Amanda's place was located a 2 minutes walk from the beach, but what was more convenient was the short walk to Abbott Kinney for great shopping and eating.
Venice beach itself wasn't quite what we were expecting and didn't feel the safest at night, however the security at Amanda's place helped with that issue. It also took us a little while to adjust to the noise of apartment living, which is something you should be aware of.
Overall Amanda's place was good, however we probably wouldn't stay in Venice Beach again.