Venice, California may bare the name of an Italian city but comparing it to that European location is like comparing apples and oranges. Though the California beach community located in the Santa Monica Bay between Marina del Rey and Santa Monica has canals and was created as the Venice-of-America in 1905, it is Southern California to the core. Best known throughout the world as a setting for films such as SPEED with Sandra Bullock, BREATHLESS with Richard Gere and the popular BAYWATCH television series, this Venice has a long tradition and romance with the movie industry. Several film studios are located in the city and numerous others nearby, Venice streets, beaches, canals and people have been used in hundreds of films during the past century. Mary Pickford rowed down a canal, Our Gang of little rascals played around the pier and for a time, filming nearly brought commerce to a halt. In a land where film production is commerce, however, local sentiment to move the crews out of town did not last and today, it's business as usual and on location in Venice. Through the years, films and popular TV series such as THE FUGITIVE, GET SMART, SIMON & SIMON, CHIPS and the A-TEAM have done location work in Venice. Venice appears as friendly and family oriented as any beach along several hundred miles of Southern California coast. Like most Southern California beaches, expect mild climate and cool, evening breezes (lightweight jacket recommended). You'll hardly feel a sunburn because the weather is so nice, but be forewarned that the sand and water act as reflectors and can cause burning within minutes, especially on babies' skin and fair skinned children and adults. The water temperature generally ranges between the 50's in the winter and high 60's in the warmer months of July to November. Declared the "Skating Capitol of the World" in past years, activities at Venice Beach include roller blading and skating, bicycling, surfing, swimming, sunbathing, shopping, dining and sailing from Marina del Rey. If you happen to be in Venice in December, there's an old fashioned boat parade along the canals. Located just 15 minutes from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and 30 minutes from downtown Los Angeles, Venice Beach is a great place to stay if you are seeking a location close to the airport within reach of many attractions. While there are only 6 or 7 hotel properties in Venice, you can also stay in Marina del Rey or choose from over 25 hotels and resorts in Santa Monica.