Playa del Rey Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more in Playa del Rey, California. Read our comprehensive travel guide for the ultimate experience.


Introduction to Playa del Rey

Playa del Rey is a lesser-known beach town situated in the Westside of Los Angeles County, California. The area offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of LA’s busy streets, with miles of stunning coastline, hiking trails, and a laid-back atmosphere. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore nature, or immerse yourself in local culture, Playa del Rey has something to offer for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Playa del Rey

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Playa del Rey Historical Society: Founded in 1985, PDRHS aims to preserve the history of Playa del Rey. You’ll find a wealth of information at their museum.
  • Marina Del Rey Historical Society: Learn about the history of the Marina del Rey area at this museum, located just a few miles from Playa del Rey.

Natural Attractions of Playa del Rey: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Dockweiler State Beach: A two-mile-long beach known for its fire pits, volleyball courts, and bike path. You can surf, swim, sunbathe, and play beach volleyball.
  • Ballona Wetlands Ecological Reserve: One of the last remaining saltwater marshes in Los Angeles, the reserve offers excellent birdwatching opportunities.
  • Del Rey Lagoon Park: A peaceful, family-friendly park with a playground, picnic area, and walking trail around the lagoon.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Playa del Rey

  • Ballona Creek Trail: A popular 8.8-mile paved bike trail that runs along Ballona Creek to the Marina del Rey.
  • Kenny Hahn State Recreation Area Trail: A 2.5-mile scenic loop trail with stunning views of downtown LA and the Pacific Ocean.

Best Things to Do in Playa del Rey: Activities and Tours

  • Surfing Lessons: Take surfing lessons from one of the many surf schools in the area.
  • Whale Watching Tours: The Pacific Ocean is rich in marine life. Take a whale watching tour to see whales, dolphins, and other sea creatures in their natural habitat.
  • SUP Yoga: Try stand-up paddleboard yoga for a unique and challenging yoga experience.

Week-Long Itinerary for Playa del Rey

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore Ballona Creek Trail by bike
Day 2 Relax at Dockweiler State Beach
Day 3 Visit the Playa del Rey Historical Society
Day 4 Take surfing lessons at the beach
Day 5 Whale watching tour in the Pacific Ocean
Day 6 Hike the Kenny Hahn State Recreation Area Trail
Day 7 Try SUP yoga on the beach

Food and Drink Scene of Playa del Rey

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fish Tacos: Fresh fish tacos are a staple in California. Try them at one of the many local restaurants.
  • Burrito Bowls: Healthy and delicious, burrito bowls at Playa Bowls are a must-try.
  • Hawaiian Poke Bowls: Fresh and tasty, poke bowls at The Poke Shack are a healthy option for anyone craving sushi.

Local Beverages

  • Craft Beer: Playa del Rey has some of the best craft breweries in Los Angeles, including The Dudes’ Brewing Company and HopSaint Brewing Company.
  • Wine Tasting: Visit vineyards in nearby Malibu to taste some of California’s best wines.

Where to Stay in Playa del Rey: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Inn at Playa del Rey: A cozy bed and breakfast with a homey feel. Guests can enjoy complimentary breakfast, bike rentals, and a garden.
  • The Belamar Hotel: A modern and stylish hotel with a pool, fitness center, and on-site restaurant.
  • Hostelling International Los Angeles: A budget-friendly option with comfortable beds and a communal kitchen.

What to Buy in Playa del Rey: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Handmade Jewelry: Find unique handmade jewelry made by local artists at the Playa Venice Sunrise Rotary Club Art Walk.
  • Surfing Gear: Buy surfing gear at one of the many surf shops in the area.

Local Culture and Customs of Playa del Rey

Playa del Rey is a relaxed and laid-back community. Locals are friendly and welcoming, and visitors are encouraged to explore the area’s natural beauty and cultural attractions.

Best Time to Visit Playa del Rey

The best time to visit Playa del Rey is during the summer months of May to September when the weather is warm and sunny. However, be prepared for heavy traffic and crowded beaches during these months.

Do’s and Don’ts of Playa del Rey

Do:

  • Do bring sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
  • Do try surfing or stand-up paddleboarding.
  • Do respect the environment and dispose of trash properly.

Don’t:

  • Don’t forget to stay hydrated, especially during the summer months.
  • Don’t leave valuables unattended.
  • Don’t disregard beach safety warnings.

Safety and Health

Safety in Playa del Rey

Playa del Rey is generally a safe area to visit, and violent crime is rare. However, visitors should still be cautious and take basic safety precautions such as locking cars and securing valuables.

Health in Playa del Rey

The air quality in Playa del Rey can be poor due to close proximity to LAX Airport. Those with respiratory issues may want to take precautions such as wearing a mask or limiting outdoor activity on days with poor air quality.

Getting to Playa del Rey: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Playa del Rey

  • Los Angeles International Airport (LAX): Located just two miles from Playa del Rey, LAX is the primary airport serving the Los Angeles area.

Bus Stations Near Playa del Rey

  • Playa Del Rey Bus Station: Served by the Big Blue Bus Line, this station provides easy access to other destinations in the Los Angeles area.

Other Options

  • Car Rentals: Renting a car is a great way to explore the surrounding areas at your leisure.
  • Taxis and Rideshare Services: Taxis and rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft are readily available in the area.

How to Get Around in Playa del Rey

The best way to get around Playa del Rey is by bike or on foot. The area is relatively small, and most of the attractions are within a short distance of each other.

Where to Go Next from Playa del Rey: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Marina del Rey: Just a few miles north of Playa del Rey, Marina del Rey is a popular boating destination.
  • Venice Beach: A vibrant beach town known for its colorful boardwalk and canals.
  • Santa Monica: An iconic beach town with a plethora of shops, restaurants, and attractions.

Conclusion

Playa del Rey is a hidden gem in the Los Angeles area, with its stunning coastline, natural beauty, and friendly locals. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach or explore local culture, Playa del Rey has something for everyone. Plan your next trip to Playa del Rey today and experience all that this beautiful town has to offer.