Skip the overcrowded tour buses and grab a rental instead. The Marvin Braude Bike Trail is the only way to navigate the coastline without losing your mind in traffic. Ride south until you hit the grit of Venice Beach, then loop back to the Santa Monica Pier for some overpriced fries and actual ocean views. It’s touristy, sure, but the salt air hits different once you’re off the main strip and on two wheels.
Snap a photo at the iconic Bean in this massive park. · Take a scenic stroll along the river amidst the skyscrapers.
