Fisherman's Village
Take a trip to New England without ever leaving the Marina. Fisherman's Village is a replica of a New England seaport and fishing town. Stroll along cobblestone paths to enjoy views of the Marina. Shop for souvenirs, join a public sport fishing 1/2 day or 3/4 day excursion or a weekend dinner and dancing cruise. Or charter your own adventure with one of the many private charter companies. Rent a boat -- both sail or motor, kayak or wind surfboard, a stand-up paddle board, even a jet ski -- or bike along the Los Angeles Beaches Bike trail; eat at waterfront restaurants with outdoor dining or quick service cafes. Free weekend concerts on Saturday and Sunday afternoons. Open daily; validated 2 hour parking Admiralty Way south; turn right on Fiji Way.
Burton Chace Park
This beautiful 10-acre park is one of the crown jewels of Marina del Rey, the heart of community activities, jutting out into the Marina's main channel. Offering what may be the best vista point in the area, this is a great spot for walking and gazing out at the deep blue water, boats and Marina. The park offers waterside picnic tables, lawn areas, fishing platform with fish cleaning sinks and tables nearby, a community room and covered picnic areas with barbeques. It also makes the perfect viewing area for the annual December Holiday Boat Parade and New Years Eve Fireworks. Plus, the park staff offers seasonal outdoor tours and activities in the area including in the past: weekly walking classes; Bird watching in the spring; kayaking the harbor spring to fall; and beach kayaking in the spring and continuing into the early fall, to name a few. Be sure to call the part staff, 310/305-9595 to see what events are shceduled. During the summer months, the free concerts are not to be missed. Usually, Thursdays are classical and Saturdays are pops, and they begin at 7PM lasting about 2 hours. It is recommended that you come early as seating is first come, first serve on the green. You can picnic beforehand by bringing your own low chairs and blankets; bring a jacket or sweater to stay comfortable by the water in the evening. Parking for the park activities is in pay lots only. Two blocks from the [Visitor Center] at the western end of Mindanao Way; metered parking enforced weekends only.
Ballona Saltwater & Freshwater Marshes at Playa Vista
Less than a mile from Marina del Rey is the freshwater marsh that is a 51-acre habitat to more than 3,000 native trees, 10,000 native shrubs and grasses and more than 73 native bird species. It is an urban oasis for people and wildlife alike. Stroll along the trail bordering the marsh -- through a profusion of native trees and shrubs, you'll see mallard ducks floating across the water past snowy egrets and great blue herons. Pause at the information panels along the way to learn about Ballona's rich history, the varied functions of the marsh and the abundant wildlife in residence. Located at the southwest corner of Lincoln and Jefferson Boulevards, portions of the trail are open to the public daily from dawn to dusk. Docent-led tours of the interior as well as restoration workdays are coordinated usually on the weekends through the Friends of Ballona Wetlands, 310306-5994.
Venice Pier/End of Washington
Just around the corner from Via Marina and down the block on Washington Boulevard is the area locals call "the End of Washington." There one can eat at any of the fine restaurants or cafes -- most offer outdoor seating; drink at the coffee houses, enjoy a nightcap at the late night bars and most importantly watch people. Continue even further west and you come upon Venice Pier. Shop for souvenirs as well as beach sundries in this eclectic area. Fishing is popular from the end of the pier.