My youngest son graduated from college in May and recently moved to Los Angeles for work. We went down there in July to help him settle into his new apartment and then spent the weekend at a nearby beach. Have you ever heard of Venice Beach in southern California? It’s a one-of-a-kind place, sort of a circus-y feel to it, with a rather checkered (unseemly) history. It’s called Venice Beach because of the canals that run to the ocean. If you haven’t been . . . it’s definitely worth a trip. A curious place!
Muscle Beach is the haven for bodybuilders.They had a bikini contest going on . . . but I passed.
Venice Beach was packed with people–all kinds. The boardwalk was fun, too. And there are all kinds of great little hole-in-the-wall places to find something quick and delicious.
Intense pickle ball games.
Little carts stroll along the boardwalk selling cut fruit. Felt like I was in Asia for a second!
A few blocks (and another world) away is Marina del Rey.
Ever seen yoga done on a paddle board? Me either! Oh-so-southern-California!
There’s a so-Cal culture that will be fun to explore. A lot of trends start in So Cal, like cruiser bikes. I’m waiting for this flip flop organizer to catch on up in the SF Bay Area (I found it in a Target in Los Angeles. Only in So Cal would anyone have a need for a flip flop organizer.)
Do you have a favorite spot in Los Angeles to recommend? I’ll be going back fairly frequently. Would love your input! I need ideas. Leave a suggestion to explore and you’ll be entered into a giveaway for a copy of Amish Values for Your Family.
[Tweet “Venice Beach – add it to your Cali bucket list! @suzannewfisher”]
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Yes Suzanne, I am familiar with Venice Beach. I was born and raised in Southern California. You are right it is definitely something to see. I am glad that you enjoyed it.
Patty-
You’re absolutely right…Venice Beach is a VERY curious place! We once saw a guy wearing a sign offering “Kick me for $1.” On the other hand, walking the canal neighborhoods is good, old-fashioned fun. Some of our favorite spots to visit around LA are the Getty Center, the Getty Estate, and the Huntington Library and Gardens. Fun to paddle-bike-boat at Long Beach. The Aquarium of the Pacific (also at Long Beach) is fun for all ages. Manhattan Beach Pier and walking The Strand there is my favorite place to relax.
I have been there several times. You are right you can see almost anything at Venice Beach. I always enjoy the Santa Monica Pier and the Hollywood Walk of Fame has many sights too. The tapings are fun for the shows. Went to a taping of William Shatner’s last show and he spent a lot of time chatting with the audience and they are free. I have a dream of being on a Game Show and have been to Price Is Right. Drew Carey had everyone laughing.