The Marvin Braude Bike Trail is a legendary Southern California coastal path stretching 22 miles through Venice, offering sweeping Pacific views, beach culture, and open-air recreation.
The Marvin Braude Bike Trail, originally known as the South Bay Bicycle Trail, was developed over several decades as Los Angeles expanded its coastal parklands. It was renamed to honor Marvin Braude, a longtime Los Angeles City Council member who championed environmental and recreational causes along the coast.
The trail runs from Pacific Palisades in the north to Torrance County Beach in the south, passing through Santa Monica, Venice, Marina del Rey, Manhattan Beach, and Hermosa Beach. Each community adds its own character to the ride, but Venice remains one of the most vibrant and visually distinctive stretches, with its painted boardwalk culture just steps away.
Cyclists, inline skaters, joggers, and walkers all share the wide paved path, which stays largely flat and accessible throughout its length. Benches, water fountains, and beach access points appear at regular intervals, making it easy to pause and take in the view or step onto the sand.
The Marvin Braude Bike Trail offers a genuinely local experience of coastal Los Angeles, one that rewards a slow pace and an open eye for the details that make this stretch of California shoreline unlike anywhere else.
Visit during early morning on weekdays to enjoy the trail at its quietest and catch the light reflecting off the water before the crowds arrive.
Rent a cruiser or hybrid bike from one of the shops near Venice Beach for a relaxed, unhurried ride along the full southern stretch.
Bring sunscreen and a light layer, as the marine layer often keeps mornings cool before the afternoon sun burns through.
Stop at the Venice Beach section to watch the outdoor weight lifters at Muscle Beach, a long-standing local landmark right beside the trail.
Ride north toward Santa Monica Pier for a natural halfway point with restrooms, food vendors, and a lively atmosphere worth a short break.
Cruise the Santa Monica beach path on a classic single-speed bike
Ride a 7-speed beach cruiser on the Santa Monica bike path
Cruise Santa Monica on a light, foldable Jax Rev e-bike
Cruise Santa Monica and Venice on a Valen fat tire e-bike
Ride a Valen Rev e-bike with a rear toddler seat option
Cruise Santa Monica on a 24-inch bike sized for kids and smaller riders
Ride a Lectric XP4 e-bike from steps off the Strand in Redondo Beach
Cruise Redondo Beach on a comfy single-speed bike
Cruise together on a tandem bike along the Redondo Beach Strand
Cruise the coast on a 24-inch bike built for kids and smaller riders