Things to Do in Venice

Four full courts right on the Pacific Ocean boardwalk, home to some of the most competitive pickup basketball in the country. Games have been running continuously since the early 1980s. Free and open to the public. Expect high-level runs on weekends and summer evenings. Bring your own ball or join a game in progress.

1800 Ocean Front Walk, Venice, CA 90291 · Daily, dawn to dusk · outdoor

Smoked fish plate, pastries, communal tables. 5 minutes from the beach.

Bakery-deli-cafe from the Gjelina team in Venice. The smoked fish plate, the lamb sausage flatbread, the pastries — everything is made in-house and everything is absurdly good. Order at the counter, eat at communal tables or take it to the beach 5 minutes away. The line is long on weekends but moves. 30 minutes from DTLA, 5 minutes from the sand.

320 Sunset Ave, Venice, CA 90291 · Daily 7am-4pm · 310-314-0320

Best bakery in Venice, maybe in LA. Dogs on the patio while you eat bread that justifies living here. Go early.

Sprawling Venice bakery-cafe with one of the best outdoor patios in West LA for dogs. Phenomenal bread, pastries, and sandwiches. Order inside, eat outside with your dog. Gets crowded — go before 10am on weekends or expect to wait for a table.

320 Sunset Ave, Venice, CA 90291 · Mon-Sun 7am-4pm · outdoor