Every time I find myself in Venice Beach, Los Angeles, I know I’m about to dive into something truly unique. This lively neighborhood bursts with energy—think bustling boardwalks, wild street art, and a colorful blend of locals and visitors. Venice Beach really captures that creative, anything-goes spirit. You can feel it in the air, honestly.
If you’re figuring out what to see (or just want a few ideas), I’ve rounded up the essentials that really show off what makes Venice tick. People-watching by the ocean, poking into quirky shops, mural-spotting—you’ll get the full, offbeat Venice vibe with these seven picks. There’s a reason folks call this one of LA’s top spots.
First-timer or seasoned Angeleno, these highlights let you tap into Venice Beach’s laid-back charm, famous sights, and a few surprises you might not expect.
Explore the Venice Beach Boardwalk
The Venice Beach Boardwalk, to me, is where all of Venice’s wild energy comes together. Local culture and creativity are everywhere you look. There’s always something happening—live shows, art, random pop-up shops, you name it.
Street Performers and Artists
Walking down the boardwalk, I never know what I’ll run into. Musicians strum guitars, drummers set the beat, and magicians gather crowds with their tricks. Skateboarders zip around by the skatepark, sometimes pausing to soak up the cheers.
Painters and sketch artists often set up right on the sidewalk, working while people stop and watch. Dancers and acrobats pull crowds into big circles, juggling or breakdancing. These folks count on tips, so I always keep a few bucks handy.
The street artists here are approachable, and chatting with them adds a personal touch to the whole scene. The vibe shifts every day, depending on who’s out performing.
Murals and Street Art
Venice’s boardwalk is basically an outdoor gallery. Huge murals splash across shop walls, cafes, and tucked-away alleys. You’ll spot work from both big names and up-and-coming artists, each telling their own story. That mural on the Venice Beach Recreation Center? It’s a favorite of mine—so bold and full of community spirit.
Every visit brings something new, since some murals are temporary and get replaced by fresh art. The graffiti walls north of the skatepark are open to anyone who wants to spray their own creation, so the art never stays the same for long.
A lot of these murals nod to Venice’s history—old photos, surfing scenes, that sort of thing. I always snap a few photos because the backdrops are just too good to pass up.
Shopping and Street Vendors
Shopping here is half the fun. Tables spill over with handmade jewelry, T-shirts with jokes, sunglasses, and all sorts of local crafts. Most vendors are independent artists, so you’ll find stuff you just can’t get anywhere else.
I’ve picked up tie-dye shirts, tiny sculptures, even a painted skateboard once. Prices range from a few bucks to, well, a lot if you want custom art. Some take cards, but cash is king here—good to know before you go.
There are stands for henna tattoos, crystal jewelry, and some wild musical instruments. Browsing gives me a chance to chat with the makers, which is pretty rare in LA.
Venice Sign and Iconic Landmarks
I never skip the Venice Sign at Pacific and Windward Avenue. Those big letters, all lit up, just scream Venice Beach. It’s right where the boardwalk starts, and at sunset, the photo ops are unbeatable.
Other must-sees? Muscle Beach Gym—the outdoor gym where Arnold Schwarzenegger used to train—is always buzzing. The Venice Skatepark draws skaters and spectators alike. The Venice Pavilion, now a legal graffiti spot, lets artists show off their stuff right in front of everyone.
These landmarks give the boardwalk its personality. Whether I’m people-watching or snapping photos, they remind me why Venice Beach feels so iconic.
Experience Muscle Beach and Fitness Culture
Venice Beach is where fitness fans and athletes come to play. People work out, skate, or surf all day, adding to the area’s unmistakable fitness vibe.
Outdoor Gym & Bodybuilding
Muscle Beach Venice Gym is legendary. Bodybuilders and fitness buffs lift weights outside, often with a crowd watching. The gym’s got classic benches, pull-up bars, and more, all out in the sun.
Anyone can buy a day pass and join in. The place feels historic—after all, Arnold Schwarzenegger and Lou Ferrigno trained here. Bodybuilding competitions happen now and then, drawing big crowds and showing off the community’s dedication.
Thinking of trying it? Bring your workout gear and sunscreen. People here are friendly, and you don’t have to be a pro to fit in.
Quick Facts about Muscle Beach:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 1800 Ocean Front Walk |
| Entry | Paid day and week passes |
| Highlights | Outdoor weights, championships |
Venice Skatepark and Skateboarding
Venice Skatepark sits right on the sand, just steps from Muscle Beach. Skaters of all ages flock here daily. The park’s got bowls, rails, and ramps—something for everyone, whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned pro.
There’s always a crowd watching from the edges, cheering on tricks and wipeouts alike. Sometimes local pros drop by and put on an impromptu show.
If you don’t have a skateboard, you can usually find rentals nearby. Only skaters with boards and safety gear can get in, but anyone can watch. Honestly, skating those concrete bowls with the ocean breeze? It’s a rush.
What you’ll find at Venice Skatepark:
- Bowls, rails, and ledges
- Open daily from early morning until sunset
- Free entry (bring your own gear)
Surfing and Beach Activities
Surfing is at the core of Venice Beach culture. Surfers hit the waves at sunrise, especially near the Venice Breakwater. It’s a solid spot for beginners and more experienced surfers alike. Local shops offer lessons, board rentals, and wetsuits for everyone.
But if surfing’s not your thing, there’s still so much to do. Volleyball courts, paddleball, and big stretches of sand for games or just lounging. Lots of folks walk or jog along the water.
The waves here are usually pretty mellow, which is perfect for learning. Surf schools have group and private lessons, and instructors are used to first-timers. If you’d rather chill, the wide beach is great for sunbathing or watching the world go by.
Beach activities include:
- Surfing and surf lessons
- Volleyball
- Paddleball
- Sunbathing and people watching
Stroll the Picturesque Venice Canals
Need a break from the crowds? The Venice Canals are a peaceful escape. It’s the perfect spot for a slow walk, checking out local history, or snapping photos of classic California scenes.
Venice Canal Historic District
I love wandering the Venice Canal Historic District. Built in 1905 by Abbot Kinney, these canals were his way of bringing a slice of Venice, Italy, to California.
Crossing little footbridges, I watch the water drift by quirky, cottage-style homes. Many houses have bright gardens and a bit of old-school charm. The paths are well-kept, so it’s easy to slow down and take it all in.
Historical markers along the way give a glimpse into the past. It’s a calm, almost hidden corner that feels miles away from the busy boardwalk.
Kayaking and Outdoor Recreation
Sometimes, I rent a kayak or paddleboard to see the canals from the water. The calm surface makes it easy, even if you’re new to kayaking. It’s a totally different perspective, gliding past homes and under bridges.
Biking’s another way to get around, though not all paths allow bikes. Nearby routes lead right to the canal entrances. Families will find the walkways stroller-friendly and safe for kids.
I always check local rules before bringing gear. Some spots have restrictions to keep things peaceful and clean for everyone.
Photography Hotspots
The canals are a dream for anyone with a camera. Early morning or late afternoon, the light glows on the water and pastel houses.
The footbridges offer the best views. From up there, I can catch boats, gardens, and even ducks drifting by. Each season brings its own color—spring flowers or fall leaves, for example.
Pointing the lens at palm trees or over the arched bridges, I always find that laid-back Venice style. Even if you’re just using a phone, you’ll want to take a few shots.
Discover Abbot Kinney Boulevard
Abbot Kinney Boulevard is a must for me whenever I’m in Venice Beach. It’s a mix of indie shopping, diverse food spots, and a monthly event that brings everyone together.
Trendy Shops and Boutiques
Strolling Abbot Kinney, I spot rows of unique boutiques and local stores. Most focus on art, design, clothes, and handmade finds. Each shop has its own vibe, way different from your average mall.
You’ll find Warby Parker for glasses, TOMS for shoes, and Burro for gifts. Vintage shops and tiny galleries pop up here and there, often with eye-catching signs. Sometimes, I stumble into a pop-up store that’s only there for a week.
Many places feature work from local artists and designers. The whole street feels relaxed and creative, so I never feel rushed. Even window shopping is fun here.
Dining and Cafes
Food and drink options on Abbot Kinney are all over the map. From casual coffee to full-on restaurants, there’s something for every mood. I’m partial to Blue Bottle Coffee for a quick espresso fix. For lunch, Gjelina’s got a menu full of fresh, seasonal dishes and killer pizza.
If you’ve got a sweet tooth, Salt & Straw’s wild ice cream flavors (like Sea Salt with Caramel Ribbons) are worth a try. You’ll also find Japanese, Italian, Mediterranean—pretty much everything. Patios fill up fast on weekends.
Menus change often, since lots of spots use local ingredients. Vegan and healthy options are easy to find, and there are juice bars and bakeries for snacks.
First Friday Events
On the first Friday of each month, Abbot Kinney throws a street party called First Friday. I try to get there early, since it gets packed quick. Food trucks line the street with everything from Korean tacos to vegan sliders.
Shops stay open late, some with special deals or events. Live music drifts down the block, and local artists sometimes show off their work right on the sidewalk. There’s a mix of families, friends, and tourists, everyone sampling food or pausing to hear a band.
First Friday always feels upbeat and welcoming. I usually bring cash for the food trucks and pop-up vendors. It’s hands-down one of the best ways to soak up Venice Beach’s community spirit.
Visit Venice Pier and Beyond
Venice Pier is my go-to for ocean views, a quiet spot to fish, or just catching a sunset. It’s also a great jumping-off point if I want to wander over to Santa Monica and check out the famous Santa Monica Pier.
Fishing and Ocean Views
Whenever I wander out onto Venice Pier, I spot people fishing at all hours. The pier stretches about 400 meters into the Pacific, so there’s always room to spread out.
Fishing here doesn’t cost anything extra—no license needed. That’s a relief, right? Anyone can toss in a line and maybe catch perch, mackerel, or even halibut. I like to watch the locals reel in their catch and swap stories or tips.
The views from Venice Pier? They’re wide open, and honestly, a bit addictive. On clear days, I can catch a glimpse of Catalina Island way out there. I usually pause at the end, letting the ocean breeze hit my face, just listening to the waves and soaking up the sun.
Sunset Watching
For sunsets, Venice Pier tops my list on the Westside. The crowds here stay smaller than at Santa Monica Pier, so I can actually find a spot to sit, snap a photo, or just watch the colors shift.
The sun drops straight into the Pacific, painting the sky with wild oranges, pinks, and purples. Sometimes I see local photographers setting up their tripods, hoping for that magic shot.
Evenings on the pier feel peaceful, just the sound of water and maybe a few seabirds overhead. If the weather’s right, Catalina Island turns into this dramatic silhouette as the sun sinks. It’s a simple, beautiful way to wrap up a day at Venice Beach.
Access to Santa Monica and Santa Monica Pier
Venice Pier sits about three miles south of Santa Monica Pier. Most days, I walk or bike the Marvin Braude Bike Trail that links the two.
This path lets me experience both Venice and Santa Monica’s totally different vibes in one trip. Venice Beach feels relaxed and artsy, while Santa Monica Pier buzzes with amusements and attractions.
I like to stop at little parks or grab coffee at beachside cafes along the way. The easy connection means I can explore both spots in a single visit—no car needed.
Uncover Eclectic Local Art and Culture
Venice Beach bursts with colorful public art, quirky museums, and creative spaces. I always find something new, whether it’s a mural, a modern gallery, or a weird landmark tucked away.
Venice Art Walls and Galleries
The Venice Art Walls are a must if you love graffiti and street art. These big concrete walls on the sand have been legal canvases since the late ‘60s. With a permit, anyone can spray their work, so the art changes all the time.
Many murals tell stories about the community or celebrate Venice’s history. On weekends, I like to watch artists paint while skaters show off tricks at the skatepark nearby.
Pop-up galleries along the boardwalk offer a deeper look at local talent. I’ve seen everything from paintings to wild sculptures by Venice artists.
Did you know?
The Venice Boardwalk buzzes with art stalls, buskers, and live painters, all selling original pieces right from the source.
Mosaic Tile House and Artistic Attractions
If you love bold colors and creative homes, check out the Mosaic Tile House. This private home—covered inside and out with tiny tiles and glass—looks like a living piece of art.
Cheri Pann and Gonzalo Duran, the artists who live here, give guided tours most Saturdays. Walking through feels like stepping into another world. Every time I visit, I spot new details, from sparkling mirrors to playful shapes.
There are also quirky sculpture gardens and street installations nearby. Venice always surprises me with its creativity in the most unexpected corners.
L.A. Louver and Beyond Baroque
L.A. Louver stands out as one of Venice’s top art galleries. They focus on contemporary art, and honestly, I always find something new here—sometimes a bold painting, other times a huge installation that makes me stop and stare.
The exhibits change pretty often. I love how the gallery feels calm and inviting, so I can wander around and soak up the art without feeling rushed.
Just a short walk away, there’s Beyond Baroque. This place is a haven for poetry and literature lovers, and I’ve caught some unforgettable poetry readings here.
Sometimes I’ll drop in for a writing workshop, or just browse their cozy little bookstore. The reading room and gallery space always seem to buzz with fresh ideas and creative energy.
If you want to dig a bit deeper into Venice Beach’s artistic side, these two spots really open a window into the neighborhood’s wild, inspiring creativity.
