Venice Beach Boardwalk is always an interesting time. Many people with their own special skills post up their best talent for people to see and hopefully buy. There's a bunch of new restaurants and a few of the decades old characters still roaming the boardwalk. read more

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WARNING: Aggressive "Free CD" Hustlers - DO NOT TAKE THE CDs! Location: Right outside the Muscle Beach parking lot, near the outdoor gym. Be extremely careful if you are walking near the Muscle Beach parking lot. There is a group of three men claiming to be "up-and-coming musicians" running a very aggressive, coordinated hustle. Here is exactly how their scam works so you can avoid it: * The Hook: One guy will approach you and try to hand you a "free" CD. Even when we said no, he played on our sympathy, claiming it was his own music and asking us to just show some support for a starter artist. Out of politeness, we took it. * The Trap: He immediately offered to sign the CD. While we were distracted waiting for him to sign it, his two partners swarmed us and pushed their own CDs into our hands. * The Shake-Down: Once the first CD was signed, the "free" aspect completely disappeared. He demanded a donation and refused to accept small bills. When my husband took out a $20 bill to break it, the guy practically grabbed it out of his hand and walked away. * The Swarm: Then, the other two musicians cornered us, demanding money for their CDs. My husband gave one of them his last $5, and the guy actually complained that it wasn't enough. The third guy started whining about getting nothing. * The Intimidation: I tried to be nice and intended to give the last guy $5, but they started physically circling me, aggressively demanding $20. I felt incredibly uncomfortable and intimidated. I told them to just take the CDs back--we didn't even listen to that type of music and certainly weren't paying $60 for it. They refused to take them back, eventually lowering their demand to $20 to split between them. To get out of this threatening situation quickly, I handed over a $20 bill just so they would leave us alone. This whole experience was extremely upsetting. I would gladly give my money to someone genuinely in need, but being bullied and cornered into "donating" is completely unacceptable. It left such a bad taste for us, we ended up did not spend a dime in any of shops there. Not event a souvenir! Bottom Line: If anyone approaches you with a CD, do not make eye contact, do not engage, and DO NOT take the CD no matter what they say. Just keep walking! read more

Venice Beach Boardwalk used to be the coolest one in LA. I could come here any time, any day, and feel safe while enjoying the unique atmosphere and vibrant culture. Unfortunately, I can't say that things are the same anymore. Out of my last 5 visits, I noticed 3 situations that made me feel unsafe. The vibe has definitely changed, and not for the better. The boardwalk still has some charm - the street performers, vendors, and ocean views are still there. But the overall experience isn't as enjoyable or comfortable as it once was. I hope things improve because this place has so much potential and used to be such an iconic LA destination. For now, I'll be more cautious about when and how often I visit. read more

A place that should be visited! We spent some time walking the board walk and beach. Always an interesting crowd and something going on. A lot of places to eat, and merchants selling items. A lot of artistic and homemade crafts. People tend to be friendly. Always some type of sports and such ongoing. Pretty good deals. And a lot to choose from (food and merchandise). read more

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Venice beach definitely isn't what it used to be! But it is still nice to go and visit. Weather was nice and sunny! Definitely more populated with more homeless people... and there's a lot of hustlers on the boardwalk trying to approach you every other second selling their CDS so just don't even approach them and just walk by . There is a parking lot on Venice beach by belles restaurant, they charge $10 for 3 hours and your car is being watched by someone at all times so it's in a "safer" area. There's different little shops to by magnets, shirts, hats etc. I love that they have an outdoor basketball court by the beach too, did a small round of that as well! If you don't have one on you, there's a guy who rents sports equipment per hour if needed. It has a court , an outdoor gym, skatepark etc. read more

Venice Beach Boardwalk - Beaches Near Me - Venice, California

I love love love being at the beach when it's not too hot there's a nice breeze. Everything is chill. It's wonderful. read more

Venice Beach Boardwalk - Fried Oreos - Beaches Near Me - Venice, California

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Venice beach is an extension of home for me dating back to when I was a teenager and would sneak over on the Blue Bus to experience the magnetic sights and sounds of the boardwalk. I'd say it's pretty chill today compared to what it once was and it also feels a little bit safer most of the time. However, tourists should always stay alert and exercise situational awareness. There's lots to see, especially if you come on the weekend in the afternoon, and there are plenty of restaurants, coffee shops (Menotti's #1 and Ministry of Coffee), junk food joints, and a couple of pubs if that's your thing. If you're curious about Harry Perry, he's still around. You probably won't see him on roller skates but you might catch a glimpse of him on his morning jog or playing his guitar on the boardwalk. Come before sunset and you can join locals and tourists alike who gather in small groups to watch the sunset and take photos. If you're coming for a first time visit understand that Venice beach is rough around the edges and you'll be sharing the pavement with people from all walks of life. Stay in your lane and you won't have any issues. If you want to see what the vibe is like before you come, check out the Venice Beach V Hotel live cam on YouTube. read more

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Venice Boardwalk is one of the cultural mainstays of Los Angeles. Ever since its inception, it has been a place where the abstract culture of the city can truly be witnessed. I've been coming to the Venice Boardwalk my entire life. I've watched as some of the local figureheads have gone from youth to growing old. Though it has periodically evolved, the essence of the Boardwalk has remained the same. Venice Boardwalk is a great place to visit. If you haven't been there, I really suggest you go. This being said, there's some things you need to know about the current state of the Boardwalk. Mainly, it has never been a very safe area. So, especially if you're there at night, you really have to keep your eyes open. Over recent years, there's been an influx of a large homeless populations. For a while, a couple of years ago, they were all camped out on the beach, just off of the Boardwalk. Though this large encampment has been cleared out, there are still many unhoused people roaming the area. Now certainly, we all feel for people who are experiencing homelessness. The problem is, there's a lot of drug use and a lot of mental illness exhibited by these people. With this comes a lot of undesirable behavior. And yes, a lot of crime. So again, you really need to be careful when you come to the Venice Boardwalk. My suggestion is that you visit the Boardwalk during the day. Then, at least you have a lot more people around you, and your chances for safety are much better. Once on the Boardwalk, you will witness that there's all kinds of restaurants and shops. These have evolved over the years. There's just a very few of them, like say The Sidewalk Café that have been around for a long period of time. Most come and then they go. Even the elaborate Starbucks that was located on the Boardwalk for the last several years is gone. It just recently went away, and with that is gone a major meeting hub. The main thing you'll see on the Venice Boardwalk is a grand display of the various cultures, as artistic and as abstract as they may be, that make up the city. You see a lot of art. You see a lot of crafts. You see musicians, some good, and some very bad. Nonetheless, they are all spread through throughout the landscape, truly given a definition to the the art culture of California. Overall, the Venice Boardwalk is a must see location. For those of you who live here, you know what I'm talking about. For those of you visiting the area, once you visit, you will understand. read more

Venice Beach Boardwalk - Beaches Near Me - Venice, California

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I've been coming to Venice Beach for a long time if I told you how long it would give away my age (; . Dear in the area definitely worth checking out. Today there happens to be a big drum day on the beach right next to the boardwalk which I just posted a video of. The weather is usually good and he can run Bicycles skates or just to do one walk and buy stuff from the vendor. It's definitely worth checking out! read more

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I used to go to Venice all the time when I lived on the Westside. But after moving and then COVID happening, this was my first time back. I was a little shocked at how empty the boardwalk is and how many places have closed or shut down. All those memories are gone just like the stores, restaurants, and many of the owners have left. But I did see people, newer stores different places opening so that's a great sign! This place is beautiful and also relaxing when you hear the ocean water. Overall if you want to come during a weekday it is pretty nice and chill. read more

Venice Beach Boardwalk - Boardwalk - Beaches Near Me - Venice, California

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My husband and I visited the Venice Beach Boardwalk. There was a mix of a variety of stores and food options that you could choose from to go to. You could see the beach and the mountains while the sky is clear. Apparently fog is common and during our visit a fog rolled in from the ocean. The view of the beach and the mountains disappeared but it cooled the temperature. There is a gym, a skate park, and walking/biking paths. Overall it was an interesting boardwalk with a lot to look at. I recommend going on a Sunny day with clear skies. read more

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Visited this area last Sunday for the NBA Allstar activation sponsored by AT&T. Had a fun time shootin some hoops, dunking some highlights, and experience a high level event. Free food vouchers, merchandise giveaway, and plenty of fun SoCal memories. read more

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The first place we came to in LA, the famous Venice Beach Boardwalk! We walked along it, saw the beach and visited some stores. Also got to see the famous muscle beach gym and the skatepark, plus many vendors up and down the boardwalk selling some cool items. It wasn't too crowded as we did go in the fall but it was still busy. We bought our little magnets then we ended up having lunch at the sidewalk cafe. I will saw I wasn't blown away but it was nice after seeing it online for many years, and overall I really liked visiting even if you're not coming to swim. We got lucky too and found street parking. read more

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Definitely a place to people watch ... all types of people and backgrounds. So many street vendors on the boardwalk selling everything from everyday items of sorts to curios (items you wouldn't find anywhere else). Many eateries line the boardwalk from coffee shops to eateries of every nationality to fine dining. A tourist haven that people want to visit (for the experience) once in their life. read more

The fascination of this place goes hard for holiday makers. The one place that needs to be experienced. But as an Angeleno, the only time here is when someone is in town and wants to check it out...LOL. I did noticed a few new vintage shops on the boardwalk. Vintage shops, their prices are a little out there. But having a store front at a major location, it's extortionate. Don't get me wrong, I love a vintage shop but majority of things are hiked up big time. Anyways, mid week and the boardwalk wasn't that busy. You still have all the tourists walking up and down. The skate park was pretty quiet as well. Then you have muscle beach. The gym, pretty quiet as well. Come during the weekend if you want to see major body builder working out. There's always a crowd which they love the attention. Of course all the tourists shops one after the other. But a good amount of empty spaces too. As it was mid week, it was pretty mellow. There were no street performers which is unusual for Venice. It did seemed pretty well maintained and few less homelessness. It a fun place to visit if you're not from LA. But locals, majority never walk along the boardwalk unless if they're going somewhere here. read more

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I must say that the white sand beaches of Venice Beach are truly beautiful! The beach and Boardwalk area seem almost endless, stretching as far as the eye can reach. You can literally be dropped anywhere along the strand and have a million options to choose from. We saw so many different statues, skateboarders, shops and restaurants. The nice part is that it feels like you are with people while also having a completely individualized experience. I loved the variety of shops we saw, such as some wonderful merchandise places where we got some great T-shirts and curios for a good price. I especially loved the magnets, globes and hats. Even without having a particular goal in mind, just walking was so relaxing and pleasant. I think the diversity is something that is unique to this beach. read more

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The Venice Beach Boardwalk is a great place to take a walk, shop, eat, and take in the sights. Everything I pretty much do when I visit. It's lined with houses and apartments, small businesses, and restaurants on one side. And there is a bunch of other stuff going on, on the other side. Ie, basket ball games, weight lifters, street vendors, and street performers. Visual overload. I've eaten at a couple restaurants on the boardwalk. Unfortunately, one of the restaurants had someone busking, singing loudly, and off tune close by during my entire meal. Needless to say, there are many artists also creating and selling their artwork here. There used to be much more street performers, but they seem to have lessened over time. Ie. Singers, dancers, and roller skaters. There are locals and sightseers alike, couples, families, people walking and / or riding their bikes with their dogs. It must be noisy living along the boardwalk with all the constant activity, especially on the weekends. They have a paid beach parking lot. I opt for free street parking, which is often times difficult to find unless you come early enough in the morning. Good thing is, it always seems to be sunny, which makes for a good visit. read more

Venice Beach Boardwalk - Beaches Near Me - Venice, California

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clean, beautiful and amazing beach. the skate park is so amazing and you can see some real talent there. read more

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Sunny vibes on the Venice Beach Boardwalk are the best kind of vibes to catch... Even more so than those gorgeous waves from the push and pull of the sky. Lots of great shops, places to walk and indulge yourself in recreation as well as spectate. From shooting hoops to outdoor workouts #MuscleBeach to those ollie and skateboard tricks to live luaus on the sandy shores. Not shortage of fun characters, street performers, music, shops or eateries. Parking is definitely the biggest struggle in the area, but you can get lucky if you brave some blocks for a leisure stroll. Venice Beach & Boardwalk has been a personal SoCal favorite and must for as long as I can remember and while Santa Monica is closer to home and those on the west half of Los Angeles, not to mention more accessible via public transit - you won't regret the scenic feel goodness that encompasses all of Venice at once in one place. So much history including the filming of several great films, tv shows, pop culture moments and beyond... Romy & Michele's High School Reunion being a super favorite..."I just get really happy when they finally let her shop." Don't forget to try Love Amaro Pizzeria! Take in the beautiful building murals, street art and support small vendors all up and down this vibey beach that is Venice, Los Angeles, California. read more

Venice Beach Boardwalk - Beaches Near Me - Venice, California

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It's getting better. But still, watch your back. Overall though, it's a lovely walk with some fine eateries and shops. read more

Venice Beach Boardwalk - Venice Beach Boardwalk - Beaches Near Me - Venice, California

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Having been born and raised in California, visiting the "Venice Beach Boardwalk" is nothing new to me since I've been coming here ever nearly my whole life. But to any tourist or someone that truly wants a mix of eclectic, diverse, wild, wacky, and quirky, this place will have you covered. The entire boardwalk itself stretches roughly 2 miles while connecting Santa Monica to the north and Marina Del Rey to the south. There are even nearby canals where many residents have their homes right next to it. This historic part of the Los Angeles culture attracts at least 10 millions visitors a year. Here you will find just above everything when it comes to outdoor activities. This includes a walking/biking/skating walking trail, basketball courts, sand volleyball courts, and the ever-so-popular Muscle Beach where you see all walks of life flexing and showing off their physique. But of course since it's a beach, you are being gifted with tons of sand and although not the cleanest, it is still ideal for sunbathing or enjoying a picnic under the warm Southern California sun. There is also an abundance of palm trees as well as several lifeguards on duty just in case a swimmer/surfer is in danger at the ocean. And a word of advice, the ocean is cold no matter how warm the daytime temperature might be. Recently, this has been a mecca of the beautiful Venice Art Walls that includes murals, paintings, and dazzling displays from some of the most innovative artists out there. You will also notice quite a bit of families w/strollers, fitness gurus, influencers, musicians, street performers, and even hustlers trying to make an extra few bucks off of the tourists. One thing I did want to point out are the gift shops. There is a ton of places that sell souvenirs but everything here is overly expensive and you can buy much of this type of merchandise in more of the non-touristy parts of Los Angeles. You will also notice quite a bit of food vendors selling hot dogs, pizza, burgers, desserts, and much more. I also wanted to warn to anyone that has not had the chance to visit here that this place does have quite a bit of homeless lurking around. And for parents that bring their kiddos, expect your fair share of stoners/hippies toking a joint of weed on the beach. So as long as you are street smart while avoiding all the rift-raft and sketchiness of what this place offers, you should be good to go. Finally, I wanted to add that parking is a great deal as we were able to park directly on the beach for a flat rate of $5. But during the hotter late-summer/early-fall days, it can fill up quickly, sometimes as early as 9am. To sum things up, the "Venice Beach Boardwalk" is the epitome of the Southern California and Los Angeles lifestyle. And for those that haven't been, I would highly recommend checking it out. But since it is a tourist trap (much like South Beach, Jersey Shore, and other tourist areas), definitely bring money as nothing out here is a bargain. My rating, an above average four stars. read more

Venice Beach Boardwalk - Perfect sunset (7/26/2024) - Beaches Near Me - Venice, California

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There's a souvenir spot called "Venice Souvenirs" next to "La La Land" and "Twin Dough" and it's absolutely great. I love the options and the folks are so chill and sweet over there. They have great sales also. I got 2 sunglasses for $25 and 3 shot glasses since it was buy 2 get 1 free. If I were to come back to Venice, I would go in again for the vibes :) they're attentive to ALL their customers. What a pleasant place. They have magnets, clothing, skateboards, mugs, etc. read more

The Boardwalk is a totally one of a kind experience! A must do in Southern California! It has completely rejuvenated itself since the pandemic closure. Shops are open, and there are many super fun restaurants to choose from, my favorite is The Fig Tree, with great food and people watching! There are all manner of items available at very reasonable prices from the friendly and approachable vendors, many of whom have been there for the better part of their lives! Everything from original art to psychic readings! The vendors are there year round, and the weather stays walkable through the so-called "winter" months. October can be one of the nicest months, weather wise! read more

The Venice Beach Boardwalk is equal parts circus, gym, flea market, and fever dream... and somehow it all works. One second you're watching a guy juggle fire, the next you're sidestepping someone selling crystal energy water, and just beyond that there's a bodybuilder at Muscle Beach lifting weights like his Instagram followers depend on it (which, let's be real, they probably do). It's chaotic, it's loud, it's a little gritty, but that's the charm. You don't come here for serenity, you come here to people-watch, grab a snack, and remind yourself that only in Venice can you see three street performers, two palm tree murals, and a roller-skating Elvis impersonator all before lunch. read more

Still the coolest beach around. If you're one of those scaredy cat types, skip it since it still has some edge to it. But, if you're up for a unique experience from street performers to a great skate park, acrobats towards Santa Monica pier and fun people watching definitely check it out. It's much more cleaned up than even a couple years ago but you can still catch some crazies yelling about something if you're into that sort of thing. read more

Venice Beach Boardwalk - Bike path Venice Beach - Beaches Near Me - Venice, California

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I have always wanted to visit here and finally got the chance this Fourth of July and I was not disappointed. Parking was tricky but if you're willing to walk a little, off street spots can be found. As soon as we crossed over to the boardwalk it was one entertaining sight after another. Plenty of shop and vendors line this strip but it really is the people themselves that make Venice Beach the place to be. And then there is the scenery. Sand, palm trees, the ocean....so beautiful... I would always come back. read more

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The Boardwalk is always a fun adventure to have in LA area. Venice is always been funky and surprising, sure, it is experiencing a period that is more difficult for the area and I hope the situation will improve soon. But Venice is Venice and it's worth visiting and spending some time here. It is corky, fun, with weird stores, extravagant people, street artists, cool locals, surfers, outdoor gyms and sport courts, the characters of the area. And you have some souvenir stores, cheap food joints, dirty restrooms, pricey parking. And the beach! There's no place like Venice Beach in the world with its good and bad, so be opened to the unexpected! Let your free spirit prevail! read more

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This place surprised me because it has been cleaned up SO much since the 80s and 90s... where's the aggressive, legless dude rolling around on a skateboard, asking for money?! There's still homeless and still street vendors and performers. The stores and dining options are "meh".... My wallet only opened for parking, and I opted for a pricer place (30$) that had security on Windward. Worth every penny for me. My friend's son was super excited because he is a fan of GTA San Andreas, and he felt like he was in the game. We even walked to Santa Monica Pier from the Boardwalk. Overall, I wouldn't come unless someone was curious about this place... though I did spy that it's dog friendly! Pros: - beautiful beach with actual sand (vs rocks like Carlsbad or loss of a shoreline such as in Oceanside) - people watching - cleaner than years past - walkable to Santa Monica Pier - dog-friendly - cool street art - plenty of restrooms - bike friendly Cons: - no unique vendors - meh restaurants and dining options - mostly weed-themed - iconic Muscle Beach (closer to Santa Monica pier but still a walk along the same path) is now a gymnastics setup read more

I'm giving it 4 stars and there are a lot of places here to shop and eat and then there is a lot of people watching, a sport made famous in parts of NYC, lol. There is Muscle Beach where Arnold hung around in the 60s and there are parts outside the beach and boardwalk area where there are canals. I had lunch here this day and took a lot of colorful photos for everyone! read more

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Tourist attraction in Los Angeles, California... When I found out that our Yelp Hawaii Intern was in LA at the same time as I was, I offered to drive her around for the day. I asked her where she wanted to go: Venice Beach Boardwalk ... because other people were afraid to go there with her. Awww ... Let's make her dream come true! When I first visited LA, I asked to go to Venice Beach, too - so, I knew that it was relatively safe and that there is free parking about a block away. The Venice Beach Boardwalk is a fun place! We shopped and purchased postcards, jibbitz, sunglasses, stickers, matching rings and bracelets; we ate street tacos; and got massages! We saw some unusual vendors, the Muscle Beach Gym, basketball court, tennis court/pickle ball court, and even a guy with a snake - pose with his snake and get a photo for about $10? It was a memorable day with a smart, cute, creative gal! Best wishes to you, Sheena... Always! read more

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Came to the beach and it was a low tide day, the water was very inviting. The sunset gorgeous and pier had a good fishing crowd. Parking is only $5 so that's a great deal! read more

I have so many memories here and venice beach. I feel safe at night is extra fun in the daytime because of all the activities. There's so much to see so many people to meet. And it's a new experience every time I go. The people are so nice and it's very different from Santa Monica pier. I just feel so much better and at home and in peace at Venice beach . There's so many stores to choose from. They have a good selection of clothes in the prices may vary read more

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Venice Beach Boardwalk felt like a living piece of art. I went with someone and walked the entire stretch while stopping to look at murals, performers, and small shops. Teenagers were skating, taking selfies, buying unique items, and enjoying the creative energy of the area. The atmosphere is something teens would love because it is expressive, colorful, and full of personality. The service from the vendors felt relaxed and friendly which added to the laid back vibe. The value is incredible because you can enjoy so much for free including street art, performances, and the beach itself. The quality of the experience comes from the authenticity of the place which feels real and full of life. The selection of shops, food stands, and artistic displays gives teenagers endless things to explore. I have only been once but it left a strong impression. Teenagers would love the creativity, the freedom, and the fun energy and I highly recommend it. read more

Loud, busy, bustling, and full of life, the Boardwalk at Venice Beach is a must-see on any trip to Southern California. Bring your roller skates, skateboards and energy to enjoy muscle beach, sidewalk shops and eats, as well as shoreline views. read more

Venice Beach Boardwalk - Beaches Near Me - Venice, California

Nice boardwalk right at Venice Beach. Lots of things to do and see and yes, lots of places to get souvenirs. Highly recommend checking this spot out if you haven't already. read more

#venicebeachgames Great day to go to the event. I did arrive early. The parking was not too bad. Several vendors with some free samples and giveaways. Lots of events accompanied by the boardwalk Made it an awesome Saturday to escape some of the Heat.. Highly recommend to go take a visit. read more

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The boardwalk has interesting people-watching and a wide mix of vendors, but it felt chaotic and overwhelming. The overall value didn't match the hype, and the experience was more stressful than enjoyable. read more

Nice pier to walk and watch the surfers. Saw some dolphins. Clean, good vibes, nice bike path People who service the area keep it clean. Good place to hangout read more

Venice Beach Boardwalk is an iconic site in LA and it attracts visitors from all over the world and it is estimated that approximately 28,000 to 30,000 people visit the Venice Beach Boardwalk and adjacent Recreation and Parks property on a daily basis. The Boardwalk, also known as Ocean Front Walk, is the second most-visited destination in Southern California. It is known as one of the region's most popular tourist attractions. The Venice Beach Boardwalk stretches over two (2) miles and hosts hundreds of street vendors and performers along with numerous privately owned restaurants and food venues. The Venice Beach Recreation Center offers various activities including but not limited to basketball, paddle tennis and handball tournaments, body building at the world famous Muscle Beach Venice gym, and other special events. Venice Beach also offers a fishing pier, a world renowned skate plaza, bike path, two (2) children's play areas and provides a variety of services for the culturally diverse population that visits throughout the year. Film productions (Baywatch 90's, Once Upon A Time in Venice etc.) are also very popular at this place. All of the sports courts, skate plaza, pier and other amenities are open to the general public on a daily basis. Public and private parking lots are available. Overall, I enjoy going to this boardwalk and its a good spot for locals/tourists. read more

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We decided to come to Venice Beach because we wanted to do a little vacation this year. Basically just less travel. We stayed at a place within walking distance so I could check out the boardwalk whenever. Not going to lie, I thought it would be a little more exciting. I will say that they have great food choices and if you want over the top fair food there's definitely lots to choose from. It's cool to check out the shops and vendors because there's also some fun little photo ops around. Cool graffiti, workouts, volleyball, basketball, skate park - lots to see and do if you're interested. Beach wasn't particularly nice when we were there. You could put your feet in but that's about nit. Kind of a cluster of pedestrians and mostly motorized personal vehicles. Probably wasn't so bad back in the day to maneuver with them, but now it's all electric bikes and scooters and people going everywhere and trying to do it fast. Made it harder at times that's for sure, but not impossible. I know how to ignore rude bicyclists even on vacation so problem solved. Things didn't start up too early and there were some restaurants that didn't open until noon for lunch, so no point in going super early. Worth checking out even just for an afternoon. read more

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