"San Pedro, an Urban Original by the Sea" San Pedro by marinarena

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) ...

View from Port O Call area

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.

old but colorful building, San Pedro

Lots of insider stuff to add!

• Pros:Ports O Call entertainment, strong sense of history, very ethnically diverse, unpretenious/down-to-earth, Long Beach adjacent
• Cons:some undeveloped & unattractive streets/areas, dirty beach area, out of the way location for many L.A. tourists, making it easily missed but interesting to discover
• In a nutshell:Don't think of coming here for the beach-think sailing here!