Once upon a time, Venice Beach was a virtual no-go zone. Now, it’s a thriving creative hub, home to a network of canals, golden beaches, a two-and-a-half-mile, pedestrian-only promenade, and the circuslike Ocean Front Walk. Party at Circle Bar, relax on the sand, dine on fresh seafood, get fit on a volleyball court or take a biking trail, or just spend a few hours people-watching.