Redondo Beach has a rich and multifaceted history, evolving from Native American settlements to a booming trade center and a resort destination. Before 1784, Native Americans lived off the sea and salt flats in the area. In 1784, it became part of Rancho San Pedro, a Spanish land grant.

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By the late 19th century, Redondo Beach was thriving as a hub for tourism and trade. The 1890 opening of the luxurious Hotel Redondo, complete with a golf course, tennis courts, and 225 sunlit rooms, drew visitors arriving via steamships and railroads. Attractions like Moonstone Beach, sports fishing piers, and Tent City—a budget-friendly alternative to hotel stays—made Redondo a favorite coastal getaway. The city incorporated on April 18, 1892, with a population of just 668.

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As San Pedro Harbor grew in prominence in the early 20th century, Redondo’s tourism declined. The Hotel Redondo closed in 1925, and by the Great Depression, gambling ships like the Rex dotted its waters. Despite setbacks, including repeated storm damage to its piers, Redondo Beach adapted. In 1956, King Harbor was constructed, creating the marina that stands today.

Redondo Beach saw a population boom in the mid-20th century, growing from 13,092 residents in 1940 to over 63,000 today. While still a tourist destination with piers, restaurants, and a saltwater lagoon, Redondo Beach is also a thriving community with top-rated schools, flourishing businesses, and high-quality city services, making it a perfect blend of history, recreation, and modern living.