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Where to Stay in Venice

Where to Stay in Venice

Venice Los Angeles, USA Travel Guide

Full Spectrum of Lodging Options

Variety of Choices

  • Hotels

    A good selection, ranging from budget motels to boutique properties. Found along the beachfront, near Abbot Kinney Boulevard, or slightly inland. Options include well-known chains and independent establishments. Booking.com, Agoda, IHG Hotels for choices.

  • Hostels

    A few cater to budget travelers and backpackers, often located near the Venice Beach Boardwalk. Offering dormitory-style accommodation and a social atmosphere, a choice for solo travelers. Hostelworld for budget stays.

  • Vacation Rentals (Apartments/Houses)

    Widely available through platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo. With more space, privacy, and amenities like kitchens, a choice for families, groups, or longer stays. Everything from small studios to multi-bedroom homes.

  • Boutique Hotels

    Several stylish, independent boutique hotels reflecting the neighborhood's unique vibe. With distinct design, personalized service, and a focus on local experiences.

Other Options

  • Guesthouses/B&Bs

    A smaller number of more intimate guesthouses or bed-and-breakfasts offering a home-like atmosphere.

  • Camping and Outdoor Accommodation

    No camping directly within Venice. Nearest options are state parks or private campgrounds located further outside the Los Angeles metropolitan area, like Malibu or the Santa Monica Mountains.

  • Unique Local Accommodation Types

    The prevalence of renovated beach bungalows and architecturally unique homes for short-term rental here distinct local experience. Some historic properties converted into charming guesthouses. Consider TrustedHousesitters for unique stays.

  • Homestay and Community-Based Tourism Opportunities

    Formal homestay programs less common in Venice. However, vacation rental platforms connect with local hosts, a similar community-based experience, especially if you rent a room within a shared home.

Neighborhood Guide within Venice

Venice itself distinct areas, each different character and appeal for accommodation.

Venice Beach Boardwalk Area

Positive Aspects
  • Energetic, eclectic, bohemian, and sometimes chaotic.
  • Home to street performers, vendors, Muscle Beach, and direct beach access.
  • Constantly buzzing with activity.
Considerations
  • Can be noisy, very crowded.
  • Higher potential for petty crime and homelessness.
  • Limited and expensive parking.
  • May not suit those seeking a quiet retreat.

Venice Canals

Positive Aspects
  • Tranquil, picturesque, residential, charming.
  • Historic pedestrian bridges and unique architecture.
  • Peaceful, scenic, great for leisurely walks, quiet residential feel.
  • Still close to the beach (short walk).
Considerations
  • Mainly residential, fewer direct dining and shopping options within the immediate canal area itself.
  • Accommodation mostly vacation rentals; hotels scarce.

Abbot Kinney Boulevard

Positive Aspects
  • Upscale, trendy, chic, and sophisticated.
  • Lined with independent boutiques, art galleries, and acclaimed restaurants.
  • Excellent dining and shopping, stylish atmosphere.
  • Very walkable, generally safe and well-maintained.
Considerations
  • Expensive.
  • Less direct access to the beach (15-20 minute walk).
  • Can be crowded, especially on weekends and evenings.
  • Accommodation tends to be boutique hotels or high-end vacation rentals.

More Neighborhood Information

Rose Avenue Area

Blends bohemian roots with a hip, modern vibe. Mix of casual eateries, coffee shops, some retail. Transitional zone between the beach and inland Venice.

Washington Boulevard Area

Mix of casual dining, bars, and some shops, often with a Marina del Rey view. Close to Venice Pier, often quieter than main boardwalk area.

Safety Considerations by Area

Safety varies by area within Venice. General awareness and precautions are always wise.

Areas & Safety

  • Boardwalk: heightened awareness, especially at night. Keep valuables secure and visible. Petty crime can occur.
  • Canals & Abbot Kinney: Generally very safe, even at night, relaxed atmosphere. Standard urban precautions apply.
  • Residential areas: Vary. Some areas east of Lincoln Boulevard less desirable or feel less safe after dark if unfamiliar with specific street. Well-lit, populated routes are better.
  • Ambiance: Boardwalk Area: High noise levels due to street performers, crowds, music, traffic. Canals: Very quiet and peaceful. Abbot Kinney: Moderate noise levels, livelier on weekends/evenings but manageable.

Proximity & Noise

  • Boardwalk Area: Best for immediate beach access, Muscle Beach, lively boardwalk action. Good for bike rentals.
  • Canals: Best for scenic walks, quiet experience. Short walk to beach and Abbot Kinney.
  • Abbot Kinney: Best for dining, shopping, people-watching. Longer walk to beach, public transit connects.
  • All areas of Venice generally walkable to each other, though a longer walk from Abbot Kinney to beach. Public transit (bus) routes also connect efficiently.

Connectivity and Walkability

Attractions Access
  • Boardwalk Area: Best for immediate beach access, Muscle Beach, lively boardwalk action. Good for bike rentals.
  • Canals: Best for scenic walks, quiet experience. Short walk to beach and Abbot Kinney.
  • Abbot Kinney: Best for dining, shopping, people-watching. Longer walk to beach, public transit connects.
  • All areas of Venice generally walkable to each other, though a longer walk from Abbot Kinney to beach. Public transit (bus) routes also connect efficiently.
Public Transit Options
  • Venice Beach and Abbot Kinney are served by local bus routes (e.g., Metro Bus 33, 1). These connect to broader Los Angeles.
  • Rideshare services (Uber, Lyft) are widely available throughout Venice.
  • Scooter and bike share programs are common for short distances.
  • Walking is a main mode of transportation within Venice's distinct areas.

General Advice for Your Stay

Public Transport

Consider using public transit for connections beyond Venice, reducing parking challenges.

Rideshare

Rideshare convenient for travel around Venice and Los Angeles, especially at night.

Walkability

Many of Venice's attractions are walkable, especially within each distinct neighborhood.

Booking Strategies

Smart booking preference and a good rate.

Booking Considerations

Advance Booking Timing

High Season (Summer: June-August): Book 3-6 months. Shoulder Season (April-May, September-October): Book 1-3 months. Low Season (November-March): Book 2-4 weeks.

Trusted Platforms

Hotels: Booking.com, Expedia, Hotels.com. Vacation Rentals: Vrbo. Direct Booking: Check hotel websites for benefits. Local Management Companies for some vacation rentals.

Policy and Price Details

Negotiation Customs

Negotiating walk-in rates is not common in Venice or most of the U.S. For established hotels. Prices fixed. Better to book in advance online.

Deposit & Cancellation

Varies by property and platform. Always check requirements before confirming. Hotels often offer free cancellation up to 24-72 hours prior. Vacation rentals often stricter.

Seasonal Pricing & Parking

  • Price Fluctuations

    Accommodation prices highest in summer and major holidays. Decrease in fall and winter, with January and February typically cheapest. Weekends generally more expensive than weekdays.

  • Parking & Local Transport

    Always confirm parking availability and cost when booking accommodation in Venice. Many areas have limited or expensive parking. Public transport and rideshare are convenient for local travel.

  • Public Transport

    Consider using public transit for connections beyond Venice, reducing parking challenges.

  • Rideshare

    Rideshare convenient for travel around Venice and Los Angeles, especially at night.

Walkability & Scooter Options

  • Walkability

    Many of Venice's attractions are walkable, especially within each distinct neighborhood.

  • Scooter & Bike Share

    Scooter and bike share programs are common for short distances, providing a fun way to get around.

  • Bicycle Rentals

    Bicycle rentals are widely available, especially near the boardwalk, a great way to explore the area.

  • Efficient Connectivity

    Public transit (bus) routes efficiently connect different areas within Venice, and to broader Los Angeles.

Accommodation Recommendations Types

Tailored Stays

Vacation rentals best for families (space, kitchens). Hotels like Hotel Erwin good for amenities, location, larger rooms. Hostels for budget, social aspect. Smaller boutique hotels privacy and comfort. Vacation rentals best for stays over a week (home-like amenities, better rates). Some hotels extended stay rates or suites.

Cultural Significance

Renovated historic beach bungalows (vacation rentals) retain original elements. Hotel Erwin modern artistic vibe, popular rooftop bar. Smaller guesthouses unique stories.

Diverse Accommodation Options

Hostels

Very affordable, social atmosphere.

Mid-Range Hotels

Balance of comfort and price.

Vacation Rentals

More space, kitchen facilities.