You know, the Venice Boardwalk is the second most visited attraction in Los Angeles county. Millions of people go to check the place out, and yes, it is unique. The Muscle Beach workout center is right next to the paddle racqet courts, and next to the basketball courts. If you have not visited there, it is worth just checking out once, and walking the boardwalk.
About a mile away is Marina Del Rey which is pretty nice, and 10 blocks north of the main part of the boardwalk is Gold's Gym Venice.
I go once in a while, when they have a show on the beach, like on Labor Day, to check out the most interesting personalities. It is quite entertaining.