Venice

One of the most colorful neighborhoods in America, Venice Beach is loved for its warm weather, cool ocean breezes and fun parade of characters that give the area a distinct and amusing personality. Take advantage of the blue skies and sunshine and explore Venice Beach bars and clubs during the day. Numerous ocean side decks, rooftop lounges and patios on the famous Venice Beach Boardwalk offer cold drinks and cool crowds, from the legendary Sidewalk Cafe to the new Venice Ale House.
Relax and kick back as you drink in the views of the Pacific Ocean at sexy beach bars, indulge in people-watching over cocktails at boardwalk cafes or catch a local band at a live music venue. Happy hour is popular at bars in Venice Beach, with deals on food and drink at the area's sports bars, dive joints and pubs. Hit up the Venice Whaler with the surfing crowd after dark, or head towards the Venice Pier and the Washington Square area for a more upscale experience. And don't miss Abbot Kinney Boulevard, an artsy, off-the-beaten-path destination popular for its First Friday art walk and hip venues including a wine bar, microbrewery and jazz lounge. - Shilo Urban