See San Pedro, a nice film backdrop
by marinarena
Port / Waterfront Scenery!
Did you know? San Pedro is a popular film location for major pictures. How could it not be so with its classic port city look. Both the epic, Pearl Harbor , and the 90s cult film, The Usual Suspects shot scenes in this L.A. neighborhood.
Judging the "Old Town"
by marinarena
Just steps away from the popular waterfront is old town San San Pedro. Here, one sees that not so touristy parts- blocks of very shabby buildings, mom and pop stores and restaurants/bars. If you would like to experience the real SP, come have a look around.
It is commonly said that the old downtown part of a city has "charm". Well, there is a bit of it here. The charm comes from the heart of the locals and what they add to downtown institutions. Old San Pedro is not as picturesque as other old towns, like that of the city of Orange's old town area which is the heart of the entire Orange county.
SP's old town is just simple and modest, period. The city (like many others in greater L.A.) is under urban renewal. Attractive "old style" new lofts are being developed here out of an old bank building. (hopefully, they won't cost a fortune like the ones in downtown Los Angeles). Streets are slowly being cleaned up (in all senses). San Pedro still has a long way to go in its beautification plans. Overall, old town is on the drab side, with just a few eye-pleasing buildings literally here and there.
San Pedro, an Urban Original by the Sea
by marinarena
"San Pedro is an original, baby"
This line is what stands out in my mind to describe San Pedro. She, with the very masculine name, is officially a part of Los Angeles.
Her soul is similar that of Venice, California- they are really soul sisters together within L.A. limits. Both have that grundgy kind of appeal, as Nirvana has for some rock n roll fans. They are lovably pathetic , ugly yet beautiful and gray yet colorful places. You would truly know what I mean if you have been to both cities within a city. But enough with the comparisons...
San Pedro is an original, staying true to its own modest and funky urban identity and quality. If you look for opulence in her, I'm afraid that you will be disappointed. Something quite remarkable is that SP clings on to its history and tradition with a firm hold, rather than letting it subside deep into suburbanization. This is quite refreshing to be a witness to this considering that more and more cities are caving in to suburban ways and attitudes (in the negative connotations of suburbanization, that is) ...
"Port of L.A."
Don't forget that L.A. is a port city, one of the biggest in the world. It's not just about Hollywood here. Because of all of the port activity, this area is significant. Many of America's goods originate right here in the heart of San Pedro.
The port gives San Pedro a distinct look that can be described as either picturesque or down right ugly equally. The green water is surely nasty and not for swimming. However, sailing on the murky green is quite all right. In fact, San pedro is a major place to go for a sail in the L.A. area.
"Oh, there is much to come here!"
Lots of insider stuff to add!
Great views of the harbor and Catalina
by Camille_W
"Angels Gate Park"
Angel's Gate Park is located on the tall bluff overlooking the entrance to Los Angeles Harbor. On a clear day you can see Santa Catalina, as well as the piers at Belmont Shores and even Huntington Beach.
The Korean Bell of Friendship sits under a beautiful pagoda which offers a wonderful backdrop for the views of the ocean and the setting sun.
"The views are great"
If you ignore the goofy girl in the front of the picture, you can see the breakwater that protects the old Naval Shipyard. This picture gives you an idea how high the bluff is.