Polliwog Park is one of the largest parks in the South Bay, encompassing 18 acres. Developed in 1964 and expanded in 1975, the property is leased to the City of Manhattan Beach by the Manhattan Beach Unified School District.
A large pond serves as a beautiful focal point of the park and is bordered on one side by a natural wildlife refuge which is home to migratory birds, raccoons and possums. An amphitheater looks out over the majestic pond and is a perfect site for concerts, performances, weddings and other special events. The park provides an idyllic and scenic backdrop for any occasion.
Three park gazebos can also be reserved in advance for two-hour periods and are favorite spots for birthday parties, anniversaries and family reunions. One gazebo is situated adjacent to the park’s Rose Garden, another positioned near the amphitheater and the third is adjacent to the pond
A short distance from the Rose Garden is one of the City’s oldest beach cottages which was moved to the site and refurbished. It houses the City’s Historical Museum and is open to the public offering guided tours by appointment.
Play areas include a large lighthouse inspired play apparatus with several slides including a spiral tube slide, misters, a small sand area and three separate areas for younger children filled with colorful and imaginative climbing and exploration equipment. Premier Little League Field is located adjacent to the park. The picnic area is comprised of a number of tables and six barbecues which can accommodate large groups.
On the southwest corner of the park is the Manhattan Beach Botanical Garden which is run by volunteers and is now open to the public on a regular basis.
Polliwog Park also contains an exercise course, restroom facilities and drinking fountains. Numerous park benches, grassy mounds and shady areas make this an ideal spot for all types of recreational activities including just relaxing or enjoying a conversation with friends.
Curbside parking is available along Redondo Avenue and Manhattan Beach Boulevard.
Polliwog Dog Run
The Polliwog Park Dog Run is located on the west end of Polliwog Park, adjacent to Begg Field. This 5,900 square foot dog run is the largest in Manhattan Beach.
Please review the Polliwog Park Dog Run Rules (PDF) before visiting the dog run. Dogs are permitted, on leash, along designated pathways parallel with Begg Pool and soccer field.
Polliwog Park Dog Run Hours of Operation
| Open Daily | Time |
| November 1 to March 30 | 6:30 AM to 8:00 PM |
| April 1 to October 31 | 6:30 AM to 9:00 PM |
Facilities That Can Be Reserved
For reservations, please contact Ada Wallace, Facility Reservations at (310) 802-5410.
Map of reservable areas in Polliwog Park (PDF)
Amphitheater
| Maximum Capacity | 1,000 | Length of Use | Minimum 2 hours Maximum 6 hours |
| Hours Available | 8:00 AM to dusk daily | Equipment | N/A |
| Note: Amplified sound is not permitted in the park | |||
| Appropriate for the following types of events: Performances, weddings, classes, meetings and other large group gatherings | |||
Picnic Area
| Number of Tables | 15 | Number of Reservable Tables | 8 |
| Maximum Capacity per table | 25 | Length of Use | Minimum 2 hours Maximum 6 hours |
| Hours Available | 8:00 AM to dusk daily | Equipment | 2 barbecues |
| Appropriate for the following types of events: Parties, picnics, outdoor meetings and classes | |||
Central Gazebo
| Number of Tables | 2 | ||
| Maximum Capacity per table | 25 | Length of Use | Minimum 2 hours Maximum 3 hours |
| Hours Available | 8:00 AM to dusk daily | Equipment | N/A |
| Note: Barbecues not permitted | |||
| Appropriate for the following types of events: Parties, gatherings, outdoor meetings, classes | |||
West/Rose Gazebo
| Number of Tables | 2 | ||
| Maximum Capacity per table | 25 | Length of Use | Minimum 2 hours Maximum 3 hours |
| Hours Available | 8:00 AM to dusk daily | Equipment | N/A |
| Note: Barbecues not permitted | |||
| Appropriate for the following types of events: Parties, classes, gatherings, social events | |||
Pond Gazebo
| Number of Tables | 2 | ||
| Maximum Capacity per table | 25 | Length of Use | Minimum 2 hours Maximum 3 hours |
| Hours Available | 8:00 AM to dusk daily | Equipment | N/A |
| Note: Barbecues not permitted. | |||
| Appropriate for the following types of events: Parties, classes, gatherings, social events | |||
