Bucket list experience:
Head to LA’s most vibrant neighbourhood for a glimpse of the crazy in all its glory: overly muscled men at Muscle Beach; an outdoor gym right on the sand; thong-wearing skaters on the boardwalk that runs the length of the Pacific; and overly-vocal grifters, musicians, activists and the like wandering in between it all.
After getting a feel for the kitsch, tap into the cool along Abbott Kinney Boulevard, a stretch of boho-chic bistros, boutiques and bars a few blocks inland.
The beach resort of Venice was the brainchild of oil mogul Abbott Kinney. Founded in 1905, the marshy land behind the resort was developed into a series of canals, in an attempt to mimic its namesake in Italy.
Venice officially became part of LA in 1926, at which point most of its canals were filled in and converted to streets to accommodate the growing population. But a few of these canals survive today, lined with an eclectic collection of urban homes – ideal strolling territory.
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Destination Guide >Our writer’s picks of the best places to stay near this experience, closest first
Los Angeles, California, United States of America (USA)[1.3 miles]
A funky boutique pad in a brilliant Venice Beach location that’s all about surfside fun. Close to top sights including Muscle Beach and the Skate Park.
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Los Angeles, California, United States of America (USA)[4.2 miles]
Staying at Shutters is like staying at an incredibly chic friend’s beach house, from the cosy living room-style lobby to the beautifully appointed bedrooms with stellar ocean views.
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Los Angeles, California, United States of America (USA)[4.2 miles]
High style and Hollywood gloss wrapped up in a fun little package by the Pacific. Hip and laid-back at the same time, with a great pool deck.
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Los Angeles, California, United States of America (USA)[6 miles]
An elegant 1927 Spanish Colonial Revival Mansion with a country estate vibe that combines history with a hard-to-beat location, complete with quirky interiors and beautifully manicured courtyards.
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Destination guides including or relevant to this experience
California, United States of America (USA)
The bright lights of Tinseltown are home to surfer-filled beaches, glorious mountain hikes, glitz and glamour in spades and year-round sunshine.
Our writer’s recommendations of other bucket list experiences our writer says you must do in this destination, closest first
Los Angeles, California, United States of America (USA)[4.7 miles]
An iconic, old-school amusement park and a two-mile stretch of golden beach offer the perfect day at the beach. Great surfing & cycling too.
Best for ages: 4+ | Free
Los Angeles, California, United States of America (USA)[11.3 miles]
A marble-clad modernist complex husing the late billionaire oil tycoon J. Paul Getty’s art collection. Highlights include works by Titian and Van Gogh, illuminated manuscripts from the Middle Ages, Louis XIV-era furniture and decorative arts.
Best for ages: 18+ | Free
Los Angeles, California, United States of America (USA)[13.7 miles]
The world’s largest museum dedicated solely to the art of film, home to a collection of movie treasures, a rotating roster of exhibitions featuring industry creators and an experience where you can hold a coveted Oscars statuette.
Best for ages: 8+ | £22
Los Angeles, California, United States of America (USA)[13.8 miles]
A 20-acre compound of galleries and pavilions housing more than 100,000 works, from ancient Mayan bowls inscribed with bat heads and Japanese sculptures dating from 3000 BC to paintings by Rubens, Cezanne and Degas.
Best for ages: 13+ | £17
Other worthwhile experiences near this experience if you have time or interest..
Los Angeles, California, United States of America (USA)[5.4 miles]
Head to Santa Monica’s farmers market on a Wednesday or Saturday morning and you’re bound to bump into one or two of the city’s top chefs, who all head here to pick up the freshest organic local fruits and vegetables.
Best for ages: 13+ | Free
Los Angeles, California, United States of America (USA)[8.1 miles]
A 22-mile bike path called the Strand runs from Southern LA’s Manhattan Beach up to Pacific Palisades, just north of Santa Monica. It’s a fun ride if you’re feeling fit. Hire bikes from Hermosa Cyclery – there’s a detailed map of the Strand on their website.
Best for ages: 6+ | Free | 2-3 hours
Los Angeles, California, United States of America (USA)[12 miles]
John Paul Getty’s homage to ancient Rome and Greece is a Malibu gem, filled with ancient art, beautifully landscaped gardens offering up sparkling ocean views and a 500-seat amphitheatre that hosts some of the city’s finest outdoor classical productions.
Best for ages: 18+ | Free
Los Angeles, California, United States of America (USA)[13 miles]
For a fascinating insider look at a period mansion and estate in Beverley Hills, call ahead to reserve a tour of the Virginia Robinson Gardens. The Beaux Arts mansion from 1911 is surrounded by stunning botanical gardens in a range of styles.
Best for ages: 13+ | £12
![Santa Monica Pier & Beach [surfing & cycling]](https://familyhotelfinder.com/wp-content/uploads/Los-Angeles-Santa-Monica-Beach1-SH.jpg)
