Is Santa Monica/Venice Beach Still Travel Worthy?

Question

We have traveled to Santa Monica/Venice in April/May for about 10 years in a row and have not been back since covid. We have always loved the crowds and classic rock live music scene. We saw a change in the last couple of years before covid. With all that has been going on, what can we expect if we travel there this year? We have loved it in years past. Do you still think it's travel worthy?

Answer

Santa Monica and Venice Beach remain popular destinations, and for travelers who love the vibrant beach atmosphere, live music, and eclectic crowds, there is still a lot to enjoy. However, the area has evolved over the past several years, and your experience may differ somewhat from pre-COVID visits.

What to Expect in 2025:

The crowds are back, especially on weekends and during spring months. Tourists and locals alike flock to the boardwalk, beach, and Third Street Promenade in Santa Monica.
Venice Beach still retains its eclectic, artsy vibe with street performers, murals, skate parks, and vendors, although some parts have become more commercialized and gentrified.
Classic rock and live music venues exist, but many smaller local bars and clubs have rotated ownership, and some have been replaced with more mainstream venues or new restaurant concepts.
Safety and cleanliness have improved in certain areas, but like any urban beach destination, some sections can feel more chaotic or crowded than in previous years.

Recommended Activities:

Stroll along the Santa Monica Pier and enjoy the rides, games, and views.
Walk or bike along the boardwalk connecting Santa Monica and Venice to experience street performers and murals.
Check out live music at local bars or the Santa Monica Playhouse – call ahead to see if classic rock nights are scheduled.
Explore the Venice Canals for a quieter, scenic stroll away from the busiest areas.
Dine at updated restaurants along Abbot Kinney Boulevard or Main Street in Venice for a mix of local and international cuisine.

Travel Considerations:

Parking and traffic can still be challenging, so plan ahead for beach and downtown visits.
Weekdays are generally less crowded and more relaxed if you want to avoid the busiest tourist times.
Accommodation options remain abundant, but beachfront hotels have become pricier; booking early is recommended.
While the classic rock and local bar scene may not be exactly as it was pre-COVID, there are still venues catering to live music fans, and the beach vibe remains strong.

In summary, Santa Monica and Venice Beach are still very much travel-worthy, particularly if you enjoy lively crowds, beach culture, and eclectic entertainment. Adjust expectations slightly for changes in the local scene, but overall, you can still find many of the experiences that made these areas appealing in the past.