A Surfer’s Guide to Venice Beach

Venice Breakwater is located directly on the shore off Windward Avenue just beyond the Venice Public Art Walls. The breakwater is a line of rocks jutting out into the ocean. This literal break in the water causes a buildup of sand on the sea floor, creating some nice rights. Surfed by thousands every year, this is one of the most surfable spots in Los Angeles. On most days, this area gets fairly crowded by midday, so it’s best to arrive early in the morning for the ideal circumstances.

The Venice Fishing Pier jetties into the ocean from West Washington Avenue. Originally built in 1965, the pier suffered damage by the El Niño storms of 1983. Made entirely of concrete, it contains a growth of mussels on its many pilings. A 4,000-ton artificial quarry rock reef lays hidden under the water of its outer 750 feet. This artificial reef creates great swell to the immediate north and south of the pier. This is where the largest waves in Venice break. If deciding to surf here, use caution as the riptide is strong. Not recommended for beginners.

Located on the corner of Windward Avenue and Speedway in Venice, Jay’s Rentals has been helping tourists and locals enjoy outdoor sports since 1996. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable, with most employees spending their own spare time in the water or giving surf lessons. This highly-recognizable building is featured in many movies and television shows shot in Venice. Beyond surfboards, Jay’s also rents wetsuits, bicycles, skateboards, roller skates, inline skates, skimboards, etc. The prices are fair and rentals are by the hour, three hours time, or by the day.

This well-respected surf shop named “best surfboard rental in Santa Monica” by Yelp, opened its doors in 1988 and continues sharing a passion for surfing and skateboarding. Whether a beginner looking to rent a board or a seasoned veteran in need of a repair, this legitimate boarding house will cover customers. Surfboards, skateboards, and bodyboards of every different size, shape and brand, line the walls of this classic California surf shop. The storefront also sells the best in surf gear, clothing, and accessories the industry has to offer.