Venice Beach / Boardwalk area?

[psimon]

I have seen some reports of the Venice Beach / Boardwalk area to be very sketchy and a place to stay away from. Is this true?

I was thinking of stopping there for a little while on the way south from San Luis Obispo, heading eventually to the Grand Californian at DL.

Thoughts greatly appreciated...

---Paul in Southern NJ

 

[mr.bungle]

It can be sketchy. I am local and don't often go there. I mean, if you keep your wits about you you will be fine. Lots of people hawking medical marijuana cards and a lot of homeless people there. I personally don't see the appeal but hey, to each their own.

 

[Carstairs38]

It's definitely filled with medical marijana, homeless, and performance artists. It's usually fairly crowded and I've never felt it was dangerous. But definitely keep aware of your surroundings. You should be okay even if it isn't the best beach area of So Cal.

Personally, I'd go to the Santa Monica beach area first. More beach less people trying to get you to give them your money.

 

[ludari]

I grew up in Venice and although you will see homeless, people etc they are all sorts of vendors, tourist and other people in the area. I'm sure you will be just fine.

 

[binareneee]

We stayed in Venice last year for about 4 days right off of Rose and the Boardwalk. Walking around you'll be just fine, just like anywhere else just pay attention to what's going on around you. It's not that bad at all. We even walked around at night a few nights and didn't have any problems. If you do go, make sure you check out Venice Ale House at the start of the boardwalk on Rose. Delicious food. Enjoy!

 

[GoBears 1980]

It depends on who is traveling. I would not take my young kids there, but the sketchiness is part of its attraction.