Korean Bell of Friendship Los Angeles
A majestic bronze bell gifted by South Korea, set in an ornate pavilion with sweeping Pacific Ocean views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Korean Bell of Friendship Los Angeles
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A majestic bronze bell gifted by South Korea, set in an ornate pavilion with sweeping Pacific Ocean views.
"A cultural landmark with breathtaking ocean vistas, perfect for peaceful reflection and stunning photos."
🎯 Pack a Picnic 🍕
Enjoy a meal with a view! Many visitors bring picnics to savor the ocean scenery.
🚗 Navigate with GPS
Parking can be tricky; use GPS to find the entrance and avoid getting lost.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Majestic Korean Bell
Main Pavilion
A massive, intricately decorated bronze bell gifted by South Korea, symbolizing enduring friendship.
Panoramic Ocean Views
Hilltop overlooking the Pacific
Breathtaking vistas of the Pacific Ocean, perfect for sunset watching and peaceful contemplation.
Historic Fort MacArthur Remnants
Surrounding grounds
Explore old WWII pillboxes and gun emplacements, offering a glimpse into military history.
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Parking and Access Tips
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Pack a Picnic 🍕
Enjoy a meal with a view! Many visitors bring picnics to savor the ocean scenery.
🚗 Navigate with GPS
Parking can be tricky; use GPS to find the entrance and avoid getting lost.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Explore the grounds and historic sites comfortably.
📸 Golden Hour Photography
The sunset light is stunning for photos. +1
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Pack a Picnic 🍕
Enjoy a meal with a view! Many visitors bring picnics to savor the ocean scenery.
🚗 Navigate with GPS
Parking can be tricky; use GPS to find the entrance and avoid getting lost.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Explore the grounds and historic sites comfortably.
📸 Golden Hour Photography
The sunset light is stunning for photos. +1
👂 Listen for the Bell
If you're lucky, you might hear the bell chime on windy days or during events.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning ocean views and the impressive Korean Bell of Friendship, calling it a peaceful escape and a cultural gem. Many appreciate the historical context of the surrounding Fort MacArthur remnants. Some note that parking can be challenging during peak times, and the bell isn't always rung.
"Came on a Monday (Labor Day) around 3pm
Pros:
Beautiful scenery
Open grass area for fildable chairs and picnics
Ice cream truck
Free parking
Not crowded
Open basketball courts with ocean and sunset view
Kite flying
Cons:
People smoking weed in the area
Not a lot of parking spots
Beautiful place. Worth the trip."
Eman K
"As a portrait photographer, I highly recommend the Korean Friendship Bell in San Pedro as a beautiful location for sunset portraits and scenic ocean views. The soft golden light, open space, and unique architecture make it a perfect backdrop for capturing warm, natural moments."
chao peng
"This is the cutest park! It overlooks the ocean, nestled on top of a hill. You can see, what I believe, is Catalina Island. I will definitely return soon!"
Dionne Andrewin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Korean Bell of Friendship is located in San Pedro, Los Angeles, within Angels Gate Park. Parking is available on-site, though it can get busy. Some visitors recommend using GPS to navigate to the entrance, as it can be a bit tricky to find.
Yes, there is parking available near the Korean Bell of Friendship. However, it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during events. Arriving early is recommended.
Yes, biking to the Korean Friendship Bell is possible. Some Reddit users have discussed riding bikes to the location, though one user mentioned getting lost on steep roads trying to find the entrance.
While specific public transport routes can vary, the general area of San Pedro is served by Los Angeles Metro buses. It's advisable to check current routes and schedules for the most direct access to Angels Gate Park.
The Korean Bell of Friendship is situated in Angels Gate Park, which also offers beautiful ocean views, picnic areas, and is near the Cabrillo Aquarium and the Korean War Memorial.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to the Korean Bell of Friendship and its surrounding grounds is free. You do not need to purchase tickets to visit this landmark.
The Korean Bell of Friendship is generally accessible during daylight hours. However, specific park hours can vary, so it's always a good idea to check the official Angels Gate Park information if you plan a very early or late visit.
There is no entrance fee to visit the Korean Bell of Friendship. It is a public park and a cultural landmark open for all to enjoy.
The bell is typically not rung by visitors. It is a ceremonial bell, and its striking is usually reserved for special occasions or events. Some visitors have heard it chime on windy days.
As a public park, standard rules apply regarding respecting the monument and grounds. Large events might occasionally affect access, but generally, it's open for casual visits.
📸 📸 Photography
The best times for photography are during the golden hour, just before sunset, for warm, dramatic lighting. +1 Weekday mornings also offer fewer people, making for cleaner shots.
Absolutely! The bell itself, the ornate pavilion, and the sweeping ocean views provide numerous stunning photo opportunities. 
Drone usage in national and state parks often has restrictions. It's best to check the specific regulations for Angels Gate Park and Los Angeles city parks regarding drone operation before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the bell and pavilion, while a telephoto lens can be useful for distant ocean shots. Any camera, including a smartphone, can capture beautiful images here.
Many visitors enjoy framing the bell with the ocean in the background, or capturing the intricate details of the pavilion. The surrounding historic structures also make for interesting photographic subjects.
🎫 🏛️ History & Culture
The Korean Bell of Friendship was a gift from South Korea to the United States in 1976 to celebrate the bicentennial of American independence and to commemorate the friendship between the two nations.
It symbolizes the enduring bond and friendship between the people of South Korea and the United States.
The pillboxes and bunkers are remnants of Fort MacArthur, a WWII coastal defense installation. They served to protect the harbor from enemy battleships.
The bell was donated by the people of the Republic of Korea to the people of Los Angeles.
No, while the Los Angeles bell is the most prominent, there is another Korean Bell of Friendship located in Vienna, Virginia, at Meadowlark Botanical Gardens.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants or food vendors directly at the Korean Bell of Friendship. However, the surrounding Angels Gate Park is a popular spot for picnics.
The nearby San Pedro area offers various dining options, from casual cafes to seafood restaurants. Some visitors recommend 'Busy Bee's' for sandwiches before visiting the bell.
Yes, picnicking is a popular activity at the Korean Bell of Friendship. The scenic location makes it an ideal spot to enjoy a meal outdoors.
San Pedro offers a diverse culinary scene, including fresh seafood, Mexican cuisine, Italian, and classic American diner fare.
For a romantic meal, consider restaurants in San Pedro with ocean views or charming atmospheres. Many establishments offer fresh seafood, perfect for a date night.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The nearby Cabrillo Aquarium is also a fantastic addition to a family day trip in San Pedro. While the bell itself is a cultural point of interest, the historical remnants of Fort MacArthur can also spark curiosity in older children. It's a chance to blend cultural learning with outdoor fun. Remember to bring sunscreen and hats, as the area is quite exposed.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Explore the historic WWII pillboxes and gun emplacements for unique, gritty shots that contrast with the beauty of the bell.
🚶♀️ History Buffs
Learn about the bell's significance as a symbol of friendship between South Korea and the United States, gifted in 1976.
The combination of cultural monument and military history makes for a deeply engaging visit for anyone interested in the past. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Historic Fort MacArthur
Exploring these historic sites adds another layer to your visit. Imagine the soldiers who once manned these posts, guarding the coastline. The contrast between the peaceful, scenic bell and the stark military structures creates a unique and thought-provoking experience. It's a reminder of the complex history that shapes this beautiful location.
For those interested in military history, the area around the bell provides ample opportunity for exploration. You can find information about the specific batteries and their roles, adding educational value to your visit. It’s a great way to combine cultural appreciation with historical discovery.
The Significance of the Korean Bell of Friendship
Its presence in Los Angeles signifies a deep cultural connection and mutual respect.The bell itself is a magnificent work of art, crafted from bronze and adorned with intricate carvings. It's housed within an ornate, traditional Korean pavilion, designed to protect it and enhance its aesthetic appeal. The sheer scale and craftsmanship are awe-inspiring, making it a focal point for visitors.
Beyond its aesthetic and symbolic value, the bell's location atop a hill offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. This strategic placement not only provides a stunning backdrop but also underscores the bell's role as a beacon of peace and connection across the vast ocean.
+1Photography Tips for the Korean Bell
When composing your shots, consider using a wide-angle lens to encompass the grandeur of the bell and its pavilion, along with the expansive ocean backdrop.
Beyond the main bell, the surrounding historic structures of Fort MacArthur offer unique photographic opportunities. The contrast between the ancient military remnants and the vibrant natural scenery can create compelling images. Remember to be respectful of the monument and other visitors while you capture your memories.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit