If ever a neighborhood could be summed up as eclectic, exciting, and creative, it would be the beachfront community of Venice.

Founded by the tobacco mogul, Abbot Kinney, in the early part of the twentieth century, it was originally designed to resemble Venice, Italy—complete with canals, gondolas, and amusement piers. The Venice of today is just as vibrant, though decidedly more colorful.

The world-recognized Boardwalk features a two-and-a-half mile stretch bursting with hundreds of eccentric street performers and vendors. Muscle Beach, birthplace of the fitness boom, is another global destination; it includes a beachside bike trail as well as paddle tennis, handball, and beach volleyball courts. Many NBA players have been famously developed and recruited from the neighboring basketball courts.

For Westside residents, Abbot Kinney Boulevard has become an area renowned for unique art galleries, wine shops, gourmet grocery stores, restaurants, nightlife, and high-end retail shops. An influx of contemporary properties further add to the artsy feel, most importantly by acclaimed architect, Frank Gehry, and has brushed Venice with a gloss previously unseen.

Area Features

Nearby areas