Do you know what a traveler’s equivalent of purgatory is? It must be the dreaded airport layover. This past summer during my layover at Los Angeles International Airport before my late evening flight to Europe, instead of twiddling my thumbs and sipping overpriced coffee, I decided to seize the day and go for a quick exploration at Manhattan Beach, within easy reach of LAX.
Getting There
Landing in LAX in the morning and considering my next flight wasn’t scheduled until late evening left me with a whole day to fill. LAX is conveniently located near some iconic spots, including rubbing shoulders with the Pacific Ocean. Spending all day at the airport didn’t seem like a tempting option, so I quickly hopped on an easy Uber ride and headed to Manhattan Beach.
The Low-Key Charm
Why Manhattan Beach, you might ask? I was in the mood for something more low key and different from more famous places like Santa Monica or Venice. Somewhere with a quieter charm, seemed the perfect choice to capture some unique shots.
As I was admiring the waves crashing against the shore, one particular moment caught my eye. “Friends and Sea Breezes”, now featured in Gallery Canyons, captures the essence of this laid-back community. Two friends enjoying a moment of serenity on the pier. It was like an instant connection with the place and its people.
Neighborhood Vibes
Quaint cafes, charming boutiques, and friendly locals. Manhattan Beach isn’t just about the beach. I discovered a cool spot near the pier, where bars and restaurants buzzed with life. Enjoying the soothing sounds of the ocean and the gentle breeze, plus the opportunity to to snap some interesting shots, it was undeniably a worthwhile choice.
Waves In Action
Now, let’s talk about the photography insights: I opted for a fast shutter speed, high f-stops, and my trusty 70-200mm lens. My goal was to emphasize part of the pier and capture the dynamic splashes created by the waves on this mildly windy day. The beach was bathed in soft, diffused light thanks to the slightly cloudy weather. I had a strong intuition that this place held the potential for some truly remarkable photos. I couldn’t leave without freezing those crashing waves in time.
A Delightful Layover
My 8-hour layover turned from a potentially tedious wait into an exciting time. Away from the tourist crowds, Manhattan Beach offered me a chance to visit a different side of Los Angeles. If you find yourself facing a long layover at LAX, don’t just sit around at the airport, venture to this classic California coastal town.
Whether you’re a photographer or simply someone looking for a unique way to kill time during your layover, explore and create lasting memories.
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