Marina del Rey, CA
Ash Scattering at Sea
An Elegant Farewell on L.A.’s Coastline
Why Families Choose Marina del Rey for Ocean Memorials
With over 4,600 boat slips, calm breakwater-protected waters, and a soothing marine atmosphere, Marina del Rey provides the perfect balance between quiet reflection and modern convenience. Surrounded by scenic walking paths, swaying palms, and waterfront views of the Santa Monica Mountains, it is a harbor deeply suited for remembrance, closure, and peace.
The name “Marina del Rey,” meaning “Harbor of the King” in Spanish, reflects the area’s rich nautical history and its long-standing connection to the Pacific. What was once a coastal wetland has become a vibrant yet serene place where families can gather, reflect, and release ashes in a setting that feels as comforting as it is meaningful.
Whether your ceremony is intimate or attended by a group, Marina del Rey offers a calming final journey — a place where ocean winds and still waters carry your loved one forward with dignity and grace.
Marina del Rey was officially dedicated in 1965 and is now home to more than 4,600 recreational vessels, making it the largest man-made small-craft harbor in the United States. It borders Venice Beach and Playa del Rey and provides families with a peaceful gateway to the open Pacific for dignified sea memorials.
As far as we are aware we are the only ash scattering/sea burial company to have a sister funeral home. This is very beneficial to our clients and provides expert trusted guidance to families in Marina del Rey and all California coastal communities. Funerals Your Way FD: 2188,
Stories for the Soul – Ash Scattering at Sea
The account below is one of those stories. You’ll find more at our 🔗 “Ash Scattering Stories” page.
Despite the season having passed, three whales emerged near the boat. They stayed close for several minutes, calm and observant, as if offering their own farewell.
Their presence shifted something in the moment. When they submerged, the silence they left behind held a profound energy. The family felt honored — as though nature itself had acknowledged their loved one’s passing.
FAQ – Ash Scattering at Sea in Marina del Rey
Where do Marina del Rey ash scattering trips depart from?
Most trips board at Fisherman’s Village (Dock 55 area on Fiji Way) or the Burton Chace Park guest docks. Your confirmation includes the exact dock number and slip will all be given to you at the time of booking.
What landmarks will we see from Marina del Rey?
What should we bring to the ceremony?
What marine life is common off Marina del Rey?
Are there harbor or traffic restrictions we should know about?
How long does the outing take, and can you provide coordinates?
“What to Expect” Ceremony Flow Section
Tip💡: Every family has specific needs. We are happy to tailor the flow, length, or even the style of your ceremony to match your wishes, whether they are spiritual, traditional, or understated.
🕒 10 Minutes – Boarding & Welcome
Guests are greeted by the captain and crew at the dock. Guests board the vessel, settle in and get ready for the trip. Light refreshments may be available depending on your package. The captain will give a brief orientation about the ceremony, the route, and safety guidelines before departure.
🚤 15 Minutes – Travel to Scattering Site
The ride is calm and quiet — a time for reflection, shared memories, or simply taking in the open water.
🌅 15 Minutes – Reflection and Return Cruise
What Families are Saying – Ash Scattering at Sea – Reviews
“I flew across the country for this. It was worth it. This was beyond phenomenal. I had never experienced an “ash scattering or release.” My family had always buried the deceased. This was so much more meaningful and quite honestly more freeing than a burial.
The crew was beyond compassionate, accommodating, and loving for someone I met 20 minutes before I boarded the boat. They spoke enough to be personable and also left enough room for the experience and the moment.”
— Brittany ★★★★★
“We scattered the ashes of my parents and grandfather off Point Loma in San Diego. Prior to the scattering, we had naval military honors for my father. The day of the actual service, Joey, Angela and Cindy were present to make certain that everything went flawlessly with regard to the music, the tempo and the food/drinks. We received many compliments from both family and guests. We highly recommend San Diego Burial at Sea!”
— Chris ★★★★★
“The boat is beautiful and comfortable. The crew (Liz and Amie) were wonderful; pleasant and professional. We felt calm and had a sense of closure by spreading our father’s ashes where he loved to be.”
— Jim ★★★★★
Marina del Ray Yachts – Ash Scattering at Sea
Key Features:
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- For up to 12 guests (ideal for families or close friends)
- Engines are twin Volvos (370 hp) cruising around 16 knots
- Onboard restroom for added convenience
- Experienced local captain and crew
- Perfect for short, private memorials or peaceful time on the ocean
Key Features:
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- For up to 6 guests (ideal for families or close friends)
- Sailing yacht
- Onboard restroom for added convenience
- Experienced local captain and crew
- Perfect for short, private memorials or peaceful time on the ocean
Key Features:
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- 3 dinette tables
- 18 guests inside
- Onboard restroom for added convenience
- Experienced local captain and crew
- Validated parking – $2 all day
What to Know Before You Leave for Marina del Rey
🌴 Burton Chace Park: Such beautiful parks like Burton Chace are rare as this park also has a picturesque view of the harbor making it a perfect place to have a calm and enjoyable picnic, walk, or sit on a shaded bench. This park is also famous for people to gather for a memorial and share a quiet time while enjoying the beautiful harbor view.
🌊 Mother’s Beach (Marina Beach)
: The small harbor facing Mother’s Beach has calm, shallow water which is very soft for gentle waves. Adding palm trees improves the appeal for families with kids as well as for people waiting to do a ceremony,. This beach is famous for being the safest beach in the region and is frequently used for paddleboarding or for calm reflection.
🐬 Marina Peninsula & Ocean Access: The breakwater leads directly into Santa Monica Bay, where sea lions, dolphins, and pelicans are commonly spotted. The walk around Marina Peninsula, where locals prefer to watch the sunset, is peaceful and beautiful.
🍽️ Waterfront Dining & Fisherman’s Village: From casual to elegant, the waterfront restaurants and Fisherman’s Village offer a wide variety of seafood dishes. Marina del Rey is a great place to dine after a memorial or enjoy a family gathering in a scenic place.
Parking & Accessibility
Sea Scattering Additions
🛥️ Marina del Rey Harbor Highlights
⚓ 1. The USA’s biggest small-craft harbor, made by humans
Marina del Rey Harbor has over 4,600 fuel docks, making it the largest small-boat and recreational craft harbor in the USA. The marinas are in good condition and support a variety of vessels from luxury yachts to memorial sailing vessels and charter boats.
🚤 2. Open ocean double protected access through a calm breakwater
The harbor opens directly into Santa Monica bay through a calm breakwater which allows easy and gentle transitions from harbor to open water. This is perfect for ash scattering where comfort and ease is the highest priority.
🌴 3. Bordered with promenades, parks, and picturesque locations
In addition to the aforementioned burton chace park, the walking paths along with palm tree promenades provide an area for the sand, water, and coastal breeze allowing visitors and families a solemn area to gather and reminisce before or after a memorial.
🍽️ 4. Waterfront eateries and fisherman’s village are a stone’s throw away
Fisherman’s village and other eateries like ‘Killer Shrimp’ and ‘Salt Restaurant’ are just a few steps away, making it easy for clients to access food after the gathering and set a easy and relaxed environment for families to spend time over a meal after the memorial.
🛟 5. Up To Standard Private Charters & Services
There are many licensed charter operators in the harbor. Most are specialized in memorials, full-body sea burials, and private ash scattering. Ample public parking, accessible docks, and harbor staff make Marina del Rey a convenient and respectful departure point.
🛥️ Marina del Rey Harbor Highlights
Marina del Rey Harbor has over 4,600 fuel docks, making it the largest small-boat and recreational craft harbor in the USA. The marinas are in good condition and support a variety of vessels from luxury yachts to memorial sailing vessels and charter boats.
🚤 2. Open ocean double protected access through a calm breakwater
The harbor opens directly into Santa Monica bay through a calm breakwater which allows easy and gentle transitions from harbor to open water. This is perfect for ash scattering where comfort and ease is the highest priority.
🌴 3. Bordered with promenades, parks, and picturesque locations
In addition to the aforementioned burton chace park, the walking paths along with palm tree promenades provide an area for the sand, water, and coastal breeze allowing visitors and families a solemn area to gather and reminisce before or after a memorial.
🍽️ 4. Waterfront eateries and fisherman’s village are a stone’s throw away
Fisherman’s village and other eateries like ‘Killer Shrimp’ and ‘Salt Restaurant’ are just a few steps away, making it easy for clients to access food after the gathering and set a easy and relaxed environment for families to spend time over a meal after the memorial.
🛟 5. Up To Standard Private Charters & Services
There are many licensed charter operators in the harbor. Most are specialized in memorials, full-body sea burials, and private ash scattering. Ample public parking, accessible docks, and harbor staff make Marina del Rey a convenient and respectful departure point.
Marina del Rey – Departure Points
| Marina | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Burton Chace Park Dock | Central location with ample parking, public restrooms, and easy passenger drop-off for charter departures. |
| Fisherman’s Village Marina | Scenic waterfront with shops and dining—ideal for families to gather before or after a ceremony. |
| Dock 52 Public Launch | Convenient for smaller vessels; offe |
Marina del Rey Restaurants Near the Marina/Pier
A well-liked convenience stop is famous for its spicy shrimp bowls and also serves other beverages shrimp bowls, full bar, and marina views. Casual and lively — perfect for family gatherings after a ceremony.
🥩 Cast & Plow at The Ritz-Carlton
Overlooks the marina for a fine-dining, farm-to-table meal. Offers seasonal dishes, attentive service, and an elegant, peaceful setting.
🍽️ SALT Restaurant & Bar
SALT, located in the Marina del Rey Hotel, serves upscale coastal California dishes blended with a modern touch. Views and brunch are excellent, and the ambiance is calm and waterside.
🍕 Scopa Italian Roots
A modern Italian-American restaurant known for its bold flavors, handcrafted cocktails, and lively ambiance. Located just a short drive from the harbor—great for families seeking an upscale yet approachable meal.
🌮 The Cheesecake Factory – Marina del Rey
Well-known nationally, this location is unique as it sits right on the marina. The restaurant offers scenic waterfront patio dining along with an extensive menu.
| Restaurant | Cuisine / Style | Location Vibe | Best For | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🍤 Killer Shrimp Marina del Rey | Spicy Seafood Bowls, Full Bar | Casual, lively, waterfront views | Family gatherings, casual meals | Signature spicy shrimp, marina setting, fun energy |
| 🥩 Cast & Plow at The Ritz-Carlton | Farm-to-Table, Fine Dining | Elegant, peaceful, marina-facing | Refined post-memorial dinners | Seasonal cuisine, attentive service, upscale setting |
| 🍽️ SALT Restaurant & Bar | Modern Coastal California | Waterside, calm, contemporary | Brunch, quiet reflection meals | Elegant patio dining, harbor views, great brunch |
| 🍕 Scopa Italian Roots | Modern Italian-American | Lively, upscale yet inviting | Upscale family dinners, cocktails | Bold flavors, hip ambiance, handcrafted drinks |
| 🌮 The Cheesecake Factory – Marina del Rey | American, Global Fusion | Lively, scenic marina-side patio | Versatile group meals, mixed tastes | Huge menu, outdoor seating, great views |