Venice

Venice, Los Angeles CA

In Venice, a rich tapestry of history and culture blends seamlessly with the pristine sands of the California coastline. Founded in 1905 by tobacco mogul and visionary developer Abbot Kinney, this vibrant neighborhood was inspired by the European city of Venice, and like its Italian namesake, it comes complete with canals and Venetian-inspired architecture.

You can still see and appreciate the remaining landmarks from its early years, but the neighborhood has become so much more than just a homage to one of the most famous cities in the world. LA’s Venice has become very much a hub of culture and creativity.

The Venice Beach Boardwalk, once the site of the Venice Amusement Pier, bustles with tourist activity and eye-catching street performers and eclectic shops. Elsewhere in the neighborhood, vibrancy gives way to a more laid-back atmosphere. Residential areas are lined with beautiful palm-covered modern homes and coveted beachfront residences.

Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Venice, CA or casually considering a visit in town, here’s what you can expect from this dynamic Los Angeles neighborhood.

A Brief History of Venice, CA

Founded in 1905, “Venice of America” was envisioned as a cultural beacon that would foster creativity and intellectual pursuits. When the father of this newfound community, Abbot Kinney, noticed that there was increasing demand for recreational attractions, he began to shift the community’s direction. Various amusements were created to entice more people to visit, from an extensive canal network mimicking Italy’s Venice and a heated indoor salt-water plunge to various sideshows and at the Kinney Pier.

By the 1960s, the Beat Generation spurred a full-blown cultural movement that swept the seaside neighborhood. Poets, artists, and musicians flocked to Venice, including the members of the famous rock band, The Doors. It was also around this time that modern skateboarding was born. Legend has it that the sport was pioneered by local surfers (the likes of Tony Alva, Stacy Peralta, and Jay Adams) who wanted to continue honing their skills even when waves were absent.

The cultural influences of that 1960s renaissance continue to reverberate through the years.

With the influx of tech startups and entrepreneurs in the 2010s, Venice remains a hub of new ideas and continues to fulfill the original intentions of its founder. This abundance of energy makes homes for sale in Venice, CA some of the most appealing real estate on the West Coast.

What Venice, CA is Known For

• Surfing and skateboarding culture. Owing to its oceanfront location, you’ll see a ton of surfers and surf shops in Venice. Plus, the birth of modern skateboarding is often credited to Venice-based surfers.

• Venice Beach. The neighborhood’s famous beachfront and boardwalk are busy 24/7. Thousands of people pass through and visit the shops and restaurants.

• Venice Canal Historic District. This iconic neighborhood features palm-lined waterfront residences and beautiful bridges that connect the different parts of the neighborhood.

• The Beat Movement in Southern California. In the 1960s, the Beatnik scene found a home in Venice, where it transformed the neighborhood into a counterculture powerhouse.

• Celebrity sightings. Like other LA neighborhoods, Venice also has its fair share of celebrities who live in the area or who are just passing through. John Frusciante, Jonah Hill, Robert Downey Jr., and Kate Beckinsale are just a few famous personalities who are often spotted in town.

A Premier Waterfront Location

Located along the scenic Los Angeles County coastline, Venice boasts spectacular ocean views and proximity to one of the most populated metropolitan areas in the country. To the west is the vast expanse of the Pacific, to the north is the rolling landscape of the Santa Monica Mountains, and to the east is the city of LA’s glitzy haunts and popular communities.

From Venice, you’re within striking distance from the finest modern conveniences and the most breathtaking outdoor attractions this side of California. The main thoroughfares that comprise the neighborhood’s boundaries are Rose Avenue, Lincoln Boulevard, Washington Boulevard, and the aptly named Pacific Avenue. Venice Boulevard bisects the neighborhood and is typically the route to take when you’re exploring the rest of LA.

• Santa Monica. Known for its iconic pier and frequent appearance in popular culture, Santa Monica is in many respects a world-renowned city. It’s right beside Venice and together, these two communities are at the heart of LA’s surfing culture and creative scene. Santa Monica’s storied real estate history is also a big draw for discerning buyers who are in the market for homes once occupied by famous actors and titans of industry.

• Marina Del Rey. Though it doesn’t have sandy beaches, Marina Del Rey is better known for its man-made marina, which is the docking point for a wide array of small boats and yachts. The community also has its fair share of waterfront residences and a premium shopping experience in Fisherman’s Village, a waterfront promenade.

• Playa Del Rey. Buyers looking for a quieter LA community will appreciate Playa Del Rey. It’s mostly residential, with a good mix of single-family homes, spacious apartments, and condos with waterfront views. It even has its own beach, where you’ll find a paved bike path, volleyball areas, and fire pits. The nearby Ballona Wetlands is a favorite spot for bird watchers.

Venice is blessed with a cool summer Mediterranean climate. Much like the rest of LA, the neighborhood receives over 260 days of sunshine every year. Thanks to its coastal location, the warmer seasons typically bring in strong ocean breezes that cool the area. Bear in mind that summers are hot and dry, especially during the months from July to September. With mild and temperate weather conditions, snowfall is rare in Venice. The winter months sometimes bring in the occasional rain.

The Real Estate Market: Modern Luxury by the Waterfront

It’s no surprise that Los Angeles real estate commands top dollar. Homes for sale in Venice, CA usually go for million-dollar price tags — ranging from $1.5 million to as high as $15 million.

The housing inventory is fairly diverse, a mix of single-family homes, condos, townhouses, and a few multi-family units on generous lots. You’ll find these residences in a number of architectural styles, including Mid-Century, Cape Code, and California Bungalow.

Those who want to be as close to the beachfront as possible should explore homes along the thoroughfares of Pacific Avenue and Speedway. Expect to pay even more of a premium for these waterfront properties. That said, the shore is still within convenient walking distance if you’re considering a location a handful of blocks away (say, in the vicinity of Hampton Drive and 4th Avenue). On the other hand, buyers who are looking for a respite from the bustle of tourists can explore the historic Oakwood community, as well as the Venice canals and the Silver Triangle area.

• Windward Circle. This small slice of residential real estate was once the heart of the former city. As Venice grew and was eventually annexed by LA, Windward Circle’s water canals were converted into streets and several establishments set up shop — adding an air of energy and eclectic charm to the neighborhood. But there are still a select few historic homes in the area, many of which have been carefully restored.

• Venice Beach. If you want to be close to where the action is, a Venice Beach home is likely one of your best bets. In addition to being lined with a variety of shops, vendors, street performers, and artists, this area is right next door to the perennially busy Venice Beach Boardwalk and the iconic Muscle Beach.

• Venice Canals. For some historic charm, you’ll want to look into homes in the Venice Canals area. Buyers who want some distance from the hubbub of commercial areas will appreciate the neighborhood’s tranquil atmosphere and palpable residential vibe. Here, you’ll find European-style villas, California Craftsman, and a few contemporary dwellings.

• North of Rose. Just a few blocks away from Venice Beach, the aptly-named North of Rose contains a mix of 20th-century homes (1920s Spanish cottages, post-war duplexes) and swanky new construction built in the 2010s. If you want to live just a few blocks from vibrant shops and restaurants, this is one of the more convenient areas to live in Venice.

• Oakwood. With a rich history dating back to the early years of Venice, the Oakwood enclave has a distinct character that makes it one of Venice’s most desirable communities. Family-oriented buyers are drawn to its larger residences, serene atmosphere, walking distance from schools, and abundance of essential establishments.

• Silver Triangle. Another fairly quiet part of Venice is the Silver Triangle area, located to the east of the Venice Canals. The big draw is its classification as a Single-Family Residential Zone (R-1 Zoning), making it ideal for buyers who want to live in mostly owner-occupied communities.

• East of Lincoln. Stretching from Lincoln Avenue to the intersection of Venice Boulevard and Walgrove Avenue, is a primarily residential community known for its post-war bungalows, ranch-style homes, and a select few residences dating back to the 1920s. Its proximity to Penmar Golf Course and relatively larger lots make it a great neighborhood for those looking for an environment that feels more suburban but is still close to the beach.

Living in Venice, CA

From catching some of the biggest waves on the Southern California coast to sampling the best eats in town, Venice never ceases to inspire a zest for life. Here’s a quick glimpse of what it is like in this LA coastal neighborhood.

• Venice Sign. The sign itself may not excite everyone, but the area’s energetic atmosphere, street art, and local establishments should give you the inspiration you need whenever you need it.

• Venice Walk Streets. This small subsection of Venice offers a peaceful contrast to the activity of Venice Beach. Do remember to be respectful when walking around this residential area. Located further inland near Crescent Place Triangle, Venice Walk Streets is composed of four pedestrian-only walkways where you’ll find beautiful gardens, affluent residences, and some of the oldest homes in the neighborhood.

• Venice Canals. Often considered the neighborhood’s most well-known image, these canals are one of the last remaining remnants of Kinney’s early developments. Here, you’ll discover rows of spacious villas and elegant single-family homes connected via beautifully arching bridges.

• Mosaic Tile House. At 1116 Palms Boulevard is an artful and some would say quirky home built in the 1940s. Filled with all manner of mosaic-style decorations and artwork, the Mosaic Tile House offers a glimpse into the creative soul of Venice.

• Venice Farmers’ Market. The market offers good value fresh produce every Friday morning (from 7 am to 11 pm). From pickled vegetables and quality mushrooms to a variety of fruits, there’s a good range of options that are comparably cheaper than other markets in the area. Make sure to bring cash.

There are quite a few places to shop:

• Along Abbot Kinney Boulevard, you’ll find a mix of high-quality local goods and internationally renowned brands — from hip and trendy bazaar-style shops to sophisticated boutiques.

• Shopping for souvenirs, artifacts, and cool statement shirts? The vibrant stretch of Venice Boardwalk has an assortment of vendors and shops that’ll suit a wide range of interests.

• Casablanca is a decades-old Lincoln Boulevard staple known for its Mexican and seafood dishes. Their homemade flour tortillas make for a special Mexican dining experience. Plus, there are over 250 tequilas to choose from.

• Scopa Italian Roots honors the timeless tradition of Italian cooking. Best to complement your pasta or mouth-watering T-Bone with your choice of wine and dessert (you shouldn’t pass on the tiramisu).

• The Rose Venice is a fixture in the heart of the neighborhood. With its distinct take on Southern California farm-to-table and airy atmosphere, The Rose has delighted loyal customers and traveling foodies for well over 40 years.

• La Isla Bonita is a no-frills Mexican food truck serving some of the freshest tostadas and tacos in the neighborhood. It’s often spotted at the intersection of Rose and 4th Avenue.

• Hinano Cafe is the go-to place for tasty burgers and a cold beer by the beach. There’s not much variety if you’re looking for anything other than burgers, sandwiches, or burritos, but you’ll undoubtedly have a great time hanging out with a diverse set of people from all over the world.

• Great White is a cozy Venice cafe that’s just a few paces away from the boardwalk and the beach. It’s one of the best places to get brunch and coffee. If you’re visiting during the evening (4 pm onwards) make sure to book a reservation.

• Belles Beach House brings you back to the 1970s island lifestyle and serves exquisite cocktails and innovative fusion cuisine. Hawaiian and Japanese influences merge in a distinct flavor that you’d be hard pressed to find elsewhere.

• Venice Beach. This renowned beach’s entire stretch has many activities and major landmarks. Apart from surfing and strolling along the beach, you can go fishing at the Venice Fishing Pier or get a workout at the famous Muscle Beach and connect with a community of fitness enthusiasts. Plus, there’s also a skateboard park, and basketball and volleyball courts.

• Parks and outdoor space. Venice also has its fair share of green spaces. You’ll find a number of parks and recreational areas where you can go for a leisurely walk or go on a picnic, such as Windward Plaza in Venice Beach, Linnie Canal Park, Triangle Park, and Oakwood Recreation Center.

• Penmar Golf Course. Enthusiasts and non-golfers alike will enjoy a visit to Penmar. This 9-hole par-33 course offers well-maintained greens, opportunities to improve your short game, and top-notch customer service.

Learn More about Venice, CA with Antola Properties Group

With seasoned real estate agents by your side, you can explore the rest of Venice, CA, and shortlist the best homes for sale with ease.

Our team at Antola Properties has a wealth of insights that will make your real estate journey effortless and enjoyable. With over 17 years of industry experience, we are known for our comprehensive suite of real estate services and deep understanding of the Los Angeles communities we serve — Venice, Brentwood, Pacific Palisades, Santa Monica, Westchester, and more.

Consider scheduling a private consultation with our team today. You can reach out to us by phone at 310.230.3755 or send us an email.

Source: Zillow and Realtor