Beach guide
Venice Beach
Los Angeles (Venice), Los Angeles County, CA
Overview
Venice Beach runs for nearly 3 miles along Ocean Front Walk, with 238 acres of sand between Santa Monica and the Marina del Rey jetties. Los Angeles County Beaches & Harbors runs the beach, while the famous boardwalk behind it is packed with street performers, shops and food stands.
Layout
The main beach lies along the 2700 to 3100 blocks of Ocean Front Walk. Three County lots near the south end hold over 1,200 cars, and the paved beach bike path runs the full length of the sand. Landmarks include Muscle Beach, the skate dancing plaza, tennis and volleyball courts, and the historic pier area at the foot of Washington Boulevard. The Venice Breakwater is a well-known local surf spot.
Who comes here
Tourists come for the boardwalk scene, locals for surfing, volleyball, cycling and fishing.
Before you go
Lifeguards are on duty during daylight hours. Swim near a staffed tower, check the surf before paddling out at the breakwater, and remember that County beach rules ban dogs, alcohol, glass and fires on the sand. Free beach wheelchairs and access mats make it easier to reach the water.
Getting there & access
Driving and parking
Three County parking lots near the beach hold over 1,200 cars and are open 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Street parking is also available but fills quickly on weekends.
Transit
Metro Bus 1 stops at Washington Blvd. and Dell Ave. The LA County free beach shuttle stops at Washington Blvd. and Pacific Ave.
Bike path
The paved beach bike path runs the length of Venice Beach and connects north to Santa Monica and south toward Marina del Rey. Bike rentals are available along the boardwalk.
Wheelchair access
LA County provides free beach wheelchairs and beach access mats so visitors can get across the sand.
Amenities
- Lifeguard towers — Staffed during daylight hours
- Restrooms and showers — Along the beach
- Muscle Beach — The famous outdoor workout area on the boardwalk
- Volleyball and tennis — Volleyball courts on the sand and tennis courts nearby
- Skate dancing plaza — Next to the boardwalk
- Picnic tables — On the beach
- Bike path and rentals — Paved path plus rentals
- Restaurants — Along Ocean Front Walk
Rules & official resources
Common boat service needs here
Hull cleaning at neighboring Marina del Rey
Venice's south end meets the Marina del Rey jetties. Boats kept in the marina's slips need regular diver hull cleaning in the warm, nutrient-rich water.
Find Bottom Cleaning, Hull Cleaning & Dive Services providers →Guides & FAQs
Nearby providers
No providers listed near this location yet — check back soon.
Sources
Last verified October 7, 2026