The ocean is the thing that makes Venice Beach the most special place on earth. 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. Keep an eye out for dolphins. 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.

View message from our super cool lifeguards regarding ocean safety!

A day at the beach can be fun and memorable! But, the Los Angeles County Fire Department’s Lifeguard Division wants to remind you of some dangers you should be aware of when you spend time on the sand and in the ocean.

Always swim and surf near an open lifeguard station and never swim alone.
Check in with the nearest lifeguard for daily ocean conditions and hazards.
Always swim and surf within your abilities. Use good judgment.
If in doubt of the large surf, do NOT go out!
Never dive into shallow water. Remember feet-first every time!
Use swim fins and a leash whenever bodyboarding.
Keep a safe distance from piers and rocks, and always obey warning signs.
Never throw sand and always fill in holes before you leave the beach.
Protect yourself from the sun. Use sunscreen and wear a hat.
Respect other beach patrons and remember your beach manners.
The bicycle path is like a road. Always look both ways before crossing!
If you or someone in your group gets lost, always find the nearest lifeguard.

For more info: fire.lacounty.gov/beach-safety

Beware of Rip Currents

A rip current is a current that runs from shallow water near the shore to deeper waters beyond the surfline in a river-like phenomenon. Rip currents can occur at any beach with breaking waves. The bigger the waves, the bigger the rip currents.

Rip currents are a leading hazard to beach goers. Inexperienced swimmers are often caught in the current and pulled out to deep water. Panicked swimmers try to counter a rip current by swimming straight back to shore, putting themselves at risk of drowning because of fatigue

Here are ways to escape a rip current:

Remain calm.
Tread water and float.
Stay on your bodyboard or surfboard.
Get the attention of a lifeguard or a bystander who can alert a lifeguard.
If you are able to self-rescue, swim parallel to shore first to get out of the rip current before swimming into shore.

For more info: fire.lacounty.gov/beach-safety

Additional beach info:

Venice open from 6:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
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..
Do not touch, feed, or disturb any marine life on the beach.
If you see an injured animal on the beach, ask a lifeguard to call animal rescue. California Marine and Wild Life. 310-457-9453
No alcohol or dogs on the beach.
Look for the swim/surf flags and stay in the proper area.
Keep our beaches clean! Pick up your garbage