Venice is one of LA’s most popular beach communities. Located beside Santa Monica, the neighborhood has always been known for its edgy, laidback, and hip vibe.

In recent years, Venice has gained reputation as a tech haven and the heart of Silicon Beach – a stretch of cities on Westside LA that’s home to over 500 tech and startup companies.

Venice is no stranger to transformations. Since its founding in 1905, it has welcomed a diverse population of artists, celebrities, athletes, musicians, and others who were instrumental to creating the distinctive Venice vibe. Now a center of tech, the neighborhood’s new residents include a highly educated workforce who continue to enjoy Venice’s unique culture and community spirit.

The neighborhood’s famous boardwalk is a favorite spot for skateboarders, roller skaters, bikers, and even scooter riders. Along the stretch stand various shops and boutiques, as well as bars and restaurants where it’s never too early for happy hour. It’s also a great spot to get a spectacular view of the famous LA sunset.

Some of the more popular joints here include the Hinano Cafe, which is known to be the favorite hangout of The Door’s Jim Morrison. The outdoor Muscle Beach Gym, which Arnold Schwarzenegger used to call his home turf, is also found along the stretch of Venice Beach.

The Venice Canals, inspired by the Venetian Canals in Italy, provide plenty of Instagrammable moments, with the quaint waterway surrounded by colorful houses and seasonal flowers.

Among the most popular, quirky structures in the area is the Venice Renaissance Building, a residential complex with 66 condos and 23 rental apartments. You can’t miss it – not with the gigantic clown ballerina sculpture mounted right over the building’s front entrance.

You should also check out the curious Binocular Building, with a façade shaped like an actual pair of binoculars. It’s Google’s office building today, but is known as a must-see tourist destination because of its outstanding design.

The Wave House, the home of designer Mario Romano, is another must-see Venice Beach structure. It’s as contemporary as it can get, its ocean inspired design achieved with sections of white aluminum, cedar blocks, and skateboard decks.

Many beach bungalows can be found on Venice Beach, with backyards and front yards that lead straight to the beach. These properties are typically rented out to guests, especially during the peak season, but a good number of residents also stay put. Whether you’re looking for home for your personal use or as an investment property, the Scottman & Rande team can help you achieve your real estate goals.