Luxury holidays in Venice Beach

When to go

Typical of the Sunshine State, temperatures are roasting in July and August. Visit in early spring or just before Christmas for balmy weather in the mid-teens, ideal for sightseeing.

Getting there

• Planes

  Most international and local airlines (including British Airways; www.britishairways.com) operate direct flights to LAX, a 15-minute drive from Venice Beach’s bustling Boardwalk.

• Trains

  Downtown Santa Monica light rail station on Colorado Avenue is a few minutes’ walk from the famous Santa Monica Pier. Expo Line trams arrive here frequently from LA, Long Beach and Pasadena.

• Automobiles

  A car will be useful if you plan on exploring the surrounding area – hire a vintage Mustang (or something more quotidian) from a booth at the airport and follow Lincoln Boulevard north to Venice Beach.