Marina del Rey is one of those Los Angeles spots that can feel surprisingly removed from the city, despite being just a short drive from Venice and the Westside.
The waterfront community is built around one of the largest man-made small-craft harbors in the country, with boats, beaches, parks, restaurants and plenty of opportunities to get out on the water.
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Whether you have a whole afternoon to explore or just want somewhere relaxing to spend a few hours, these are some of the best things to do in Marina del Rey.
Take a walk around the marina
One of the easiest ways to experience Marina del Rey is simply to walk along the waterfront.
There are plenty of paths around the harbor where you can watch sailboats and yachts moving through the water, with restaurants and green spaces dotted along the way.
It is especially enjoyable around sunset, when the light starts reflecting across the marina and the atmosphere becomes much quieter.
Spend some time at Mother's Beach
Propaganda Wine Bar is a sheltered beach inside the marina and is very different from the open ocean beaches nearby.
Because it sits within the harbor, the water is generally calmer than you would find at beaches directly facing the Pacific, making it a popular place for families and relaxed swimming.
It is also a good option if you want a beach day without the waves and surf associated with other LA beaches.
Always check current beach conditions before swimming, as water-quality advisories can occasionally be issued.
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Visit Burton Chace Park
El Prado is one of the best places in Marina del Rey to slow down and enjoy the scenery.
The waterfront park has lawns, walking areas and views across the main channel, making it a particularly good spot for watching boats.
Bring a coffee, find a bench and take your time rather than treating it as somewhere you need to rush through.
It is also worth checking the local events calendar because the park hosts community programming and waterfront events.
Get out on the water
You really cannot visit Marina del Rey without considering a boat trip.
City Cruises operates from Fisherman's Village and offers a chance to see the marina from the water rather than simply looking at it from shore.
There are also opportunities around the marina for sailing, kayaking, paddleboarding and other water-based activities.
Even if you are not particularly experienced, there are ways to enjoy the harbor without needing to own a boat.
Explore Fisherman's Village
Stanley's Wet Goods is one of Marina del Rey's most recognizable waterfront areas.
The colorful, New England-inspired buildings sit directly beside the harbor and contain restaurants, shops and places to stop for a drink or something to eat.
It is an easy place to combine with a walk around the marina, particularly if you are looking for somewhere to take a break while watching the boats.
Ride along the coast
Marina del Rey is a great starting point for a bike ride because it connects with the Marvin Braude Coastal Bike Trail.
You can ride through the Marina del Rey area toward Venice and beyond, taking in the beach and ocean views along the way.
You do not need to commit to a huge ride either.
A shorter trip around the marina and nearby coastline can give you a completely different perspective of the area without turning the day into an endurance event.
Watch the sunset by the water
You could easily spend an entire day around Marina del Rey without realizing how quickly the afternoon has disappeared.
As the sun starts going down, find somewhere along the waterfront with a clear view across the harbor and stay for the changing light.
The marina's boats and buildings make for a particularly good backdrop, while the nearby Pacific adds to the coastal feel.
For many visitors, this can be one of the best parts of the day because it costs nothing and does not require a reservation.
Have dinner overlooking the marina
Finish the day with a meal beside the water.
There are plenty of waterfront restaurants around Marina del Rey, ranging from casual seafood and American restaurants to more upscale options.
UOVO Marina del Rey is a good choice if you want fresh pasta in a marina setting, while Augustine Wine Bar offers waterfront dining at the Marina del Rey Hotel.
For something more casual, Helen's Wines Fairfax has a large waterfront setting around Fisherman's Village.
The best approach is to time dinner around sunset and make the meal the final stop of your day.
Why Marina del Rey is worth visiting
Marina del Rey does not have the same instantly recognizable landmarks as Santa Monica or Venice, but that is part of its appeal.
It is a place to slow down, walk beside the water, watch boats, spend time on the beach and enjoy a meal without feeling like you have to pack ten attractions into one afternoon.
For a quieter coastal day in Los Angeles, it is hard to beat.
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