Itinerary: Marina del Rey

Marina del Rey is something of a seaside outpost for the Westside. It’s the largest, man-made, small-craft harbor in the world, with bobbing boats of every shape and size. It covers an area of 1.3 square miles, about half of which is water. And its shore is bustling with activities that just scream Southern California.

Whether you’re looking to rent in-line skates, kayak around the million-dollar yachts or kick back with a margarita at sunset, you’ll find it in Marina del Rey.

Friday

Burn off all that stress from the workday with a walk out to the Breakwater (at the end of Via Marina). As you follow the paved walkway along the main channel of the marina, you’ll see fishermen casting their lines into the sea, locals walking their dogs, sailboats passing by, and everyday folks getting their daily dose of exercise. When you reach the end of the walkway, you’ll be standing in one of the best spots along the marina to see the sunset.

If you want to continue your walk, follow the nature trail around the adjacent section of the Ballona Wetlands (Via Marina and Pacific). A trail circles the marsh that sits between many of the mansions.

When the sun hits the sea, make your way over to Fisherman’s Village (13755 Fiji Way, [310] 823-5411). This waterfront plaza resembles a New England fishing town and is lined with shops, restaurants and bars. Eat, drink, and be merry while enjoying beautiful views of the harbor.

Saturday

Skipper a sailboat, captain a powerboat, commandeer a kayak, ride a jet ski or stick to the pedal boats at Marina Boat Rentals (13719 Fiji Way, [310] 574-2822, or https://www.boats-4rent.com). The boat-rental agency sits in the heart of Fisherman’s Village, providing easy access to the water once you decide what oceangoing vessel you want to helm for a day. Prices range from $30 for a half-day kayak rental, to $75 and up for a half-day power boat.

Not interested in going in the marina? Grab your in-line skates or bike, and spend the day circling it. You can skate or ride all the way to the end of the main channel on Via Marina, or begin your journey around the waterway and head to Venice Beach.

In-line skates and bikes are available for rent at Spokes & Stuff (4175 Admiralty Way, in the parking lot of the Jamaica Bay Inn, [310] 306-3332). In-line skate rentals start at $5 an hour; bike rentals, $4-$7.50 an hour.

After the sun sets and your legs are worn out, head to the Warehouse Restaurant (4499 Admiralty Way, [310] 823-5451). Open since 1969, this nautical-themed restaurant offers harbor-side dining on its outdoor patio and live music in the bar Friday and Saturday nights. There’s a $10 cover in the bar after 9 p.m.

Sunday

You don’t have to own a yacht to experience one. Enjoy a champagne brunch at noon with Hornblower Cruises and Events (13755 Fiji Way in Fisherman’s Village, [310] 306-9474). For 20 years, the company has been offering two-hour cruises around the many inlets of the marina. If you’re not much for breakfast, Hornblower also offers dinner-dance cruises Friday and Saturday nights. Sunday brunch costs $39.95; dinner cruises are $59.95 Friday and $64 Saturday. Reservations are recommended.

Walk off brunch in Burton Chace Park (at the end of Mindanao Way). Plop down under a tree, take a nap on the lawn, fly a kite or watch the boats go by. It’s the perfect end to a lazy day.