Travel
WHY PLAY IN MARINA DEL REY
05.20.11
By Sheryll Alexander
With blue skies, white clouds, a scenic waterfront and magnificent views of the Santa Monica mountains and Pacific coastline, Marina del Rey is a great destination for a getaway this summer.
Don’t know much about Marina del Rey? Here’s a few things you may not know about this LA enclave.
Stuck at LAX? Marina del Rey is only four miles north of the airport, so if your plane is delayed or your layover seems too long, hop in a cab and spend a few hours on or by the sea. Use a pre-planned itinerary from the Visit Marina Del Rey website to help you plan your morning, afternoon, or evening with ease.
Take the $1 Water Bus. This shuttle is only available during the summer on weekends and holidays, making stops at seven convenient locations along Marina del Rey at Burton Chace Park, Fisherman's Village, Marina Beach, Los Angeles County Fire Station #110, Dolphin Marina, Marina Harbor and Esprit I.
Sail with Singles. Single Mariners of Marina del Rey offers day sails for singles. Twice a month, singles of all skill levels are welcome to join the fun on a weekend day sail. Bring $7 to the members’ meeting and beginners and experts alike will be ready to set sail the following weekend.
Concierge Service. Marina del Rey’s Visitors Center offers help in planning your next Marina vacation, stop by the center located at 4701 Admiralty Way.
Marina del Rey Summer Concerts. Listen to stellar talent play at Burton W. Chace Park while you enjoy incredible ocean views. Four classical music concerts featuring the 75-member Marina del Rey Summer Symphony alternate with four exciting pop concerts on select Thursdays and Saturdays. The best part? The concerts are free!
In the Doghouse. If you have a dog, you have come to the right place. Marina del Rey offers pre-planned walking maps, outdoor dining, a dog-friendly park and your pooch is even welcome at The Ritz-Carlton Marina Del Rey.
Dinner Dance Cruise. On Saturday evenings you can enjoy a delicious meal, watch the sunset, and dance the night away on board a ship cruising around Marina del Rey.
Visit the Ballona Wetlands. Did you know LA has its very own wetlands? Right outside Marina del Rey, on the corner of Lincoln and Jefferson, is a remarkable natural habitat. The wetlands are home to the endangered least tern as well as many other rare species. The site has two trails open to the public.
Not Your Average Park. Burton W. Chace Park offers engaging activities for kids of all ages. Boat owners can stay up to seven nights on guest docks or launch their boat at the ramp. Embrace your inner fisherman at the dock, complete with a fish cleaning station. If you just need to relax, pack a picnic and enjoy the breathtaking 360-degree ocean views of Marina del Rey.
Sheryll Alexander runs a news media agency based in Costa Mesa, California.
More Travel
from the blog
- 05.23.12 – Sutra 5 1
- 05.22.12 – Epic Casino Night
- 05.16.12 – Skate Off!
- 04.08.12 – Get Involved with the Film Fest
- 03.02.12 – Unique Ink!
