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The best bike route in the Los Angeles area is “The Strand,” which is officially named the Marvin Braude Bike Trail and follows the shores of Santa Monica Bay. This famous paved bike path starts at Torrance Beach in the South Bay area and heads north all the way to Will Rogers State Beach in the Pacific Palisades area of Los Angeles. This is a meandering bike ride of 22 miles that takes riders by some of the best beaches in all of California.

About the Marvin Braude Bike Path

Location: It’s a north-south route that passes through the communities of Santa Monica, Venice, Marina Del Rey, Playa Del Rey, Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, Redondo Beach, and Torrance.

Surface: Most of the route is on a wide concrete walk that twists and turns in the sand at the back of the beaches.

Deviations: In a few places this path heads away from the sand to wrap around obstructions such as King Harbor in Redondo and Marina Del Rey Harbor.

Rentals: Bikes can be rented at several of the beaches along the route. Perry’s Cafe has nine locations that are next to the trail and most of them have bikes of all types for rent.

Multi-use sharing: Since the trail is shared with people who are walking, running, and skating, it is considered a casual biking route, not a fast one. This is not a bad thing. Riding at a moderate rate makes it easier to take in the sights and sounds of these world-class beaches.

Dogs: Walking dogs on the path is allowed if they are on leash (bring bags to pick up after them if nec). Be sure to watch for bikes!

eBikes: If ridden at a normal moderate bike pace (think of a cruiser bike), eBikes are allowed on the path. This is a good way to cover the entire 22 miles but don’t rush it or you’ll get eBikes banned!

History: In 2006 the route was named for LA City Councilman Marvin Braude.

Above is a map of the bike trail and below is a list of beaches along the route north to south.