Marina del Rey is a small seaside community in Los Angeles that offers plenty of outdoor activities for the entire family. If you’re looking to relocate to the area or simply spend the day near the ocean, researching your options in advance can help maximize your family fun.
Below are 13 of the best family-friendly activities in Marina del Rey.
Photo courtesy of LoopNet
Fisherman’s Village Marina del Rey is a replica of a New England fishing town and the largest man-made harbor for small boats. Stroll down the harbor front with your family and enjoy beautiful views of the Marina — and take some pictures with the iconic multicolored houses. You can also shop for souvenirs and knick-knacks in the stores along the harbor. If you get hungry or thirsty, dine outside at one of the numerous restaurants and Marina del Rey bars that litter the village.
Marina Beach, also known as “Mother’s Beach” by locals, is a family-friendly, man-made beach located in Marina del Rey. The beach comprises about a half-mile of sandy shore in the harbor and features plenty of volleyball courts, barbecues, picnic areas, and restrooms. Along with swimming and sunbathing, kayaking and windsurfing are popular activities at this beach.
Photo courtesy of BREWPUBLIC.com
Among the many Marina del Rey bars, you’ll find Firestone Walker Brewing Company’s Venice tasting room and R&D pilot brew house, known as the Propagator. The taproom features a large selection of house-brewed beer and wine served in a gastro-pub setting. Beer fanatics can choose to taste some limited Venice-only beers made in the adjacent brew house.
Waterside at Marina del Rey is home to some trendy stores, such as L’Occitane, Bellagio Nails, and Sephora. When you and your family are done shopping, grab some lunch or dinner at one of the many restaurants located in the mall, including Shake Shack, California Pizza Kitchen, and Chipotle.
Photo courtesy of Visit Marina del Rey
One of the most thrilling things to do in Marina del Rey is parasailing. Take to the skies and surf the air while you’re suspended up to 500 feet above the ocean. Look down at the pacific and catch a glimpse of frolicking dolphins, or enjoy the panoramic views of nearby Venice Beach.
One of Marina del Rey’s crown jewels is the 10-acre harbor side park known as Burton W. Chace Park. The park, which is open daily, offers plenty in the way of activities. From taking a walk to picnicking on the grass, you and your family will enjoy a day of fun in the sun while gazing out into the deep blue water of the harbor.
The world-famous Venice Beach Boardwalk starts at Marina del Rey and stretches down to the Santa Monica Pier. The boardwalk is great for taking a bike ride with the family or shopping at the many stores and shops along the way. Stop and experience some true LA culture by watching the unique street performers along the boardwalk. Additionally, the Venice Beach sunset is photogenic and a great way to end the day.
Located just down the street from Marina del Rey, the Mar Vista Farmer’s Market is open every Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The market features numerous farmers from all over California selling fresh fruit, mushrooms, veggies, meats, and cheeses. The Mar Vista Farmer’s Market even has a food emporium where you can sample a wide range of offerings at one of the dining tents.
Marina del Rey empties into Santa Monica Bay, which sits in the path of the annual migration of humpback and gray whales from the arctic to their birthing spots off the coast of Baja, Mexico. While December through March is the recommended time frame for whale-watching, trips run year-round, offering the opportunity to glimpse dolphins and other types of sea life.
Photo courtesy of Bike Path - Ballona Creek Renaissance
Stretching just over six miles, the Ballona Creek Bike Path is one of La’s best bicycle paths and runs parallel to Ballona Creek. The bike path has many entrances and exits along the way, so you don’t have to ride it in its entirety. It’s a good workout for active families looking to exercise outdoors.
Experience the Marina and the greater Los Angeles area by taking to the water on one of the many Hornblower cruises. Choose from a variety of dining cruises or book a private tour along the harbor.
Mojo Sailing Enterprises offers an incredible opportunity to entertain your family while learning the ins and outs of sailing. The afternoon is generally regarded as the best time to book a sailing tour, and sailing at sunrise or sunset has its own pros and cons.
Hit the water and rent a paddleboard from Paddle Method for a truly Californian seashore experience. One of LA’s top stand-up paddle board (SUP) instructors will teach you how to SUP so that you can take in the pacific firsthand. They even offer a tour of local sea lion colonies so that you can paddle right up to these majestic sea creatures.
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