Film

What are the popular areas in Marina del Rey to film or shoot photography?

The most requested locations usually offer distinct “looks” ranging from nautical/industrial to manicured parks:

• Fisherman's Village: A replica of a New England seaport with colorful wooden buildings, a lighthouse, and cobblestone paths. (Very popular for "East Coast" doubles).
• Burton Chace Park: Offers 10 acres of green space with 360-degree harbor views. It is excellent for panoramic water shots without the clutter of buildings.
• Marina ("Mother’s") Beach: A calm, lagoon-style beach with no waves, often used for water recreation scenes (kayaking, paddleboarding).
• The Jetties (North & South): Rugged rock paths extending into the ocean, offering dramatic open-ocean backdrops.
• Ballona Wetlands: Located just on the edge, this offers a more natural, wild aesthetic with tall grasses and diverse wildlife.

Can I film on a boat in Marina del Rey?

You can film on a boat in Marina del Rey with strict conditions.

• Permit: You must include the boat activity on your FilmLA permit.

Safety Personnel: If the boat is leaving the dock (underway) or if you have cast/crew on a vessel, the County requires an LA County Lifeguard to be present on the boat or on a chase boat for safety. You will be billed for their time.

How do I contact a boat owner to film on their vessel? 

For commercial filming, you generally have two reliable paths:

• Commercial Charter Companies: This is the safest route for legal compliance. Companies like FantaSea Yachts, City Cruises (Hornblower), or Tiki Mermaid are "film friendly" and accustomed to working with production insurance and permits. Click here to view the list of L.A. County Beaches and Harbors approved yacht charter companies. 
• Marine Coordinators / Picture Boat Brokers: If you need a specific look (e.g., a gritty fishing trawler or a sleek vintage sailboat), you should hire a "Marine Coordinator." They act as agents for private boat owners and ensure all on-water activities comply with County safety and permitting regulations. You can find them through professional film industry directories or by contacting FilmLA for a list of experienced specialists.

Are there large boats in the Marina that can accommodate more than 20 people for a film or photoshoot? 

Yes. Marina del Rey is home to several large commercial yachts that function essentially as floating event venues. They can easily accommodate cast, crew, and equipment anywhere from 6 to 20+ people, while City Cruises and FantaSea Yachts can carry up to 300+ passengers).

• Examples: FantaSea One (ultra-modern, huge luxury yacht), Entertainer (contemporary yacht via City Cruises), and Tiki Mermaid (party barge style)

Can I film in one of the County parking lots that overlook the harbor?

Yes.

• Base Camps: These lots are the most popular locations for basecamps (parking crew trucks, catering, etc.) as street parking is scarce.
• Filming: You can film in them, but you must reserve the specific spaces through the Department of Beaches and Harbors (via FilmLA).
• Fees: Expect to pay for each parking spot you take out of commission (loss of revenue fee) plus the location fee.

Do I need a permit?

• Yes. A permit is required for any commercial filming, videotaping, or still photography intended for television or public exhibition. This rule applies whether you are on public property (parks, docks, streets) or private property (hotels, apartments).

How do I secure a permit?

• You must apply through FilmLA.
• Website: FilmLA Online Portal
• You will need to create an account, submit your location details, and upload proof of insurance (Certificate of Insurance).
• Please note that for beach filming, a reservation is required in addition to a permit.

How much lead time is needed to secure a permit?

• Standard Lead Time: A minimum of 3 full business days before the first day of filming (excluding weekends and holidays).
• Recommended: It is highly safer to apply 5 -7 business days in advance.
• Complex Shoots: If your shoot involves drones, lane closures, stunts, or special effects, you generally need at least 7 business days or more.

Do I need a permit to shoot with drones?

• Yes. Drone (UAS) operations require a specific rider on your film permit.
• Requirements: You must submit a flight plan, copy of the pilot’s FAA license (Part 107), and drone registration.
• Insurance: You need specific aviation/drone liability insurance (usually a minimum of $2M coverage, but verify with FilmLA as this can vary by specific location risks).
• Airspace: Marina del Rey is close to LAX, so airspace authorization (LAANC) is critical and strictly monitored.

How much do permits cost?

• Permit costs are broken down into application fees (FilmLA) and location/use fees (County). Please check the FilmLA site for fees.

Who do I contact to request a permit? 

• Please contact FilmLA. They’re the liaison between Marina del Rey and the LA County Department of Beaches and Harbors.
• Phone: 213-977-8600
• Email: info@filmla.com 
• Website: filmla.com

Do I need a permit if we are shooting at a business in the Marina, i.e. a hotel or restaurant?

• Yes. Even though it is private property, the County requires a permit for the commercial activity taking place within its jurisdiction.
• Important: You typically need a "Location Agreement" signed by the business owner in addition to the FilmLA permit. The business may charge you their own separate location fee.

Do I need a permit if we are shooting at a residence in the Marina, i.e. an apartment?

• Yes. Just like with businesses, filming in a private home in Marina del Rey requires a FilmLA permit.
• Neighborhood Notification: Depending on the impact (parking trucks, noise, crew size), FilmLA may require you to distribute notices to neighbors or obtain signatures of approval from surrounding residents.

Where can crews stay in the Marina that are production-friendly? 

Most hotels in the Marina are accustomed to working with film crews, and all are "production-friendly" especially when it comes to large vehicle parking and flexible check-ins. Many are located along the waterfront with easy access to large county parking lots. These hotels are experienced with hosting talent and crew who need amenities but quick access to the base camp. Some offer a separate entrance that allows for discretion and privacy, which is often required for high-profile talent. Listed below from largest to smallest in capacity:

• Marina del Rey Marriott
• The Ritz-Carlton Marina del Rey
• Marina del Rey Hotel
• Hilton Garden Inn
• Residence Inn by Marriott
• Jamaica Bay Inn

Explore Hotels

Where are some large parking lots available for larger trucks and vans? 

Since street parking is virtually non-existent for crew trucks, you will almost certainly use one of the L.A. County Department of Beaches & Harbors (DBH) parking lots. You must reserve these through FilmLA.

Parking lots are plentiful, and it's recommended to select the parking lot closest to the shooting location. 

View Parking Lot Locations

How far is LAX airport from Marina del Rey?

It is extremely close, which is a major logistical advantage.

• Distance: Approximately 4–5 miles north of LAX
• Drive Time:
• No Traffic: ~15 minutes
• Heavy Traffic: ~30 - 40 minutes

What restaurants are production-friendly, especially for picking up boxed lunches or ready-to-go meals?

The Marina boasts more than 75 restaurants and eateries. Depending on the crew’s needs, spots like Mendocino Farms at Waterside Shops are popular for "boxed lunches" (sandwiches/salads) that keep well on set. Hotels also provide catering options for feeding a hungry crew with large to-go orders and safe options for various dietary restrictions.

Do students need a permit for a school project?

Yes. Student filmmakers are not exempt from permit requirements in Marina del Rey or Los Angeles County. Whether you are a student or a professional, if you are filming on public property or commercial private property, you are legally required to have a permit.

Is there a reduced fee for securing student filmmakers' permits?

Yes. Contact FilmLA as they offer significantly reduced rates for students.

As a student filmmaker, in addition to the standard location details, you must submit documentation such as a Student Letter of Certification and Proof of Student Insurance (most film schools, like USC, UCLA, NYFA, etc., hold a blanket policy with FilmLA; you just need to verify coverage).

Contact FilmLA