Venice Beach is renowned for its lively and entertaining sights. Walking along the Venice Beach Boardwalk you’ll see what can only be described as a human carnival. A heavy dose of vibrancy, colour and sheer life force is exuded by the people in this location. This most bohemian of areas will never leave you short people-watching opportunities, with street artists, musicians, poets, singers, skateboarders and jugglers all commonplace. There are some incredible sights to behold among the crowds here watch a cyclist breathing fire or an acrobat juggling chainsaws, anything’s possible here. This is LA at its inimitable, ostentatious, outrageous best.
The boardwalk stretches out for over 2.5 kilometres miles. Take a leisurely stroll and check out the stalls, shops and stands, which sell local fare, along with a selection of souvenirs, trinkets, cheap sunglasses, T-shirts and sandals.
Further along the boardwalk, you’ll encounter a different type of exhibitionism, in the form of Muscle Beach. This is the legendary outdoor gym at which some of the best beach bodies are put through their paces. This was where the likes of famous actors Arnold Schwarzenegger and Lou Ferrigno of Incredible Hulk fame both worked out during trips to Los Angeles. If you fancy pumping some iron and want to join in, you can buy a day pass for $10 at the Venice Beach Recreations and Parks Office on Ocean Front Walk.
Venice Beach itself is five kilometres of scrupulously maintained golden sand that feels like paradise on earth. If you fancy a dip in the sea to cool off, you can do so in the knowledge that the beach is patrolled throughout daylight hours. There are also both surf and body boards to hire if you want to try your hand at a spot of surfing. Venice Beach has a Mediterranean climate and is a wonderful destination for anyone who wishes to soak up a bit of sun.
There is plenty of parking available nearby. Venice Beach is located around 30 kilometres from downtown LA on the coast between Santa Monica and Marina Del Rey.
Venice Beach Tours and Activities
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Santa Monica Surf Trip
Reviews of Venice Beach
4/5 - Good
A room on the boardwalk is fantastic for views during the day but can be noisy at night and early morning!
1/5 - Terrible
Dirty and full of homeless people.
1/5 - Terrible
Lots of weird people on drugs. Beach ok. Not worth a visit.
3/5 - Okay
Hire bikes to ride along beach walk
2/5 - Disappointing
Having visited Venice about 25 years ago I was so disappointed to return and find it run down and dirty.
1/5 - Terrible
turned into a sleasy low life area with cheap shops selling touristy trinkets and supposedly sexy underwear on blow up dummies. Such a shame for what could otherwise be made into a lovely area considering the beach is lovely. The local Council needs to get their act together to raise the level of the area.
Popular places to visit
Venice Skate Park
Enjoy the beautiful sunsets and explore Venice Skate Park, a lovely green space in Venice. Experience the acclaimed art galleries or attend a sporting event in this walkable area.
Muscle Beach Venice
Why not spend a care-free afternoon at Muscle Beach Venice during your travels in Venice? Discover the beautiful sunsets in this walkable area or enjoy its cycling trails.
Venice Fishing Pier
Find out about the history of Los Angeles with a stop at Venice Fishing Pier. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the top-notch restaurants while you're in the area.
Abbot Kinney Boulevard
During your trip to Venice, you can browse for the perfect souvenirs at Abbot Kinney Boulevard. Discover the beautiful sunsets in this walkable area or enjoy its cycling trails.
Venice Beach Boardwalk
Why not spend a care-free afternoon at Venice Beach Boardwalk during your travels in Los Angeles? Stroll along the area's seaside or simply savour its top-notch restaurants.
Main Street Santa Monica
During your trip to Los Angeles, you can do some window-shopping at Main Street Santa Monica. Stroll along this family-friendly area's beaches or simply enjoy its restaurants.
Top Venice Beach Hotel & Accommodation Deals
Top reasons for your visit to Venice Beach
- Stunning Beaches: Venice Beach offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, with golden sands perfect for sunbathing and beach activities.
- Vibrant Boardwalk: The lively boardwalk is a hub of activity, attracting roller skaters, skateboarders, and artists showcasing their talent.
- Surfing and Skating Culture: Surfing enthusiasts can catch waves, while ice skaters can enjoy the nearby Venice Beach Skate Plaza.
- Colorful Street Art: Walking along the boardwalk, visitors are treated to an array of vibrant street art and local vendors selling their wares.
- Gateway to Top Attractions: Venice Beach is a great starting point for exploring other famous attractions in Los Angeles and California, such as the Santa Monica Pier and the Hollywood sign.
Sun, surf, and vibrant culture await in Venice Beach
Venice Beach, California, is renowned for its unique and diverse landscape, making it a must-visit destination for tourists. The beach itself offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, with golden sands perfect for sunbathing and beach activities. The vibrant boardwalk is a hub of activity, attracting roller skaters, skateboarders, and artists showcasing their talent. Surfing enthusiasts can catch some waves, while ice skaters can enjoy the nearby Venice Beach Skate Plaza. Walking along the boardwalk, visitors are treated to an array of colorful street art and local vendors selling their wares. Venice Beach is also a great starting point for exploring other top attractions in Los Angeles and California, such as the famous Santa Monica Pier and the iconic Hollywood sign. A popular way to experience the area is through a Venice Beach Segway tour, providing a unique and exciting way to explore the sights. Overall, Venice Beach offers a blend of natural beauty, artistic expression, and recreational opportunities, making it a must-see attraction for any visitor to California.
Where to stay near Venice Beach
If you're looking for a family-friendly holiday in Venice Beach, California, you're in for a treat. This vibrant neighborhood offers something for everyone. Spend your days enjoying the beautiful beaches, where you can soak up the sun, take a dip in the sea, and witness breathtaking sunsets. Go for a stroll along the famous Venice Boardwalk, where you'll find artists, street performers, and unique shops. Don't miss the chance to try roller skating or surfing, or even ice skating at the nearby rink. With its stunning scenery, artistic vibe, and abundance of outdoor activities, Venice Beach is the perfect destination for a family-themed holiday.
- Los Angeles: Los Angeles is a vibrant city known for its diverse range of attractions and activities. From world-class theaters and entertainment venues to live music and museums, there is something for everyone in the family to enjoy. The city is also famous for its shopping destinations and architectural wonders. With its beautiful beaches and proximity to Venice Beach, Los Angeles offers the perfect blend of urban excitement and coastal charm.
- Santa Monica: Located just 1.9km away from Venice Beach, Santa Monica is a must-visit for families. This beachside city offers a laid-back atmosphere and stunning sunsets, making it an ideal spot for relaxation. Explore the vibrant shopping scene, dine at delicious restaurants, and enjoy various water sports and activities. The city also boasts a thriving art and music scene, with plenty of cafes and live music venues to explore.
- Long Beach: Situated 26.1km away from Venice Beach, Long Beach is a fantastic destination for families. Known for its beautiful beaches and the famous Aquarium of the Pacific, this city offers a range of experiences. Take a stroll along the waterfront, visit the historic Queen Mary ship, or enjoy a baseball game. With its diverse dining options and exciting boat tours, Long Beach is sure to provide a memorable family holiday.
Explore the best activities and sights near Venice Beach
If you're looking for a family-friendly beach holiday, Venice Beach is the perfect destination. With its stunning beach, breathtaking sunsets, and a wide range of activities, there's something for everyone. Take a stroll along the boardwalk and enjoy the roller skating and surfing culture that Venice Beach is known for. You can also explore the local art scene or indulge in some sports activities. There are plenty of attractions near Venice Beach, such as the famous Santa Monica Pier and the vibrant Abbot Kinney Boulevard. Don't miss out on the best attractions in Venice, where you can experience the true essence of California beach life.
- Santa Monica Beach: With its golden sand and picturesque sunsets, Santa Monica Beach offers a stunning coastal experience. Immerse yourself in the refreshing sea breeze as you stroll along the shore, or indulge in a romantic beachside dinner. The beach also offers a variety of shopping options, perfect for finding unique souvenirs. For the sports enthusiasts, there are plenty of opportunities for surfing and other water sports. Families can enjoy a fun-filled day building sandcastles and playing beach games. The breathtaking scenery and family-friendly atmosphere make Santa Monica Beach a must-visit destination.
- Hollywood Walk of Fame: Stepping onto the Hollywood Walk of Fame is like entering a world of entertainment and history. Walk along the star-studded street, surrounded by theaters and museums, and feel the vibrant energy of the city. Take in a live performance or explore the art and culture that Hollywood has to offer. The friendly people and historical significance of this iconic attraction make it a must-see for any city lover.
- Santa Monica Pier: Just a stone's throw away from Venice Beach, Santa Monica Pier offers a delightful blend of beachside fun and entertainment. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the ocean and stunning sunsets as you take a leisurely stroll along the pier. Indulge in delicious dining options or browse through unique shops and boutiques. The pier also features museums and entertainment venues, ensuring there's something for everyone. The friendly atmosphere and artistic charm make Santa Monica Pier a must-visit destination.
Best time to visit Venice Beach, Los Angeles
Looking to avoid the rainy, cloudy, or uncomfortably hot or cold months? Our table below will help you find the perfect time for your holiday in Los Angeles and your visit to Venice Beach. Here you will find a year-round average temperature of 18.5°C, reaching a peak of 24.3°C in August, its warmest month, and dropping to an average low of 13.3°C in December, the coolest month. The annual rainfall averages 28.1mm, with December experiencing the heaviest showers, while June is the driest month.
Month | Temperature (Celcius) | Rainfall | Cloud coverage |
| January | 13.5 | Light Rain | Sunny |
| February | 13.7 | Light Rain | Sunny |
| March | 15.0 | Light Rain | Sunny |
| April | 17.0 | No Rain (Dry) | Sunny |
| May | 18.5 | No Rain (Dry) | Sunny |
| June | 21.0 | No Rain (Dry) | Sunny |
| July | 23.5 | No Rain (Dry) | Sunny |
| August | 24.3 | No Rain (Dry) | Sunny |
| September | 23.9 | No Rain (Dry) | Sunny |
| October | 20.9 | No Rain (Dry) | Sunny |
| November | 17.0 | No Rain (Dry) | Sunny |
| December | 13.3 | Light Rain | Sunny |
How to save money on a visit to Venice Beach
- Combine your flights, accommodation, and car rental to get a great package deal on Expedia.
- Take advantage of Expedia's rewards program to earn points and save money on future bookings.
- Use the search filters on Expedia to find the perfect accommodation within your budget and preferences.
- Consider traveling during the off-peak season (May to July) for more affordable options.
- Check for special promotions and discounts on Expedia for even better package deals.
- Don't forget to explore the vibrant Venice Beach boardwalk and enjoy the stunning sunset over the Pacific Ocean.
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