You can start your visit on the beach itself. Lay out your towel, dip your toes in the Pacific Ocean, then just spend a little time soaking in the sunshine. Did you know the entire California coastline is open to the public? There is no such thing as a legal private beach here. We consider our beaches one of our most sacred public resources. No one can own them, though many have tried.
After you get your fill of beach lounging, watch skateboarders pull off death-defying moves in the Venice Beach Skatepark. Just east of that are areas of open pavement where people breakdance, roller-skate or both while crowds watch. You’ll see people making art and music all around you.
Then, join the crowds strolling the boardwalk. The quirky shops and sidewalk vendors along the two-mile stretch sell funky art, jewelry, plants, clothing, swimsuits and souvenirs. Several stores offer marijuana or CBD products, which you are likely to smell evidence of before you see. Buskers perform music and magic tricks; it’s polite to tip a couple of dollars if you linger to watch.
Veer south and check out Muscle Beach. Get food from one of the stalls along the path, which include traditional boardwalk-style offerings, as well as things like empanadas and Thai iced tea. When you need a break from the elements, browse the staff recommendations at Small World Books.
You can rent bikes (single cruisers go for around $6 to $10 per hour or $35 to $50 for the whole day, depending on which shop you rent from) and pedal along the path to the Santa Monica Pier and back.
The boardwalk is open to the public from 5 a.m. to midnight. There are lots of surface lots that charge between $10 and $20. Some accept cards, but it’s best to bring cash. There’s very limited street and metered parking, and if it’s a warm day, those spots will be nonexistent by midmorning. Some restaurants and hotels by the beach offer valet parking.
Locals know: Head to Belles Beach House, the Venice Whaler or the Del Monte Speakeasy to grab a drink after the sun goes down.
