For a glimpse of something out of the movies, drive your Los Angeles rental car down to Venice Beach and stroll along the famous Ocean Front Walk, more commonly known as the Venice Beach Boardwalk. Located just 15 minutes from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and 30 minutes from downtown Los Angeles you will be a short drive away in your Los Angeles rental car from what some people have described as “The World's Greatest Freak Show” because you will see everything from street performers juggling chainsaws and riding unicycles to the turban-wearing, guitar-playing man on roller skates weaving in and out of the crowds. For those travelers who prefer a more serene atmosphere, then visit the Venice Beach Boardwalk during a weekday as the flurry of activity occurs on the weekends.
Like most Southern California beaches, you can expect mild climates and cool, evening breezes, it's a good idea to pack a lightweight jacket in your Los Angeles rental car. You'll hardly feel a sunburn because the weather is so nice, but be forewarned that the sand and water act as reflectors and can cause burning within minutes, especially on babies' skin and fair skinned children and adults. The water temperature generally ranges between the 50's in the winter and high 60's in the warmer months of July to November.
There are a ton of fun activities to do at Venice Beach like cycling along the cycle path. Don't worry about packing your bicycle in your Los Angeles rental car because there are places on the boardwalk that will rent one out to you! Enjoy the view of the ocean as you ride along the trails. Venice Beach also has a tennis lane, a basket lane and a gym and they are all outdoors for you to enjoy!
Declared the “Skating Capital of the World” in past years, the Venice Beach Boardwalk is a popular area to go inline skating and for your convenience there are also shops on the boardwalk where you can rent skates from, too! Other activities at Venice Beach include surfing, swimming, sunbathing, dining and sailing from Marina Del Rey. If you happen to be in Venice in December, there's an old fashioned boat parade along the canals. After working up an appetite, visit one of the many cafes along the Venice Beach Boardwalk.
The Waterfront Cafe is a fun and charming restaurant right on the Venice Beach Boardwalk. They offer an unmatched view of the beautiful ocean and serve all sorts of great food from build-your-own hamburgers to seafood delicacies. Have a glass of wine or a mug of their smooth German beer, Erdinger and Bitburger. Their famous location is perfect for people watching. You can also rent bikes and skates right next door.
Dining on this crowded outdoor patio can be immensely entertaining, especially on weekends when the passing crowd parade turns into a virtual freak show! Enjoy a meal outside on the patio where you can take in the scene out on the boardwalk. Breakfast, lunch and dinner fare runs the gamut: omelettes, an array of burgers and sandwiches, pizza, pasta. It's also a great spot for a plate of nachos or other bar type munchies. There is also a parking lot available for your Los Angeles rental car.
Figtree's Cafe has been serving delicious healthful patio dining right on the world famous Venice Beach Boardwalk since 1978. Specializing in bountiful and imaginative breakfast, lunch, and dinner, there is something for everyone. There are also homemade desserts, an espresso bar, as well as fine beers and wine.
There is pay parking for your Los Angeles rental car at the Venice Pier lot at the end of Washington Street. It is possible to park for free on city streets but you should be prepared to walk a few blocks.
The Venice Beach Boardwalk truly is a site to behold!