Three miles of pure California joy: Venice Beach Boardwalk is a free outdoor festival that never stops.
This oceanfront promenade is one of the most famous public spaces in the world. On any sunny day you will find street musicians, skateboarders at the beachfront skate park, Muscle Beach athletes, colorful murals, and vendors selling everything from handmade jewelry to fresh coconuts.
It is ideal for free spirits and families alike: kids love the playgrounds and the wide sandy beach, teens flock to the skate park, and art lovers wander the Venice Art Walls, where murals change constantly and are always free to admire.
Practical tip: go on a weekend morning for the full festive atmosphere. Keep valuables tucked away, wear comfortable shoes, and rent a bike to cruise the Marvin Braude path all the way to Santa Monica.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons / Tukka
