The Marvin Braude Bike Trail, widely known as The Strand, is one of the most iconic cycling and walking paths in all of Southern California. Stretching more than 22 miles of uninterrupted car-free coastline from Pacific Palisades in the north to Torrance Beach in the south, it connects beach communities, state parks, harbors, and some of the most spectacular ocean views in Los Angeles.
The Marina del Rey section is one of the most rewarding stretches of the entire trail. It is wider and less congested than Santa Monica or Venice on most days, and home to one waterfront destination that absolutely should not be skipped.
Here is a guide to the best stops along the Marvin Braude Trail through Marina del Rey, whether you are riding the full length or just exploring a section for an afternoon.
For more on exploring the area, visit Explore Marina del Rey.
Entering Marina del Rey from Venice
Coming south from Venice Beach, the trail passes the Venice Pier and begins to shift noticeably in character as you cross into Marina del Rey. The dense activity of the Venice boardwalk gives way to a more open, quieter stretch of coastline.
The crowds thin, the path widens, and the sight lines extend far out over the Pacific. This is where many riders settle into a comfortable rhythm for a longer push south.
Dockweiler State Beach: Open Space and Bonfires
As the trail continues south through the Playa del Rey area into Dockweiler State Beach, you enter one of the last remaining stretches of Los Angeles County coastline where public beach bonfires are still permitted.
According to the California Department of Parks and Recreation, Dockweiler is one of the very few beaches in LA County with designated public fire rings, which makes it a popular destination for evening rides that end around a bonfire.
The beach here is notably wide and significantly less crowded than the beaches to the north. The views looking west at sunset are exceptional.
If you are riding in the late afternoon, build in extra time at Dockweiler. The light during the last hour before sunset is unlike anywhere else on the trail.
Fisherman’s Village: The One Stop You Should Not Miss
Without question, Fisherman’s Village is the highlight stop on the Marvin Braude Trail through Marina del Rey.
This waterfront shopping and dining destination sits right on the main channel of the marina and is directly accessible from the bike path. You can lock up your bike at the waterfront racks and walk onto the dock promenade within seconds of stopping.
The New England-inspired architecture, the views of sailboats and powerboats moving through the main channel, the waterside restaurants and cafes, and the generally unhurried atmosphere make Fisherman’s Village the kind of place where a planned five-minute stop reliably turns into a full hour.
On weekend afternoons, there are often live music performances on the Village green, which makes lingering even easier to justify. If you are riding with children, this is an ideal stop. There is plenty to look at, easy places to sit, and food options that cover a wide range of preferences.
Burton Chace Park: The Hidden Gem
A short distance past Fisherman’s Village, Burton Chace Park juts out into the marina on a narrow point that offers 270-degree views of the harbor. Picnic tables, well-maintained grassy areas, benches positioned for watching boat traffic, and some of the most expansive views of the marina available from dry land make this one of the genuinely beautiful stops on the entire trail.
Many cyclists ride past without realizing it is right there. Look for the turnoff just past the main marina channel crossing.
If you only have time for one stop beyond Fisherman’s Village, make it Burton Chace Park. Bring a snack, find a bench with a water view, and stay longer than you planned to.
Planning Your Ride
The best time to ride the Marina del Rey section of the Marvin Braude Trail is on a weekday morning or early afternoon, when path traffic is lightest.
Summer weekends bring heavy foot and bike traffic, particularly between Venice and the marina. Bike rentals are available at multiple locations along the trail for those who do not bring their own.
For more information on things to do, places to eat, and ways to explore Marina del Rey by bike, on foot, or on the water, visit Explore Marina Del Rey.
