Immerse yourself in the rich music history of Hermosa Beach on this guided audio tour. Explore the origins of jazz, surf, and punk in this vibrant beach town.
Immerse yourself in the rich music history of Hermosa Beach on this guided audio tour. Explore the origins of jazz, surf, and punk in this vibrant beach town.
- Hermosa Beach Pier - Enjoy a stroll along the pier while discovering Hermosa’s rich history, from the Native American Tongva tribe to the area’s early settlers. Stand where a photo was taken a century ago and listen to 94-year-old surfer Tommy Rice share his experiences as a surfing pioneer, including sleeping under the pier. Learn how swing music…
- Hermosa Beach Pier - Enjoy a stroll along the pier while discovering Hermosa’s rich history, from the Native American Tongva tribe to the area’s early settlers. Stand where a photo was taken a century ago and listen to 94-year-old surfer Tommy Rice share his experiences as a surfing pioneer, including sleeping under the pier. Learn how swing music arrived in Hermosa, leaving a lasting impact on the town.
- The Lighthouse Cafe - Discover the tale of how a struggling musician and a down-on-his-luck gambler transformed a dive bar in 1949 into one of the most vibrant jazz clubs west of Chicago. Hear stories from the 1950s, when legends like Miles Davis, Chet Baker, and Dizzy Gillespie graced The Lighthouse stage.
- Abigaile Restaurant and Brewery - Explore the site once known as “The Church,” where hardcore punk rock emerged in the late 70s. Hear from Keith Morris of Black Flag, who lived and practiced there, and Jim Lindberg of Pennywise. View photos of the punk scene captured by photographer “Spot.”

- Portable high-end speakers or headsets
- 1 speaker per group tour
- Lunch
- Portable high-end speakers or headsets
- 1 speaker per group tour
- Lunch
- Smart phone and headphones or earbuds
- Smart phone and headphones or earbuds
JAZZ! SURF! PUNK!
Explore how this small coastal village turned into a hub for groundbreaking music over the span of more than 75 years. Embark on a historical journey through music with Joe Nolte, also known as “The Godfather of South-Bay Punk”.
Music serves as a bond linking one generation to another, but this contemplative and personal tale…
JAZZ! SURF! PUNK!
Explore how this small coastal village turned into a hub for groundbreaking music over the span of more than 75 years. Embark on a historical journey through music with Joe Nolte, also known as “The Godfather of South-Bay Punk”.
Music serves as a bond linking one generation to another, but this contemplative and personal tale encapsulates more than just music. It’s a narrated account of Hermosa’s history.
Whether you’re an out-of-towner making your first trip, or a lifelong resident of Hermosa, you’ll encounter hidden treasures, hear unheard stories, and gain a deeper understanding of what makes Hermosa, truly Hermosa.
This one-of-a-kind guided tour integrates an enriching audio and visual experience through a complimentary app that you install on your phone, along with an in-person guide, who is the app’s developer.
NOTE: The starting times can be adjusted. Simply drop a message for exploring other possible start times.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.