Marvin Braude Bike Trail and Beach Cruiser Rentals

The Marvin Braude Bike Trail, known locally as the Strand, is a paved coastal cycling path in Los Angeles County, California, running roughly 22 miles (35 km) from Pacific Palisades through Santa Monica, Venice, Marina del Rey, Playa del Rey, El Segundo, Manhattan Beach and Hermosa Beach to Torrance. Much of the route hugs the sand, offering ocean views, piers, beach volleyball courts and boardwalk scenes, and it is almost entirely flat. Rentals are available near the Santa Monica Pier, including at Perry's Cafe and Rentals at 2600 Ocean Front Walk, which operates several beach locations and supplies beach cruisers, other bicycles and helmets.

The activity suits nearly all abilities. Riders need only basic cycling skill and light fitness, and the flat terrain makes it a popular family and first-timer option. The shortest sensible outing is one to two hours, for example from Santa Monica to Venice and back, while stronger riders can ride the full length in several hours. Minimum ages and child seat availability depend on the rental shop, and visitors should ask about helmets for children. Electric bikes cost more than standard cruisers and help riders cover longer distances or manage headwinds, which can build in the afternoon along the shoreline.

Rentals typically include the bike and a helmet and may include a lock; riders bring water, sunscreen, sunglasses and a light jacket for cooler coastal mornings. Rental costs start from about $10 per hour, according to the listed range. The shop provides a fit and a short orientation, but riders are responsible for following the path rules. The trail is shared with pedestrians, skaters and runners, and on busy weekends and holiday periods the Venice Beach section becomes crowded. Pedestrian and bicycle lanes are separated on stretches of the path, and cyclists are expected to stay in the marked bike lane, ride at moderate speed and give way to walkers. Emergency help is available from Los Angeles County lifeguards and local police along the beach, and the route passes many access points.

The path can be ridden year-round. Mornings are generally calmer and cooler, while summer weekend afternoons are the most crowded. Visitors should avoid riding in heavy fog or after dark unless the bike has lights, and sand blown across the path can be slippery. The route connects with Metro E Line service at Santa Monica, which makes one-way rides with a train return practical.