If you want to do it for the ‘Gram, have a vibe by the beach, or eat delicious food in a cool part of town, a trip or staycation in Venice is for you. From the city’s rich history and one of a kind funky personality, to the great shops and community, Venice is full of fun to be had. Pack your favorite kicks and sense of adventure and have a great time exploring all the Venice has to offer.

8 Best Things to Do in Venice, California

Surfing at Breakwater Beach - in front of Hotel Erwin

1. Take a surf lesson on Venice Beach

Venice Beach is pretty chill for first-time and beginner surfers, where the waves are manageable. If you want to try something new or have a little more practice on a board, connect with a local surf instructor. Hotel Erwin has a relationship with Josh Adwar, a former competitive surfer. In addition to being very patient and kind, he can hook you up with a board and a wetsuit. Just bring your sense of commitment and you’ll have a blast.

2. Walk the Venice Beach Boardwalk and ride the bike path

Venice Beach Boardwalk is one of the most iconic parts of the city. You can people watch, grab an ice cream, souvenir shop, catch some street performers, watch people work out at Muscle Beach, or play basketball at the courts. Bike rentals are available if you are in the mood for riding on the bike path or throughout the city. If you stay at Hotel Erwin, ask about their Priority Bikes.

3. See the view from High Rooftop Lounge at Hotel Erwin

If you aren’t planning to stay at Hotel Erwin, make a reservation to grab a drink or a bite at High, their Rooftop Lounge. It has beautiful panoramic views of both Venice Beach and the surrounding canyons and hills. You can even see the Hollywood sign from up here. The hours vary daily, so plan to double-check hours of operation before heading over.

4. Shop and Dine on Abbott Kinney

Abbott Kinney is one of the hippest streets in America; a collection of fun and tasty bars, restaurants, and local taste-makers. If you’re looking for delicious coffee, vegan cuisine, crystals, cute boutiques, and art, you can find it here.

5. Watch the talent at the Iconic Skate Park

Whether you know how to skateboard or not, you can find much appreciation in watching the talent that hits the bowl here. A gorgeous time to watch is as the sun sets and cascades its golden light around the shapes of the park. You’ll find young people, parents with their children, and famous skateboarders from near and far.

Her Travel Style for Instagram with Myriah Marquez co-founder of GRLSWIRL

6. Have a skateboard lesson with the crew at GRLSWIRL

If the local culture finally rubs off on you, have yourself a skate lesson with some of the coolest in the game from GRLSWIRL. Founded in 2018 by 9 women, “with the mission to empower women to get on skateboards in what can often seem like an intimidating, male-dominated sport. GRLSWIRL is a grassroots, all-female skate community focused on uniting women through skateboarding, empowering them to break gender boundaries and inspiring them to start a revolution by harnessing inclusivity and friendship.” Totally kind and calm, you’ll have a great time learning from this community of rad women.

7. Stay at Hotel Erwin

Hotel Erwin is the only hotel in Venice Beach, but it more than just a hotel. Owned by its original founder, Erwin, the team at this property feels like an extended family and makes it their top priority to have you feeling safe and comfortable (especially during the time of COVID). Pick a room with whatever view you’re in the mood for and stay awhile. The hotel has everything you need for an enjoyable experience. For 8 reasons to book a staycation at Hotel Erwin, click HERE.

8. Stroll along Venice Canals

Just a short walking distance from both the beach and Hotel Erwin is the Venice Canals. This historic district was built by developer Abbott Kinney in 1905 and is now a residential neighborhood of Venice. Walk through the lanes of the canals at sunset and take in the beautiful architecture and playful designs of this one of a kind community.

Enjoy your time in Venice!

As always let me know what you think and if you need PIN to SAVE for LATER!

Taryn