FREE THINGS TO DO

Beach Day

Sometimes all you need is sunshine, sand and the sea. Make it a beach day at Marina “Mother’s” Beach. Here, you can wade in the calm water, bask in the sun, grill under shaded picnic areas or let the kiddos enjoy the modern playground on the sand. Other beaches nearby include the Marina Peninsula, Playa del Rey or Dockweiler State Beach (popular for beach bonfires). Click button for more information on beaches in Marina del Rey.

Bike Along the L.A. Coastline

Cruise along the coastline on your own bike or check with your hotel for complimentary bike rentals. Marina del Rey’s paved bike paths take you through scenic parts of the harbor including past Fisherman’s Village and the Marina del Rey channel. The trail is part of the popular 22-mile Marvin Braude Bike Trail. Click button to view the full map. 

Explore Fisherman's Village

This charming New England-style fishing town replica is a fun place to walk around, take photos of local sea lions, and witness amazing SoCal sunsets over the harbor. While you’re there, remember to visit the Marina del Rey Historical Society to learn more about MDR’s past. Another fun free thing to do at Fisherman’s Village? Enjoy live music  in the plaza on select weekend afternoons. Click button for more information. 

Picnic and Play at Parks

Burton Chace Park is a beautiful 10-acre park is a crown jewel of the Marina. Jutting out into the main channel, it offers one of the best vista points, and is perfect for a morning jog or leisurely picnic or BBQ. It’s also a great place to just sit back and watch the sunset.

Other parks include Burke Park along Admiralty Way, where you can test your strength on a free parcourse fitness course. Kids can also play at the beach playground located at Marina “Mother’s” Beach. Or take your dog on a relaxing stroll by the water at Aubrey Austin Jr. Park near the North Jetty. Click button for more information.

Live Music & Nightlife

From free live music weekend concerts to DJs, dancing and comedy nights, Marina del Rey has boat loads of entertainment while you’re in town. Make sure to check out the free Marina del Rey Summer Concerts and Marina Movie Nights at Burton Chace Park, too. Click button for more information. 

Waterfront Walk

Looking to get your steps in? Head to Burton Chace Park and walk the perimeter to enjoy picture-perfect views of sailboats, seabirds, and the sunset. Or perhaps you’re in the mood for a romantic beach stroll? Walk on the sand along Marina “Mother’s” Beach or the Marina Peninsula. For a little more cardio, try walking along the green space at Yvonne B. Burke Park which includes a fitness parcourse. At the north end of this park is the Oxford Basin, a nicely landscaped flood-control basin with bird viewing opportunities. Don’t forget the North Jetty where you can walk and view multimillion-dollar homes on the Grand Canal at Venice Beach. Or the South Jetty is a great spot for walking and watching airplanes take off from LAX.

Almost Free - $1 WaterBus (Summer)

The Marina del Rey WaterBus is a summer season attraction (mid-June through early September) that shuttles patrons to designated points in the harbor for $1 each way. Bikes and strollers are allowed. Click button for more information. 

Sightseeing Coastal Wildlife

If you’re cruising the bay or walking along the water, you can easily find marine mammals, shore birds and more in Marina del Rey. Click button learn more about where to spot local marine life in Marina del Rey.