Venice Beach might be famous for its wild boardwalk scene—think street performers, souvenir stands, and roller skaters—but there’s so much more to this beachside neighborhood than what meets the eye. If you’re craving something quieter, artsier, or just more interesting than the usual tourist trail, this guide is for you.

Whether you're a local looking for a new vibe or a traveler who prefers charm over chaos, here are 7 unforgettable things to do at Venice Beach besides the boardwalk—no muscle men, crowds, or noise required.

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1. Wander the Venice Canals (and Go Early!)

Let’s start with the obvious hidden gem: the Venice Canals. Inspired by the waterways of Venice, Italy, this peaceful neighborhood is full of arched bridges, paddle boats, and gorgeous homes that look like they belong in a movie set (because… many have been).

Go early in the morning or just before sunset when the reflections on the water are magical. It’s calm, uncrowded, and full of little details you’ll only notice when you’re moving slow. Pro tip: bring a coffee and take it all in like a local.

A walking tour through Venice Beach is a great way to see the canals and more great spots while learning about them from a professional guide.

2. Book a Visit to the Mosaic Tile House

If you’re into offbeat art and color overload, you have to visit the Mosaic Tile House. This private home turned living art exhibit is covered—inside and out—with tiles, mirrors, and mosaics created by artists Cheri Pann and Gonzalo Duran.

It’s not a museum, so you’ll need to book an appointment in advance. But trust me—it’s worth it. Every wall, stair, and ceiling bursts with personality. It feels like walking into a dream someone had and decided to live inside.

3. Explore the Murals in the Side Streets (Not Just on the Boardwalk)

Forget the Instagrammable “Venice” sign for a moment. Some of the best street art in LA is tucked into alleys, parking lots, and side streets behind Abbot Kinney and Rose Avenue. These murals range from surreal to political to totally psychedelic, and most people walk right past them.

Make your own little mural scavenger hunt. Start around Electric Avenue and head east toward Lincoln Blvd—you’ll be surprised by how many art-filled pockets exist outside the usual path.

If you prefer a more formal tour, check out an electric bike tour of Santa Monica and Venice Beach which includes the murals.

4. Take a Sound Bath or Yoga Class n a Hidden Studio

There’s a calming, healing energy in Venice if you know where to find it. Several tucked-away studios offer sound baths, breathwork, and yoga—perfect if you're looking to recharge.

Try The Mindry (technically in nearby Malibu but worth the detour) or Love Yoga Space in Venice. These aren’t your high-traffic gym-style classes—they’re cozy, intentional, and often candlelit. Pure nourishment for your nervous system.

5. Shop the Indie Boutiques on Abbot Kinney (Weekday Mornings = Bliss)

Abbot Kinney gets loud on weekends, but if you visit early on a weekday, it’s a completely different world—quiet, stylish, and easy to explore.

Check out Burro for curated gifts, Marine Layer for California-cool clothes, and Tumbleweed & Dandelion for that beachy-boho home decor vibe. And don’t skip Salt & Straw—even if it's 10 a.m. Ice cream is timeless.

6. Kayak or Paddle Board the Marina (Sunset Is Best)

Want to get on the water without the chaos of the Venice breakwater? Head 10 minutes south to Marina del Rey and rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard.

It’s a peaceful paddle past sailboats and sea lions, with stunning views of the hills and city beyond. At sunset, the water turns gold. And unlike the beach, the marina is wind-protected—so you don’t have to be an athlete to enjoy it.

Book your kayaking tour now!

Like to get your adrenaline pumping? Try jet skiing to Catalina Island!

7. Catch Golden Hour at Linnie Canal Park or the Secret Bench on Grand

Locals know: Linnie Canal Park is one of the quietest, prettiest corners in Venice. Bring snacks, a blanket, and your favorite person—or journal. The surrounding houses are adorable, and the gentle canal vibe makes it feel like you're far from the city.

Want something even more secret? Head to Grand Blvd just before it meets the Marina. There’s a little bench facing the ocean with zero foot traffic. It’s just you, the breeze, and the sound of waves. Magic.

For more breathtaking sunsets, check out our guide to the best sunset spots in California.

Bonus: More Things to Do in Venice Beach

You don't have to limit your time in Venice Beach to the seven things above, even though they are some of the best! Here are even more tours and things to do in Venice Beach, from surf lessons to food tastings to full day city tours.

Where to Stay in Venice Beach

If you want to do as much as you can in Venice Beach, staying there at least one night will help you maximize your time. Here are some of the best places to stay in Venice Beach that make sure you're close to all the fun things we listed above.

• Venice V Hotel: Venice V Hotel is a sleek, modern stay right on the Venice Beach Boardwalk, offering contemporary rooms with ocean views and front-row access to the area’s iconic energy.

  
  

• Venice on the Beach Hotel: Venice on the Beach Hotel offers relaxed beachfront accommodations with unobstructed ocean views, placing you just steps from the sand and Venice’s vibrant coastal scene.

  
  

• The Venice Beach House: The Venice Beach House is a historic craftsman-style inn set just off the boardwalk, blending timeless charm with an intimate, residential feel near the beach.

  
  

• Hotel Erwin Venice Beach: Hotel Erwin Venice Beach combines laid-back luxury with panoramic ocean views, featuring stylish rooms and a popular rooftop bar overlooking the Pacific.

Need more ideas? Use this map to search for even more great places to stay in Venice Beach:

Final Thoughts: Things to do at Venice Beach (besides the boardwalk)

You don’t have to brave the crowds to enjoy the best of Venice Beach. Whether you’re wandering quiet canals, soaking up local art, or watching the sun melt into the Pacific from a hidden bench, there are plenty of things to do at Venice Beach besides the boardwalk that feed your soul.

So next time you visit, skip the circus and lean into the slower, secret side of Venice. It’s still wild—but in the best, most peaceful way.

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