December 2–20. Check your route online to find out when he’ll roll past your street — and don’t forget to bring your Christmas list.
Hermosa Beach
Over in Hermosa, Santa makes his entrance with coastal flair. Follow the city’s updates on Instagram to see where and when you can catch a glimpse of Santa along The Strand and nearby neighborhoods.
El Segundo
Classic charm meets small-town joy in El Segundo’s holiday festivities, where Santa rolls through neighborhoods and local parks to the delight of kids waiting curbside.
Torrance
The Torrance Police Officers Association Santa Float keeps the tradition alive with nightly routes all across the city. See every stop on their Santa Route Map — and be ready for the red and blue lights signaling Santa’s arrival.
Long Beach
For a grand finale, Belmont Shore’s Christmas Parade brings Santa to the seaside in spectacular fashion — complete with marching bands, twinkling lights, and classic convertible cars.
Tip: Bring your camera, wave from the curb, and soak in the holiday glow. In the South Bay, Santa doesn’t just visit — he rides by in style.
