10 Things You Didn't Know About MdR

1)      Marina del Rey is only 4 Miles North of LAX- If your plane is delayed or your layover seems too long, hop in a cab and spend a few hours on or by the sea.

2)      Getting on the water is Easy, Breezy - If you have never sailed a boat or thought it was too expensive to rent a skippered charter (a sailboat that comes with your own skipper or captain), then Marina del Rey is the perfect starting point for you.  Here are options for skippered charters and guess what? They make it so easy to get on a boat and enjoy being on the water:  Paradise Bound Yacht Charters, Blue Water Sailing , Blue Pacific Boating or Marina Sailing.

3)      Singles Can Mingle- Single Mariners of Marina del Rey offers day sails for area singles.  Twice a month, singles of all skill levels are welcome to join the fun on a weekend day sail. Bring $7 to the members’ meeting, and beginners and experts alike will be ready to set sail the following weekend.

4)      Your Wish is Our Command-The Visitor’s Bureau Concierge Service is a resource for all things Marina del Rey. Plan a weekend getaway to the Marina. Better yet, we will plan it for you. Marina del Rey’s Visitors Center offers help in planning your next Marina vacation, stop by the center located at 4701 Admiralty Way.

5)      Return of Jet Skis- They were gone for a while, and boy, did we miss them. Now they are available for rent again. Forget the work week completely as you zip around the Marina, enjoying the sunshine and lapping waves. Rent a jet ski from Marina del Rey Boat Rentals 13719 Fiji Way, 310-574-2822.

6)      You’re In the Doghouse- If you have a dog, you have come to the right place. Marina del Rey offers pre-planned walking maps, outdoor dining, and a dog-friendly park. If you're thinking about a weekend stay, consider booking you and your pooch at the Marina del Rey Hotel, Marina International Hotel, or even the Ritz-Carlton Marina del Rey.

7)      We Always Have a Reason for Dancing Shoes- You don’t have to take a weekend or even a day away to feel like you are on vacation. Escape for an evening on a Marina del Rey Dinner Dance Cruise. On Saturday evenings you can enjoy a delicious meal, watch the sunset, and dance the night away on board a ship cruising around Marina del Rey. For more information, visit Hornblower Cruises and Events

8)      An Exotic Adventure is At Our Doorstep- Did you know LA has its very own wetlands? Right outside Marina del Rey, on the corner of Lincoln and Jefferson is a remarkable natural habitat. The wetlands are home to the endangered least tern, as well as many other rare species. The site has two trails open to the public. Visit www.ballonafriends.org and www.ballona.org/ for more information.

9)      Offering More Than Your Neighborhood Park- Burton W. Chace Park offers engaging activities for kids of all ages, including the popular Marina del Rey Summer Concert Series which kicks off July 8.  Plus, Marina Movie Nights will return this summer where friends and family can watch four popular films on a giant 27’ screen for free! Bring blankets, chairs and picnic supplies to enjoy the movie-watching by the water experience! If you just need to relax, pack a picnic and enjoy the breathtaking ocean views of Marina del Rey.

10)  Find Event Venues Galore - Looking for a spot close to the water to hold a wedding? Bridal shower? Sunday brunch? Quinceañera? Bar mitzvah?  Marina del Rey has it all-- from upscale resorts with ballrooms overlooking the water and luxury yachts with entertainment, dining and dance floors to cool, intimate lounges and casual, relaxed restaurant settings -- and with views of the water to outdoor dining spaces, your guests will be thrilled to celebrate in the Marina.

Top 10 Local Favorites in MDR

We know you have your own favorites in Marina del Rey. What are they? ADD to our List of Favorites as a comment now! First 5 commenters receive an MDR goodie!

1) Cup o’ Joe

Joni’s Coffee. A Marina del Rey institution, Joni’s Coffee Roasting Café gets its coffee beans from boutique farms over the world, roasting each batch separately with a 1950’s 20 kilo German Coffee Roaster. Breakfast is served all day, but there are delicious lunch and dinner entrees available as well. Dogs are welcome too—truly making Joni’s the neighborhood’s friendliest place to eat. 552 Washington Blvd., 310-305-7147.

2) Low-Key Sushi

Irori Sushi. Take off your shoes before you enter the door of this local secret. Guests sit cross-legged on the floor to savor some of the area’s best sushi. The blue crab hand-roll and the Ono fish tacos are not to be missed. The chefs are friendly, skilled and creative, guaranteeing a relaxing and enjoyable evening out. 4371 Glencoe Ave Ste B-4, 310-822-3700.

3) Water Fun!

Stand-Up Paddleboarding. It’s officially a craze! Spend a beautiful afternoon in the sun on a stand-up paddleboard in the Marina. Cruise around and catch some waves. Rent one from Marina del Rey Boat Rentals 13719 Fiji Way, 310-574-2822.

4) Walk or Jog

Grab a map. Pick up a map this weekend and find a new route around the Marina. From runners to people looking to take a lazy Sunday stroll, there is a path for everyone. See the self-guided walking tour maps online, at www.visitmarinadelrey.com.

5) Watch the Game

Tony P.’s Dockside Grill. Big screen TV, anyone? The Tavern at Tony P.’s is absolutely full of them. With 60 beers on tap and 40 bottled, cocktail favorites like Mudslides and Mai Tais, and famous Dockside Potato Skins and Pulled Pork Quesadillas, the number one sports fan will have it all! 4445 Admiralty Way, 310-823-4534.

6) Tuesday Children’s Story Time

Lloyd W. Taber Library. Unplug your WiFi connection and scoop the kids up from their places in front of Dora the Explorer. This Tuesday, head off to the library for story time. Call ahead for specific programming information—sometimes there are puppets, and arts and crafts! It’s a great way to spend time in the community, and discover a new favorite book. 4533 Admiralty Way, 310- 821-3415.

7) Best View

Burton Chace Park. You won’t be able to take your eyes off the glistening Marina view from Burton Chace Park. Bring some hot dogs and hamburgers to grill as you watch the sun go down. Come during the day with a picnic basket and have a lazy afternoon with the best view of the water.13650 Mindanao Way, 310-305-9595.

8) Best Deal

Concerts at Fisherman’s Village. Forget your work week and treat your ears to some free live music. From sultry Latin jazz to 50s rock and roll you are guaranteed to feel transported for the evening. See schedule below. 13755 Fiji Way.

9) Night on the Town

Glow. The lounge at the Marina del Rey Marriot is the place to be seen on a Saturday night. DJs spin tracks on the weekends amidst the glowing fire wall in the spacious outdoor lounge. Private cabanas and bottle service are available to make the night truly extraordinary. 4100 Admiralty Way, 310-578-4152.

10) Watch the Regatta

California Yacht Club. Every Wednesday from April through September, the California Yacht Club hosts series of races leading to a grand finale sail-off to become King of the Hill. Enjoy sunset during Marina del Rey’s largest sailing event from one of the restaurants on the water. 4469 Admiralty Way, 310-823-4567.

Fisherman's Village Concert Schedule

May 2010 - from 2pm to 5pm

SATURDAY: MAY 1ST - UPSTREAM BAND (CARIBBEAN STYLE)

SUNDAY: MAY 2ND - KEIKO OKAMOTO LATIN JAZZ BAND (LATIN JAZZ, MOMBO & SALSA FLAUTIST)

SATURDAY: MAY 8TH - MICHAEL HAGGINS GROUP (SMOOTH JAZZ WITH A KICK)

SUNDAY: MAY 9TH - 2 JAZZ 1 BODY & SOUL BAND (SMOOTH JAZZ WITH VOCALS & HOT SAX)

SATURDAY: MAY 15TH - SPARE TIME BAND (SMOOTH JAZZ)

SUNDAY: MAY 16TH - SUSIE HANSEN LATIN BAND (HOT LATIN JAZZ)

SATURDAY: MAY 22ND - ERIC EKSTRAD BAND (SWING, JUMP, JAZZ & BOGGIE)

SUNDAY: MAY 23RD - SULLIVAN HALL BAND (SOUL REVIEW)

SATURDAY: MAY 29TH - FRIENDS (RHYTHM & BLUES)

SUNDAY: MAY 30TH - HOMER BROADNAX BLUES & SOUL BAND (BLUES & SOUL)

MONDAY: MAY 30TH - JIMBO ROSS & THE BODACIOUS BLUES BAND (JAZZ & BLUES ON VIOLA)

RECEIVE 2 HOURS FREE PARKING WITH VALIDATION

13755 FIJI WAY, MARINA DEL REY, CA 90292

You Belong To Me!

Ok, guys (and gals), now is the time to make plans for Valentine's Day weekend, and there are lots of options, because many people will be getting a 3-day weekend. And ladies, make it easy on your husband or boyfriend, by anonymously forwarding this BLOG to him! You don't need to wait for him to arrange things. We're all equal here, aren't we?

Valentine's Day is Sunday February 14, but don't think you can get out of celebrating Valentine's Day this week because most everyone is offering special celebrations all weekend long. And most restaurants and hotels and clubs in the Marina are right on the harborfront- incredible views, beautiful sunsets - it's about romance on the water!

Here are some of the special offerings in and around Marina del Rey next weekend - a simple list all in one place!

Shanghai Red’s Restaurant
310-823-4522

13813 Fiji Way - Marina del Rey 90292

www.shanghairedsrestaurant.com

An amazing weekend of delectable dining choices are available at this waterfront restaurant, February 13-14. Select from candlelit dinners for two, family friendly brunches or a cupid menu in the main dining room. Prices vary by dining experience.

Valentine’s Weekend Cruises - Hornblower Cruises & Events
310-301-6000

13755 Fiji Way, Fisherman's Village

Marina del Rey 90292

www.hornblower.com

Romantic Valentine’s sunset, brunch and dinner cruises are available February 12-14. Prices vary per cruise and dining experience selected, starting at $35 per person. All Valentine’s weekend options include a 2-hour cruise of beautiful Marina del Rey.

Sunday, February 14

Stones Restaurant – Marina del Rey Marriott
4100 Admiralty Way - Marina del Rey 90292

310-301-3000

www.marriott.com/laxmb

Romance your Valentine at Stones. The three-course meal showcases California cuisine in a elegantly casual environment for $55 per person. Ask about after dinner options at GLOW – the ultra lounge – also located in the Marriott.

Sunday, February 14 - Mysteries en Brochette presents a St. Valentine’s Mystery
310-399-1507

13534 Bali Way, Marina del Rey Hotel, Marina del Rey 90292

www.mysteriesenbrochette.com

One of L.A.’s best dinner theatres presents – “Deadly Disco Cruise” – join the in-crowd at record producer Richard Kragen’s wedding and dinner reception, complete with a disco dance competition and mayhem. Takes place at Marina del Rey Hotel.

Sunday, February 14

Jer-ne Restaurant + Bar

The Ritz-Carlton, Marina del Rey
310-823-1700

4375 Admiralty Way

http://www.ritzcarlton.com/

The Ritz’s sophisticated dining lounge hosts a lovely four-course St. Valentine’s Day dinner at $85 per person or $125 per person with Moet champagne pairing. Ask The Ritz about their "Seaside Love Affair" Valentine's Day package and their "Reconnect" overnight hotel package. And check out their Couples Room in the lavish Spa.

Sunday, February 14

The Waterfront Restaurant & Concert Theater
310-448-8900

4211 Admiralty Way - Marina del Rey 90292

www.thewfr.com

The Waterfront is hosting a delightful 3-course prix fixe menu with choice of starter, entrée and dessert. $34.99 per person and reservations are recommended. Ask about their entertainment options in the Waterfront Concert Theater.

Sunday, February 14

Warehouse Restaurant
310-823-5451

4499 Admiralty Way - Marina del Rey 90292

http://www.mdrwarehouse.com/

This Marina del Rey landmark is offering a three-course dinner for $49.95 per person. The R&B music of Howard Rice will add a little spice to your waterfront dining experience.

The intimate Foghorn Harbor Inn is offering a Valentine Special - enjoy a romantic and relaxing night at the Inn with Dinner at the famous Cheesecake Factory next door starting from $179 per night. Call 310-823-4626 for details. Tell them you read about it on the Marina del Rey Visitors Bureau BLOG.

If you're interested in a fun and unique on-the-water experience, try renting an electric Duffy you can drive yourself! It's an electric boat with a canvas top - perfect for a picnic lunch and putting around the harbor! Contact Marina Boat Rentals in Fisherman's Village for more information at 310-574-2822.

Still at a loss of what do you and need more help? Call the Marina del Rey Visitors Center at 310-305-9545 and talk to one of our friendly and knowledge information counselors who can help you plan your special weekend. E-mail us at info@VisitMarinaDelRey.com or check out our website, www.VisitMarinaDelRey.com. Happy Valentine's Day!

We're going to the chapel, and we're going to get married......

Beginning right after the holidays, we began to receive all kinds of phone calls asking about wedding locations in Marina del Rey! The staff at the Marina del Rey Visitors Bureau has been busy answering the calls. And we are ready to help!

For years, the Marina has been a popular wedding location, probably because it's on the waterfront and in the middle of West LA. There are lots of options for ceremony sites, including hotel terraces, sandy beachfronts, public parks, restaurants overlooking the harbor, yacht clubs and a handful of beautiful yachts right on the water.

The Ritz-Carlton, Marina del Rey, Marina del Rey Hotel and Marina del Rey Marriott are the most popular hotel wedding locations. California Yacht Club is well-known for their beautiful wedding site (and non members can use the facility for events), and both FantaSea Yachts & Yacht Club and Hornblower Events and Cruises have at least six luxury ships to choose from - can you imagine have your special celebration aboard a ship? It's more affordable than you think! There's even a Tiki-style houseboat available called the Tiki Mermaid, which is fun for themed or casual celebrations.

Restaurants and lounges are popular for rehearsal dinners, bridal showers, engagement parties and last day brunches. Glow, Jer-Ne Restaurant + Bar, The Waterfront, Cafe del Rey, Waterfront Bar & Grill, Shanghai Red's (who also hosts many ceremonies), The Charthouse and The Warehouse and Tony P's are all popular venues.

If 2010 is the year you're planning to get hitched, get more information by e-mailing the Marina del Rey Visitors Bureau for a free Wedding Planning Package to be mailed to you, or download your own guide to the Marina's Banquet Space.