Venice

Venice is the gayest beach in California, especially if you like muscle. This is where bodybuilders of all sexual persuasions come to show off and walk up and down the 1.5km boardwalk eyeing one another.

The epicentre of this sensory overload is Muscle Beach, a section two blocks up from Venice Boulevard, where two open-air pens are situated, complete with spectator seats. One is for weightlifters and the other is for gymnasts and acrobats.

Even if you are not into beefcake though, there is an “alternative” counter-culture feel to the shops, bars and restaurants on the beachfront and in the grid of narrow streets emanating from the boardwalk that appeals to gay guys, whatever their preferences. Venice is simply a great place for a stroll. It’s not exactly sleazy, but it’s trashy enough to make a difference.

To reach Venice by car get on the 405 Freeway and turn into Venice Boulevard West which ends on the beach itself. There are parking facilities there but don't count on finding a space on weekends. If you are in Santa Monica, simply walk south the coast for twenty minutes and you are in Venice. Bus 733 goes up and down Venice Boulevard. Last updated: 02-25-2014