Venice freakin’ Beach.
You either love it or you hate it. I’ve heard countless opinions of people who went to Venice Beach for a visit and were completely turned off by it. Me on the other hand? I feel like I fit right in.
Founded in the early 1900s as a convenient beachfront resort in close proximity to the hustle and bustle of LA, Venice Beach has slowly transformed with the times. The boardwalk that hugs the white sand beach features a community of people that can’t be found anywhere else in the world. From the self-proclaimed rapper performing for tips to the dreadlocked blazers lounging in their hammocks. To the surfer dudes flying by on their skateboards and the homeless vendors selling pet rocks, the hipster vibe that embodies Venice Beach is untouched by any other coastal town.
Here’s How to Spend an Evening in Venice Beach:
Check In to the Ellison Suites
Upon arrival to Venice Beach, park in a secured lot on Speedway road and walk on over to the muraled brick hotel called The Ellison Suites. This vintage hotel was built in 1913 before being transformed into apartments in the 1950s under the ownership of famed comedians Laurel & Hardy. Jim Morrison of The Doors briefly visited the Ellison Suites as well during his time with the band.
The Ellison is equipped with 40 full-size suite rooms with the added bonus of a kitchen, a living room and a walk-in closet. Complimentary breakfast is served on the rooftop every morning and, the best part, you’re only 200 feet from the beach and the renowned Venice Beach Boardwalk.
A Stroll Down the Famous Boardwalk
After dropping your bags off, head one block west for a little stroll on the Boardwalk. As soon as you step foot onto the sandy concrete, you’re met with an outlandishly vibrant taste of California. One of the most famed boardwalks in the world, you’ll see everything from uniquely painted murals, pet monkeys, pot shops and surfer gear.
Admire the Street Art
I’ve really never had an appreciation for art but there’s just something about the crafts of the artists here. Around every corner, paint is splattered into masterpieces on blank pieces of cardboard, dumpsters, light poles, and trees.
Get a Work Out in at Muscle Beach
You probably won’t want to use the rusty-iron machines to get your swole on but this iconic part of the boardwalk is a sight to see. Play a quick game of PIG on the basketball courts, snag a protein shake at a walk-up window or sit back and watch those Cali dudes get ripped.
Shop the California Style
Whether you’re searching for a Rasta-inspired beanie, a Cali tee or a teeny-tiny bikini, look no further than the boardwalk. Wanting to shop for more boutique-inspired mainstream clothing? Head in town to Abbot Kinney Boulevard for the real shops, featuring fashions from around the world.
Snag Some Grub from a Walk-Up Window
Walk-up window food is THE best food. There aren’t many more things I enjoy than people watching while chowing down on some greasy grub. Venice Beach is the perfect place for that.
For pizza or a burger, try Rey’s Pizza. The Wee Chippy has some seriously-awesome fish ‘n chips. Titi’s Tacos know how to authenticate those Mexican dishes and Berlins has some of the best German döners around!
Appreciate the Talents of the Homeless
Coming to LA with this vision of Hollywood glitz and glam, Venice Beach can be a culture shock. People come to the Pacific Coast expecting Malibu barbies and surfer dudes. Especially in Venice Beach, a surprising amount of the realities of our society exist all along the boardwalk.
While I don’t know this for a fact, I would have to guess a big reason some don’t like Venice Beach is the prevalence of homelessness. But the fact of the matter is that the homeless here are a huge part of Venice Beach! They sit on the edge of the boardwalk all day long trying to sell their art. Some perform and play various instruments for tips too. When dusk hits, they hop on a bus to go back to the shelters for the night.
The homeless in Venice Beach are some of the most carefree and kindest people. Check out the crafts they’re selling or simply give the performers (at least) the loose change in your pocket. Because let’s face it, if you were homeless this would be the place you’d want to be too.
Murals on Murals on Murals
I don’t think I’ve been to another city with more colorful murals than Venice Beach. You can stroll along the alleyways on and off the boardwalk to see the true epitome of street art.
The Famous Venice Sign
Possibly the most photographed spot in Venice Beach is the famous Venice sign. Located on the corner of Pacific and Windward Avenue, it’s a staple image of the entire area.
Visit the Renowned Venice Canals
While it’s nothing like the real thing, they sure come as a close second. Abbot Kinney created the canals in 1905, attempting to bring the beauty of Italy to southern California. Even going so far as importing many gondolas from the Italians, the canals didn’t last long. Once vehicles began to make their presence in the 1920s, canals were filled to create roads. The area became only a quarter of the size than what it was before. In the last part of the 20th century, the town of Venice built an influx of new homes.
Watch the Sunset from the Beach’s Art District
My favorite time of the day in Venice Beach is the epic sunset hour. Run over to the art district by the boardwalk area to snag a spot for a Pacific Coast sunset.
Trek Over to the Notorious Santa Monica Pier
The best Venice Beach nightcap is actually 2 miles to the north in Santa Monica. Simply follow the boardwalk from Venice Beach to the early-1900s vintage, double-the-size pier-side party. Ride the roller coasters or ferris wheel, shop for souvenirs or snag some carnival food for some indulging.
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