Venice, CA is a district of Los Angeles between Santa Monica and Marina del Rey. Although Venice is more than its beach, the terms Venice and Venice Beach are often used interchangeably. Named for its series of canals, Venice is known as a haven for creative types. It is famous for its bohemian boardwalk and for the eclectic Abbot Kinney Blvd.
Years of neglect led to high crime in the area, but recent gentrification has moved some gang activity elsewhere, but it's not completely gone. This does not usually impact tourist areas, however general safety precautions for travelers should be observed.
Venice Beach Map
Years of neglect led to high crime in the area, but recent gentrification has moved some gang activity elsewhere, but it's not completely gone. This does not usually impact tourist areas, however general safety precautions for travelers should be observed.
Venice Beach Map
1. Venice Beach Boardwalk
Photo © 2005 Kayte Deioma, courtesy of www.kaytedeioma.com
Other than the Pacific Ocean itself, the Venice Beach Boardwalk is the most visited destination in Los Angeles with 16 million visitors a year. Ocean Front Walk is a stretch of pavement along the 3-mile length of Venice Beach. Over a mile of it is lined with funky shops, cafes and vendor booths. Colorful street performers and artists entertain visitors. The Muscle Beach outdoor gym, gymnastics playground, handball courts, paddle tennis courts, beach volleyball courts and skate Dancing Plaza attract hard-bodies exhibitionists to a public workout.
LA City Parks Venice Beach Website
LA City Parks Venice Beach Website


