Endless Summer on LA’s Westside: 24 Hours of Culture, Cocktails, and Coastal Cool

/in , , , , /by

Summer may be over in Ireland, but in Los Angeles, locals are still chasing ocean breezes and dipping into the Pacific until late October.

There’s no better way to spend a warm day than on LA’s Westside. From culinary landmarks to coastal sunsets and hidden gems waiting to be discovered, here is Los Angeles Tourism’s guide to make the most of a perfect day across Culver City, Mar Vista, and Venice.

Morning in Culver City

Start your day with coffee and fresh-baked bread at Helms Bakery, a historic landmark in Culver City guided by Michelin-recognized Chef Sang Yoon. The newly opened bakery offers warm sourdough baguettes and in-house roasted coffee.

Next, make your way to Downtown Culver City for boutique shopping at The Culver Steps or the Platform on Washington Boulevard. Here you’ll find Reformation, Kinn, Catbird and more.

For those looking to get the blood pumping, head over to the Culver Stairs, a local favourite hike with over 280 steps. Bring your camera to capture panoramic views of the Los Angeles Basin, the Pacific Ocean and surrounding mountains while enjoying the breeze at the top.

More Local Favourites:

  • Pop-into The Culver Hotel, celebrating its 100th anniversary, for a classic American breakfast or elegant afternoon tea in the opulent living room.
  • Schedule a facial at Formula Fig for a self-care boost.
  • Get your hands dirty at Bitter Root Pottery.
  • Refuel at Destroyer, a minimalist café blending artful plating with bold flavours.

 Afternoon in Mar Vista

Just west along Venice Boulevard lies Mar Vista, a laid-back neighbourhood balancing artistic spirit with culinary flair. Filled with multi-cultural restaurants, artist pop-ups, coffee shops and shopping, Mar Vista brings a new approach to the Westside.

If exploring has worked up an appetite, head over to Saby’s, a family-owned modern Mexican cafe with creative lattes and classic burritos. Try the Channel Orange latte with a chipotle chicken burrito and grab a seat outdoors for prime people-watching.

Give back while shopping at Time Travel Mart, a funky gift shop where all proceeds go to 826LA, a non-profit organization dedicated to unlocking and cultivating the creative power of writing for students.

More Local Favourites:

  • Visit the Mar Vista Farmer’s Market (Sundays), featuring tons of vendors and artisan goods.
  • Catch a wave at Saba Surf Cafe. This recently opened cafe is part coffee shop, part surf shop.
  • California meets Italy at the new Beethoven Market. As Owner Jeremy Adler’s first solo- adventure, Beethoven Market is meant to feel like an extension of your own living room, ready to be filled with family & friends.

 Evening in Venice Beach

As the sun begins to set, make your way to Venice Beach, where roller skaters, musicians, and artists embody the neighbourhood’s free spirit.

Wander through the hidden gem of Venice Walk Streets. Just steps from the beach, these pedestrian-only streets date back to the 1900s and were originally the vision of developer and conservationist Abbot Kinney, who wanted to recreate the beautiful streets of Venice, Italy. For a fun photo stop, pop over to the Mosaic Tile House, covered head-to-toe in hand-laid tiles.

After admiring the colourful home, head over for drinks at Kassi Rooftop Venice Beach. Opened in June, Kassi Venice Beach sits atop Hotel Erwin and features Mediterranean cuisine with a creative cocktail menu. For the rest of the evening, it’s fair game. Whether you’re grabbing dinner, a sweet treat or soaking in the evening’s cool weather, there’s not a bad choice in Venice.

More Local Favourites:

Find out more about visiting LA here.