Unexpected Locales to Soak Up the Long L.A. Summer

Who said summer has to end?

As soon as autumn hits the east coast and maple leaves begin to fall (which, fine, is pretty for about two minutes), us Angelenos are still basking in the warm summer sun. In fact, some may even say that summer lasts 365 days a year in Los Angeles. But that’s not to say you should be roasting on the beach everyday. There are countless unexpected spots to soak up the long summer season throughout the city and, lucky for you, we’ve compiled a list of our top and most surprising faves. Switch it up and experience the season in a new light.

Whether you want to chill beachside or rooftop, Venice is absolutely teeming with spots to spend the ideal summer day. But have you ever considered simply roaming the Venice Canals? Complete with five canals and an architectural array of both quaint and modern bungalows, this Venezia gem is the perfect locale to meander come sunrise or sunset for the quintessential summer experience.

And, of course, don’t forget to book a resy someplace on Abbot Kinney for an epic meal afterward. Explore the canals with your pup in the morn then head to Gjelina Take Away for a killer egg sandwich or breakfast burrito loaded with chorizo. But, if you’re wandering the bridges and paths with your loved one at sunset (with a thermos of wine, we must add), try to snag a table at Felix or Tasting Kitchen for dinner. Oh, and [enter shameless self-promotion] did we mention we have a whole map to Abbot Kinney?

Non-Angelenos are pretty sad that August is coming to an end. But, no—not us. Here, the dog days are (kind of) just beginning. You’ve been avoiding the Santa Monica Pier all summer long but, come fall, the pier is where it’s absolutely at. Twilight on the Pier (which was once a summer-long concert series) will return on September 5th with a Local Meets Global outdoor festival experience.

Each Wednesday night of the series, the pier will light up with epic music, immersive art, delicious eats, a beer and spirits garden, games and so much more. That being said, pack up your chairs and blankets for a Wine Wednesday that’ll be entirely redefined. Even better? No tickets needed.

There’s no doubt that this summer has been smokin’ hot. But, if things start to cool off (fingers crossed), definitely make your way to Frogtown for a funky spin on a classic summer day. This wonderfully weird and creative ’hood along the L.A. River is brimming with some of the coolest eateries, microbreweries and unique activities this city has to offer.

Begin your day at Spoke Bicycle Cafe for a cup of joe and any of their breakfast items (although we’re biased when it comes to the breakfast tostada), then head over to the river for an epic kayak and bike safari (yup, safari). This is where whitewater and wildlife meet urban culture which probably seems bizarre, but don’t question it. After, grab a beer at Frogtown Brewery before indulging in a mind-blowing Mexican meal at Salazar (do yourself a favor and visit their website for a totally strange experience and a glimpse at their drool-worthy menu).