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How to Get to Venice

How to Get to Venice

Venice Los Angeles, USA Travel Guide

Major Airports Serving Los Angeles

Los Angeles International Airport LAX

LAX is the main airport for Southern California and the most common arrival point for international and many domestic travelers. It sits approximately 7 miles (11 km) south of Venice.

LAX Advantages

  • Its proximity makes it convenient for accessing Venice.
  • All major U.S. And international airlines operate out of LAX.
  • Offers direct flights from most major cities worldwide, a convenient entry point.

Alternative Airports

Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR) and Long Beach Airport (LGB) present smaller, often easier-to-navigate alternatives, mainly serving domestic flights.

BUR & LGB Notes

  • BUR is about 25 miles (40 km) northeast, LGB about 25 miles (40 km) southeast of Venice.
  • Can be good options if you find suitable flights and accept a longer car ride to Venice.
  • Flight prices highest during summer and major holidays; shoulder seasons offer better deals.

Airport Facilities

All airports offer dining, shopping, car rental services, ATMs, and Wi-Fi. LAX, as a major international hub, provides extensive facilities, including numerous restaurants, duty-free shops, and lounges.

LAX Transfers

Ride-sharing (Uber/Lyft) from the designated "LAX-it" lot is often the most convenient option ($30-50). Taxis are also available. Shared-ride vans (e.g., SuperShuttle) are economical.

Public Transit from LAX

The cheapest but slowest option. Take a free LAX shuttle (Lot C or LAX City Bus Center) to connect to Metro lines or the Santa Monica Big Blue Bus. LAX FlyAway also an option.

Affiliate Resources for Flights & Car Rentals

Flight Booking Services

Car Rental Booking

Transfer Tips

Pre-booking Shuttles

Consider pre-booking a shared shuttle from LAX if you are a solo traveler or a couple. This often strikes a good balance between cost and convenience.

LAX-it Lot for Ride-Shares

Remember LAX has a designated "LAX-it" lot for ride-share pickups. Free shuttles transport passengers from all terminals to this lot.

Alternative Airport Transfers

From BUR/LGB: Ride-sharing, taxis, or pre-booked shuttles remain the most practical options. Public transit exists but longer travel times for Venice.

Land Transportation

Train Connections

Long-distance Amtrak trains arrive at Los Angeles Union Station. This historic station serves as a major transportation hub.

From Union Station

  • Travelers connect to Venice via Metro Bus (e.g., Metro Local Line 33 along Venice Boulevard).
  • Ride-sharing or taxi options are also available.
  • Travel time from Union Station to Venice varies greatly with traffic.

Long-Distance Bus Options

Greyhound, the major intercity bus service in the U.S., has a station near Downtown LA. FlixBus/Megabus also serve Los Angeles.

Bus Travel to Venice

  • Connections to Venice from the Greyhound station would require local public transit or ride-sharing.
  • Other intercity bus companies often have pickup/drop-off points near major Metro stations or downtown.
  • These also require onward local travel to Venice.

Self-Driving Considerations

You need a valid driver's license from your home country. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is suggested if your license is not in English.

Requirements & Pros/Cons

  • Minimum age for rental cars typically 21; drivers under 25 may incur daily surcharges.
  • A major credit card is a requirement for rental.
  • Pros: Offers freedom to visit attractions across sprawling Los Angeles.
  • Cons: Heavy traffic, challenging and expensive parking in Venice, daunting freeway system.

Road Conditions & Safety

Road conditions in Los Angeles vary. Traffic is a significant concern; always allow ample travel time.

Driving Safely

  • Some areas may have more potholes or uneven surfaces.
  • Aggressive driving may occur, so maintain distance and remain attentive.
  • Using a GPS with real-time traffic updates (like Google Maps or Waze) is highly suggested.

Important Considerations for Driving

  • Parking in Venice is very challenging and expensive.
  • A rental car provides maximum flexibility for exploring the sprawling Los Angeles area and taking day trips to destinations not easily reached by public transport.
  • Gas prices can be higher than in some other regions.
  • If renting a car, always read parking signs carefully. Venice parking rules are strictly enforced, and violations lead to expensive tickets or towing.
  • Using ride-sharing or public transit is often a better choice if staying in Venice and mainly exploring the immediate area, reducing the need for a rental car.

Sea/River Arrivals & 4.4 Departure Information

Sea/River Arrivals

Venice is a beach neighborhood, not a major port of entry for cruise ships or river transportation. No significant river transportation services operate in Los Angeles.

Cruise Port Information

  • The nearest major cruise port is the Port of Los Angeles in San Pedro.
  • Located approximately 25 miles south of Venice.
  • Travelers arriving by cruise would need to arrange land transportation from San Pedro to Venice.

Departure Information

No specific exit fees are charged for departing the U.S. Beyond what is typically included in your airline ticket.

Departure Procedures & Timing

  • International Flights from LAX: Arrive at LAX at least 3 hours before scheduled departure.
  • Domestic Flights from LAX: Arrive at LAX at least 2 hours before scheduled departure.
  • Security lines may be long, especially during peak travel times.

Traffic Awareness

Factor in Los Angeles traffic when planning your travel time to the airport. Traffic can be unpredictable, even for short distances.

Airport Facilities

LAX offers a wide range of dining, retail, and lounge options across its terminals. Smaller airports like BUR and LGB have more limited facilities but still provide comfort.

Departure Check

Check your flight status and terminal information before leaving for the airport. LAX can have terminal changes for specific airlines.

Departure Reminder

Check your flight status and terminal information before leaving for the airport. LAX can have terminal changes for specific airlines.