Marina del Rey is a small, upscale neighbourhood on the LA coast, just south of Venice Beach. Built around the world's largest artificial small-craft harbour, it's a relaxed, nautical enclave — more waterfront seafood restaurants and Hornblower dinner cruises than Venice's street circus or Santa Monica's pier scene.
The Admiralty Way loop around the harbour is the main artery, lined with hotels, restaurants, and marinas. Fisherman's Village, a faux New England fishing village at the south end of the harbour, is a cluster of shops and restaurants that serves as the area's tourist focal point. Mother's Beach (Marina Beach) on the bay side is calm and protected, making it popular with families and children.
Marina del Rey is primarily a dining and boating destination — there are no major sightseeing attractions beyond the harbour itself. The restaurants along Admiralty Way and at Fisherman's Village are the main draw, with waterfront dining at sunset a genuine pleasure. Frequent Hornblower cruises depart from Fisherman's Village for cocktail and dinner trips around the marina.
It's conveniently located close to LAX (about 15 minutes), making it a good first or last night option for LA visits.