Flights to Hawthorne

With its Bohemian roots, its scores of oddball performers and attention-seekers, and its plethora of facilities for active types, Venice Beach is a mecca for beach-goers hellbent on shunning the boring beach experience.

This famed LA hangout spans three miles, and within that space, you'll find almost every imaginable beach activity and amenity.

There are a few musts in Venice Beach. Walking along the Ocean Front Walk, the main beach promenade, is a must for sure. You'll pass many funky shops and cafes, and probably make contact with a few magicians, fortune tellers, artists, musicians and other shameless souls looking to entertain. If you like what you see, be sure to leave them a few bucks, especially if you're taking photos or video.

Another top Venice Beach attraction are the Venice canals, created to give the area a similar feel as the Italian town of the same name.

You'll want to check out the fishing pier, too, and then head north and ride the Ferris wheel at the popular Santa Monica Pier.

Like many other Southern California beaches, Venice Beach is known as a fantastic spot to surf. The Venice Breakwater is where all the surfers congregate and is an especially revered place to ride the waves. Just beware of rip tides, and check with a lifeguard if you think it might be unsafe to surf or swim.

If you need something more exciting than a leisurely stroll, rent a bike and speed through the bike path instead. Venice is also a hotspot for sports—it has basketball courts, volleyball courts, handball courts, tennis courts and a skate park.