A Beginner’s Guide to the Venice Beach Skatepark
The rise of skate culture dates back to the 1970s, when the Z-Boys’ skateboard group formed in Dogtown…also known as the Venice and Santa Monica area. Fast forward to the early 2000s when Venice Beach Skatepark was built—a moment that further solidified Venice as the home base for the Southern California skate scene.
From sunrise to sunset, seasoned pros and newcomers flock to the concrete jungle situated just steps away from the shore. The park’s design allows for a range of skating styles and features two bowls, a winding snake run, and a street section complete with ledges, rails, and stairs sets. Altogether, it brings together a diverse community built on camaraderie, creativity, and a passion for skateboarding.
One of the great things about skateboarding is that there are no rules. But if you are ready to drop in at the Venice Beach Skatepark, there’s a few unspoken ones to keep in mind:
- Be patient and wait your turn – respect the locals and make sure you don’t cut anyone off.
- Observe your surroundings – when it’s your turn, look around you before dropping in.
- Skate with the flow of traffic – this will help you avoid crashing into anyone.
- Don’t take yourself too seriously – wipeouts are inevitable, so stay cool and keep cruising.
Even if you’re not shredding yourself, the people watching, epic Pacific Ocean views, and energetic atmosphere create a vibrant destination worth experiencing. Plus, with the beach and the boardwalk located on either side of the park, there’s no shortage of entertainment for the day.
Venice V is proud to be part of skate culture and honor its history — you don’t have to look far to see its influence sprinkled throughout our interiors, with custom in-room skateboards, original B&W skate photos, and wall murals that nod to the Dogtown days.
For more on all things skate, check out some of our favorite local skateboard shops and skateboarding lessons.
