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Escape the excitement of Los Angeles and take a breather in Santa Monica, just like the locals do. It’s conveniently reachable from LA through Santa Monica Boulevard and the Santa Monica Freeway (part of Interstate 10). This trendy beach community in California offers a refreshing break from the hectic pace of its neighboring big city. The western side of Santa Monica is where you’ll discover its top attractions: the stunning Santa Monica State Beach and the family-friendly Santa Monica Pier. However, this destination has much more to offer than just its famous beach and pier. Take a break from the sand and embark on a picturesque bike ride along the Marvin Braude Beach Trail. Relax in the beautiful parks that adorn Santa Monica or indulge in some retail therapy and people-watching at the Third Street Promenade. Afterward, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the city’s highly acclaimed restaurants. Whatever you decide to do, Santa Monica will instantly make you feel relaxed and at ease.
Santa Monica is a fantastic place to visit, and the best time to go is from September to November. During these months, you’ll experience pleasant weather without the huge crowds that come in the summer. This means you can fully enjoy the beach and popular attractions like the Santa Monica Pier and the Third Street Promenade. Additionally, if you plan your trip for fall, you’re likely to find great deals on accommodations and airfare. If you’re on a budget and don’t mind a bit of rain (although it’s not very common due to the city’s abundance of sunshine), December, January, and February are decent options. Springtime may offer occasional discounts, but be aware that March and April can get busy with spring breakers, which might disturb the city’s laid-back atmosphere. The peak summer season, from June to August, tends to be more expensive as families visit to enjoy the sun while their children are on vacation.
Here are some of our favorite things to do in Santa Monica. Select what you would enjoy!
During the vibrant Gold Coast era of the 1920s, the foundation for the Annenberg Community Beach House was laid. This beautiful beachfront property spanned across 5 acres and boasted a magnificent 100-room mansion. It was envisioned and built by …
Santa Monica is a wonderful place for cycling, thanks to its numerous trails and pleasant weather throughout the year. One popular route is the Marvin Braude Beach Trail, known as “The Strand” among locals. It’s located in the heart of the city and …
Discover the wonders of the Getty Villa, a museum that proudly presents a splendid collection of Greek and Roman art predating the Middle Ages. Immerse yourself in the serene ambiance of a recreated Roman country home, complete with a magnificent …
Discover the wonders of Santa Monica Bay’s marine life at Heal the Bay Aquarium, conveniently located beneath the Santa Monica Pier. This charming aquarium is dedicated to educating both residents and visitors about the fascinating creatures that …
In a calm residential area, there’s a charming street adorned with trees. It’s home to over 150 delightful shops and restaurants, offering a relaxed and less crowded atmosphere compared to the bustling Third Street Promenade. You’ll find a diverse …
In Santa Monica, there’s a well-known place that offers a fantastic opportunity for an outdoor workout. It’s absolutely free and filled with fun! Here, you can witness impressive displays of strength as people showcase their muscles. This beachfront …
Pacific Park, situated on the Santa Monica Pier, is a fantastic destination for both families and adventure seekers. This oceanfront amusement park offers a wide range of arcade games and exciting rides to cater to everyone’s preferences. Alongside …
If you want to enjoy stunning views of Santa Monica Bay away from the crowds of tourists, head one block inland from the beach to Palisades Park. This park is conveniently located near popular attractions like the Santa Monica Pier and Third Street …
The Santa Monica Pier is a famous landmark located from the intersection of Colorado Boulevard and Ocean Front Walk to a point above Santa Monica Bay. It’s known for being the end point of Route 66 and can be seen in many photos of the city, as well …
If you enjoy shopping, a visit to Santa Monica Place is a must. It’s located near the Third Street Promenade, which is also a popular shopping destination. This modern outdoor mall is home to many upscale boutiques like Coach, Louis Vuitton, …
Santa Monica State Beach is a popular destination known for its beautiful 3 ½ mile shoreline. With its soft sands, pleasant weather, and various attractions, it’s no wonder this beach is highly regarded. Alongside the picturesque stretch of sand, …
The Third Street Promenade is a vibrant and diverse shopping area that extends from Broadway to Wilshire Boulevard. It’s a great place to shop, with a mix of well-known stores like Urban Outfitters and H&M, as well as charming boutiques. When it …
Tongva Park, like Palisades Park to the west, offers a peaceful escape from Santa Monica’s bustling beach and shopping area. This 6-acre oasis is dedicated to the Tongva Indian Tribe, who are indigenous to the region. Divided into four sections - …
Venice Beach is a popular coastal destination situated just south of Santa Monica Pier, within close proximity to Santa Monica, Culver City, and Marina del Rey. Spanning a distance of 3 miles along the Pacific Ocean, this vibrant beach area offers …