El Segundo, CA
- About the City
- Climate and Weather
- Landmarks and Attractions
- Transportation
- Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
- Museums
- Sport and Sports Legends
- Universities and Educational Institutions
- Healthcare Facilities and Services
El Segundo is a coastal city in Los Angeles County, known as a major aerospace and innovation hub, home to Fortune 500 companies and the Los Angeles Air Force Base.
About the City
Official Status and Administrative Affiliation
- Full Official Name: City of El Segundo .
- Administrative Role: El Segundo is a general law city incorporated on January 18, 1917. It is not a county seat but operates its own municipal government with a Council-Manager system .
- Location: It is located in Los Angeles County, California, United States. The city is part of the South Bay Cities Council of Governments and is one of the Beach Cities along Santa Monica Bay . Los Angeles County is the most populous county in the United States, known for its diversity, entertainment industry, and economic power.
Historical Names and Nicknames
- Origin of Name: The city's name, El Segundo, is Spanish for "The Second." It earned this name because it is the site of the second Standard Oil refinery built on the West Coast, which opened in 1911 .
- Nicknames:
- The Aerospace Capital of the World: This nickname reflects the city's deep history and concentration of aerospace and defense companies, including the Los Angeles Air Force Base .
- 'Gundo / The 'Gundo: A common shorthand and affectionate nickname used by locals .
- The Densest Hard-Tech Cluster in Southern California: A more recent, official-sounding nickname highlighting its modern innovation economy .
Date of Foundation and Age
- Date of Foundation: El Segundo was incorporated as a city on January 18, 1917 .
- Age: As of 2026, the city is 109 years old.
- Founding Story: The city's origins are industrial. In 1911, Standard Oil of California purchased 840 acres of farmland from George H. Peck to build its second West Coast refinery. The company town that grew around it was officially incorporated six years later .
Geographic Location and Coordinates
- Geographic Coordinates: 33°55′17″N 118°24′22″W .
- Location Context: El Segundo is located on the coast of Santa Monica Bay in southwestern Los Angeles County. It is directly south of Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and north of the city of Manhattan Beach. Its western boundary is the Pacific Ocean .
- Elevation: The city's elevation is approximately 115 feet (35 meters) above sea level .
- Type of Settlement: It is a coastal suburban city, almost entirely surrounded by the larger City of Los Angeles (including LAX) and other beach cities .
City Type and Economic Specialization
El Segundo is a unique hybrid, functioning as both a major industrial and corporate hub and a residential beach community .
- Aerospace and Defense Center: It is home to the Los Angeles Air Force Base's Space Systems Command and major facilities for companies like Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, Raytheon, and The Aerospace Corporation .
- Innovation and Technology Hub: The city's "Innovation Zone" in the Smoky Hollow district is the densest hard-tech cluster in Southern California, with numerous venture-backed companies .
- Corporate Headquarters: El Segundo hosts the world headquarters of Mattel and significant offices for Fortune 500 companies like Chevron (its large refinery is a city landmark), as well as the Los Angeles Times .
- Sports Capital: It is the practice facility and headquarters home for several Los Angeles sports teams, including the Los Angeles Lakers, L.A. Kings, Los Angeles Chargers, and soon the Los Angeles Sparks .
Population and Demographics
- Population: According to the 2020 census, the population was 17,272 .
- Population Class: Based on its population, El Segundo is classified as a small city.
- Demographic Note: During the workday, the population swells dramatically due to the influx of workers at its many companies. The city has a very high average salary, the highest in Los Angeles County, and a high concentration of PhDs .
City's "Business Card" (in short)
El Segundo is a dynamic coastal city that masterfully blends its heritage as "The Aerospace Capital of the World" with its new identity as Southern California's densest hard-tech hub. Visitors and locals alike enjoy a unique mix of industrial landmarks, a revitalized beach, and the charm of a small town that serves as the professional home for aerospace giants, global toy maker Mattel, and championship sports teams like the Los Angeles Lakers.
Climate and Weather
Climate Type and General Characteristics
El Segundo has a Mediterranean climate (Köppen classification: Csb) , characterized by mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers . Its coastal location on Santa Monica Bay moderates temperatures, resulting in cool summers compared to inland areas. It is a very sunny location, with occasional morning low clouds or fog, often referred to as "May Gray" or "June Gloom."
Average Monthly Temperatures
Temperatures are mild year-round. The warmest month is August, and the coolest is February .
- August (Warmest Month): Average high of 28°C (82°F) and average low of 18°C (64°F) .
- February (Coolest Month): Average high of 18°C (64°F) and average low of 10°C (50°F) .
| Month | Average High (°C/°F) | Average Low (°C/°F) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 19°C / 66°F | 10°C / 50°F |
| February | 18°C / 64°F | 10°C / 50°F |
| March | 19°C / 66°F | 11°C / 52°F |
| April | 21°C / 70°F | 12°C / 54°F |
| May | 22°C / 72°F | 13°C / 55°F |
| June | 24°C / 75°F | 15°C / 59°F |
| July | 27°C / 81°F | 17°C / 63°F |
| August | 28°C / 82°F | 18°C / 64°F |
| September | 28°C / 82°F | 18°C / 64°F |
| October | 26°C / 79°F | 17°C / 63°F |
| November | 22°C / 72°F | 13°C / 55°F |
| December | 18°C / 64°F | 10°C / 50°F |
| *Source: * |
Precipitation and Humidity
- Average Annual Rainfall: Approximately 328 mm (13 inches) .
- Rainy Season: The vast majority of rain falls during the winter months. The wettest month is January, with about 55 mm (2.2 inches) of rainfall .
- Dry Season: The summer months are very dry. The driest month is September, with only about 8.4 mm (0.33 inches) of rain . Humidity levels are generally moderate due to the ocean influence .
Seasonality and Best Time to Visit
El Segundo is a year-round destination, but the best time for outdoor activities is during the warm, dry summer and early fall.
- Summer (June - September): Warm and sunny with very little rain. This is the peak season for beach activities, with average highs in the mid-20s°C (mid-70s to low-80s°F). Morning clouds are common but usually burn off by midday.
- Fall (October - November): Warm and sunny conditions often extend into October and early November, with cooling temperatures and a slight increase in rain chances later in the season.
- Winter (December - March): Mild and is the wettest time of the year. Days are cooler but still pleasant for walking and exploring, with average highs around 18-19°C (64-66°F).
- Spring (April - May): Characterized by gradual warming and an increased chance of morning low clouds ("May Gray"). It's a beautiful time to visit before the summer crowds arrive.
Landmarks and Attractions
Recreation Park
This is the city's primary community park and a hub of local activity . It features expansive sports fields, playgrounds for children, and picnic areas, making it a perfect destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts . The park is currently undergoing a remodel as part of the city's capital improvement projects, reflecting the community's investment in recreation .
El Segundo Beach
El Segundo boasts its own stretch of coastline, offering a wide, sandy beach that is ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and beach games . The gentle waves make it a particularly safe and enjoyable spot for families with children . The beach is part of the revitalized shoreline, created after the demolition of old industrial wharves, and offers stunning sunset views . The Marvin Braude Bike Trail runs along it, connecting cyclists to other South Bay beaches .
Smoky Hollow District
Once an industrial area, Smoky Hollow has transformed into the city's vibrant "Innovation Zone" and a cultural hotspot . It is now the densest hard-tech cluster in the region, filled with modern offices of tech startups and creative companies . This district is also known for its burgeoning arts scene, with artists and murals adding color to the industrial architecture.
Downtown / Historic Main Street
The heart of old El Segundo, centered around Main Street and Grand Avenue. This area retains a small-town feel and was once the terminus of a Pacific Electric Railway line for refinery workers . Today, it features local boutiques, restaurants, and historic buildings, offering a contrast to the city's modern industrial and tech parks.
Los Angeles Air Force Base
A major United States Space Force base located within the city limits, it is home to the Space Systems Command (SSC) . While it is an active military installation with restricted access, it is a defining landmark and a cornerstone of El Segundo's identity as "The Aerospace Capital of the World" .
Transportation
Major Airports
El Segundo is uniquely situated just south of one of the world's busiest airports.
- Los Angeles International Airport (LAX): IATA code: LAX. Located immediately north of El Segundo, it is the primary airport serving the Greater Los Angeles area. Its close proximity makes El Segundo incredibly convenient for travelers. Access to LAX is primarily via Sepulveda Boulevard and the 105 Freeway, with future connections to the LAX Automated People Mover (APM) expected to further ease access .
Public Transportation
The city is served by several bus lines connecting it to the broader Los Angeles metro area.
- GTrans Line 5: This bus route runs parallel to the 105 Freeway and provides a crucial link from El Segundo to the LAX/Metro Transit Center (MTC) . From the MTC, a free shuttle connects to all LAX terminals, providing a convenient public transit option to the airport .
Major Highways
El Segundo is well-connected by several major freeways, making it accessible from throughout the Los Angeles Basin.
- Interstate 105 (Century Freeway): Runs east-west just north of the city, connecting to Norwalk and providing a direct route to LAX.
- Interstate 405 (San Diego Freeway): A major north-south artery that forms the eastern boundary of the region, connecting the South Bay to the San Fernando Valley and Orange County.
- California State Route 1 (Highway 1 / Pacific Coast Highway): Runs along the coast, connecting El Segundo to other beach cities like Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, and Redondo Beach to the south, and Santa Monica to the north.
Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
El Segundo's dining scene has evolved significantly, offering a mix of elevated dining experiences and well-loved international concepts.
Sausal's "Nuevo Rancho" Cuisine: A standout destination is Sausal, a restaurant that draws inspiration from the area's history as the Rancho Sausal Redondo. Chef Anne Conness crafts a menu around the concept of "Nuevo Rancho" cooking, which reimagines the flavors of Southern California's early ranchero and missionary periods . The cuisine uses wood-fire and slow-roasting techniques to create dishes that are both authentic and modern . The menu incorporates local Native American ingredients like black walnuts, blackberries, and chia seeds, alongside foods introduced by the Spanish (figs, olives, citrus) and Mexicans (tomatoes, corn, chilis) . Signature offerings include oakwood-fired steak, hearth-roasted local halibut, and beef or goat birria . For a sweet finish, the Spanish sticky date cake with spiced pecans is a notable dessert .
Brazilian Churrascaria Experience: For a completely different style of dining, Fogo de Chão brings the Brazilian steakhouse tradition to El Segundo. This restaurant offers a dual-dining experience with its "Market Table," a buffet with over 30 salads, vegetables, and Brazilian-inspired dishes, alongside the famous rodízio service where servers carve various cuts of fire-roasted meats tableside . The meats, including beef, pork, and a standout lemon pepper and mint lamb, are cooked simply to highlight their natural flavors. It is also a place to try feijoada, the hearty black bean and meat stew that is a national dish of Brazil .
Museums
ESMoA (El Segundo Museum of Art): El Segundo's primary cultural institution is ESMoA, which describes itself as an "art laboratory" rather than a traditional museum . Located at 208 Main St., ESMoA focuses on being a catalyst for creative thinking in the South Bay. It features provocative rotating exhibitions, known as "Experiences," that change throughout the year, showcasing a diverse range of media from sculpture and painting to performance art . The museum has displayed works from LA-based and internationally-recognized artists, and admission is free, making it an accessible hub for arts education and community engagement .
Sport and Sports Legends
El Segundo has transformed into an unparalleled hub for professional sports, earning the distinction of being the only city in the United States that is home to the headquarters and practice facilities for five major league teams .
Professional Sports Teams and Facilities
- Los Angeles Lakers (NBA) : The historic NBA franchise has its training facility and corporate headquarters in El Segundo.
- LA Kings (NHL) : The NHL team's training center and front offices are also located in the city .
- Los Angeles Chargers (NFL) : The Chargers opened The Bolt, their state-of-the-art, 150,000-square-foot training facility and headquarters in El Segundo in 2024. Located on 14 acres, The Bolt features three natural grass practice fields, comprehensive training and rehabilitation centers, and even a "Chargers Walk of Fame" honoring team legends .
- Los Angeles Sparks (WNBA) : The three-time WNBA champion Sparks announced plans in 2025 to build a new, $150 million, purpose-built headquarters and training facility in El Segundo, scheduled to open in 2027 .
- Rugby LA (Major League Rugby) : The city is also home to the headquarters and training facility for the local Major League Rugby team, Rugby LA .
Sports Merchandise
Fans can visit the official Chargers Team Store, located at Chargers Commons (2144 E. El Segundo Blvd.), to purchase official team gear .
Universities and Educational Institutions
While El Segundo itself does not have a major university campus, its prime location in the South Bay region of Los Angeles County places it in close proximity to several of California's most prestigious institutions of higher learning .
Major Universities Nearby
- University of Southern California (USC) : A globally recognized private research university founded in 1880, USC is known for its strong programs in film, business, engineering, and the arts, supported by a vast alumni network .
- University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) : Consistently ranked among the top public universities in the world, UCLA offers a vast range of programs and is renowned for its academics and its spirited Bruins athletics program .
- Loyola Marymount University (LMU) : A private Catholic university located on a picturesque campus, LMU is committed to a well-rounded liberal arts education rooted in the Jesuit and Marymount traditions .
- California State University, Dominguez Hills (CSUDH) : Part of the CSU system, CSUDH is known for its affordable tuition, commitment to diversity, and focus on community engagement .
- Otis College of Art and Design : A leading institution for art and design, Otis College offers degrees in fine arts, graphic design, and fashion design, benefiting from its proximity to LA's creative industries .
Healthcare Facilities and Services
Specialized Medical Group: Within El Segundo itself, specialized healthcare services are available. The California Hematology Oncology Medical Group is located at 390 N Sepulveda Blvd, providing specialized care in hematology and oncology to the community .
Nearby Medical Centers: For comprehensive hospital services, including emergency care and surgical procedures, residents and visitors typically utilize medical centers in the surrounding Los Angeles area, as El Segundo's immediate medical facilities are limited to specialized practices.
Note on Healthcare Information: In researching this section, the information from one source (urgentcarearlingtonva.com) listing several hospitals (e.g., "El Segundo Medical Center," "El Segundo Children's Hospital") within the city could not be verified by official or reputable local sources and appears to potentially contain fictitious information . As such, it has been excluded from this guide in favor of verified local practices.