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Venice Beach

  • Los Angeles, California, United States of America (USA)

Last updated: 23 April, 2024

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.

While you're there

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.

Logistics

Price: Free
Minimum age: 0
Age suitable: 4+
When: All year around

Who to go with: organised tours

5

Our selection of the best Viator tours of this attraction or activity

  • Los Angeles

On our Secret Food Tour: Los Angeles, you’ll be taken into the heart of Venice Beach to discover a lively and vibrant neighborhood with a rich foundation and of course, mouth-watering dishes. You'll experience firsthand what happens when great food meets culinary creativity. We'll enter a community that fosters stunning street art, both on the main roads and weaving through the city neighborhoods. Venice Beach is a community that embraces diversity through art, culture, cuisine, and hospitality. At the end of your tour, you'll have sampled some of Los Angeles' most delicious dishes and gained a better understanding of our culture and history.

Price $89

Min age 0

Rating 4.89 / 5 [269 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

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  • Los Angeles

Learn all the basic surf knowledge in no time with our unique technique! Our school's proven method can have even complete beginners standing up on a surfboard in less than two hours. You don't have to wait for weeks to experience the thrill of surfing! In just two hours, we'll cover everything you need to become a surfer. We'll start with a half-hour land lesson where you'll learn the basic rules and surf safety. Then, we'll get in the water with your instructor, who will guide you every step of the way. Once you're ready, you can practice on your own. Our beginner surfing lessons offer the best value, with an optimal student-to-instructor ratio. We use a safe part of the beach that's perfect for surfing, even if you've never been on a board before. You'll be riding waves and feeling the joy of surfing after your very first lesson!

Price $65

Min age 18

Rating 4.84 / 5 [65 ratings]

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  • Los Angeles

• 3-Hour Bicycle Tour of Venice, Santa Monica and Marina del Rey, California. • Learn about the fascinating History, Art and Culture the area has to offer. • Ride along the Santa Monica Bike Path next to the Pacific Ocean with the wind in your hair. • Visit the World-Famous Venice Boardwalk and see street performers, artists and buy souvenirs from local businesses. • Roll by bustling shops and eateries on Abbot Kinney Blvd., referred to as "The Hippest Street in America" by Rolling Stone Magazine. • Small group format ensures an intimate, personalized experience.

Price $99

Min age 1

Rating 4.88 / 5 [50 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

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  • Los Angeles

Our private surfing lessons offer a unique and personalized learning experience for all skill levels. With one-on-one instruction from our experienced and certified surf coaches, you'll receive tailored feedback and guidance to improve your technique and confidence in the water. Whether you're a beginner looking to catch your first wave or an experienced surfer seeking to refine your skills, our lessons are designed to meet your specific goals and needs. We use the latest equipment and techniques to ensure your safety and comfort, and our flexible scheduling allows you to learn at your own pace and convenience. Book your private surfing lesson today and experience the thrill of riding the waves like a pro!

Price $138

Min age 5

Rating 4.96 / 5 [32 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

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  • Los Angeles

Get an introduction to the famed beaches of Los Angeles, from Santa Monica to Venice Beach, on this 3-hour tour. Travel by comfortable Mercedes van, hopping out to explore each destination on foot with a guide. Sights include Santa Monica Pier; Venice Beach Boardwalk and its Muscle Beach; and the affluent seaside communities of Marina del Rey.

Price $159

Min age 0

Rating 4.8 / 5 [10 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

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