25 Best & Fun Things to Do in Marina del Rey (CA)

Looking for the best and fun things to do in Marina del Rey, CA?

Marina del Rey is a small town in Los Angeles County, California, United States of America. Marina del Rey is a Spanish word that means “Harbor of the King” or “Docks of the King.” The beautiful city is well known for its stunning view of the Pacific Ocean.

Marina del Rey is on the Southern California coastline. The city is only four miles from Los Angeles International Airport and ten minutes from Santa Monica, making the town a good tourism position. It is at the center of the Los Angeles’ Westside between Venice Beach and Playa del Rey.

Because of the fantastic water resource of Marina del Rey, the city offers incredible waterway adventures such as boating, fishing, hand gliding, kayaking, boat cruise, or yacht charter. There are land activities to enjoy, such as; bicycling, walking paths, yoga by the seaside, and birdwatching (birding). Here are the best things to do in Marina del Rey, CA.

Things to Do in Marina del Rey

1. Fun in Marina Beach

Marina Beach
Credits: Alex Konti / Shutterstock
Marina Beach

Marina Beach, also called Mother’s Beach, is an artificially-created family-friendly location in Marina del Rey.

The beach was built as a part of Marina del Rey in the year 1957. it was opened officially in the year 1965.

Marina Beach offers a safer playground for children to play on since there are not many waves in the area that could be used to swim.

The beach is approximately a half-mile in length and is equipped with showers, restrooms, and barbecue grills, volleyball courts, as well as picnic areas.

There’s an additional playground for kids as well as a myriad of eateries just in the area.

Kayaking and windsurfing are among the popular recreational activities the beach boast.

Address: 4135 Admiralty Way, Marina Del Rey, CA 90292, United States

2. EagleRider Motorcycle Rentals and Tours

EagleRider Motorcycle Rentals and Tours
Credits: oneinchpunch / Shutterstock

Ever had a motorcycle experience before? If not, a motorcycle tour from the EagleRider is the right one to mark your first experience.

The EagleRider Motorcycle Rentals and Tours allows tourists to either rent a bike to drive themselves or drive tourists on the bike to unique tourists attractions in Marina del Rey.

These motorcycles are maintained to meet strict factory standards providing the most fun and safety for riders or tourists.

The Eagle Rider motorcycle rentals and tours are the world’s largest motorcycle rental and tour with an incredible selection of new Harley-Davidson, Yamaha, BMW, Honda, Indian, and many more motorcycle brands.

Address: 4141 Lincoln Blvd, Marina del Rey, CA 90292-5615

3. Marina Del Rey Parasailing

Marina Del Rey Parasailing
Credits: Vasily Smirnov / Shutterstock

Marina Del Rey Parasailing is focused on providing one of the most simple and secure water sports that are available such as parasailing.

The guests will be able to enjoy stunning panoramic views from the Venice Beach Boardwalk, the Santa Monica Pier, and many more as they parasail.

Parasailers are lifted out of the decks of boats up to the height they desire. They also have the option of choosing an altitude between 600 and 800 feet for their cruise.

Flying are operated by Marina del Rey are able to accommodate three passengers at a time.

Address: 13717 Fiji Way, Marina Del Rey, CA 90292, United States

4. Ballona Creek

Ballona Creek
Credits:Andy Konieczny / Shutterstock
Ballona Creek

There seems to be the consensus among the inhabitants of Marina del Rey that the Ballona Creek path is perhaps one of the routes to cycle while in the city.

Ballona Creek is a scenic, gorgeous and enjoyable cycling route that’s just a little over seven miles in length. It begins at National Boulevard and ends at the ocean.

There are many fascinating spots to see and parks to visit along the trail. Parking is free on the streets that surround the entrance points to the Ballona Creek trail.

The bike path’s entrances are secured in the event of an increased risk of rain.

5. Spencer Steele Boxing

Spencer Steele Boxing
Credits: Inked Pixels / Shutterstock

Spenser Steele Boxing is an excellent place for your family and loved ones to take boxing lessons and enhance their boxing skills. Spenser Steele Boxing club offers boxing and kickboxing lessons for all levels.

The boxing club also has an equipped full-weight training room with heavy-weight exercise machines for those interested in body build exercises.

You will find an 18-foot ring, stacked bag room with all the bells and whistles, punch bags, and all everything you know to be in a boxing room.

The boxing club got its name after the owner, Spenser Steele, a trainer at the boxing club. Spencer Steele is a licensed professional boxer with an experience of over 12 years in the field.

Address: 407 Washington Blvd, Marina del Rey, CA 90292-5213

6. Bluewater Sailing

Bluewater Sailing
Credits:Carey C Fujita/ Shutterstock
Bluewater Sailing

One of the best ways to explore the waters of Marina dey Rey is through the Bluewater Sailing, and it is worth adding to your checklist.

Bluewater Sailing has been committed to international sailing expeditions, bareboat, skippered charters, sailing training since 1978.

Bluewater Sailing offers live-aboard sailing lessons, such as sunset sailing, specific events and skippered charters for yachts and islands sailing, cruises, racing workshops, private lessons, and group-building for corporate teams.

Bluewater Sailing offers instruction for people of all levels of experience, from beginners to world cruisers.

They provide the best quality of instruction both in the classroom and at the water.

Bluewater Sailing is one of the few schools to have been certified to teach across all students’ abilities and also instructors of national standards.

Small group and private lessons are provided via Bluewater Sailing, including Keelboat sailing.

Address: 13505 Bali Way, Marina del Rey, CA 90292, United States

7. UCLA Marina Aquatic Center

UCLA Marina Aquatic Center
Credits: G-Stock Studio / Shutterstock

The UCLA Marina Aquatic Center is the most well-known waterfront area for recreation in Marina del Rey.

It is owned by UCLA University and located just 10 miles from a University campus situated at Marina del Rey.

The center offers stand-up paddling, windsurfing, and paddle surfing, in addition to sailing, rowing, and kayaking lessons.

The facility is accessible to both guests and residents and provides equipment rental for group classes, Semi-private as well as private lessons.

UCLA Marina Aquatic Center also includes a stunning fireplace, views of sunsets, BBQ grills, and lots more.

The center also plays host to numerous UCLA as well as community-based teams.

Address: 14001 Fiji Way, Marina Del Rey, CA 90292, United States

8. City Cruises Marina del Rey

Enjoy the serenading views of the Marina on a dinner cruise, sunset cocktail cruise, or champagne brunch cruise.

The open-air top deck of the city cruise ships allows its guests to relax and get busy watching the sea and other explorers of the beautiful site.

The Marina is known to have sea lions, dolphins, and other friendly sea creatures. While enjoying the view, you can perhaps catch a glimpse of some sea creatures.

The city cruise is a luxurious charter service. Public and private charter dining services are available. If you wish to celebrate your special events, such as weddings, birthdays, anniversaries, etc., while on tour in Marina, the city cruise offers you the one-of-a-kind experience you want.

Address: 13755 Fiji Way, Marina Del Rey, CA 90292, United States

Planning a road trip in California? take to exploring San BernardinoWalnut Creek, and Modesto for a fun trip in California.

9. Mojo Sailing Enterprises

Mojo Sailing Enterprises
Credits: Mojo Sailing Enterprises, LLC / Facebook
Mojo Sailing Enterprises

Mojo Sailing Enterprises provides a fantastic opportunity to entertain family, guests, or clients who are coming from outside Marina Del Rey.

Southern California boasts some of the most beautiful waters in the world for cruising, and Santa Monica Bay offers some of the best water in the region.

Mojo Sailing Enterprises offers several sailing options throughout the year and stunning landscapes.

Morning sails are an excellent option to unwind and relax during sailing, especially when the wind is not too strong.

The afternoon is the best time for sailing to explore the full possibilities that come with Mojo or to gain an understanding of the basics of sailing.

Sunset sails are precisely timed to catch the sunset on the lake and also the city’s illuminations after the return.

Address: Marina del Rey, CA, United States

10. Baja Cantina

Baja Cantina
Credits: Baja Cantina / Facebook
Baja Cantina

Another award-winning restaurant that is worth adding to your list of things to do in Marina Del Rey.

The Baja Cantina first opened its doors to residents of the Marina del Rey community in September of 1975.

It was situated in an industrial structure built in the 1940s. It was originally intended to be a home for oil workers.

The building served as a home in the 1960s, and then it became the home of several small-scale businesses.

The initial purpose was to be a florist shop as well as a hobby store. Baja Cantina is now a highly rated Mexican restaurant, with an additional branch within Carmel Valley.

Baja Cantina has now been serving delicious Mexican food and refreshing drinks for more than forty years.

The restaurant is open for special occasions every week, which include Happy Hour Monday through Friday.

Address: 311 Washington Blvd. Marina Del Rey, CA 90292, United States

11. AMC Loews Marina 6

AMC Loews Marina 6
Credits: Jacob Lund / Shutterstock

Movie night with families is a recommended way to chill and relieve stress with family and friends. The AMC Loews Marina 6 is a movie theater to explore Marina del Rey’s nightlife. The movie theatre was also the first computerized movie theatre in Los Angeles, making it a must-visit for tourists in Marina del Rey.

In November 2012, it got its name, AMC Dine-In Theatres Marina 6, and the renovation led to a reduced capacity, however, with plenty of space in the theatre.

The seats in the theatre are comfortable for both children and adults. The theatre has a well-organized underground accessible theatre parking lot.

One unique feature that makes the AMC Loews Marina 6 theatre very different and unique is the dine and watch experience it gives. The theatre has dining inside that allows people to both eat while seeing a movie. You do not have to starve on Popcorns alone while watching that exciting movie.

Address: 13455 Maxella Ave, Marina del Rey, CA 90292-5682

12. Burton. Chace Park

Burton Chace Park
Credits: Jeremy Miles / Flickr
Burton. Chace Park

For some fun time, add a visit to Burton. Chace Park to your checklist of things to do in Marina Del Rey.

Founded in 1972, Burton W. Chace Park was named after the long-time Los Angeles County Supervisor Burton W. Chace.

Burton W. Chace Park is open to the public to explore from 6:00 am to 10:00 at night. It has an expansive view of the Harbor and programs for outdoor activities, including grills, picnic shelters, and tables for picnics, as well as a multi-purpose area and guest docks.

The park is also the site for many special events throughout the year. Visitors can go on an excursion around the Marina by taking the water bus at a low cost.

In addition, free summer concerts are staged in the park every year.

Address: 13650 Mindanao Way, Marina del Rey, CA 90292, United States

13. Beachside Restaurant & Bar

Beachside Restaurant and Bar
Credits: Beachside Restaurant and Bar / Facebook
Beachside Restaurant and Bar

For a memorable dining experience, add a visit to Beachside Restaurant & Bar to your list of things to do in Marina Del Rey.

The Beachside Restaurant and Bar overlooks Marina Beach or Mother’s Beach. This restaurant has become a popular place for dining on the water’s edge and provides fresh California food with a serene sea view.

The beachfront restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, and snacks throughout the week. It also serves brunch on Saturdays and Sundays.

The dining area and newly constructed bar area are both accessible from the patio and offer a unique dining experience.

The deck is trellis-canopied and offers spectacular panoramic views of the ocean, as well as sitting by the fire.

Happy hour specials on Beachside Restaurant and Bar are offered from 4:00 pm until 6:30 pm.

Address: 4175 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey, CA 90292, United States

14. Waterside Shopping Center

Waterside Shopping Center
Credits: Rawpixel.com/ Shutterstock
Waterside Shopping Center

When you visit, Waterside shopping Center, you will discover beauty products, fashion, groceries, food, and stores with special offers. The waterside shopping center has beauty and skincare stores with a variety of cosmetic products.

The boutiques in Waterside features trendy clothes, shoes, bags, accessories, and much fashionable wear for both male and female outfits.

Different food stores in the shopping center sell a variety of foods ranging from organic foods with fresh farm produce, processed foods, cakes and snacks, and assorted drinks.

The waterside shopping center also offers outdoor and indoor dining services. Enjoy breakfast, lunch, dinner, and shopping-break treats at the waterside shopping center.

There is also an Amazon book store in the shopping center for book lovers; you will enjoy browsing through various books at the store.

Address: 4700 Admiralty-Way, Marina del Rey, CA 90292-6905

15. Marina del Rey Whale Watching

Marina del Rey Whale Watching
Credits: Michael Daines / Flickr
Marina del Rey Whale Watching

One of the best things to do in Marina del Rey is joining the  Marina del Rey Whale Watching tour, and it’s worth adding to our checklist.

Local residents and tourists are invited to board the “Big Whale” classic passenger vessel and cruise along with the crew as they follow the movement of gray whales in winter.

You will also have the chance to meet porpoises and sea turtles as well as sea lions, dolphins, giant minke whales, and mola molas all through the year.

The cruises that offer Marina del Rey Whale Watching begin from Dock 52 and hold on Wednesdays on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.

Address: 13442 Fiji Way, Marina del Rey, CA 90292, United States

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16. Fisherman’s Village

Fisherman’s Village
Credits: Lynne Albright / Shutterstock
Fisherman’s Village

An interesting attraction to explore while in the city, and it is worth adding to your list of things to do in Marina Del Rey.

Fisherman’s Village can be described as a major tourist attraction, anchorage point for commercial vessels, and an outdoor mall located in Marina del Rey.

It has the largest constructed harbor for small craft in the world. It is constructed in a manner that resembles a fishing community located in New England.

Fisherman’s Village is comprised of five beautifully painted wooden structures and commercial boat docks. There is also an outdoor waterfall, lighthouse, and a promenade along the waterfront.

The area is home to souvenir shops, the public harbor ferry, cafes, restaurants, boat and bicycle rentals options, live music, fishing cruises, harbor cruises, and more.

The promenade along the waterfront at Fisherman’s Village provides panoramic harbor views.

Address: 13755 Fiji Way, Marina Del Rey, CA 90292, United States

17. Villa Marina Marketplace

Shopping can be an exciting activity while on tour. You may decide to window shop, shop, or stroll through the marketplace.

The Villa Marina marketplace is an open-air mall. It is the largest shopping center in Marina del Rey, making it home to many stores, restaurants, supermarkets, and movie theatres.

The features of this Market make it a vibrant, busy, and exciting place to be.

The villa Marina marketplace has so many retailers, restaurants, a supermarket, and a movie theater.

Address: 13450 Maxella Ave, Marina Del Rey, CA 90292, United States

18. Charters 2000

Charters 2000
Credits: Charters 2000 / Facebook
Charters 2000

Charters 2000, based within Marina del Rey in California, is a sailing company that offers private boat charters for tourists as well as locals.

Charter boats are able to hold as many as 12 passengers on cruises. Visitors are invited to bring their own items to drink or eat on the cruise.

The captains who work for Charters 2000 are certified by the United States Coast Guard.

Charters 2000 claims its 54-foot Irwin sailboat is the most comfortable sailboat with less than sixty feet.

The boat has three bathrooms, outdoor and indoor seating, a sound system, a kitchen, and a ladder for swimming.

Address: 13701 Fiji Way, Marina Del Rey, CA 90292, United States

19. C & O Cucina

C & O Cucina
Credits: C&O Cucina / Facebook
C&O Cucina

For a memorable dining experience, add a visit to C & O Cucina to your checklist of things to do in Marina del Rey.

C & O Cucina, located in Marina del Rey, California, is a piece of a nostalgia Italian restaurant, famous for the well-known garlic rolls, a singing server, and huge portions.

The dining area is lined with old photographs that show immigrants coming from Italy and famous Italian-Americans and old photos of family members and friends of the owners.

The restaurant’s Rat Pack Martini Lounge is an ideal place for those looking to have a bit to eat or a drink.

C & O Cucina is open from 11:15 am until 10:00 pm. It is closed from 10:00 pm to 11:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays. The lounge opens at 4:00 at 4:00 pm.

Address: 3016 Washington Blvd. Marina Del Rey, CA 90292, United States

20. 60out Escape Rooms – Marina del Rey

60out Escape Rooms - Marina del Rey
Credits:releon8211/ Shutterstock

The Escape room has an exciting list of live fun games to enjoy with your friends and families. Have fun discovering mysteries, unraveling the plot, finding a cure, escaping danger, saving a loved one, and other superhero activities anyone would love.

60out Escape room is the place to have an extraordinary adventure as families, friends; loved ones could take different roles while playing the games. Everyone gets engaged acting out the movies or games they remember playing.

Some of the games involve puzzles, clue search, quizzes, and so much more. The games there are structured to enhance teamwork and encourage unity among teams. Not only are you having the fun of your life, but you are also building a bond.

Address: 13336 Beach Ave, Marina del Rey, CA 90292-5622

21. SALT Restaurant & Bar

SALT Restaurant & Bar
Credits: SALT Restaurant & Bar / Facebook
SALT Restaurant & Bar

SALT Restaurant and Bar is another classic restaurant that is worth adding to your list of things to do in Marina Del Rey.

The restaurant and bar serve fresh local, regional, and seasonally inspired California dishes for every meal throughout the day.

The restaurant’s mission is to inspire guests with a modern and exciting approach to American food.

SALT Restaurant & Bar was named the top restaurant within the Westside for “Best Ambiance and outdoor dining” in the OpenTable Diner’s Choice.

SALT Restaurant & Bar aims to provide an experience that is enthralling to the senses by serving each meal featuring seasonal produce from the local farmer’s market.

The menu is simple and includes dishes that have been modernized, such as Hummus, which comes with lobster and avocado over Udon noodles.

Address: 13534 Bali Way, Marina del Rey, CA 90292, United States

22. C & O Trattoria

The Singer family, who owns C & O Cucina, established C & O Trattoria in 1992, just eight doors from the well-known Venice Pier.

The restaurant has since become an iconic landmark in Venice Beach and is frequented by both tourists from all over the world and locals.

C & O Trattoria boasts an ambiance that’s warm, welcoming, casual enjoyable atmosphere for gatherings with the aim to allow guests to feel at home in their home.

One of the main reasons that make this restaurant famous is the honor singing-along, wine bars, and, of course, those garlic rolls.

This restaurant is also famous for its large servings of Italian food.

Add a visit to this restaurant to your list of things to do in Marina Del Rey for a memorable dining experience.

Address: 31 Washington Blvd, Marina del Rey, CA 90292, United States

23. LA Sportfishing

LA Sportfishing
Credits: TeodorLazarev / Shutterstock

Aside from watching the view of the Marina and being serenaded by the beautiful scenery, you can decide to engage in sports fishing. The Pacific Ocean in Marina del Rey makes it an excellent site for fishing with family and friends. The people in Marina del Rey engage in fishing as a sports activity.

The beautiful blue ocean has a variety of fish species and other sea creatures like rockfish, California yellowtail, sand bass, bonito, calico bass, lingcod, barracuda, California halibut, and more.

Going on fishing tours with your loved ones can be exciting, especially when fishing out rare fish. The Captain of the LA sportfishing is a licensed U.S. Coast Guard licensed with a Master title.

While fishing, tourists learn about never-seen fishes, learn how to catch them, and perhaps even spot a whale in the sea.

The LA Sportfishing is only a few minutes from Los Angeles International Airport, Santa Monica, Hollywood, and Beverly Hills; the LA sportfishing is a fishing and boat charter company.

Address: 13701 Fiji Way, Marina del Rey, CA 90292

24. Marina Del Rey Visitors Center

If you are big on doing things orderly, you might want to make a quick stop at Marina Del Rey Visitors Center before exploring the town.

The Marina Del Rey Visitors Center is Marina Del Rey’s welcoming spot; housed in a little mission-style structure, it is quite popular amongst visitors and locals.

Apart from Easter, New Year’s, Christmas, and Thanksgiving, the Marina del Rey Visitors Center is open every day and is situated at the intersection of Admiralty and Mindanao Way.

Visit the Marina del Rey Visitors Center for details and guidance on local attractions, dining, events, walking tour guides, transportation, and lodging.

Asides from the information mentioned above, which are basic features of the center, you can get exclusive info from the staff such as where and how to get the best discounts and deals in the area.

Address: 4701 Admiralty Way Marina del Rey, CA 90292 USA

25. California Dream Tours

California Dream Tours
Credits: Amilao / Shutterstock

California Dream Tours is a certified body charter company that offers private vessel charters that explore Marina del Rey’s coastal region.

You may sprawl out comfortably as you travel through Marina del Rey Harbor’s attractions and the surrounding area.

The USCG captain is eager to share his understanding of the water and passion for the Los Angeles coastline with you.

Because the charter’s goal is to give you a lasting memory of your time on the Emory S Land, the tour adapts to your requirements.

Be it a birthday party, graduation ceremony, charter event, wedding, on-sea memorial, or sunset watching, the scenic views of Santa Monica’s Coast fit just fine for viewing sake and backdrops for taking spectacular photographs.

You can personalize or customize your charter to suit your wants and needs; the crew and captain are always willing to help you achieve your wish, so long as it does not go against the rules.

Address: 13701 Fiji Way, Marina del Rey, CA 90292, USA

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Start Planning your Trip Marina del Rey

Marina del Rey is an enchanting city in Los Angeles County, California, United States of America. The city is an unincorporated seaside community, bounded on all sides by Los Angeles. The Pacific Ocean makes it the abode of scarce species of fishes and sea creatures.

There are numerous activities such as going on a boat cruise, paddling, strolling, wildlife watching, biking, boxing, yoga, parasailing, and many other fantastic tourist activities to engage in with your loved ones.

There are boat charters, yacht charter, ship cruises, spas, beaches, restaurants, supermarkets, and many other things to do listed above. You would love to visit. Marina del Rey is an exciting city to be for both children and adults. There is something for everyone in the beautiful town.

Plan your trip to Marina del Rey city with your friends and family to bask in the beauty of the sea, the breathtaking sea creatures, and engage in other adventurous on water and by the water activities.