17 Things to Do in Marina del Rey That Feel Straight Out of a Movie

Marina del Rey is the kind of place you stumble into thinking, we’ll just kill a couple hours—and then suddenly it’s sunset, your shoulders have dropped an inch, and you’re wondering how fast you can move here. Tucked between Venice Beach and Playa del Rey, this coastal pocket isn’t flashy or loud—it’s calm, classy, and quietly packed with good stuff.

There’s no shortage of things to do in Marina del Rey, but the magic is in how effortless it all feels. Rent a kayak and paddle past sea lions. Bike the coast until your legs say stop. Cruise the harbor in a Duffy boat with snacks and a Bluetooth speaker. Or just sit on a bench at Burton Chace Park and let the boats roll by while the breeze handles the rest.

It’s L.A. without the ego. A little salty, a little scenic, and endlessly chill. Whether you’re here for a date night, a slow Sunday, or a week of coastal reset, Marina del Rey isn’t trying to impress you. It’s just being itself.

1. Fisherman’s Village

📍 13755 Fiji Way, Marina del Rey, CA 90292

Step into Fisherman’s Village and it’s like walking into a postcard that never aged. With its cobblestone walkways, lighthouse tower, and colorful Cape Cod-style buildings lining the marina, this cozy corner of Marina del Rey feels part seaport, part storybook.

It’s not a massive complex, and that’s the point. Fisherman’s Village is more about the vibe than the checklist. There’s a marina-front promenade perfect for a slow walk, a scattering of souvenir shops, casual seafood joints, and live music on weekends that drifts through the salty air like something out of a vacation movie.

You can rent bikes here, catch a harbor cruise, hop on a paddleboard, or just grab an ice cream cone and watch the sailboats drift in and out with the breeze. Seagulls wheel overhead, pelicans perch on pilings, and locals linger with coffee cups in hand. It’s relaxed, it’s easy, and it’s a great place to start (or end) your day by the water.

Best part? It’s almost never crowded, especially on weekday mornings. Just bring your camera and your appetite for fried fish, salty air, and small pleasures.

2. Marina Beach (Mother’s Beach)

📍 4101 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey, CA 90292

Tucked away in a quiet cove of Marina del Rey, Marina Beach is a rare slice of coastal Southern California where the ocean doesn’t crash, it whispers. This man-made lagoon is protected from waves and boat traffic, making it one of the calmest swimming spots in Los Angeles. Translation? It’s heaven for families with young kids, beginner paddleboarders, or anyone just wanting a peaceful beach day without the chaos of bigger surf spots.

The sand is soft, the water is shallow, and there are lifeguards on duty during peak hours. You’ll also find shaded picnic tables, restrooms, and a small playground just steps from the shore. Everything’s within reach, which makes it perfect for a no-fuss, low-stress outing.

But it’s not just for kids and coolers. Paddleboard and kayak rentals are available right on the sand, and the flat water is ideal for first-timers. Come early and you might get the whole place to yourself, just glassy water, morning light, and the sound of paddles tapping the surface.

This is one of those places where you show up thinking you’ll stay an hour… and end up spending the whole afternoon. Simple, safe, and undeniably serene.

3. Burton Chace Park

📍 13650 Mindanao Way, Marina del Rey, CA 90292

Burton Chace Park is the kind of place locals quietly treasure and visitors stumble into, then wonder why no one talks about it more. Sitting on a scenic slice of land that juts into the marina, this 10-acre park offers some of the best views in Marina del Rey without any of the crowds you’d expect from a waterfront gem.

Walking paths circle the perimeter, giving you panoramic views of the harbor—sailboats bobbing in their slips, sea lions lounging on docks, and the occasional pelican dive-bombing for fish. There are shaded picnic tables, wide open lawns for lounging, and benches perfectly placed for watching sunsets over the water. It’s peaceful, breezy, and surprisingly quiet for being in the heart of L.A.’s busiest marina.

Bring a book, your lunch, or just your thoughts. You’ll often see people here doing yoga, napping under the palms, or walking their dogs along the winding paths. In summer, the park transforms into a lively venue for free concerts, movie nights, and Marina del Rey’s iconic Fourth of July fireworks show.

It’s not flashy. It’s not commercial. And that’s what makes it so special. Burton Chace Park is where Marina del Rey exhales.

4. Paddleboard or Kayak the Marina

📍 Multiple launch points - Mother’s Beach is best for beginners

There’s something magical about seeing Marina del Rey from the water- not from a boat, but from the seat of a kayak or the deck of a stand-up paddleboard (SUP). No engine noise. No schedule. Just you, the sun, and the rhythm of your paddle cutting across calm, protected harbor waters.

Thanks to the marina’s sheltered design, this is one of the best and easiest places in L.A. to get out on the water—even for beginners. Rentals are available right on the dock near Mother’s Beach and Fisherman’s Village, with staff who’ll get you set up in minutes.

Cruise past million-dollar yachts, bobbing sailboats, and waterfront homes. If you're lucky, a curious sea lion might pop up beside you or a great blue heron might glide low overhead. Go solo for a meditative glide, or paddle out with a partner and turn it into a floating conversation.

It’s active without being exhausting, peaceful without being boring. And if you time it just right, you’ll find yourself paddling through golden reflections and thinking, why don’t I do this more often?

5. Hornblower Marina del Rey Cruises (City Cruises)

📍 13755 Fiji Way, Dock #2

If you want to experience Marina del Rey with a little extra sparkle, City Cruises by Hornblower is your ticket to a sea breeze, skyline views, and clinking champagne glasses. These marina-based cruises are equal parts relaxing and stylish, offering a chance to float past sailboats and sea lions without lifting a finger.

Options range from brunch cruises and sunset dinner sails to seasonal special events like holiday lights tours or Mother’s Day champagne brunches. You'll board a sleek, multi-deck yacht right from the marina and cruise slowly through the harbor while sipping cocktails, enjoying live narration, or simply watching the sun melt into the Pacific.

Brunch cruises come with bottomless bubbly and buffet-style spreads, while dinner sails feature multi-course meals with dancing under the stars. If you’re lucky, you might even catch dolphins playing in the boat’s wake or a sea lion giving a lazy nod from a nearby buoy.

It’s polished, but not pretentious. Romantic? Definitely. But still fun with friends or family. Think of it as sightseeing with a side of seafood and a breeze in your hair.

6. Marina del Rey Parasailing

📍 13717 Fiji Way, Marina del Rey, CA 90292

If you’ve ever wanted to see the California coast from a bird’s-eye view parasailing in Marina del Rey checks every box. It's the kind of high-flying adventure that somehow manages to be both heart-racing and peaceful, all at once.

You’ll board a small boat from the marina, cruise past luxury yachts and sea lions, and then, strap in, clip up, and you’re flying. The lift is surprisingly smooth, and once you’re airborne, everything below starts to shrink: the coastline, the city, even your everyday worries. From up high, the Pacific shimmers, the Santa Monica Mountains frame the skyline, and you might even spot dolphins or whales in the water below if you’re lucky.

You don’t need experience or athleticism, just a sense of adventure. Tandem and triple flights are available, and you can stay dry or opt for a toe-dip during landing.

It’s a perfect activity for couples, families, or solo travelers looking to shake up the beach routine. And let’s be honest: there’s no better way to brag about your trip than with a GoPro video of you literally soaring above L.A.’s most scenic harbor.

7. Marina del Rey Farmers Market

📍 14101 Panay Way, Marina del Rey, CA 90292

Held every Saturday morning at Lot 11 on Via Marina, the Marina del Rey Farmers Market may not be the biggest in L.A., but it packs a ton of heart into its sunny, low-key setup. If you want to start your day like a local, this is where you go.

The market features a rotating mix of local farmers, artisan bakers, small-batch food makers, and fresh-cut flower stalls. You’ll find seasonal produce that’s often just been pulled from the soil the night before, juicy citrus, California avocados, heirloom tomatoes, and berries that taste like candy. Grab a cold-pressed juice, fresh pupusas, or flaky croissants while you stroll.

But it’s not just about food. There are handmade soaps, candles, jewelry, and live acoustic music that gives the whole morning a relaxed, beach-town feel. The crowd is a mix of locals walking their dogs, health-conscious cyclists rolling through after a ride on the Strand, and travelers sipping on lavender lemonade, soaking in the vibe.

The market wraps up by early afternoon, so come early. It’s a great way to balance out your trip. One part indulgent, one part local, and 100% grounded in the community spirit that makes Marina del Rey such a gem.

8. Rent a Duffy Electric Boat

📍 Boats4Rent or Marina del Rey Boat Rentals

Want to captain your own boat without needing a license, sailing skills, or a loud engine rumbling underfoot? Then renting a Duffy electric boat in Marina del Rey is the move. These sleek little cruisers are quiet, eco-friendly, and made for smooth sailing around the harbor, think of them as the golf carts of the sea.

Perfect for small groups (usually up to 8-12 people), Duffy boats come with comfy seating, Bluetooth speakers, a table for snacks or drinks, and a canopy to keep you shaded while you glide. All you need to do is steer, no special training required.

Bring a cooler with sandwiches and wine, cue up your favorite playlist, and you’ve got yourself a floating picnic. Glide past swaying sailboats, curious sea lions, and waterfront homes while waving at kayakers and paddleboarders. Sunset cruises are a fan favorite, but mid-day outings are just as relaxing, and it’s surprisingly affordable when split with a few friends.

It’s one of the best ways to slow down and enjoy Marina del Rey at your own pace, your own volume, and your own vibe. And honestly, who doesn’t want to say, “I drove a boat today”?

9. Salt Restaurant & Bar (at Marina del Rey Hotel)

📍 13534 Bali Way, Marina del Rey, CA 90292

If Marina del Rey had a signature dining experience, it would be SALT Restaurant & Bar at the Marina del Rey Hotel. Perched right on the water with panoramic marina views, SALT delivers both ambiance and flavor in perfect balance.

The setting is exactly what you want from a coastal California meal: string lights overhead, yachts gently bobbing in the harbor, and a warm ocean breeze drifting across the patio. Come for brunch, lunch, or a sunset dinner.

The menu leans modern American with a California twist. Think citrus-cured ceviche, seared scallops with seasonal veggies, and truffle fries that disappear way too fast. Local seafood is the highlight, but even the burgers and cocktails are on point. Try the marina mule or a crisp glass of rosé, then just sit back and let the boats (and stress) drift by.

It’s popular with hotel guests and locals alike, and while you could dress up a bit, no one will blink if you show up in flip-flops and sun-kissed shoulders. It’s Marina del Rey at its best refined, relaxed, and unforgettable.

10. Glow Paddle LED Kayak Tour (Nighttime Tour)

📍 Mother’s Beach launch with Paddle Method

If you think the marina is pretty during the day, just wait until you see it light up after dark. The Glow Paddle LED Kayak Tour is one of the most unique things to do in Marina del Rey—a nighttime adventure where you glide across the harbor in a clear-bottom kayak lit up with glowing LED lights beneath you.

No experience necessary. Tours are beginner-friendly, calm, and guided by local instructors who keep the vibe fun and relaxed. It’s perfect for date night, a girls’ night out, or just anyone looking for a fresh way to explore the marina.

Bonus? You’ll get some seriously Insta-worthy photos. But honestly, the best part is that moment when it’s quiet, the water glows all around you.

11. Bike the Marvin Braude Coastal Trail (The Strand)

📍 Trail access along Washington Blvd and Pacific Ave

If you think the marina is pretty during the day, just wait until you see it light up after dark. The Glow Paddle LED Kayak Tour is one of the most unique things to do in Marina del Rey. A nighttime adventure where you glide across the harbor in a clear-bottom kayak lit up with glowing LED lights beneath you.

As the sun sets and the city lights flicker on, your kayak becomes a floating lantern. The water glows in vibrant hues, blue, green, pink, purple, and the effect is downright magical. You’ll see fish darting beneath your boat, light trails rippling behind you, and the reflection of the city dancing on the surface.

No experience necessary. Tours are beginner-friendly, calm, and guided by local instructors who keep the vibe fun and relaxed. It’s perfect for date night, a girls’ night out, or just anyone looking for a fresh way to explore the marina.

Bonus? You’ll get some seriously Insta-worthy photos. But honestly, the best part is that moment when it’s quiet, the water glows all around you, and you realize you’re paddling through a floating dreamscape.

12. Visit Ballona Wetlands Ecological Reserve

📍 Near Jefferson Blvd & Lincoln Blvd

Just minutes from the polished docks and high-end restaurants of Marina del Rey lies a totally different world—untamed, windswept, and teeming with life. The Ballona Wetlands Ecological Reserve is one of the last remaining coastal wetlands in Los Angeles, and visiting it feels like pressing pause on the city around you.

These protected marshes and tidal channels stretch between Playa del Rey and Marina del Rey, providing vital habitat for migratory birds, native plants, and even endangered species like the Belding’s savannah sparrow. It’s a haven for wildlife photographers, birders, and anyone who craves a little serenity off the beaten path.

You can explore parts of the reserve on your own along the Ballona Creek Bike Path, or join a guided nature walk offered by local conservation groups. Expect herons stalking the shallows, egrets gliding overhead, and the occasional jackrabbit darting through the brush.

This isn’t your manicured park. It’s raw, quiet nature doing its thing in the middle of an urban sprawl. Come for the peaceful vibe, stay for the sense of awe that hits when you realize just how wild L.A. can still be.

13. Watch the Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade

📍 View from Burton Chace Park or Fisherman’s Village

When December rolls around, Marina del Rey doesn’t string up lights, it sails with them. The annual Holiday Boat Parade, usually held the second Saturday of December, is pure Southern California magic: boats dressed to the nines in twinkle lights, Santa hats, inflatable reindeer, and enough holiday spirit to make you forget there’s no snow in sight.

From kayaks to luxury yachts, every vessel that enters the parade goes all out, think synchronized light shows, holiday music blasting, and people dancing on decks in full costume. The parade kicks off with fireworks over the harbor, then a glowing line of boats circles the marina while crowds cheer from the docks and shoreline parks.

Burton Chace Park and Fisherman’s Village are two of the best viewing spots, with food trucks, live music, and a festival-like atmosphere. Locals bring blankets, chairs, and thermoses of cocoa (or spiked cider) and settle in for one of the most joyful nights of the year.

It’s not just a boat parade, it’s a community celebration that captures the quirky, creative heart of Marina del Rey. And trust us: once you’ve seen a sailboat wrapped in candy-cane lights, you’ll never look at the holidays the same way again.

14. Take a Yoga Class on the Beach

📍 Mother’s Beach or nearby Venice Beach

There’s yoga, and then there’s yoga with your toes in the sand, waves in your ears, and pelicans soaring overhead. In Marina del Rey, beach yoga is more than a fitness class, it’s a grounding, soul-soothing way to start your day.

You’ll find regular outdoor classes held on the sand near Marina “Mother’s” Beach and nearby Venice/Playa del Rey stretches. Most are donation-based or low-cost, and no one cares if you’re a total beginner or can’t pronounce “shavasana.” You just show up with a mat or towel, breathe with the ocean, and move at your own pace.

The class vibe is always relaxed. Locals, travelers, and even curious first-timers flow through gentle vinyasa or restorative sequences while the sun rises or sets in front of them. Seagulls stroll by. A dog might crash your downward dog. It’s all part of the charm.

Beach yoga in Marina del Rey blends movement with mindfulness in the most literal way possible. You’ll leave sandy, a little stretched, and completely recharged.

15. Visit the Marina del Rey Visitor Center

📍 4701 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey, CA 90292

Before you dive into your harbor adventure, make a quick stop at the Marina del Rey Visitor Center, a small but super helpful spot that often flies under the radar.

Tucked along Admiralty Way, the center isn’t flashy, but it’s staffed by friendly locals who genuinely want to help you make the most of your visit. Whether you're looking for kayak rental info, dining recommendations, maps, public parking tips, or seasonal events, they’ve got you covered. There’s also a handy collection of brochures, trail maps, and updates on what’s happening around the marina this week.

Traveling with kids? They can point you to the best playgrounds. Looking for a romantic sunset spot? They’ll give you three. Need a last-minute boat tour? They'll help book it or tell you where to walk in.

Best of all, they know the unpublished stuff, the locals-only trivia, secret beaches, and best times to visit certain spots without the crowds. It’s like chatting with a neighbor who just happens to be an expert on the entire marina.

Stop in early, stay for five minutes, and walk out with a way better game plan. It’s the smartest first step to exploring everything Marina del Rey has to offer.

16. Explore Venice Canals (5 mins north)

📍 Between Venice Blvd and Washington Blvd

Just five minutes from Marina del Rey lies one of L.A.’s most unexpected pockets of calm: the Venice Canals. Modeled after... you guessed it... Venice, Italy, this hidden neighborhood blends SoCal sunshine with a quirky, postcard-perfect vibe.

Park nearby and take a slow walk through the pedestrian-only pathways that wind alongside tranquil canals lined with charming footbridges, kayaks tied up like bikes, and some of the most eclectic homes in L.A. You’ll pass cottages covered in bougainvillea, ultra-modern glass mansions, and plenty of friendly ducks cruising the water.

It’s not a place for big activities. There are no shops, no restaurants, no crowds, just quiet reflection and a feeling like you’ve stumbled into another world. It’s ideal for a morning stroll with coffee, a romantic detour before dinner, or a peaceful photo walk when the light gets golden.

If the energy of Venice Beach is too much, this is its softer side, artful, whimsical, and totally serene. And the best part? It’s just a short walk or bike ride from the heart of Marina del Rey, making it an easy add-on to your coastal day.

17. Enjoy a Sunset Picnic at Marina Peninsula Beach

📍 Access via Pacific Ave, near Lighthouse Mall

If there’s a perfect way to close out a day in Marina del Rey, it’s with a sunset picnic at Marina Peninsula Beach. Tucked between the Venice Pier and the entrance to the harbor, this long, quiet stretch of sand feels worlds away from the crowds of Venice or Santa Monica. Locals know it. Travelers often miss it. That’s your cue to go.

Bring a blanket, some takeout from SALT or a grab-and-go box from a local deli, and set up just before golden hour. The beach is wide and clean, the waves are calm, and the vibe is pure peace. Watch the sailboats drift back into the marina. See the sky change from bright gold to deep lavender. Listen as the ocean gently hushes the day.

There are no bars, no blaring speakers, no volleyball tournaments. Just space, sea, and sky.

It’s simple. It’s beautiful. And it’s the kind of ending that makes you think, yeah, I could stay here forever.

Conclusion

In a city known for its rush and buzz, Marina del Rey is all about the pause. Here, life unfolds at dock speed. Mornings begin with paddle strokes across still water, afternoons are for biking The Strand or lounging at Mother’s Beach, and evenings end with wine, waves, and a sky on fire.

What makes this coastal haven so special isn’t just the yachts or the sunshine, it’s the balance. You can go full adventure mode with parasailing and harbor cruises, or lean into leisure with beach yoga and sunset picnics. Whatever your vibe, you’ll find it along the marina’s quiet trails, glowing waters, and easygoing rhythm.

There are plenty of exciting things to do in Marina del Rey, but more importantly, there are endless ways to just be. And in a city that never stops moving, that might be the best discovery of all.

FAQ

1. What is Marina del Rey known for?

Marina del Rey is best known for its massive, scenic harbor, one of the largest man-made small boat harbors in the world. But beyond the yachts and sailboats, it’s known for being the chill side of L.A. Think calm beaches, stand-up paddleboarding, brunch with a view, and glow-in-the-dark kayak tours. It’s also a launch point for coastal bike rides, whale watching, and harbor cruises. If Venice is the party, Marina del Rey is the smooth, ocean-breezy afterglow.

2. Is Marina del Rey worth visiting?

Absolutely! and especially if you’re looking for a quieter, more laid-back alternative to Venice or Santa Monica. There are so many relaxing and scenic things to do in Marina del Rey, from renting a Duffy boat with friends to catching sunset at Marina Peninsula Beach. It’s perfect for couples, solo travelers, and families alike. You can get active on the water, take in nature at Ballona Wetlands, or just wander and unwind with an iced coffee and a harbor view. It’s low-key L.A. at its finest.

3. Can you swim at Marina del Rey beaches?

Yes, and Mother’s Beach (Marina Beach) is the go-to spot for safe, calm swimming. It’s a protected cove with no waves, perfect for young kids, paddleboarders, or anyone just looking to float and relax. There are lifeguards during peak times, plus restrooms, picnic tables, and even kayak rentals right on the sand. While it’s not a surfing beach, it’s one of the best in L.A. for mellow, easy-access ocean time. Other nearby beaches like Venice and Playa del Rey offer more wave action if that’s your thing.

4. What are the best free things to do in Marina del Rey?

Some of the best things to do in Marina del Rey won’t cost you a dime. You can stroll through Burton Chace Park with its sweeping harbor views, explore the Venice Canals just minutes away, or bike a scenic stretch of the Marvin Braude Coastal Trail. There are free concerts in the park during summer, and even the Holiday Boat Parade in December is free to attend.

5. How far is Marina del Rey from LAX?

Marina del Rey is just 4 miles (about 15 minutes) from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), making it one of the most convenient spots in L.A. to kick off or wrap up your trip. You can be sipping a cocktail by the marina or walking on the beach not long after you land. It’s a great option for a relaxing layover or a stress-free last night in L.A., especially with so many nearby things to do, eat, and explore right on the water.

6. What's the best time to visit Marina del Rey?

Marina del Rey shines year-round, but spring and early fall are especially sweet spots. You’ll get warm, sunny weather without the midsummer crowds. Summer is great for events like the Holiday Boat Parade (in July, oddly named) and free outdoor concerts, but weekends can get busy. Winter is peaceful, with mild weather and beautiful sunsets. No matter when you go, the marina’s vibe stays chill