The Pacific is the thing that makes Venice Beach the most special place on earth. Sure we have great culture and people, but it is the magnificent Pacific that makes it all happen. This three-mile beach is manicured daily and the lifeguards are on duty, so grab a towel and head down to the sand. Surf, swim, body board and splash around in the Pacific Ocean. Go for a deep sand run or power walk in ankle deep water. Sunbathe & relax. Keep an eye out for dolphins. Volleyball courts also available. You can rent surf, body and skim boards at several spots if you do not have your own. Or, grab a Frisbee or a ball for some catch. Marvel at the planet’s largest ocean or meditate into your own universe, either way the beach has the perfect spot for everyone.
Pack a picnic or takeout from these local restaurants/cafes!
Surf lesson and beach accessories available at Jay’s Rentals! They both have packages that include wet suits, boards and a qualified instructor. And, they also have body boards, beach supplies and more!
- Jay’s Rentals: 310 392 7306 1501 Oceanfront Walk
Ride a beach cruiser up the beach on the sand! Jay’s Rentals has fat tire beach cruisers designed for cruising the shoreline!
- The Venice Pier: (Following info from Coastal Conservancy) The 1,300-foot Venice Pier, built in 1963, was falling to pieces by the 1980s. It was closed and scheduled for demolition in 1986. Venice residents rallied to the cause, and after years of perseverance the pier was restored and reopened in 1997. The restored pier is fully accessible, with special cutouts for fishing from wheelchairs. Location: End of Washington Blvd. South of the Venice Breakwater
- The Venice Breakwater: (Following insert from wikimapia.org) The Venice Breakwater is an acclaimed local surf spot in Venice, located north of the Venice Pier and Lifeguard Headquarters, and south of the Santa Monica Pier. This spot is sheltered on the north by an artificial barrier, the breakwater, consisting of an extending sand bar, piping, and large rocks at its end. This spot has differing breaks depending on swell intensity, swell direction, tide and time of the day. Venice Breakwater History: Built by Abbot Kinney in 1905 to protect his amusement park pier, this is one of the few bits and pieces remaining of his dream community, Venice of America. The only place on the beach to see waves break on both sides. Also has the finest sand for sand sculpture. In summer only the north break is even halfway ridable, but when the winter storm swells come in, the five to seven foot point-break type waves at the south end are first rate.
VISITOR SURVIVOR TIPS:
Beware of rip tides (strong flow of water near shore).
Note: In the summer months, stay north of the red flag if south of the Venice Breakwater. Ask a Venice lifeguard for more info.
IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS AND WEBSITES:
Beaches and Harbors at 310-305-9546
Permit information from Beaches and Harbors 310-305-9503
Filming Information from Beaches and Harbors 310-305-9549
Life Guard Emergency: 310.394.3261 or 310.577.5700
HEAL THE BAY
SURFRIDER
FYI:
- Free beach wheelchairs provided by the Dep’t of Beaches & Harbor.
- Showers and bathrooms located by and on the beach at the Venice Pier, North Venice Blvd, 17th St., Market St. Brooks Ave. and Rose Ave.
- HUNGRY? Check out this list of amazing Venice bars and restaurants.
Enjoy your stay in Venice Beach!