Discover Venice: Hidden Gems & Local Explorations
Los Angeles4 everybody
Relaxing to be in the middle of the water with the boats, under the sun, but an arm work out to get there 😅 and worth it! Summer fun for sure :) • Marina del Rey is located just 4 miles from LAX, next to Santa Monica and Venice Beach. • Mother’s Beach is the best spot to learn how to paddleboard because of the calm, flat water. • Marina del Rey is the largest small-craft harbor in North America and is the second largest in the world after Dubai! • L.A.’s Marina is where locals go to play on the water. • Here, you can kayak, stand-up paddle board, jet-ski, or go deep-sea fishing, whale-watching or hop on a sunset dinner cruise.
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Los Angeles Fun Events
Goth Night at Weary Livers Embrace the Shadows at Goth Night! Join us for a relaxed and enchanting evening at Weary Livers Bar with a playlist of all goth music, all night long. Date: Thursday, September 19th Time: 7 PM Enjoy the laid-back, gothic ambiance with subtle decorations and a comfortable atmosphere. Dress in your favorite casual gothic attire and unwind with fellow goth enthusiasts.
Hellocalifornia
The Underrated Thing to Do in Venice, California... Go to the legend beach bike tour! This guided sightseeing tour is a great way to spend half a day exploring Venice Beach attractions. Starting on the Santa Monica Pier, you’ll spend two hours biking along Venice’s most interesting landmarks. You’ll cruise along the boardwalk, stop at Muscle Beach, pass by the Venice Canals, and see homes of Hollywood stars like Charlie Chaplin.
Secret Los Angeles
‘Accidentally Wes Anderson: The Exhibition’ Celebrates The Filmmaker’s Distinctive Style! Feel like you’ve stepped inside Fantastic Mr. Fox, The Grand Budapest Hotel, or Moonrise Kingdom as you explore Accidentally Wes Anderson: The Exhibition, the upcoming experience that might as well be a set for the filmmaker’s next movie. Featuring stunning travel photography in the style of Wes Anderson, this charming exhibit which will open in mid-April at the Santa Monica Art Museum (1219 3rd Street Promenade).
Secret Los Angeles
Sip, swim, & dine at a tropical rooftop oasis with ¡ESTA! at the Fairmont Century Plaza! Beat the heat this summer with a dip in the pool, a refreshing cocktail, stunning views of LA’s skyline, and delicious food at ¡ESTA!. The poolside, rooftop restaurant is serving up mouthwatering light fare including chips and dips, ceviche, fish tacos, tequila cocktails, cervezas, and non-alcoholic refreshments. From the views to the vibes, Fairmont Century Plaza and ¡ESTA! are ringing in the summer right.
THE ROOFTOP GUIDE
High Rooftop Lounge at Hotel Erwin 🌟 Beachside rooftop bar with chill vibes and epic sunsets. From the roof terrace at the lovely Hotel Erwin rooftop bar, you get some amazing views over the Pacific Ocean and Venice Beach. Being the only rooftop in Venice, High Rooftop Lounge feels a lot like a continuing of the beach below, with lounge sofas and large umbrellas. The only difference might be that up here you also have infrared (and blankets) keeping the heat up on chilly nights. The rooftop bar offers a good selection of well made specialty cocktails and different Californian beers, along with some really tasty bar bites and a weekend brunch. The menu even includes sun screen, so visits during sunny days is no problem at all. Expect a great lounge vibe on the terrace, perfect for relaxing drinks in the sun. And at night, there are often live DJs picking up the pace a notch.
Hellocalifornia
Venice Beach is one of the Top Most TikTok-able Places in California! Known for its eclectic spirit, it is a TikTok haven. From street performers and muscle beach workouts to the stunning skate park and colorful murals, this locale is perfect for vibrant, energetic videos that capture the essence of California’s beach culture.
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Exploring the Hidden Gems of Venice Near LA
When it comes to local exploration near LA, Venice is a treasure trove of hidden gems and trending spots. With its eclectic mix of culture, art, and adventure, Venice offers an unparalleled experience for both tourists and locals. Discovering the secret corners of Venice can transform an ordinary trip into an unforgettable adventure. Here’s an insider’s guide to making the most of your visit to this vibrant neighborhood.
Uncovering the Venice Canals
One of the most enchanting hidden gems in Venice is the historic Venice Canals. Created in 1905 by developer Abbot Kinney, the canals were designed to mimic the famous waterways in Venice, Italy. Today, the canals are a peaceful retreat away from the bustling streets, offering a picturesque setting for a leisurely stroll. As you wander along the narrow pathways, you’ll encounter charming bridges, quaint homes, and an abundance of local flora and fauna. For a unique adventure, consider renting a paddleboard or kayak to explore the waterways from a different perspective.
Shopping on Abbot Kinney Boulevard
If you’re seeking trending spots in Venice, Abbot Kinney Boulevard is the place to be. This vibrant street is home to an array of boutique shops, art galleries, and trendy restaurants. For fashion enthusiasts, the boulevard offers a plethora of unique clothing stores that feature both local designers and internationally acclaimed brands. Don’t miss out on the chance to discover local artisanal goods at the frequent pop-up shops and marketplaces. Whether you're searching for handmade jewelry, bespoke clothing, or one-of-a-kind artwork, Abbot Kinney has something for everyone.
Venice Beach: Surf and Sand
No visit to Venice is complete without experiencing the iconic Venice Beach. Famous for its bustling boardwalk, eclectic street performers, and vibrant murals, Venice Beach is the epitome of Californian culture. While the beach itself is well-known, there are still several lesser-known spots worth exploring. Head to the Venice Beach Skatepark to watch talented skaters showcase their skills, or venture to the Muscle Beach Gym to witness a piece of bodybuilding history. For a more relaxed experience, seek out the quieter sections of the beach where you can sunbathe and unwind away from the crowds.
Exploring the Local Art Scene
Venice is renowned for its thriving art scene, which offers a blend of contemporary and classic pieces. One hidden gem for art lovers is the Mosaic Tile House. This colorful house is more than just a home; it’s a living gallery created by artists Cheri Pann and Gonzalo Duran. Covered entirely in hand-laid tiles, the house is a kaleidoscope of color and creativity. Another must-visit spot is the Venice Art Walls, where local and international artists showcase their street art brilliance. These walls provide a dynamic canvas that constantly evolves, offering new and exciting works each time you visit.
Family-Friendly Adventures in Venice
Venice also offers plenty of family-friendly activities that cater to explorers of all ages. The Venice Beach Recreation Center is a great starting point, with its playgrounds, sports courts, and picnic areas. For an educational experience, visit the Ballona Wetlands Ecological Reserve, where you can enjoy guided nature walks and birdwatching tours. Another fun option for families is the interactive exhibits at the Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier, just a short drive away. From classic carnival rides to thrilling roller coasters, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Relaxation Spots You Can’t Miss
After a day of exploration, finding a serene spot to relax is essential. The Venice Oceanarium on the Venice Pier offers a tranquil escape where you can learn about marine life while enjoying the soothing sound of the waves. If you prefer a more immersive experience, consider joining a yoga session on the beach, offered by several local instructors. Additionally, the nearby Marina del Rey offers peaceful boat rides and sunset cruises for a perfect end to your day. These relaxation spots provide the perfect balance to the lively energy of Venice, ensuring you leave feeling refreshed and inspired.
These local secrets and tips provide an insider’s view of the best places to explore in Venice near LA. By uncovering these hidden treasures, you’ll get to experience the city in a way that goes beyond the typical tourist path. Remember, the key to a memorable adventure is to embrace the local culture, try new experiences, and connect with the community. With so much to discover, Venice promises an exciting and unique exploration journey.
