Weekend Planner: Family Fun Fest

Where/When: Manhattan Beach Pier, Manhattan Beach Blvd. and Ocean Dr., Manhattan Beach ; Friday-Sunday, 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Why Go: Head down to the beach for an afternoon of sand sports with 16 ancillary courts, a family-friendly festival area, concessions, and plenty of world-class volleyball.

Pricing: Free

Where/When: 615 24th Place, Hermosa Beach; Friday-Sunday, times vary.

Why Go: Join Dr. Bill Roley, the director of the Permaculture Institute of Southern California for a day or a whole weekend filled with workshops and lectures about land planning, planting annual and perennial herbs and vegetables, soil fertility management and much more.

Pricing: $15-$75

Where/When: , 6610 Palos Verdes Dr., Rancho Palos Verdes; Saturday, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Why Go: Take the whole family out for an easy hike with fun activities down Discovery Trial for a beautiful view of the ocean. Afterward, children are invited to paint their own masterpiece at the resort's serene outdoor studio.

Pricing: $25 per family

Where/When: , 1815 Hawthorne Blvd., Redondo Beach; Saturday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Why Go: The Family Fun Fest comes to the South Bay Galleria and there's tons of healthy activities for all ages! Events include an aqaurium where you can touch live sea animals, a martial arts exhibit and a Hello Kitty treasure hunt.

Pricing: Free

Where/When: , 30 Pier Ave., Hermosa Beach; Saturday, 4 p.m.

Why Go: The hardest working, constantly touring Grateful Dead tribute band in Southern California comes to the Lighthouse.

Pricing: Call for cover

Where/When: Cabrillo Marine Aquarium, 3720 Stephen M. White Dr., San Pedro; Sunday, 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Why Go: Join Cabrillo Marine Aquarium as they set off on this special excursion to seek out giant whales like the fin, humpback and the endangered blue whale.

Pricing: $25-$30