Windward Plaza, Venice Beach Travel Guide

4.5 (50)

Experience the vibrant heart of Venice Beach at Windward Plaza, where art, culture, and history converge on the iconic Ocean Front Walk.

Windward Plaza, located at Windward Avenue and Ocean Front Walk, marks the heart of Abbot Kinney's 'Venice of America'. This bustling public space, once a network of canals, now serves as a pedestrian hub connecting the beach, boardwalk, and surrounding attractions, offering a taste of Venice's unique culture.

A brief summary to Windward Plaza

1 Windward Ave, Venice, Venice, California, 90291, US
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Monday 6 am-11 pm
Tuesday 6 am-11 pm
Wednesday 6 am-11 pm
Thursday 6 am-11 pm
Friday 6 am-11 pm
Saturday 6 am-11 pm
Sunday 6 am-11 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Windward Plaza.

Visit early in the day, especially on weekends, to avoid crowds and find parking more easily.
Explore the side streets around Windward Avenue for unique shops, art galleries, and hidden gems.
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, as the sun can be intense, especially during the summer months.

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Explore Windward Plaza on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Windward Plaza, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From the intersection of Pacific Avenue and Windward Avenue, Windward Plaza is immediately visible to the west, marked by the Venice Sign and the bustling boardwalk entrance. Simply walk west on Windward Avenue for one block to reach the plaza. The walk is flat and takes less than 5 minutes. Be mindful of pedestrian traffic.
Public Transport

If arriving by the Big Blue Bus or Metro Bus, disembark at the Main Street and Windward Avenue stop. From there, walk one block west on Windward Avenue to reach Windward Plaza. The bus fare is typically $1-2. Check the local transit schedule for the most up-to-date information. From Downtown Santa Monica, take the Big Blue Bus Route 1 or 2 south along Ocean Avenue. The bus fare is $1.25.
Taxi/Ride-Share

Request a drop-off at the corner of Windward Avenue and Speedway for easiest access to Windward Plaza. Be aware that traffic can be heavy, especially on weekends, which may increase the fare. A ride-share from nearby Santa Monica will cost approximately $15-$20, depending on traffic. From Santa Monica Pier, a taxi or ride-share (Uber/Lyft) to Windward Plaza will cost approximately $10-$15, depending on traffic. Ask your driver to drop you off at the corner of Windward Avenue and Ocean Front Walk.
Driving

If driving, be aware that parking near Windward Plaza is limited and can be expensive. Public parking lots are available along Ocean Front Walk and Venice Boulevard, but they fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Rates range from $15-$30 per day. Street parking is also available, but it is often metered and has time restrictions. Consider parking further away and walking or using a ride-share service to avoid parking hassles. Parking fees range from $9-$15 during the day.

Discover more about Windward Plaza

Windward Plaza stands as a vibrant testament to the rich history and eclectic spirit of Venice Beach. Located at the intersection of Windward Avenue and Ocean Front Walk, this bustling public space marks the heart of Abbot Kinney's original 'Venice of America,' a turn-of-the-century resort town modeled after its Italian namesake.Originally, Windward Avenue was one of several canals that crisscrossed the area, with gondolas gliding along the waterways. Replicated pulleys on the facade of Ace Market Place serve as a reminder of the original canals. Today, the plaza serves as a pedestrian hub, connecting the beach, boardwalk, and surrounding attractions. The colonnaded buildings that frame the plaza are remnants of Kinney's grand vision, evoking a sense of the past amidst the vibrant present.Windward Plaza is more than just a geographical landmark; it's a stage for the unique culture of Venice Beach. Street performers entertain passersby with music, acrobatics, and quirky acts. Public art installations add to the visual tapestry, reflecting the neighborhood's artistic soul. The air is filled with the sounds of laughter, music, and the crashing waves of the Pacific Ocean.The plaza provides access to a variety of iconic Venice Beach experiences. To the west lies the beach itself, a wide expanse of sand where sunbathers, surfers, and volleyball players converge. The Ocean Front Walk, a paved promenade, runs parallel to the beach, lined with shops, restaurants, and colorful characters. Muscle Beach, a historic outdoor gym, is a testament to the area's fitness culture. The Venice Skate Park attracts skaters of all skill levels, while the Venice Art Walls showcase the talents of local graffiti artists.Beyond the immediate vicinity of the plaza, visitors can explore the Venice Canal Historic District, a network of picturesque canals that offer a glimpse into the area's past. Abbot Kinney Boulevard, a trendy street lined with boutiques and restaurants, provides a taste of Venice's contemporary culture.Windward Plaza has witnessed many changes throughout its history. In the early 1900s, a pier extended from Windward Avenue into the ocean, offering entertainment and hospitality. However, the pier was destroyed by storms and fires, and eventually demolished in 1947. Despite these changes, the plaza has remained a central gathering place, a symbol of Venice's enduring spirit.