Things To Do
in Marina del Rey
Marina del Rey is a purpose-built coastal enclave on Los Angeles' Westside, known for housing the world’s largest man-made small-craft harbor. Its winding waterfront promenade is lined with casual seafood shacks, stylish lounges, and boat-docking marinas that glow at sunset. The area blends residential calm with easy access to Venice and Santa Monica beaches, making it a versatile base for beach, biking, and boating adventures.
A short drive or bike ride reveals a broader LA scene nearby, from hip cafes to iconic boardwalks and cultural stops.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Marina del Rey and check into your beachfront hotel. Spend the morning strolling along the sandy shores, taking in the fresh ocean air and beautiful views of the Pacific. Grab a coffee from a local cafe and relax while watching the boats bobbing in the marina.
After lunch at a seaside restaurant, rent a bicycle and explore the scenic bike paths that surround the waterfront. Stop at the local shops to pick up souvenirs or gifts and enjoy some people-watching along the boardwalk. Consider stopping by the Marina del Rey Farmers' Market for fresh produce and local delicacies.
As the sun sets, dine at a waterfront restaurant with stunning views of the harbor. Savor fresh seafood while listening to the gentle sounds of the waves. After dinner, take a relaxing evening stroll along the marina or enjoy a movie at a nearby outdoor cinema.
Start the day with a guided kayak tour of the marina, where you can paddle alongside the charming houses and spot local wildlife. The cool morning air will invigorate you as you make your way through the peaceful waters. After kayaking, unwind with a relaxing yoga session on the beach.
Have lunch at a nearby café known for its organic menu, after which you can spend the afternoon lounging by the pool or on the beach. Consider trying out stand-up paddleboarding for a fun and engaging activity. Alternatively, book a spa treatment at a local wellness center to rejuvenate your senses.
Enjoy dinner at a trendy rooftop restaurant that offers panoramic views of the city and the ocean. Experience the lively atmosphere while sampling craft cocktails and small plates. After dinner, take a sunset cruise for a picturesque view of the coastline as the sky transforms into a canvas of colors.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee or cappuccino | $3-6 |
| 🥗Meal for 2 at mid-range restaurant | $40-60 |
| 🚗Gasoline per gallon | $4-6 |
| 🏖️Beach chair/umbrella rental | $5-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Great access to boating, beaches, and water-based activities
- Close proximity to Venice and Santa Monica for extra dining and entertainment
- Can be touristy and busy in peak seasons
- Limited nightlife directly in Marina del Rey; better options nearby
Places to Visit in Marina del Rey
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden light over boats and masts, calm water, and reflections ideal for wide-angle harbor shots.
Open green space with boats, piers, and water views; excellent for sunset silhouettes and family photography.
Colorful boats, shopfronts, and waterfront textures perfect for close-ups and lifestyle photography.
Quiet residential canals with charming bridges and reflections; a tranquil spot for dreamy, light-filled images.
Iconic amusement-park backdrop with ocean vistas and dynamic street scenes just a short drive away.
Food in Marina del Rey
Marina del Rey Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty seafood stew with tomatoes, garlic, and a mix of shellfish—often featured at harborfront restaurants with fresh catches.
Must-Try!
Grilled or battered white fish served in corn tortillas with slaw and citrusy toppings; widely available at casual harbor spots.
Chilled or warm lobster meat in a soft roll, a popular coastal option at many seafood-focused eateries along the marina.
Often offered as shareable plates or on tapas menus with lemony olive oil dressing and herbs.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal produce, seafood stalls, baked goods, and prepared snacks right in the harbor area, great for sampling local flavors.
A variety of street-food options ranging from tacos to vegan bowls along the adjacent boardwalk just west of Marina del Rey.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be respectful of private marinas and property; queue for services and rides; keep noise reasonable in residential areas; use crosswalks and obey lifeguard instructions on beaches.
Safety
Tipping in Marina del Rey
Ensure a smooth experience
In the United States, tip around 15-20% at restaurants; $1-2 per drink at bars; tip guides and drivers accordingly. Bellhop and service staff expect tips in many venues.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is useful for small vendors. Mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are common at cafes and retailers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm to hot days with abundant sunshine; water activities thrive, but expect crowds and high energy around the harbor and nearby beaches. Pack sun protection and hydrations; evenings remain pleasant.
Mild temperatures with comfortable beach days; fewer crowds than summer. Great for cycling, walking, and outdoor dining without the peak-season heat.
Rains are possible but days are still mild compared to many other regions. Fewer tourists, making it a good time for quieter harbor photos and strolls.
Pleasant and blooming with moderate temperatures; ideal for waterfront walks, markets, and outdoor dining with occasional sea breezes.
Marina del Rey at Night
Hiking in Marina del Rey
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular hiking routes with ocean views and rolling hills, accessible via short drives to the north and offers a variety of difficulty levels.
Easy to moderate coastal foothill hike with scenic views and a scenic route near the Santa Monica area.
A flat, scenic route that runs along a waterway, suitable for casual hikers and walkers looking for a quick nature escape.
Airports
How to reach Marina del Rey by plane.
Major international airport about 14 miles north of Marina del Rey; easy access via car, rideshare, or ride-share options.
A smaller airport about 30 miles northeast; convenient for domestic flights with taxi or rideshare connections to the marina area.
Another domestic option roughly 25 miles south; often quicker for certain routes and offers convenient ground transport to the area.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Marina del Rey and surrounding Westside neighborhoods are culturally diverse, with a mix of families, professionals, students, and visitors from across the region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Nearby beaches like Venice and Santa Monica are world-famous for surfing with rental shops and lessons nearby.
Popular on the sand along the Santa Monica and Venice beaches; organized games and casual play are common.
The marina provides access to sailing clubs, boat charters, and sunset cruises.
Calm water in the harbor makes it a good spot for beginners to learn and enjoy the view.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Marina del Rey.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose grilled vegetables, salads, plant-based bowls, and seafood-based dishes that feature vegetables as the base; many places offer vegetarian versions of classics.