Must-Do May Events in Marina del Rey

With summer around the corner, Marina del Rey transforms into a vibrant playground of waterfront festivities, blending community spirit with coastal charm. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, May offers a packed calendar of events that showcase the marina’s lively energy and scenic beauty.

TORCH RELAY 5K — WALK FOR A GOOD CAUSE

Start the month with a burst of camaraderie at the Torch Relay 5K benefiting Children's Hospital Los Angeles on Sunday, May 4, at Mother’s Beach Parking Lot 10. This family-friendly event sets the tone for outdoor adventures, inviting participants to stroll along the marina’s picturesque paths while supporting a great cause. 

• This family-friendly 5K (3 miles) is open to participants of all ages and fitness levels. Whether you prefer to walk, jog, or run, everyone is welcome – including kids and strollers!

  Starting Point: Mother’s Beach, Marina del Rey
  Registration: Just $20
  Fundraising Goal: Set your own!

  After completing the scenic 5K (3-mile) course along the Marina, stick around for our beach celebration featuring:
  • A delicious BBQ lunch
  • Live music and entertainment
  • Food and beverage vendors
  • Raffles with amazing prizes – including a special Marina del Rey package
  • And so much more!

  Lunch Info:
  • Raise $50+ to receive a complimentary BBQ lunch (burger or hot dog)
  • Or purchase lunch for $15 – with 100% of proceeds benefiting the hospital

  Parking Info:
  • Complimentary parking at Marina del Rey Marriott (limited availability)
  • Additional parking at Mother’s Beach – $8. 

MUST-TRY DINING EVENTS

Thursdays shine with Beach Eats at Lot 11 (5–9 p.m.), a weekly gourmet food truck gathering dishing up everything from lobster rolls to vegan tacos, all served against a backdrop of golden sunsets and salty breezes. Saturdays bring the beloved Farmers Market, where local vendors line the promenade with fresh-picked produce, artisan cheeses, and handmade crafts—perfect for assembling a picnic to enjoy by the water. Come evening, the marina’s culinary scene takes center stage. 

Sip, savor, and celebrate race day in style at SALT in Marina del Rey on Thursday, May 15, from 7–9 PM at the Kentucky Derby Party featuring Woodford Reserve. This Kentucky Derby-inspired soirée features expertly crafted cocktails-including a welcome Pearwood Smash-paired with a three-course dinner of Southern classics like Maine lobster roll tea sandwiches, pork belly steak with spiced apple whiskey sauce, and apple bread pudding soufflé. Guests will enjoy tastings of three Woodford Reserve whiskeys, springtime marina views, and festive Derby photo ops. Tickets are $95 per person. Click here to buy tickets.

For a dash of drama, don’t miss the “Death of a Gangster” Murder Mystery Dinner at Beachside Restaurant  on Friday, May 23. Step into the Roaring Twenties with a themed buffet, craft cocktails, and a thrilling whodunit that’ll have you sleuthing between bites of prime rib and roasted salmon. Click here to buy tickets.

LIVE MUSIC

Meanwhile, live music lovers can savor nightly performances at waterfront hotspots like SALT (Wednesday – Friday evenings), Beachside (Sunday Dog Days), The Warehouse (Friday salsa nights), Brizo (Fridays and Saturday evenings), and Sinder Lounge, where harbor views meet craft cocktails and toe-tapping rhythms.

SATURDAY, MAY 31: MARINA CULTURE JAM

The month concludes with the 2025 Marina Culture Jam on Saturday, May 31, at Burton Chace Park—a free, all-ages celebration marking the marina’s 60th anniversary. Expect Taiko drum performances, Peruvian folk music, interactive drum circles, and family-friendly crafts. Hop aboard the $1 WaterBus to explore historic harbor tours, or snack from gourmet food trucks while soaking in the festival’s cultural celebration vibe. Click here for more details.