Interesting Facts About Beaches That Will Surprise You

BY  Sibashree Oct 29, 2025

São Tomé and Príncipe is about to take a significant step in developing a sustainable tourism sector. The sustainable tourism sector will be further well-balanced in terms of the economic indicators.  The United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) and the United Nations Resident Coordinator’s Office will support this move. In this context, the country will hold a United Voices for Sustainable Tourism dialogue on 30th October 2025, and there will be a technical validation workshop on 29th October.  It will be the second phase of the Tourism Satellite Account (TSA) Development Project that will give São Tomé and Príncipe a strategic tool to measure the economic contribution of tourism to the nation’s wealth. Thus, it will establish why leveraging tourism is crucial for the sustainable development and economic diversification of the country.  Furthermore, the latest workshop before this dialogue, held on 15th to 18th September 2025, has highlighted the 11% contribution of the country’s tourism sector to the GDP and 10% of the Gross Value Added (GVA).  With the country taking a step forward in sustainable tourism, the São Tomé eco-lodges are also going to play a critical role. With the use of renewable energy, community involvement, local sourcing, and sustainable architecture, these lodges are also helping us to travel green.  In this blog, I will introduce the popular and lesser-known São Tomé eco-lodges, what practices they follow, the hidden gems of São Tomé and Príncipe, and more.  What Makes An Eco-Lodge In São Tomé Truly Sustainable? Before diving into the list, let’s define what sets a true eco-lodge apart: Renewable energy sources (solar, hydro) Local sourcing of food and materials Waste reduction and water conservation Community involvement and fair employment Eco-certifications or transparent sustainability practices Popular São Tomé Eco-Lodges The best eco-lodges in São Tomé and Príncipe for sustainable travel are committed to preserving the community and nature of the islands. Many of these eco-lodges also support conservation efforts and organize nature walks to help the visitors understand the local ecosystem.  Nevertheless, here are the most popular ones.  1. Omali Lodge (São Tomé) View this post on Instagram A post shared by dr. András Peres (@drandrasperes) With policies governed by the Biosphere Responsible Tourism standards, Omali Lodge. It has the Biosphere Responsible Tourism certification. It is a leader of sustainable tourism in São Tomé and Príncipe.  Local artists and craftsmen are involved in the operations of the Omali Lodge, staying true to its commitment to community development. Furthermore, the menu here focuses on national dishes prepared with locally-sourced ingredients.  However, it offers adequate Wi-Fi connectivity. So, if you are not looking for a complete digital detox and want to work remotely, then it is also a good choice.  2. Bom Bom Island Resort (Príncipe) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Maria Helena Vinhas Frade (@mhvf) The Bom Bom Island Resort is the first African hotel to receive the Biosphere certification from the Instituto de Turismo Responsable (ITR).  Currently, the main aim of the hotel is to go completely diesel-free in its daily operations. The hotel has 68 local workers, as Sérgio Duarte has mentioned in a recent conversation with the Sustainability Leaders United.  Furthermore, the hotel procures resources from the local producers. Also, it collects donations from the guests to invest in employee training programs. Thus, it helps in educating and empowering the community.  The experiences it offers are: Turtle watching Maria Correia waterfall trail hiking Birdwatching Parrot Peak trail hiking Roça Infante trail hiking Stand-up paddleboarding Snorkeling It is also a friendly accommodation for digital nomads with Wi-Fi connectivity, included within the accommodation package. Moreover, the main part of the resort is wheelchair-accessible.  So, it is one of the accessible eco-lodges in São Tomé and Príncipe.  3. Praia Inhame Eco Lodge (São Tomé) View this post on Instagram A post shared by PATRÍCIA PINHEIRO (@patrwisha) Claimed to be “Naturally Comfortable,” Praia Inhame Eco Lodge is one of the best eco-lodges with turtle watching in São Tomé. A local NGO, MARAPA, runs the Tatô Program to protect marine turtles in São Tomé.  Praia Inhame Eco Lodge has been working with this NGO since 2012. It has helped the NGO to implement this program on Inhame and Cabana beaches.  The wilderness and outdoor activities offered by this eco lodge are: Marine turtle observation Whale watching Birdwatching Diving Fishing Boat trips Moreover, places such as Hell's Mouth, Saint Sebastian Museum, St. Nicholas Waterfall, St. Thomas Peak, and Jale Beach are some nearby attractions of this eco-lodge.  In addition, it is one of the São Tomé eco-lodges with Wi-Fi connectivity. So, it is also a favorite of digital nomads who can travel and work remotely.  4. Sundy Praia (Príncipe Island) View this post on Instagram A post shared by HBD Príncipe (@hbd_principe) Sundy Praia has a dedicated team for waste management and recycling. Furthermore, it leads community cleaning drives to spread awareness about the impact of litter.  Also, the “screw-in” mechanism of the eco lodge’s architecture ensures a minimal impact on the environment of the island.  Moreover, located inside the beachside rainforest, it is indeed an eco lodge.  The experiences it offers are: Turtle watching Maria Correia waterfall trail hiking Birdwatching Parrot Peak trail hiking Roça Infante trail hiking Stand-up paddleboarding Snorkeling Moreover, you can be a part of the 3-hour Discover Santo António tour. Also, it is a favorite of digital nomads for Wi-Fi connectivity.  In addition, Sundy Praia offers wheelchair accessibility to make the travel experience more inclusive.  5. Roça Sundy (Príncipe) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Nina Scott (@nina.wolfs.scott) As part of the Príncipe Collection, like Sundy Praia and Bom Bom, Roça Sundy also follows that when you visit it, you make a Conservation and Communities Contribution (CCC).  You spend a night here, and they will contribute €25 for the environmental and community development of Príncipe. In addition, nearly 10% of the adults of Príncipe work with them.  Moreover, the experiences it offers are: Turtle watching Maria Correia waterfall trail hiking Birdwatching Parrot Peak trail hiking Roça Infante trail hiking Stand-up paddleboarding Snorkeling 6. Mucumbli Lodge (São Tomé) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mucumbli Explore (@mucumbli.explore) Mucumbli Lodge overlooks the Atlantic Ocean, and it offers the quintessential eco-lodge experience with wooden chalets.  Furthermore, due to its unique location, it is one of the best remote eco-lodges for digital detox in Africa.  Lesser-Known Accommodations Following The Best Sustainable Practices In São Tomé And Príncipe Island The options for São Tomé eco-lodges are more varied than you can expect. Here are the lesser-known ones or the hidden gems.  1. Jalé Ecolodge (São Tomé) View this post on Instagram A post shared by IATI Seguros PORTUGAL (@iatisegurospt) Jalé Ecolodge offers beautiful sea views from all units. You can enjoy snorkeling nearby and have the best continental breakfast sourced from local ingredients.  2. Roca Monte Forte (São Tomé) It is the first rural tourism place to open in São Tomé. Here, you will be staying inside a cocoa plantation with history, and you will lead the quintessential Santomean farm life.  Furthermore, it offers easy access to nearby beaches in the northern area, such as Governador, Tamarindos, Conchas, and Blue Lagoon.  3. Domus Praia Jalé (São Tomé) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Domus Praia Jalé (@domuspraiajale) Domus Praia Jalé is the best location if you want to have good food and relax in nature. It has an on-site restaurant serving international delicacies made with local ingredients.  Also, they have a private beach where you can relax and listen to the waves.  Seasonal Travel Tips For Staying At The Eco Lodges In São Tomé and Príncipe June to September, or the dry season, is the best time to stay at the eco-lodges in São Tomé and Príncipe for mild weather conditions and wildlife watching.  1. For Whale Watching Bom Bom Island Resort in Príncipe and Mucumbli in São Tomé are some of the best eco-lodges for whale watching. July to October is the whale watching season here.  2. For Sea Turtle Nesting Praia Inhame Eco Lodge in São Tomé and Bom Bom Island Resort in Príncipe are the best eco-lodges for seeing turtle nesting. November to March is the ideal time for this experience.  Budget Breakdown: What Is The Average Cost Per Night At Eco Lodges In São Tomé and Príncipe? Here is a cost comparison between eco-lodges, not budget-friendly options. Find out the budget eco-lodges in the islands.  Name of the Eco-LodgeApproximate Cost Per Night/ Per Person (€)Omali Lodge222Bom Bom Island Resort250Praia Inhame Eco Lodge95Sundy Praia420Roça Sundy150Mucumbli Lodge45Jalé Ecolodge55 5-Day Sustainable Travel Itinerary In São Tomé And Príncipe Here is a quick 5-day sustainable travel itinerary in São Tomé and Príncipe.  DaysActivitiesDay 1• Staying at Omali Lodge• Visiting São Tomé city center and local marketsDay 2• Transfer to Mucumbli Lodge• Guided hiking and cacao farm visitDay 3• Moving to Praia Inhame Eco Lodge• Evening turtle tourDay 4• Flight to Príncipe• Staying at Sundy Praia• Exploring a biosphere reserveDay 5• Visiting Roça Sundy• Cultural tour and local lunch Hidden Gems In São Tomé And Príncipe If you want a deeper, more authentic connection to the islands’ nature, culture, and history, you must explore these hidden gems. 1. Malanza Mangrove Canoe Tour: Ideal For Nature Lovers And Photographers View this post on Instagram A post shared by Santo Tomé y Príncipe ESP (@santotomeyprincip) Take a canoe ride through the mangrove forests of southern São Tomé. It is a delightful eco-tour through waterways blessed by lush greenery, endemic flora, and a vibrant birdlife.  2. Pico Cão Grande: Enjoy The Best View From The Obo National Park Trails Pico Cão Grande is the most dramatic natural view you will enjoy here. This volcanic plug, with a height of 663 meters, is almost surreal.  3. Ilhéu Das Rolas And The Equator Marker: Best For Beach Lovers And Geography Buffs View this post on Instagram A post shared by Viagem a São Tomé (@viagem.a.saotome) Ilhéu Das Rolas is a small island off the south of São Tomé. You can take a boat ride here to stand on the equator line.  Also, you can explore the pristine beaches here and have a delightful snorkeling experience.  4. Roça São João Dos Angolares: Great For Cultural Immersion And Sustainable Tourism Roça São João Dos Angolares is an eco lodge that was formerly a plantation. It is also a cultural center. It offers cooking classes, storytelling events with local artists, and art exhibitions.  5. Boca Do Inferno (Hell’s Mouth): Visit During High Tide For Full Effect This dramatic blowhole on the southern coast of São Tomé is the perfect example of juxtaposition. Here, the waves kiss the volcanic cliffs with the water jets reaching the sky.  6. Praia Jalé Turtle Nesting Site Find the sea turtles nesting here during the November to March season. Praia Inhame Eco Lodge in São Tomé and Bom Bom Island Resort in Príncipe are the best places for watching turtle nesting.  7. Nova Estrela Viewpoint (Príncipe Island): Ideal For Sunrise Hikes And Drone Photography View this post on Instagram A post shared by HBD Príncipe (@hbd_principe) It is a beautiful viewpoint offering panoramic vistas of the rainforest and coastline of Príncipe.  8. Roça Água Izé: Offers Insight Into The Island’s Colonial Past View this post on Instagram A post shared by Francisco Almada Lobo (@almadalobo) It is an abandoned cacao plantation and is almost haunted. It stands out with its overgrown gardens and colonial architecture.  9. Whale Watching Off Príncipe: Best Enjoyed With Snorkeling And Diving Trips Humpback whales migrate to Príncipe through the waterways from July to September. Be a part of eco tours for respectful and sustainable viewing opportunities.  10. Rainforest Retreats At Sundy Praia: Perfect For Eco-Travelers Seeking Tranquility View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ramosdafrica (@ramosdafrica) Sundy Praia is a luxury tented villa in the rainforest of Príncipe. Enjoy yoga, guided nature walks, and conservation education. São Tomé And Príncipe Travel Planning Checklist Here is a list of things to do and things to avoid while planning a trip to São Tomé Eco-Lodges. Things to DoThings to Avoid• Checking visa requirements with the São Tomé embassy or consulate based on your nationality• Checking the availability of the co-lodges and booking them in advance• Plan your visit between June and October for wildlife watching.• Pack breathable clothing, reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, and rain gear• Bring malaria prophylaxis, basic meds, and travel insurance.• Check the requirements for a yellow fever vaccination.• Consider the limited availability of domestic flights to Príncipe and book early.• Not all eco-lodges offer transfers. You may have to take shared minibuses and taxis. • Carry some Dobra (STN) for transactions in rural areas. • Portuguese is the official language.• Kafuka or community gatherings are special here.• Avoid single-use plastics and respect wildlife viewing guidelines.• Support community-led tours, conservation projects, and local artisans• Save maps, lodge contacts, and embassy info offline before arrival, as some places will have limited network connectivity.• Not all “eco-lodges” are truly sustainable.• Not looking for transparency in energy use, waste management, and community impact.• Not carrying Dobra (STN) or Euros in cash, as ATMs are limited and not all facilities accept cards.• Medical facilities are basic. So, not having travel insurance with medical coverage or not carrying a medical care box can be a big mistake. • Missing out on the local cooking classes or visiting the villages is a mistake. • Using single-use water bottles and leaving litter everywhere São Tomé Eco-Lodges Are More Than Just Places To Stay Supporting local communities Supporting environmental development Protecting biodiversity Experiencing the authentic charm of the islands These are the benefits of staying in the best São Tomé eco lodges. Furthermore, these lodges are diverse and they offer luxury, simplicity, or cultural immersion in the most responsible way.  So, get ready for the most immersive experience at the best São Tomé eco lodges! 

BY  Mashum Jul 26, 2021

There is a famous quote about the national parks in North America, “National parks are the best idea we ever had. Absolutely American, absolutely democratic, they reflect us at our best rather than our worst.” - Wallace Stegner.  There are about 423 national parks scattered across Alabama for visiting and some. Nonetheless, there exist some National parks in Alabama Camping. The National Park Service (NPS) of the country maintains and curates these areas. The key aim of these national parks is to bring the demonstrated tragic and victorious history of the state to its visitors.  Alabama is a perfect place for spending a few days of your vacation. I hope you are here because you are looking for some suggestions for the famous national parks in Alabama. Well, you are at the right place because today we will discuss the historical parks in Alabama suitable for sightseeing.  The Best National parks In Alabama Generally speaking, the national parks in America are a combination of history and environmental beauty. No more waiting because the list of top national parks in Alabama is here. Brace yourself to explore some incredibly thrilling places in your upcoming holidays: 1. Tuskegee Institute National Historic Site National Park Service (NPS) has designated this institute as a national historic site known as a historic national park. With a variety of fauna, it is the first university campus to receive honor from the government.  The park is located on the University campus itself, which makes the destination accessible to all. It also has a museum covering George Washington Carver’s rare photos and unique life details. The burial ground is the best place to spend some alone and silent quality time. The site is open from 9 am to 4:30 pm daily for visitors.  2. Freedom Riders National Monument This monument symbolizes the protests of freedom riders whose one bus was firebombed by KKK members. You will sense a feeling of courage and confidence by going through the historical facts of them below the monument. The park offers a drive-only tour to many historical points to remind you of the tragic event at Greyhound Bus Terminal. Additionally, the Anniston Memorial Hospital that holds the remembrance of the burnt bus is also noteworthy.  3. Selma To Montgomery National Historic Trail It is one of the most popular national parks in Alabama; however, it also carries significant historical events. The event also made the public furious. The route of the marchers in the site is a national historic trail now providing a sneak peek at American History.  The place will cherish you with the march of 600 people across 54-mile roadways to Montgomery. The Future Georgia congressman John Lewis led this procession on 7th March 1965.  What’s more?- you will find rich insights while visiting the three interpretive centers along this route. Please note that the journey would begin at the Selma Interpretive Center if you plan to visit this place. It is at the foot of the bridge on Broad Street.  These centers open at 9 a.m., whereas they close at 4:30 p.m. 4. Trail Of Tears National Historic Trail There are special touches of history in the majority of the national parks in Alabama and this one is also not an exception. One native name of this place in the chronicle of America is “The Journey of Injustice.” The site will make you remember the struggling lives of Native Americans who relocated to Oklahoma from their homes in Alabama. The forceful removal between 1830 to 1840 from their native land makes their journey route “The Trail of Tears.” The National Park Service (NPS) has scheduled stops in multiple packers along this route as a part of the driving tip. It includes Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Illinois, Kentucky, Missouri, North Carolina, Oklahoma, and Tennessee.  You can visualize the events of this historical movement at different stops in Alabama itself. Some of the most famous ones are Willstown Mission Cemetery, Waterloo Landing, and  Fort Payne Cabin Site.  5. Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site honors the legendary military of the first Afro-American fighter pilots of America. Two aircraft hangars lounge on the site. Once you reach the place to visit these hangers, you will observe a wide range of engaging exhibits.  In addition to that, several areas of the park present documentaries of the pilots’ daily livelihood, training, and hassles during the war. All these have made it become one of the ‘best national parks in Alabama.’ The perfect time to visit the place is before Memorial Day for Tuskegee Sairmen Fly-in.  Furthermore,  both the museums in hangar one and hangar 2 remain open Monday to Sunday from 9 a.m to 4:30 p.m. 6. Horseshoe Bend National Military Park It has been consistently ranked in the list of the best national parks in Alabama. Precisely, you will get awestruck once you stand in front of the entrance of the park. It is one of the favorite holiday spots for travel freaks owing to its stunning environment and deep serenity.  But beyond these, the site had experienced a ruthless and blood-shedding war about 100 years ago. The horseshoe bend of the Tallapoosa River was the accurate pinpoint of the battle. The oppression of Native American Tribes weaves the stories of this place. The visitor center is the starting mark of your tour. You can also enjoy a film of 15 minutes demonstrating the concept of battle. The park is open to visitors from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.  The Final Thoughts  After reading this guide, is not your mind asking you to book a ticket and set out for Alabama? The national parks in Alabama mentioned above are significant pieces of remarkable and revolutionary history.  We hope that the list of national parks in Alabama will be of immense help while visiting here. As we have covered the key takeaways of each site along with opening and closing time, you should not face any more difficulties in planning a tour.  Moreover, if you have any opinions to share with us, feel free to comment in the comment box below. Lastly, keep supporting us in getting more travel guides on mesmerizing places across the globe. More Resources Alabama Travel Guide Canary Wharf: A Mini-Guide For Your Next Visit A Guide To National Parks In Oklahoma – Latest Guide

BY  Sibashree May 28, 2024

Picture yourself walking along the beach boardwalk, and suddenly, you bump into the likes of Leonardo DiCaprio, Scarlett Johansson, Robert Downey Jr, Julia Roberts, and Gwyneth Paltrow! This is Venice Beach in Los Angeles, your ultimate destination for “stargazing by the sea.”  Now, with the boardwalk in Connecticut featuring in the list of the “USA TODAY 10 BEST Readers' Choice Awards,” many publications are claiming it to be a better alternative to Venice Beach.  However, it is hard to replicate the charm of Venice Beach and its beautiful boardwalk, which are the icons of the culture and free spirit of California.  Furthermore, with the fusion of food, creativity, and diversity, the beach and its boardwalk exude the most vibrant energy.  However, they also allow you to relax with a sprinkle of quintessential Southern Californian good life.  In this Tour and Travel Guide, we will mainly discuss why the boardwalk of Venice Beach is a must-see during a weekend getaway. However, we will also touch upon delightful electric bike rides in Santa Monica and the ultimate restaurant tour on Venice Beach.  However, before everything else, let’s discuss the ideal time to plan a visit to Venice Beach. What Is The Best Time To Visit Venice Beach? Plan Your Trip Right Venice Beach in Los Angeles has a Mediterranean climate. The winters are mild and wet here, while summer is hot and humid.  The shoulder seasons, fall and spring, are the ideal time for planning a coastal vacation to Venice Beach. Therefore, April to June and September to October are the best months to visit Venice Beach.  Do you want to know more about the weather conditions in Venice Beach? Have a look at the table below. MonthHighest TemperatureLowest TemperatureDays of RainfallJanuary1995February20106March21125April24152May2516N/AJune2618N/AJuly3019N/AAugust3020N/ASeptember2919N/AOctober26171November24132December2194 Unique Things To Do In Venice Beach: Fun At The Boardwalk, Food And More  California, despite bearing the brunt of the trade war between Canada and the USA, is leaving no stone unturned to welcome more Canadian tourists for beach vacations.  And, of course, Venice Beach will be a prominent attraction for a facelift of beach tourism in Los Angeles and overall California.  So, let’s find out what the Venice Beach Boardwalk offers, the food scene, and other outdoor attractions.  1. Venice Beach Boardwalk There is art everywhere on the Venice Beach Boardwalk! The Graffiti, murals, and, of course, the street performers make the place a living art gallery.  Furthermore, painters are showing their genius, and acoustic guitar players are filling the air with their tunes.  Also, suddenly, you are at Muscle Beach, which is known as the iconic backdrop of photoshoots for almost all the famous bodybuilders in the world. And you never know! You can even meet the athletes like Dustin Johnson, Ronda Rousey, and Serena Williams here.  However, that’s not all! The Venice Beach Boardwalk shows the open-mindedness of California and its vibrant spirit.  So, when you are in Venice Beach, soak in the atmosphere and… • Explore The Best Food Spots And Shops On Venice Beach Do you want to feel the soul of Venice in Los Angeles? Explore the shops on the Venice Beach boardwalk and grab the most adorable artistic creations, tie-dye t-shirts, leather items, and whatnot! Further, if you feel hungry while exploring the shops, you can enjoy a bite of the most delicious tacos, pizza, and fried churros.  You can even walk to Abbot Kinney Boulevard, filled with new and trendy eating places. You will find vegan delicacies and gourmet dishes there. • Enjoy Surfing And Skateboarding: Unique Things To Do In Venice Beach If you are an adventurous soul, you cannot miss a visit to the Venice Skatepark. Surfing and skateboarding have been integral to California's culture.  In fact, the Venice Skatepark has been a prominent ground for the “global skateboarding phenomenon” in a global landscape.  Moreover, there are many surfing schools here, helping you to ride the waves and enjoy the serenity of the Pacific Ocean.  • Indulge In The Beauty Of The Pacific Ocean How can you forget the beach itself when you are at Venice Beach? The wide and sandy beach is ideal for relaxing and soaking up the Sun.  Furthermore, you can play volleyball on the beach, which looks magical when the Sun goes down.  Also, the shades of pink and orange bathe the palm trees and the waves of the sea and make the entire place look like a postcard.  Additionally, there are Venice canals near the boardwalk, and they will surely transport you to Italy.  • Experience The Place As A Meeting Ground Of Different People And Different Perspectives The boardwalk of Venice Beach is like a giant fair. Here, you will find visitors, local people, musicians, painters, and everyone else meeting one another.  Everyone here seems to enjoy a free spirit, regardless of where they come from.  Do you want to know what holds for you in the future? You can ask fortune tellers and tarot card readers here.  Overall, get ready for the quirkiest and most unique experience at Venice Beach.  2. Try The Best Food At These Restaurants In Venice Beach: Unique Things To Do In Venice Beach Did you think that Venice Beach was only about the Sun, beach, and skating? You were wrong! Felix Trattoria is the best restaurant on Venice Beach if you want to try authentic Italian cuisine. It serves the best pasta on the West Coast.  It is located at 1023 Abbot Kinney Blvd, Venice, CA. Also, it remains open from 5-9 PM from Monday to Thursday and on Sunday. Moreover, from Friday to Saturday, it remains open between 5 and 9 PM.  Gjelina is another great destination along Abbot Kinney for trying the best Cal-Italian delicacies. You must find a seat on the back patio for the ultimate delightful experience.  It is located at 1429 Abbot Kinney Blvd, Venice, CA. It remains open from 8 AM to 10:30 PM.  Other popular restaurants on Venice Beach are: RestaurantsAddressHours OpenSpecialtyAmerican Beauty425 Rose Avenue, Venice, CAMonday: 5:30–9 PMTuesday–Thursday: 5:30–10 PMFriday-Saturday: 5:30–11 PMSunday: 5:30–9 PMWoodfire steaksCompanion1700 Lincoln Boulevard, Venice, CAMonday-Tuesday: 7 AM –3 PMWednesday–Sunday: 7 AM–3 PM, 5–9 PMPizzasPastriesSandwichesSi! Mon60 N Venice Blvd, Venice, CAMonday–Thursday: 5–10 PMFriday and Saturday: 5 PM–MidnightSunday: 5–9 PMGluten-free fried chickenCrab Gaucho 3. Take An Electric Bike Tour Of Venice Beach And Santa Monica An electric bike tour with your core group in the morning or afternoon is one of the most unique things to do in Venice Beach.  Be a part of a guided tour and learn about the history, especially of the place, from the commentary of local guides.