Marina del Rey Where Summer Begins

Waterfront stays, curated dining, and a calendar of events tied to the global excitement of the FIFA World Cup make this seaside destination a must-visit this season.

Just a short drive from Santa Clarita, a completely different pace of life awaits in Marina del Rey, one defined by ocean breezes, glistening water views, and an easygoing coastal rhythm that instantly signals you’ve left the everyday behind. It’s the kind of destination that doesn’t require a plane ticket to feel like an escape, making it ideal for a spontaneous weekend getaway.
Our stay at Jamaica Bay Inn set the tone from the moment we arrived. The boutique hotel offers a relaxed yet refined coastal aesthetic, with comfortable accommodations and a front-row seat to marina life. Mornings began with breakfast on-site, where the combination of fresh offerings and waterfront views made for an easy, enjoyable start to each day. It’s a convenient home base that places you right in the center of everything Marina del Rey has to offer.
Beyond the hotel, what truly makes Marina del Rey stand out is the range of activities available, whether you want to be active or simply take it all in. The marina itself is the largest man-made small craft harbor in North America, and it’s designed to be experienced up close. Kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding are among the most popular ways to get out on the water, offering a unique perspective of the harbor and its surroundings. For those looking for something more leisurely, electric boat rentals allow you to cruise the marina at your own pace—no boating experience required.
Biking is another great way to explore the area, with a scenic coastal path that connects Marina del Rey to neighboring beach communities like Venice and Santa Monica. Along the way, you’ll find beach access points, casual cafés, and plenty of places to stop and take in the views. If you prefer to stay on land, waterfront walking paths and parks provide an easy way to enjoy the marina without a set agenda.
As Marina del Rey moves into May and June, the destination takes on an added level of energy. In partnership with the Marina del Rey Tourism Board, the area is embracing the excitement surrounding the FIFA World Cup with themed programming and events that bring a global influence to the local scene.
One of the highlights during this time is the sand sculpture series at Mother’s Beach, where large-scale, detailed creations are built right on the sand. These installations, inspired by soccer culture and Los Angeles landmarks, are both impressive and accessible—perfect for visitors of all ages. The displays are complemented by interactive elements and photo opportunities, creating a lively, community-focused atmosphere.
Seasonal offerings continue with a weekly farmers market, where local vendors showcase fresh produce and artisan goods, and the return of the popular Summer WaterBus in mid-June. For a minimal fare, the WaterBus allows visitors to hop between key points around the marina, making it both a practical and enjoyable way to explore.
Dining is another area where Marina del Rey excels, and our itinerary offered a great snapshot of what’s available. We dined at STOA Wine Bar & Market, a stylish yet approachable spot known for its curated wine selection and well-executed menu. It’s the kind of place that works equally well for a casual evening or a more elevated dining experience, with an emphasis on quality ingredients and thoughtful presentation.
The following evening, dinner at Beachside Restaurant & Bar showcased one of the area’s biggest strengths, dining with a view. Overlooking the water, the restaurant pairs fresh, coastal-inspired cuisine with a setting that captures the essence of Marina del Rey. It’s an ideal spot to wind down after a day of exploring, especially as the sun sets over the marina.
For those looking to elevate their evening even further, Marina del Rey also offers dining cruises and harbor tours, combining great food with a unique on-the-water experience. Watching the marina light up at night from the deck of a boat adds a memorable element to any visit and highlights just how versatile this destination can be.
What makes Marina del Rey so appealing is its versatility. You can fill your day with activities, paddling through the harbor, biking along the coast, browsing local markets, or keep things simple and enjoy the setting at your own pace. It’s equally suited for a quick weekend stay or a full week of exploration.
For Santa Clarita residents, this coastal destination is not only appealing but incredibly convenient. In a relatively short drive, you can trade inland views for waterfront scenery, busy schedules for open-air experiences, and routine for something that feels like a true getaway. Marina del Rey delivers a well-rounded escape-one that’s easy to reach and even easier to enjoy.
For more information visit www.visitmdr.com.

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