This quirky beach town is one of Los Angeles’s top destinations for a day on the beach or a day of shopping. The eclectic mix of shops and restaurants located along the boardwalk attracts both locals and tourists, turning the neighborhood into a diverse cultural hub. In order to truly discover all that this unique area has to offer, check out this list of things to do the next time you visit Venice.
- Hotel Erwin
This colorful hotel is located right next to the beach, so the views are obviously stunning. Enjoy breakfast or dinner at the in-house spot, Barlo Kitchen + Cocktails. Unwind with a drink at the end of the day on the rooftop bar, High Lounge. You might even finish off your night at the on-site tattoo parlor. - The Boardwalk
From the eccentric shops and restaurants to the talented artists, fortune tellers, and street performers, such as King Solomon the Snake Charmer, there is nowhere else quite like the Venice Beach boardwalk. Spend a day walking along the beachside pathway to witness some of the best people-watching in L.A. or maybe even the world! - Abbot Kinney Boulevard
Walk a few blocks from the beach and you’ll find yourself in a shopper’s paradise. The unique boutiques, restaurants, and bars that make up this street have led GQ Magazine to name it “The Coolest Block in America.” When you’ve had enough retail therapy, take a break from shopping and step into one of the exceptional art and photo galleries. - Venice Canals
These canals were created to cater to the plan of modeling the neighborhood after Venice, Italy. When they were first built, people could take gondola rides down the man-made canals. However, many of the canals were eventually made into streets to accommodate the residential expansion in the area, but you can still walk along the remaining canals that are protected by the National Register of Historic Places. - Venice Beach Recreation Center
This vast outdoor facility features basketball courts, children’s play areas, a boxing and gymnastics area, a skatepark, bike paths, and more. Rent equipment or bring your own and enjoy a fun, active day at the park. You can also become a member of Muscle Beach, the famous outdoor gym that is also home to the Bodybuilder Hall of Fame.