When you think of your ideal Los Angeles vacation, what comes to mind? If beaches, palm trees, and spectacular sunsets are must-haves on the agenda, then plan on spending at least a couple of days on LA’s Westside. The area’s popular neighborhoods – including Santa Monica, Venice, and Malibu & the Pacific Palisades – offer miles of shoreline, a thriving local food truck scene, only-in-LA workouts, drinks with a view, and the chance for celebrity sightings in the wild as you dine, shop, and people-watch in hip neighborhoods.
While sunny California is considered to be synonymous with the Pacific Ocean and its quirky and trendy beach towns, there are so many to choose from that, even once you hone in on LA, it can be hard to squeeze them all into one weekend. However, with proper planning, you can optimize your time and explore many of LA’s most popular Westside neighborhoods with this two-day itinerary.
Day 1
Morning: Water Yoga, the Marina, and Brunch
Start the day off right at Mother’s Beach in Marina del Rey (known by locals as MDR) with YOGAqua – stand-up paddle boarding meets yoga, with classes offered Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
After you’ve worked up an appetite, follow up your exercising with a meal at the go-to MDR waterfront brunch spot, the Jamaica Bay Inn; don’t pass up those pancakes with cinnamon honey butter.
If you’re in the mood for more marina views and the chance to spot sea lions, transport options are plentiful. Walk, drive, grab one of the many on-demand scooters available, or schedule a free ride with the Circuit (an electric shuttle with free service in MDR and neighboring Venice) to nearby Burton Chace Park, where locals enjoy picnicking and free outdoor movie screenings in the summer, or Fisherman’s Village, which hosts free weekend concerts year-round and offers parasailing, water-sport rentals, and dining cruises.
Afternoon: Shopping and Strolling the Venice Canals
Shop, grab a bite from local food trucks, and experience the local arts scene at Artists & Fleas in the Abbott Kinney area of Venice, open every Saturday from 11am to 4:30pm. With over 50 vendors, you’ll have your pick of vintage clothing and unique finds.
Beyond the Flea, Abbott Kinney Boulevard boasts eclectic shops offering LA essentials like organic pressed juices, gourmet donuts, and handmade-in-LA lingerie. Popular names such as Tom’s and Warby Parker have outposts here, alongside local favorite Salt & Straw, known for its inventive ice cream flavors.
If you’re visiting on the first Friday of the month, don’t miss the neighborhood’s bustling First Fridays food truck event, featuring diverse cuisines from around the world.
The Venice Canals of America – complete with pedestrian-only bridges and quaint vintage cottages – are a must-see. First created in 1905 by Abbot Kinney, this beautiful area reflects the charm of its Italian namesakes while being a tranquil escape from the city.
Evening: Sunset on the Beach, Food Trucks
Watching the sunset on Venice Beach is an unforgettable experience enjoyed by both locals and tourists. After Disneyland, Venice Beach attracts up to 30,000 visitors per day with its 2-mile Venice Boardwalk, which connects the oceanfront bike path to the sandy shore and offers countless photo opportunities along the vibrant murals and iconic attractions.
Capture a moment with the iconic Venice sign located two blocks inland, and don’t forget to explore the historic Muscle Beach Venice.
To conclude the day’s adventures, savor a meal from one of the local food trucks in Marina del Rey: Thursdays feature Beach Eats (6pm to 8pm from late May to September); or check out options in Santa Monica on Tuesdays (5pm to 10pm). For real-time updates on food truck locations, follow social media platforms like Twitter or Instagram or visit Street Food Finder.
Day 2
Morning: Farmers Markets
Explore local produce while enjoying live music and delicious bites at one of Westside’s weekly farmers markets:
- Santa Monica: Wednesday, Saturday, Sunday mornings
- Venice: Fridays, 7am to 11am
- Marina Del Rey: Saturdays, 9am to 2pm
- Playa Vista: Saturdays, 9am to 2pm
- Pacific Palisades: Sundays, 8am to 1pm
- Mar Vista: Sundays, 9am to 2pm
- Malibu: Sundays, 1am to 3pm
Afternoon: Bike or Scooter Ride, Sightseeing, and Wine Tasting
Rent bikes or grab on-demand scooters in the Westside, and hit the Marvin Braude Bike Trail, a scenic 22-mile oceanfront path from Will Rogers State Beach in the Pacific Palisades to Torrance County Beach.
Enjoy scenic stops along the way, including Venice Beach highlights from Day 1 or attractions like the Pier at Redondo Beach and the Santa Monica Pier. Here, you can hop on the iconic Ferris wheel and take in breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Alternatively, consider exploring the eating and shopping options along the Third Street Promenade.
Evening: Dinner and Cocktails
Congratulations, you’ve managed to fit in some of the most talked about (and Instagrammed) highlights of LA’s Westside in just two days. End your vacation with celebratory cocktails at the Penthouse (maybe try the Naked and Famous or Bellini by the Beach?), a chic rooftop bar and restaurant with stunning ocean views, located in Santa Monica’s Huntley Hotel.
