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Getting Around Venice

Getting Around Venice

Venice Los Angeles, USA Travel Guide

Overview of Public Transit Systems

The Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) operates an extensive network of buses and rail lines (subway and light rail) throughout LA County.

Venice is mainly served by bus lines, especially the Santa Monica Big Blue Bus and Metro Bus lines, which connect it to other Westside communities and the broader Metro rail network.

Public Transit Hubs

  • Santa Monica Big Blue Bus (BBB): Connects Venice directly to Santa Monica, UCLA, and other Westside destinations. Routes 1, 2, 3, 5, and 8 are relevant.
  • Metro Bus: Metro Local Line 33 runs along Venice Boulevard, linking Venice to Culver City and Downtown LA.
  • Downtown Santa Monica: A major hub for BBB routes and the Metro Expo Line (to Downtown LA).
  • LAX City Bus Center: Accessible via free LAX shuttle, connecting to various Metro lines or Santa Monica Big Blue Bus routes.

TAP Card

The TAP Card is a reusable, reloadable plastic card for all Metro bus and rail lines and most municipal bus lines (including Santa Monica Big Blue Bus). Purchase at Metro rail stations or authorized vendors.

Fares

Single Ride: $1.75. 1-Day Pass: $7.00. 7-Day Pass: $25.00 (as of early 2024). Transfers between Metro bus/rail lines and some municipal lines are free for up to 2 hours with a TAP card.

Accessibility

All Metro buses and trains are wheelchair accessible. Buses have ramps or lifts, and most rail stations have elevators or ramps. This makes public transit a good option for travelers with mobility needs.

Public Transit Tips

Navigation & Convenience
  • Use Apps: Download the Transit app or use Google Maps for real-time bus tracking and trip planning.
  • Load Enough Value: Ensure you have enough value or a valid pass on your TAP card.
  • Know Your Stop: Pay attention to bus stop locations; they may not always be clearly marked.
Operations & Expectations
  • Hours of Operation: Buses generally run from early morning (around 4-5 AM) until late night (around 1-2 AM).
  • Frequency: Varies by route and time, typically every 10-20 minutes during peak hours, less frequent off-peak.
  • Be Patient: Traffic may affect bus schedules. Allow extra time for your journey.

Purchase Your TAP Card

Step 1

Acquire a TAP card upon arrival.

Step 2

Find vending machines at Metro rail stations.

Step 3

Load cash value or passes onto your card.

Step 4

This tool makes using LA public transportation efficient.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis and ride-sharing services offer convenient, on-demand transportation in Venice.

Licensed Taxi Identification

  • Licensed taxis in Los Angeles are typically yellow or white.
  • They feature a rooftop light and a visible meter inside.
  • Look for the city's official medallion or company branding.
  • Hailing a taxi on the street is less common in Venice outside busy areas. Call a taxi company or find stands.

Ride-Sharing Apps & Fares

  • Uber and Lyft are the most widely used ride-sharing apps.
  • Often more economical than traditional taxis for many routes.
  • Offer convenience through app-based booking and payment systems.
  • Taxi fares: Base fare ~$2.85, plus ~$3.10/mile. Surcharges apply for airport pickups.

Safety & Airport Arrangements

  • Taxis: Licensed drivers operate taxis. Ensure the meter is running.
  • Ride-Sharing: Verify driver and vehicle details match the app before entering.
  • Share your trip status with a trusted contact through the app's safety features.
  • Airport/Station Taxi Arrangements: Dedicated taxi stands or designated ride-share pickup zones are available at airports (e.g., LAX-it at LAX) and major train stations (Union Station).
  • Follow airport signage to these areas.

Ride-Sharing Verification

Step 1

When using ride-sharing, open the app to confirm your ride request.

Step 2

Before getting in, verify the license plate and car model match your app.

Step 3

This ensures you enter the correct and safe vehicle.

Rental Options

Rental options offer flexibility for exploring Venice and beyond.

Car Rental Information

  • Requirements: Valid driver's license (IDP suggested if not in English).
  • A major credit card is a requirement for the rental and security deposit.
  • Minimum age typically 21; drivers 21-24 often incur an underage surcharge.
  • Major rental companies (Hertz, Avis, Enterprise) have locations at airports and city spots.

Rental Benefits & Drawbacks

  • Pros: A rental car offers maximum flexibility for exploring sprawling Los Angeles.
  • Permits day trips to destinations not easily reached by public transport.
  • Cons: Driving in LA involves heavy traffic.
  • Parking in Venice is very challenging and expensive. Gas prices may be higher.

Motorcycle/Scooter & Bike Sharing

Motorcycle/Scooter Rentals

Availability is limited in Venice. Some rental companies exist in the greater LA area, needing a valid motorcycle endorsement.

Not a main transport mode.

Bicycle Rentals

Numerous shops along the Venice Beach Boardwalk and nearby streets offer hourly or daily rentals of bicycles, beach cruisers, and tandem bikes.

Excellent for local exploration.

Bike Share Programs

Santa Monica's Breeze Bike Share (operated by Lyft) has stations extending into parts of Venice, offering electric and classic bikes. Download the Lyft app to use.

Convenient for short trips.

Driving Laws & Parking

Road Rules & Conditions
  • Drive on the right side of the road. Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers.
  • A right turn on red is generally permitted after a complete stop unless prohibited by a sign.
  • Speed limits are strictly enforced. Road conditions generally good on main roads.
Parking in Venice
  • Parking is very challenging and expensive in Venice, especially near the beach and Abbot Kinney Boulevard.
  • Metered street parking is limited and strictly enforced. Pay attention to street cleaning signs. Fines are substantial.
  • Many hotels charge daily parking fees, ranging from $20-50+. Inquire about this when booking.

Important Parking Reminder

  • If renting a car, always read parking signs carefully.
  • Venice parking rules are strictly enforced.
  • Violations lead to expensive tickets or towing.
  • Consider using ride-sharing or public transit if mostly exploring the immediate area.
  • Public parking lots are near the beach and along Abbot Kinney.
  • Rates can be $10-25+ for a few hours.
  • Book your rental car in advance, especially during peak season.
  • Inspect the car for existing damage before leaving the lot.

Walking & Cycling

Walking and cycling offer excellent ways to experience Venice's unique atmosphere and attractions.

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

  • Venice Beach Boardwalk (Ocean Front Walk): Highly pedestrianized and ideal for walking, people-watching.
  • Venice Canals: A quiet, charming residential area perfect for leisurely strolls.
  • Abbot Kinney Boulevard: Sidewalks are wide and inviting for walking between shops, restaurants, and galleries.
  • Main Street (Venice/Santa Monica border): Connects Venice to Santa Monica and offers a pleasant walk with shops and cafes.

Walking Tours & Bicycle Infrastructure

  • Guided Tours: Several local tour companies offer walking tours focusing on Venice's history, street art, food, or culture.
  • Self-Guided Tours: Easily done using maps or online guides for the Boardwalk, Canals, and Abbot Kinney.
  • Bicycle Infrastructure: A dedicated paved bike path, part of the Marvin Braude Bike Trail, runs alongside the Venice Beach Boardwalk.
  • This path connects north to Santa Monica and south through Marina del Rey to other South Bay beaches.

Safety & No-Go Areas

Bike Path Safety

The boardwalk bike path can become very crowded, especially on weekends. Exercise caution around pedestrians, street performers, and other cyclists/skaters. Always yield to pedestrians.

  • Wear a helmet, which most rental shops provide.
  • Use hand signals when turning.
No-Go Areas Pedestrians/Cyclists

While most of Venice is generally safe during the day, exercise caution in less-trafficked side streets or residential areas at night.

  • Especially those east of Lincoln Boulevard or south of Washington Boulevard towards Marina Del Rey, if unfamiliar.
  • The immediate boardwalk area can be unpredictable after dark.
Nighttime Precautions

Some parts of Venice may feel less safe after dark, especially if you are alone. Stick to well-lit, populated areas at night.

  • This includes the bustling parts of Abbot Kinney and parts of the boardwalk during peak evening activity.

Weekend Bike Path Crowds

Avoiding Crowds
  • Rent a bike early in the morning on weekends to avoid the biggest crowds on the boardwalk bike path.
  • Weekdays typically offer a less crowded experience for cyclists.
  • Consider off-peak hours for a more relaxed ride.
General Bike Safety
  • Always wear a helmet.
  • Use hand signals for turns and stops.
  • Give pedestrians the right of way.

Accessibility Information

LA Metro Public Transit is generally accessible with wheelchair ramps/lifts on buses and elevators/ramps at most rail stations.

The Venice Beach Boardwalk has paved sections. Some beach access points have "Mobi-Mats" for wheelchairs. Before visiting any specific attraction, check its website for current accessibility information.