The Marina del Rey WaterBus is back for its 2026 season. Regular service runs Friday, June 19 through Monday, September 7, with extended special-event service on select dates through October 25. Boats run Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays during the summer, plus the Fourth of July and Labor Day. Rides are $1 per person per one-way trip, cash only, and Fisherman’s Village at 13723 Fiji Way is one of eight boarding stops around the harbor. Here is the full schedule, what to expect on board, and how to plan your day around a WaterBus ride.
What is the Marina del Rey WaterBus?
The WaterBus is a short boat shuttle that loops the main channels of Marina del Rey during the summer. Operated by Hornblower, it gives locals and visitors a water-level view of the harbor without having to move your car between stops. A full loop takes about 45 minutes. You can board at any of the eight stops and hop off wherever you want to spend some time, whether that is lunch, the beach, a concert at the park, or a walk along the waterfront.
What is the 2026 WaterBus schedule?
The regular 2026 season runs from June 19 through September 7, with service Friday through Sunday plus the Fourth of July and Labor Day. After the summer season, the WaterBus keeps running on select fall dates for two special events, with the last day of service on October 25. The WaterBus does not run Monday through Thursday during the regular season.
| Dates | Days | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| June 19 to September 7 | Friday and Saturday (plus July 4) | 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM |
| June 19 to September 7 | Sunday (plus Labor Day, Sept 7) | 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM |
| September 4 to September 25 (Dance MDR) | Fridays | 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM |
| October 24 to October 25 (Marina Spooktacular) | Saturday and Sunday | 2:00 PM to 11:00 PM |
Note: September 4 falls inside the regular summer season, so the WaterBus runs its full Friday hours that day (11:00 AM to 11:00 PM). The 5:00 PM start applies to the Dance MDR Fridays later in September.
If you are visiting Marina del Rey on a weekday during the summer, the best ways to get between waterfront spots are on foot, by bike, or by car. You can see the full layout of the harbor on the marina map.
How much does the WaterBus cost?
Rides are $1 per person, per one-way trip, paid in cash as you board. There are no reservations, no online tickets, and no passes to buy ahead of time. Just show up at any stop with cash in hand. If you hop off at a stop and want to get back on later, that is another $1 per person when you re-board. A family of four doing a full round-trip costs $8, which is hard to beat for a harbor ride.
Where are the WaterBus boarding stops?
The 2026 route has eight boarding stops along the marina:
- Fisherman’s Village (P56) at 13723 Fiji Way: shops, dining, and weekend entertainment
- Burton Chace Park: ideal for picnics, concerts, and waterfront views
- Waterfront Walk near the Ritz-Carlton (P125H): access to upscale hotels and dining
- Marina “Mother’s” Beach: a family-friendly swimming and paddling spot
- Dolphin Marina (P18): near waterfront residences and eateries
- Esprit (P12): great for walking trails and scenic outlooks
- Wetland Park: a peaceful nature space with a waterfront walk
- Del Rey Landing (P1): fuel dock, general store, and harbor access
Frequently Asked Questions
What days does the WaterBus run in 2026?
During the regular season, the WaterBus runs Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from June 19 through September 7, 2026, plus the Fourth of July and Labor Day. It also runs on select fall dates: Fridays from September 4 through September 25 for Dance MDR, and Saturday and Sunday, October 24 and 25, for Marina Spooktacular. There is no Monday through Thursday service during the regular season.
What are the WaterBus hours?
During the summer, service starts at 11:00 AM. It runs until 11:00 PM on Fridays, Saturdays, and the Fourth of July, and until 9:00 PM on Sundays and Labor Day. For the Dance MDR Fridays in September, the WaterBus runs from 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM. For Marina Spooktacular on October 24 and 25, it runs from 2:00 PM to 11:00 PM.
How much is a WaterBus ride?
Each one-way ride is $1 per person, cash only. If you hop off and want to re-board later, it is another $1 per person.
Do you need a reservation for the WaterBus?
No. The WaterBus is walk-on only. Show up at any of the eight stops, pay the driver as you board, and find a seat.
Can you bring bikes or strollers on the WaterBus?
Yes. Bikes and strollers are welcome on board at no extra charge. The WaterBus is a good way to shorten a ride on the Marvin Braude Bike Trail or give a tired kid a break.
Where do you board the WaterBus at Fisherman’s Village?
Fisherman’s Village has free on-site parking at 13723 Fiji Way. The WaterBus dock is clearly marked and is a short walk from the main plaza along the boardwalk.
Plan your ride
If you want a low-stress way to see Marina del Rey from the water, start at Fisherman’s Village, bring a few singles for the fare, and let the boat do the rest. Planning your summer? Take a look at upcoming events at Fisherman’s Village or browse things to do on and around the water.
