Venice Beach
Sand, surf and much…much more. This is Venice Beach.
A hot spot for countless outdoor activities, Venice Beach is a place for locals and tourists alike. It was one of my must-see locations on a recent trip to Los Angeles, and it did not disappoint. Fueled by sun and incredible weather, this area highly requests that you get out and do something.
The boardwalk was teeming with life as we approached from Marina Del Ray. Ocean Front Walk was sporting various performers and vendors, including but not limited to python petting— five dollars per petting experience.
An organized crowd of spectators were gathered around the blue basketball court, and I pressed in to find a uniformed game taking place. The game was part of the Venice Basketball League. Veniceball, for short, started in 2006 as a community tournament and has continued to the present. Its slogan, “The Game Never Stops” holds true almost twenty years later. The several nearby sports courts were occupied as well, but with more leisurely play.
This area’s long history of athleticism shows in the lifestyle of the people. Maybe best known as Muscle Beach from the likes of Steve Reeves and Arnold Schwarzenegger, Venice still projects the fitness vibe. This area as a whole inspires active and physical living.
Skate Parks have been an interest of mine as I enjoy photographing the skater scene. There was no way I was leaving without getting some skate shots from the Venice Skate Park. I will likely do a stand-alone story on this park, but this one would not be complete without an honorable mention. The skater culture always impresses me. Simply put, they just support each other.
A roller skate dance party had formed just west of the skate park. A sound system cranked the tunes, and whosoever willing with skates laced joined in with their chosen moves. Entertaining? Sure, but a stark reminder that life is not fair, as I cannot dance or roller skate.
After grabbing some souvenirs, we headed back toward the hotel, discussing all that we saw. Venice Beach is a one of a kind place. Mounted Police riding along side the Mongols Motorcycle Club. Python petting and pineapples peddled side by side. It might be easier to say what you would not encounter in Venice Beach.
