When you think of a guide to Venice Beach, most people just think of the boardwalk. After all, Venice Beach’s boardwalk is famous! The first time I went, I only experienced the boardwalk. The second time, with the help of a friend who’s a local, I found some other neighborhoods that were equally as fun to explore.
Want to know what to do besides the boardwalk, here we go!
The Ultimate Guide to Venice Beach
(Beyond the Boardwalk)
Venice Beach Boardwalk
Okay, okay, I know this post is about going beyond the boardwalk. But the truth is, you simply can’t go to Venice Beach and not experience it.
Read more: The Ultimate Guide to the Venice Beach Boardwalk
And that’s all I’m going to say about that. Moving on!
Abbot Kinney
Abbot Kinney Boulevard is my favorite neighborhood in Venice Beach! This mile-long strip has “cool” etched all over it. It’s sophisticated yet trendy. And true to the Venice Beach street-style, it exudes an effortless, “I just woke up like this” perfection.
Where to Shop
OMG where do I even begin? You really don’t even need recommendations, everything is gorgeous and drool-worthy. But some favorite finds are:
- Heist – Women’s boutique with European and domestic designers
- Will’s Leather Goods “Flagship Store” – Super fun and eclectic leather store
- TOMS “Flagship Store” – Visit the popular shoe brand, TOMS, where every purchase helps a person in need
- Urbanic Paper – This super cute paper boutique has everything you could desire in stationary, stylish paper goods, and more!
Where to Eat
- Salt & Straw – Best ice cream EVERRRR (enough said)
- Kreation Juicery – Great juices and healthy food
- Lemonade – Casual-fun restaurant with lots of different choices. And of course, lemonade!
- The Butcher’s Daughter – Go here! Or at least stop by and have a peak. In some way please acknowledge its existence, it’s gorgeous!
- Gjelina – Pizza, coffee, lunch, pastries, you name it. The smells alone drifted me towards this place.
Where to Grab Coffee
- Intelligentsia Coffee – This is an Abbot Kinney staple. It’s been here forever and is really more of an experience than anything.
- Blue Bottle Coffee – Great coffee option, and it’s originally out of San Francisco!
The Venice Beach Canals
What, there are canals in Venice Beach? That was my reaction when I heard about them. And it’s not just hearsay, there really are canals in Venice Beach!
I urge you to venture out and explore this spot. Here the dream of romantic walkways, gorgeous mansions, and charming canals still lives on. I recommend an evening stroll around the walkways at sunset. 😉
Read more: A Guide to the Venice Beach Canals
Main Street
Main Street is where you’ll find more mainstream shopping brands such as Free People, Billabong, and Planet Blue. However, don’t fret, you’ll still find boutiques galore here.
Stop for a bite to eat at Bareburger, or refresh yourself with organic coffee or juice at Main Squeeze.
Rose Avenue
Rose Avenue is where you leave the touristy stuff behind, and really experience Venice Beach as a local. Along Rose Ave you’ll find yoga studios, great restaurants, a wine bar, Whole Foods, and more!
- Café Gratitude – Vegan restaurants with an outstanding atmosphere! #HomeDécorGoals
- Venice Beach Wines – This cozy spot is the perfect Friday night hangout, complete with lovely outdoor patios
- Groundworks Coffee – There are a few locations around Venice Beach, but this one is larger with a trendier vibe.
Santa Monica Farmer’s Market
North of Venice Beach you’ll find an amazing farmer’s market in Santa Monica. It’s available Wednesdays, 8:30am to 1:30pm. Head towards 2nd Street and Arizona Avenue and you’ll run right into it. They offer amazing produce, fresh flowers, and more!
Going to Venice Beach? Check out these popular posts:
- The Ultimate Guide to the Venice Beach Boardwalk
- The Ultimate Guide to Exploring the Venice Beach Canals
- 5 of the BEST Coffee Shops in Venice Beach
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What would you add to your guide to Venice Beach? Love to know your thoughts below!
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