So you’re in beautiful southern California and ready for a vacation on the waterfront? Marina del Rey is beautiful and ideally located, but if you’re new to the area you might find yourself missing out on all that it has to offer. Never fear, Trip101 is here! To make the best of your stay, book the best Airbnb or rent a boat and craft your own beautiful, beachfront vacation from all the fun things to do in Marina del Rey, California.
1. Take in the fresh ocean breeze at Marina del Rey North Jetty
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Wondering what to do in Marina del Rey? Why not stop by Marina del Rey North Jetty to relax and contemplate? The fresh ocean breeze and serene atmosphere offer a great opportunity for anyone to simply sit back and relax. This atmosphere is complemented by the sights and sounds of the local wildlife, from pelicans to sea lions.
You can also take a walk around the attraction and witness the sights becoming even better as night falls–you will be treated to a wonderful view of the sunset. Keep in mind, though, that lighting is limited at night so it’s best to bring a flashlight.
Marina del Rey North Jetty
Address: Marina Del Rey, CA 90292, United States
2. Grab a tasty drink at Firestone Walker Brewing Company - The Propagator
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Firestone Walker Brewing Company - The Propagator offers a wide selection of house-brewed ales & Central Coast wines that are sure to leave a lasting impression. From Mind Haze to Barrelworks, this Marina del Rey attraction features all kinds of alcohol with varying flavors, styles, and even brands.
No matter what type of alcohol you choose, Firestone Walker Brewing Company - The Propagator guarantees great quality and taste. And to complement your beer, the brewery also serves pizzas, burgers, and fries that are sure to be a delicious combo with your beer.
Firestone Walker Brewing Company - The Propagator
Address: 3205 Washington Blvd, Marina Del Rey, CA 90292, United States
Website: Firestone Walker Brewing Company - The Propagator
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 12pm - 9pm; Fri: 12pm - 10pm; Sat: 11am - 10pm; Sun: 11am - 9pm
3. Go paddling and meet sea lions (from USD 79.0)
Kick off your trip to Los Angeles’ Marina del Rey by paddling the beach to meet some sea lions! This Airbnb Experience is hosted by Zeina, who teaches kayaking and standup paddleboarding in the area. If it’s your first time to do such kind of adventure, there’s no need to worry because you will be properly briefed by your host. In case you do have previous experience with standup paddleboards, feel free to choose this for your marina tour!
Kayaking with Sea Lions & Photographer
Duration: 2 hours
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4. Taste the famous shrimp soup at Killer Shrimp
A trip to Marina del Rey will not be complete without getting the chance to dine at Killer Shrimp. Their crowning glory is, of course, their Killer Shrimp Soup, which home cooks have been trying to recreate since the owners put it on the menu. Don’t miss out on this dish that’s an original creation of the restaurant. That’s not to say that the rest of their menu is not worth a look! Treat yourself to a delicious meal at Killer Shrimp.
Killer Shrimp
Address: 4211 Admiralty Way, Marina Del Rey, CA 90292, United States
Website: Killer Shrimp
Opening hours: 7am - 10pm (daily)
5. Shop at Waterside at Marina del Rey
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Don’t pass up the chance to shop until you drop at one of the hippest retail centers in LA, Waterside at Marina del Rey. This trendy shopping mall is home to some of Hollywood’s favorites like Sephora, L'Occitane, and Bellagio Nails. Treat yourself to a day of self-care and pampering at these shops. You can also take your family out for some comfort food at restaurants like Chipotle, Shake Shack, Fresh Brothers, and California Pizza Kitchen. Either way, you’re not leaving Waterside empty-handed!
Waterside at Marina del Rey
Address: 4700 Admiralty Way, Marina Del Rey, CA 90292, United States address
Website: Waterside at Marina del Rey
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 7pm; Sun: 11am - 6pm
6. Go parasailing with Marina del Rey Parasailing
Water activities may seem intimidating to some due to the ocean, but in truth, not all of them are. One of the easiest being parasailing as the ascent and descent are slow and gradual. Get the chance to explore and see the city from a different perspective by joining a tour by Marina del Rey Parasailing. Beginners are absolutely welcome to join the tour; you don’t have to be experienced to go parasailing. Just sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride!
Marina del Rey Parasailing
Address: 13717 Fiji Way, Marina Del Rey, CA 90292, United States
Website: Marina del Rey Parasailing
7. Learn to surf (from USD 49.0)
Come on, a trip to this seaside community will not meet its full potential without surfing, or at least learning how to surf! So gather up your courage and book this Airbnb Experience hosted by Stephen. After a briefing at the beach, you’ll immediately be guided to the ocean by your expert instructor. Beginners need not worry, this class totally caters to all types of students. Level up your trip to Marina del Rey, master this Marina del Rey activity, and be one with the waves!
⭐️#1 Learn to Surf in LA (Small Group)
Duration: 2 hours
8. Take a stroll down Venice Boardwalk and Beach
This famous boardwalk starts at Marina del Rey and goes all the way down to Santa Monica Pier. The boardwalk itself, complete with stores and food stands, is spread out along Venice Beach and great for romantic walks, friendly outings, or just for enjoying the sights. You’ll get a real feel of the city of LA while watching street performers, performance art, dancing, and music. Plus, there’s a ton of shops, places to eat, and sun. A stroll at the boardwalk is one of the exciting things to do around Marina Del Rey.
Venice Boardwalk and Beach
Address: 1800 Ocean Front Walk, Venice, CA 90291
Hours: Mon-Sat 8 am-7 pm, Sun 10 am-4 pm
Phone: +1 (310) 396-6764
Website: Venice Boardwalk and Beach
9. Visit Venice Canal Historic District
Abbot Kinney made these manmade canals as a project to try to create the atmosphere of Venice, in LA and even though they’re located in a large district in Marina del Rey, they definitely earn their name. The canals have a ton of history behind them to learn and also are just fun to walk around and enjoy. So take in the view, sit on the bridge, and bask in the different but welcome vibes, as you escape from the rest of LA.
Venice Canal Historic District
Address: Venice, CA 90292
Hours: 24 hours
10. Go for a swim at Marina Beach
Marina Beach (or Mother’s Beach) is a hidden gem, both literally and figuratively. This Marina Del Rey beach is the perfect place to go for a romantic picnic, an evening stroll, to do some yoga, or for a playground outing with the kids.
Marina Beach (Mother's Beach)
Address: 4135 Admiralty Way, Marina Del Rey, CA 90292
Website: Marina Beach
11. Walk through Ballona Wetlands
No idea on what to do in Marina Del Rey? Walk around a freshwater marsh trail that’s dedicated to the preservation of nature in urban LA. The marsh is open during daylight hours and perfect for those who want to learn about the history of the wetlands and conservation in general.
Ballona Wetlands
Address: Just south of Marina Del Rey
Hours: Dawn until Dusk
Phone: +1 (310) 306-5994
Website: Ballona Wetlands
12. Bike down Marvin Braude (The Strand)
This beautiful trail is a little farther from the Marina but it starts by the beach and goes all the way inland while showing you a beautiful and unique perspective of LA. The trail passes through Santa Monica Pier, Venice Beach, and Redondo Beach Pier. Plus, how can you say no to hours of beachfront views from a classic LA bike trail?
Marvin Braude Coastal Bike Trail (The Strand)
Address: Will Rogers State Beach on Pacific Coast Hwy to Torrance Beach
Website: Marvin Braude Coastal Bike Trail
13. Check out Fisherman’s Village
Fisherman’s Village is the largest man-made small boat harbor. You and the family can go shopping along the harbor, or stop by and get some cute Instagram pictures of the beautifully colorful houses and cute boats. There are also plenty of places to eat along the water, which can be perfect for that next romantic getaway (or Tinder date).
Fisherman’s Village
Address: 13755 Fiji Way, Marina Del Rey, CA 90292
Hours: 8am-6pm
Phone: +1 (310) 301-9900
Website: Fisherman’s Village
14. Have a picnic in Burton W. Chace Park
This huge park has cool statues all around to explore and pose with, plus you can reserve places for your events or community events, which tend to happen often (including the summer concert series). The park also has some beautiful bicycle trails and is where you’ll find the best Marina Del Rey activities.
Burton W. Chace Park
Address: 13650 Mindanao Way, Marina Del Rey, CA 90292
Hours: 6 am-10 pm
Phone: +1 (424) 526-7903
Website: Burton W. Chace Park
15. Embark on a romantic gondola ride with Gondolas D’Amore
Editor’s Note: Establishment is permanently closed
This is the perfect opportunity for a romantic nighttime getaway with your special someone. The gondola rides include a private boat outing and a quiet evening on the seas you’re sure to enjoy.
Gondolas D’Amore
Address: 14045 Panay Way, Marina Del Rey, CA 90292
Hours: 12 pm-11 pm
Phone: +1 (310) 736-7301
Website: Gondola Rides with Gondolas D'Amore
16. Have dinner on a Hornblower Cruise
Hornblower Cruises offers a variety of not only dining cruises but dancing and other entertainment options. Dress up in your favorite Titantic-esque attire, leave the kids with grandma and saunter up the gangplank to enjoy an evening of great food, amazing views, and even better company.
Hornblower Cruises
Address: 13755 Fiji Way, Marina Del Rey, CA 90292
Hours: Thurs-Sat 11 am-12 am, Sun 11 am-9 pm
Phone: +1 (310) 301-6000
Website: Hornblower Cruises
17. Get ready for some watersport fun with Action Watersports
Is your family the outdoorsy type? Or maybe you just really like trying new things? There’s no better place to do it than the warm, inviting beaches of Southern California. Head over to Action Watersports and rent out some kayak equipment, paddle boards, surfboards, sea bobs, and more! Then, spend the rest of the day splashing in the ocean, racing along the coast, and just generally enjoying seeing your brother fall off his surfboard, multiple times. It’s worth it, trust me.
Action Watersports
Address: 4144 Lincoln Blvd, Marina Del Rey, CA 90292
Hours: Mon-Sat 10 am-6 pm, Sun 11 am-5 pm
Phone: +1 (310) 827-2233
Website: Action Watersports
The marina is waiting!
Grab your loved ones (be it dog, cat, girlfriend, parents, or whatever) and head down to Marina Del Rey. From yacht charters to parasailing, Marina del Rey has a lot of things to offer. And with Los Angeles nearby, there’s even more to do and lots of places to stay - check out some aparthotels in the city.
With such a great location and so many options to choose from, you can’t possibly get bored. In fact, odds are you’ll fall in love with the place and want to come back, again and again, to explore more and more.
Frequently asked questions about things to do in and near Marina del Rey, California
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