Venice Beach, California

Let's begin by making one thing perfectly clear. No beach in the world is like Venice Beach.
By: David Neiman

Related To:

Overview

Let's begin by making one thing perfectly clear. No beach in the world is like Venice Beach. Sure, other beaches have sand, surf and sunshine. But they do not have a 3-ring urban street circus, complete with philosophizing artists, trash-talking hoopsters, preening weightlifters, barefoot sand sculptors and unclassifiable scores of freaks.

I don't use the word "freak" lightly. I grew up in Southern California and have seen my fair share of weirdness. But never have I seen a wilder, more vibrant assortment of creativity and craziness congregated as densely in one place as I have seen at Venice Beach. All of this frenetic activity happens on Ocean Front Walk, a three-quarter-mile concrete boardwalk with stores, fast food spots, flea markets and artists. (What exactly constitutes "artistry" - sword swallowing, playing electric guitar while rollerblading, spontaneous screaming - is something for you to decide for yourself.)

Whether you pump iron and tan at the open-air Muscle Beach weight pen, watch (or if you dare, play) hoops on the blacktop courts that inspired "White Men Can't Jump"or simply stroll the boardwalk, Venice Beach promises an experience you will never forget ... or repeat elsewhere.


 

Child-Friendliness
rating:
3 of 5
more:
Kids will find plenty to do, but this is an urban environment. Parents should accompany younger kids.
Swimming
rating:
4 of 5
more:
The water is cold but clean. Riptides can be dangerous, especially for children.
Sand
rating:
4 of 5
more:
The clean sand offers lots of space for sunning and gaming.
Atmosphere
rating:
5 of 5
more:
With this much atmosphere, you might think you are on another planet.
Non-Beach Activities
rating:
5 of 5
more:
Restaurants are nearby; the rest of Los Angeles is only a short drive away.

Next Up

National Dive Bar Day: Is There a Portal To Hell In Memphis?

National Dive Bar Day is July 7, and a small Memphis joint may be pulling double duty as a dive bar and a portal for dark energy.

Florida’s East Coast Beaches

We share the best beaches on Florida's East Coast. Keep in mind: Price and stock could change after publish date, and we may make money from these links.

11 Things Not to Miss in San Francisco

Christine Williams and Jules Hatfield from Don't Forget to Move, tell us how to do San Francisco right, on  a shoestring budget.

How the 1906 Earthquake Changed San Francisco

Disaster leveled "the Paris of the West" a century ago — and its aftermath echoes through the city today.

7 Fun Things to Do on Your Fort Myers Vacation

From sunset kayaking to delicious eats, there is so much to explore in southwest Florida's island sanctuary.

11 Twin Peaks Locations You Can Visit in Real Life

Where to find a damn fine cup of coffee and more.Keep in mind: Price and stock could change after publish date, and we may make money from these links.

3 Must-Do Outdoor Activities in the Great Smoky Mountains

There's nothing like a challenging hike with a rewarding view.

Visit Gorgeous Tulip Fields Without Flying to Holland

Washington’s Skagit Valley is the next best thing.

Cuba, a Country of Contrasts

One writer reflects on her trips to Cuba, a country of contrasts.

4 Must-Try Portland Brunch Spots

Dishing up a lot more than just bacon and eggs.

More Creepy Content

Follow Us Everywhere

Join the party! Don't miss Travel Channel in your favorite social media feeds.

On TV