You’ve seen the big block lettering banners on the corner of Venice and Abbot Kinney but If you’ve never heard of a grunion run, let us explain:
Every spring and summer, these silvery little fish (called grunion) come right out of the ocean and onto our beaches to lay their eggs in the sand. It’s wild, it’s wiggly, and it’s 100% awesome!
🐟 What Are Grunion?
Grunion are small, silvery fish native to the California coast. They are known for their unique spawning behavior, where they ride the waves onto sandy beaches to lay eggs during high tides at night. This phenomenon, known as a "grunion run," offers a rare opportunity to observe marine life up close.
✨ What to Expect
The Venice Oceanarium - led by a local beach lover, Tim Rudnick, who’s basically the fish whisperer - is hosting a special grunion run night on Friday, June 13th. He’ll share the science, the stories, and the fun behind these nocturnal fishy visitors.
🔦 Tips for Families
🐠 When? It happens LATE - usually around 10PM, depending on the tides.
📍 Where? Venice Beach Breakwater — exact spot TBA - we usually start at the Venice Pier and walk north.
🌟 Why it’s cool: Your kids will see nature in action (and get to stay up way past bedtime!).
Tim Rudnick
Tim is a local treasure with a passion for sharing the magic of our coastline. He’s been leading beach walks and ocean adventures for years, turning curious kids (and grown-ups) into ocean lovers one tidepool at a time. His style is fun, low-key, and super engaging — he makes you feel like a kid again, even if you’re just tagging along with yours!
Bring a flashlight (it gets really dark out there!).
Dress in layers - that ocean breeze can get chilly.
Pack a blanket or beach chair if you plan to settle in for the show.
Keep your kids up with a late nap or maybe a fun treat (s’mores on the beach, anyone?).
🌊 Can You Eat Grunion?
Technically… yes! But in California, you need a valid fishing license and must follow strict rules. Plus, most people just watch them - it’s more about the experience than the eating!
🐟 Why It’s Special
This isn’t just about fish - it’s about community and wonder. Tim from the Venice Oceanarium is a local gem: he’s funny, patient with questions, and knows a ton about our beach ecosystem.
See you there for this magical, wiggly, ocean-y adventure!
Grunion Dates for June 2025:
Wednesday, June 11: 9:35 p.m. – 11:35 p.m.
Thursday, June 12: 10:10 p.m. – 12:10 a.m.
Friday, June 13: 10:50 p.m. – 12:50 a.m.
Saturday, June 14: 11:30 p.m. – 1:30 a.m.
Wednesday, June 25: 9:40 p.m. – 11:40 p.m.
Thursday, June 26: 10:25 p.m. – 12:25 a.m.
Friday, June 27: 11:10 p.m. – 1:10 a.m.
Saturday, June 28: Midnight – 2:00 a.m.
