In my many trips to Los Angeles, time after time I returned to spend days in Venice. The beach-obsessed human that I am was always drawn back to my favourite part of this fascinating city. Venice is a world famous and for good reason, it’s like no other. If you’re ever in California, you must check it out.
I plan on writing a full Los Angeles blog one day, but for now here are all the things you must do when you visit Venice Beach.
(I held off posting this one as my only pictures are from 2014- 2015, but I see it as away of mesuring growth.. right?!)
Ride The Boardwalk
Rent a bike, scooter, tandem or anything with wheels and ride from Venice to Santa Monica and back on the boardwalk. The trip is about 30 minutes one way and the perfect way to explore the whole area. While you’re in Santa Monica, check our the pier for arcades, roller coasters and food before you head back to Venice.
People Watch
There are all sorts of fascinating people on Venice beach. From snake charmers to skaters, tattoo artists to street performers. It’s the perfect place to kick back, relax and watch the microcosm of Angelino life go by.
Muscle Beach
This one’s probably mostly for the straight gals… Venice is famous for it’s outdoor gym, known as muscle beach. Stroll by and ogle at the super strong humans working out in the Californian sun. How they exercise in that heat is beyond me!
Top Up Your Tan
The best spot to find the cleanest and crowd-free sand in Venice and Santa Monica, is between the two. The middle stretch of board walk is usually the quietest and the perfect place to lay out a large beach towel and enjoy a good book.
Marina Del Ray
Nearby Venice is Marina Del Ray. A beautiful harbour area with some stunning yachts. Wander around Marina Del Ray and dream of the boat you’ll own one day.
Wander The Canals
While in the Venice area, you should wander away from the beach for a few hours and explore the Venice canals. They are ironically underrated and unknown considering the name of the district. The tranquillity by the water is a stark contrast to the hustle and bustle of the beach.
Shop On Abbot Kinney
Enjoy the shops and grab brunch or lunch of the hipster street of Abbot Kinney. This is a cute street with lots of independently owned and organic stores – very Cali Vibes.
Catch Some Waves
There is the option to rent surfboards in Venice Beach. If surfing isn’t your jam, consider renting a body board to play around in the waves anyway. There is nothing more exhilarating.
Watch (Or Do) Skateboarding
Whether as a skater or a participant, check out the skate park at the entrance to Venice Beach. The place is always popping with skaters age 5 to 95 and you’re sure to see some impressive skills.
