When it comes to amazing beach views, the Venice Whaler Bar And Grill is definitely one of the biggest contenders around. Sauntering down the road you will find yourself among tons of cool kitschy bars and restaurants, but when you come to the end of this funky bar lover's paradise, you will eventually wind up at the Whaler. Plopped down right next to the sand, this venue is the final stop on this street that feeds right into the Venice boardwalk, so of course, it has to be good. Luckily, the Whaler lives up to the expectations of its location. Open and airy on all fonts (its got an indoor downstairs area, a front out door patio and an upstairs open-air bar), this spot definitely takes advantage of its next-door beach. The downstairs of the Whaler is pretty much a standard beach bar atmosphere, with groupings of tables, a bar area, some beachy memorabilia and large windows for gazing out at the waves. Where this place really shines is in its upstairs area. Half covered and half completely open to the elements, when you head up stairs to grab a drink with your friends, you really feel as though you haven't even left the beach. Walled in only by large pieces of glass, this ceiling less oasis attracts large crowds of people for its amazing views. With hardly any barrier between you and the sandy beach below, this breezy spot makes for perfect unencumbered sunset views. With amazingly stellar views of the ocean, the Whaler doesn't need to spend any time or effort dressing itself up. With plain dark blue walls and tattered bar stools the Whaler is no frills, but no one really cares. Tons of people take advantage of the smoking rules here, and choose to light up on the upstairs patio. If you are leery of cigarette smoke you will want to stay downstairs. If you're a smoker, you will find yourself among friends upstairs.