Venice Canals (Venice Canal Historic District)

Most LA visitors will have heard of Venice Beach, but far fewer will be aware of the tranquil Venice Canal District. First constructed over 100 years ago and renovated in the 1990s, its canals look like Europe at a squint: think picturesque bridges, aquamarine water, and leafy walkways. Founded by local tobacco magnate Abbot Kinney as a resort town, the area is now a locals-frequented oasis where you can escape from the urban bustle.

For a speedy way to explore the Venice Canals and Venice Beach, book a bike tour to zip through the city in style. Alternatively, the area is easy for independent travelers to explore on foot.

• Boat rentals aren’t offered on site, though you can bring a non-motorized vessel.
• The Venice Canals are free for all to visit.
• The canals that make up the Venice Canal District have changed over the years; today, there are six: Grand, Sherman, Carroll, Howland, Linnie, and Eastern.
• Following their renovation, the canals are now home to various water birds, and occasionally attract seals.
• Every year, the Venice Canals host a rubber-ducky race and regatta to celebrate the Fourth of July.

The Venice Canals, located close to Venice Beach, are served by numerous bus lines. They can also be reached via taxi, Lyft, Uber, or other rideshare service, as well as by bicycle. Upon arrival, it’s best to explore by foot (or by boat).

The Venice Canals are always accessible, though are at their best during the day. If you wish to bring your own kayak or other boat, note that the boat launch ramp at Venice Boulevard is open from 9am–6pm daily.

After you’ve wandered along the pretty canals, continue your explorations along nearby Abbot Kinney Boulevard, considered one of the hippest streets in the City of Angels. Here you’ll find heavily hyped restaurants like Gjelina, trendy homeware and concept stores, markets like Artists & Fleas, and other hipster-frequented hotspots.