Marina del Rey harbor at golden hour with boats and waterfront promenade
January 15, 2025 6 min read Local Guide

24 Hours in Marina del Rey: What to See, Eat & Do

Your complete day-by-day guide to Marina del Rey! Where to grab coffee, best beach spots, dinner recommendations, and parking tips from locals.

Morning (7:00 AM - 12:00 PM)

☕ Start with Coffee

Begin your Marina del Rey adventure with excellent coffee at Blue Bottle Coffee in nearby Playa del Rey (5 min drive) or grab a quick cup at Salt Air Coffee right in the marina.

💡 Local Tip: Salt Air Coffee opens at 7 AM and has waterfront seating. Parking is free for the first hour at Marina Marketplace.

🚶‍♀️ Marina Walk & Waterfront

Walk the Marina del Rey Waterfront Promenade - a 2.5-mile loop with stunning boat views. Stop at:

  • Marina Beach Mother's Beach: Calm, protected beach perfect for families
  • Fisherman's Village: Shops, restaurants, and harbor views
  • Burton Chace Park: Green space with picnic areas and yacht views

🅿️ Parking Strategy

Free 2-hour parking at Burton Chace Park. For longer stays, use paid parking at Marina Marketplace ($2/hour) or Fisherman's Village (validated with purchase).

Afternoon (12:00 PM - 6:00 PM)

🥗 Lunch with a View

Top lunch spots with marina views:

  • The Warehouse Restaurant: Fresh seafood, outdoor patio ($$-$$$)
  • Tony P's Dockside Grill: Casual, waterfront dining ($$)
  • California Pizza Kitchen: Family-friendly with marina views ($-$$)

🚴‍♂️ Beach Bike Path

Rent bikes at Marina del Rey and ride the famous Marvin Braude Bike Trail (The Strand). Head south to Manhattan Beach (6 miles) or north to Venice Beach (3 miles).

🚲 Bike Rental: $15-25/day at Bike Rental Central or Wheel Fun Rentals near Fisherman's Village.

🛍️ Shopping & Activities

Browse Villa Marina Marketplace for shopping, or take a harbor cruise from Fisherman's Village (seasonal, $25-40/person).

Evening (6:00 PM - 11:00 PM)

🌅 Sunset Viewing

Best sunset spots (facing west over the ocean):

  • Marina Beach: Direct beach access, unobstructed views
  • Burton Chace Park: Elevated views, picnic tables
  • The Ritz-Carlton balcony bar: Cocktails with panoramic views

🍽️ Dinner Options

Elevated dining for your perfect end to the day:

  • Jer-ne Restaurant: Fine dining, seafood focus ($$$-$$$$)
  • Chart House: Steakhouse with marina views ($$-$$$)
  • Café del Rey: Contemporary American, patio dining ($$)

🍸 Nightlife: End your night at Cast & Plow rooftop bar or The Warehouse for drinks with harbor views.

📋 Essential Info

Best Time to Visit: Spring-Fall

Free Parking: Burton Chace Park (2hrs)

Paid Parking: $2-5/hour at most lots

Weather: 65-75°F year-round

Walking Distance: Most attractions within 1 mile

Public Transit: Metro Bus Line 108

Ready to Stay in Marina del Rey? 🌊

Book directly with Stay Del Rey and save 5-10% on your coastal getaway. All our properties are within walking distance of these amazing spots!

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