Adventure Collective Journal

Adventure Collective Journal

The Adventure Collective Journal publishes in-depth travel stories, destination guides, and adventure features that celebrate discovery and wonder. A digital magazine for explorers and dreamers alike.

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Explore Los Angeles by Bike: A Self-Guided Ride from Santa Monica Promenade

Explore Los Angeles by Bike: A Self-Guided Ride from Santa Monica Promenade

Discover Los Angeles from a new perspective with a self-guided bike ride that starts at Santa Monica Promenade. Cruise through Venice Canals and Muscle Beach while enjoying California’s year-round sunshine.

Santa Monica, California
2–4 hours
By Adventure CollectiveOctober 2025

The Experience

Before You Go

Stay Hydrated

Bring a water bottle to stay hydrated while riding under the California sun.

Use Sunscreen

Protect your skin with broad-spectrum sunscreen for midday rides.

Wear Comfortable Clothes

Dress in breathable layers to adapt to changing temperatures during your ride.

Obey Traffic Rules

Follow all local traffic laws and signals to ensure your safety on busy streets.

Local Knowledge

Hidden Gems

  • Secret Venice Canals walkways accessible only by bike
  • Art Walls off Abbott Kinney Boulevard showcasing local street art

Wildlife

  • Seagulls by the beachfront
  • Occasional dolphins spotted offshore

Conservation Note

The rental encourages eco-friendly tourism by promoting bike travel as a zero-emission alternative to cars in LA’s traffic-congested areas.

Santa Monica Promenade has been a gathering place since the early 20th century, with nearby Venice Canals designed in 1905 inspired by Venice, Italy.

Photographer's Notes

Best times:Golden hour, Early morning, Late afternoon
Key viewpoints:
  • Venice Canals bridges
  • Muscle Beach outdoor gym
  • Marina del Rey harbor
Subjects to capture:Coastal landscapes, Street art, Active lifestyle scenes

What to Bring

HelmetEssential

Ensure safety on urban streets by wearing a properly fitted helmet.

Water BottleEssential

Stay hydrated during longer rides in warm weather.

Sunglasses

Protect your eyes from bright sunlight and coastal glare.

Light Jacket

Helpful for cooler mornings or evenings along the coast.

Common Questions

Do I need to book my bike rental in advance?

It's recommended to reserve your bike rental ahead of time, especially during weekends and holidays, to ensure availability.

Are electric bikes available?

Yes, Los Angeles Bike Rentals offers eBikes which provide pedal-assist for easier riding over longer distances.

Can I rent bikes suitable for kids?

Absolutely, the service includes kids' bikes, tag-a-longs, and baby trailers for family-friendly adventures.

What are the store hours?

The rental shop is open from 9AM to 5PM from November through March and extends to 7PM from April to October.

Is the bike ride guided?

This is a self-guided experience, allowing you to explore at your own pace with suggested routes.

Are helmets provided with rentals?

Yes, helmets are included with every rental for your safety.

Book This Experience

Check Availability

Duration

2–4 hours

Location

Santa Monica, California

Difficulty

easy

Fitness Level

Suitable for all fitness levels; casual to moderate ride with flat to gentle elevation changes

Free cancellation available

Ready to Explore Santa Monica?

Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.

Check Availability & Book Now