NationalGeographicPersonalExplorer

In addition to outdoor activities such as surfing, rollerblading, and bodybuilding, Venice Beach is a popular spot for skateboarding and basketball. As depicted in the 2001 skateboard documentary Dogtown and Z-Boys, and the consequent 2005 Hollywood film Lords of Dogtown, skateboarding is as much a part of Venice Beach culture as surfing. It’s hard to miss the big “V” at the end of Windward Boulevard, which marks Venice Pit, a popular hangout for skaters. On the weekends, people of all ages also come out to “roller dance” on skates or blades. Just to the left of the big “V” are the streetballers’ basketball courts, as seen in the 1992 movie White Men Can’t Jump, starring Woody Harrelson and Wesley Snipes. The lively atmosphere is punctuated by cheering spectators and frequent arguments between players.