Things to Do in Santa Monica Area
In this article, I discuss things to do in Santa Monica area. Located on California’s stunning coast, Santa Monica is a vibrant destination that offers an unforgettable mix of beach relaxation and urban excitement. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend getaway or a longer stay, the Santa Monica area has countless things to do that suit every type of traveler. From the world-famous Santa Monica Pier with its Ferris Wheel and ocean views to the lively Third Street Promenade filled with shops, cafes, and street performers, this coastal city never fails to impress.
Things to do in the Santa Monica area include exploring scenic Palisades Park for a breathtaking sunset, biking along the beach path, or enjoying local seafood at top-notch restaurants. Adventure seekers can ride the waves, while art lovers can enjoy contemporary galleries and outdoor murals. Beyond the beach, visitors can discover hidden gems in nearby areas like Venice Beach and Malibu.
Whatever your interests, things to do in the Santa Monica area promise an unforgettable mix of culture, nature, and entertainment. Whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, or family, you’ll find endless ways to relax, explore, and create lasting memories. So pack your bags and get ready to experience the best things to do in the Santa Monica area — a destination where every moment feels like a California dream.
01. Santa Monica Pier
Santa Monica Pier is an iconic landmark located along the stunning coastline of Santa Monica, California.
Spanning the Pacific Ocean, it is a historic and vibrant destination that beautifully combines classic charm with modern attractions.
The pier is not only a symbol of Santa Monica but also a testament to the city’s rich history.
At the heart of the pier, you’ll find Pacific Park, a vibrant amusement park featuring a Ferris wheel, roller coasters, and a variety of rides that light up the night sky.
It is the only amusement park located on a pier on the West Coast, offering exhilarating fun for visitors of all ages.
The iconic Pacific Wheel, a solar-powered Ferris wheel, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline and the Pacific Ocean.
02. Santa Monica Beach
Santa Monica Beach is a stunning stretch of golden sand that stretches for miles along the Pacific Ocean.
It is a unique beach experience in Southern California, offering a vibrant and tranquil atmosphere.
The beach is famous for its wide, clear shoreline and gentle waves, making it an ideal spot for sunbathing, swimming and beach volleyball.
Palisades Park is an oasis of greenery that stretches along the high hills overlooking Santa Monica Beach. The park features lush gardens, walking paths and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
It is a perfect place for a leisurely stroll, a picnic or simply enjoying the breathtaking view of the sunset.
03. Third Street Promenade
Third Street Promenade is a bustling outdoor shopping and entertainment district located in the heart of Santa Monica.
Lined with a variety of shops, restaurants, and street performers, it is a hub of activity and a draw for both locals and tourists. From high-end boutiques to charming cafes, you can find everything here.
Santa Monica Place, an upscale shopping mall, is an integral part of the Third Street Promenade. With its modern architecture and extensive range of shops, it is a shopper's paradise.
The rooftop dining deck offers scenic al fresco dining and panoramic views of the city.
04. Santa Monica Farmers Market
The Santa Monica Farmers Market is a beloved institution that offers a delightful sensory experience. Local farmers and artisans come together every Wednesday and Saturday to showcase fresh, organic produce, artisanal cheeses, delicious foods, and unique crafts.
It’s not just a market; it’s a celebration of California’s agricultural richness and culinary creativity.
05. Annenberg Community Beach House
The Annenberg Community Beach House is a hidden gem along Santa Monica State Beach. This historic site has been transformed into a public beach front oasis.
It features a pool, a splash pad, a playground, and beautiful gardens. The Beach House also offers classes, events, and a welcoming environment for families and individuals to enjoy the sun and surf.
06. Tongva Park
Tongva Park is a contemporary urban park that celebrates nature, art, and community. Nestled between the Pacific Coast Highway and the Civic Center, it offers a serene escape in the heart of Santa Monica.
The park’s lush gardens, winding paths, and striking sculptures create a harmonious environment for relaxation and exploration.
07. Santa Monica Mountains
The Santa Monica Mountains are a rugged and scenic coastal mountain range that provide an attractive backdrop to the city of Santa Monica.
These mountains offer a wealth of outdoor recreation opportunities, including hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing.
The Backbone Trail, which traverses this range, is a favorite with hikers, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the city.
08. Santa Monica State Beach
Santa Monica State Beach is a scenic coastal playground that stretches along the city's shoreline. It's famous for its wide sandy expanse, perfect for sunbathing and picnicking.
The beach also has a bike path, making it easy to explore the coastline on two wheels.
9. Main Street
Main Street is a lively street that runs through Santa Monica, offering a mix of local boutiques, trendy cafes, and cultural experiences.
It's a vibrant hub of arts and culture, with a wide range of dining options and a sense of community that captures the essence of Santa Monica's unique spirit.
The lights of the Santa Monica Pier shine in the distance, adding to the charm of this eclectic boulevard.
10. Santa Monica Museum of Art (Bergamot Station)
The Santa Monica Museum of Art, located in Bergamot Station, was a cultural gem in the heart of Santa Monica.
Housed in a historic railroad station that had been turned into an art complex, it was a hub for contemporary art enthusiasts. The museum showcased a variety of exhibitions featuring works by both emerging and established artists.
Its intimate setting allowed visitors to immerse themselves in the world of modern art, making it a cherished cultural institution. Sadly, it has since closed its doors but has left an indelible mark on Santa Monica’s art scene.
11. Santa Monica History Museum
The Santa Monica History Museum is a treasure trove of the city’s rich heritage. Located in the heart of Santa Monica, this museum presents a vivid account of the city’s transformation from a seaside paradise to a thriving city.
Visitors can explore a variety of exhibits, including artwork, photographs, and interactive displays, each of which provides a glimpse into Santa Monica’s past.
It’s a fascinating journey through time that highlights the transformation of the city and the remarkable people who contributed to its history.
12. Camera Obscura Art Lab
The Camera Obscura Art Lab is a unique and innovative creative space in Santa Monica. Located within Palisades Park, the lab serves as a hub for artistic exploration.
Visitors can participate in a variety of workshops, art exhibits, and cultural events that celebrate a variety of art forms.
The Camera Obscura itself, an ancient light instrument, provides an engaging experience, projecting mesmerizing images of the surrounding landscape onto a concave disc.
It’s a space that encourages artistic expression and fosters a sense of community.
13. Santa Monica Public Library
The Santa Monica Public Library is a beacon of knowledge and culture in the heart of the city. This architecturally stunning building houses a vast collection of books, multimedia resources, and digital services for residents and visitors.
Beyond its literary treasures, the library hosts numerous events, workshops, and lectures, enriching Santa Monica’s cultural life.
The inviting atmosphere and state-of-the-art facilities make it a valuable resource for lifelong learning and exploration.
14. Getty Center
The Getty Center, located atop the Santa Monica Mountains, is a world-renowned cultural institution that brings together art, architecture, and nature into one captivating experience.
The museum boasts an impressive collection of European paintings, sculptures, decorative arts, and manuscripts.
The stunning Richard Meier-designed campus is a work of art in itself, its white travertine architecture beautifully blending with the surrounding gardens and panoramic views of Los Angeles. It is a destination for art lovers and those seeking inspiration.
15. Venice Beach
Venice Beach is a vibrant, eclectic, and iconic coastal neighborhood just south of Santa Monica. Known for its bohemian vibe and vibrant boardwalk, it is a place where art, music, and culture come together.
Visitors can stroll along the boardwalk, encountering street performers, artists, and vendors. The beach itself offers a sandy retreat for sunbathing and people-watching.
The Venetian canals, reminiscent of the waterways of Italy, add to the charming beauty of the neighborhood.
16. Muscle Beach
Located in the heart of Venice Beach, Muscle Beach is a historic fitness landmark. This is where bodybuilding and fitness culture found their roots, with iconic figures like Arnold Schwarzenegger training there.
The outdoor gym provides a nostalgic environment for fitness enthusiasts as well as a place for acrobatics, calisthenics, and strength training. It is a unique and iconic place where athleticism and entertainment collide.
17. Marina del Rey
Marina del Rey is a coastal enclave south of Santa Monica, known for its picturesque marina and waterfront lifestyle.
The area has a stunning harbor filled with boats, offering opportunities for sailing, paddleboarding, and other waterfront activities.
With an array of waterfront dining options, shops, and tranquil parks, it is a destination where urban sophistication meets the serenity of the ocean.
18. Broad Stage
Broad Stage is a cultural gem in Santa Monica, providing a dynamic and intimate setting for the performing arts.
This state-of-the-art venue hosts a variety of performances, including music, theater, dance, and more.
Broad Stage’s commitment to artistic excellence and community involvement has made it a hub for culture and creativity in Santa Monica.
19. The Victorian
The Victorian is a historic and charming event space in the heart of Santa Monica.
Housed in a beautifully preserved Victorian-era mansion, this iconic venue hosts a wide range of events, from weddings and private parties to concerts and community gatherings.
With its lush gardens, elegant architecture, and timeless ambiance, The Victorian provides a unique and memorable setting for special events and live entertainment.
20. Santa Monica Brew Works
Santa Monica Brew Works is a local craft brewery that combines the laid-back vibe of a beach town with the creativity of the craft beer scene.
Located in the heart of Santa Monica, this brewery offers a wide range of handcrafted beers, each reflecting the area’s coastal atmosphere.
From IPAs to stouts, visitors can sample a variety of brews while enjoying a relaxed atmosphere and often live music or food trucks.
It’s the perfect place to relax, sample unique flavors, and mingle with visitors who share a love of local and craft beer.
21. Hill the Bay Aquarium
Hill the Bay Aquarium is an educational gem located beneath the Santa Monica Pier. This interactive marine center focuses on protecting and preserving the local marine environment.
Visitors can get up close and personal with fascinating marine creatures, including sharks, rays, and jellyfish.
The aquarium hosts a variety of educational programs, making it a great destination for families and anyone interested in the world beneath the waves.
22. Santa Monica Place Rooftop Dining
Santa Monica Place Rooftop Dining offers a spectacular al fresco dining experience with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the city skyline.
This upscale dining area is a culinary destination, with a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit all tastes.
Whether you’re looking for fine dining, a casual meal, or just cocktails with a view, this rooftop oasis provides the perfect setting for a memorable dining experience.
23. Santa Monica Yoga
Santa Monica Yoga is a haven for yoga practitioners, offering a variety of classes, workshops, and a welcoming community.
Located in the heart of Santa Monica, the studio is dedicated to promoting physical and mental well-being through the practice of yoga.
From Hatha to Vinyasa, classes are suitable for all levels, making it a place where individuals can find a sense of balance, relaxation, and inner peace.
24. Eames House (Case Study House #8)
The Eames House, also known as Case Study House #8, is an architectural masterpiece designed by renowned mid-20th century designers Charles and Ray Eames.
Located in the Pacific Palisades just north of Santa Monica, it is a prime example of modernist architecture.
The house's innovative design and use of materials have made it an iconic landmark in the world of architecture and design.
Although not generally open to the public, the exterior can be admired from the outside, showcasing a visionary perspective of the Eames' living quarters.
25. Santa Monica Bike Path
The Santa Monica Bike Path is a scenic and enjoyable path for cyclists and pedestrians, running along the coast and connecting Santa Monica to Venice Beach.
With miles of dedicated bike lanes, it provides a safe and scenic way to explore the coastline, offering breathtaking ocean views and the opportunity to stop at various parks, beaches, and attractions along the way. It's a perfect way to enjoy the coastal environment and enjoy the outdoors.
26. Museum of Flight
Located near the Santa Monica Airport, the Museum of Flight is a tribute to the history and innovation of aviation. The museum features an extraordinary collection of aircraft, artifacts, and exhibits that celebrate the evolution of aviation.
From vintage aircraft to cutting-edge aviation technology, visitors can immerse themselves in the rich history of aviation and learn about the pioneers who made it possible.
27. Trapeze School New York
Located on the Santa Monica Pier, Trapeze School New York is a thrilling experience for thrill-seekers and adventurers.
Offering trapeze and aerial arts classes, this unique school provides the opportunity to defy gravity and learn the art of flying through the air.
Whether you are a beginner or an experienced aviator, the school provides a safe and exciting environment for taking to the skies.
28. Santa Monica Stairs
Located in the Santa Monica Canyon neighborhood, the Santa Monica Stairs are an iconic spot for fitness enthusiasts.
The stairs feature steep, winding steps that provide a challenging workout for those looking to increase their cardio and leg strength.
Surrounded by greenery and located in a quiet residential area, it’s a hidden gem for locals looking for an intense workout in a tranquil natural setting.
29. International Chess Park
Located along the Santa Monica beach, International Chess Park is a unique gathering place for chess enthusiasts.
With its large chess board and shaded tables, it’s a hub for casual play and intense competition.
The park offers a welcoming environment for players of all levels and provides a charming seaside backdrop for this centuries-old game.
30. Will Rogers State Historic Park
Will Rogers State Historic Park is a peaceful oasis located in the Pacific Palisades, just a short drive from Santa Monica. The park preserves the former estate of beloved comedian, actor, and author Will Rogers.
Visitors can tour the sprawling ranch, stroll through lush gardens, and enjoy breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
The park offers a glimpse into the life and legacy of one of America’s most beloved entertainers, as well as a serene getaway for hiking and picnicking in a beautiful natural setting.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Santa Monica
When is the best time to visit Santa Monica Beach?
The best time to visit Santa Monica Beach is during the late spring and summer months. The weather is perfect for outdoor activities, and you can enjoy the beach to the fullest.
Are there any free events at the Santa Monica Pier?
Yes, the Santa Monica Pier often hosts free events, including concerts, movie nights, and fitness classes. Check out their official website for a schedule of events.
Is parking available near the Third Street Promenade?
Yes, there are several parking garages near the Third Street Promenade, which makes it convenient for visitors to access the shops and restaurants.
Can I rent beach equipment at Santa Monica Beach?
Absolutely! You can rent beach equipment like umbrellas, beach chairs, and surfboards from vendors along the beach.
Are there any hiking trails near Palisades Park?
Yes, Palisades Park is close to several hiking trails in the Santa Monica Mountains. If you’re a nature lover, this is a great place to start your outdoor adventures.
What is the most popular food at Santa Monica Pier?
The most popular food at Santa Monica Pier is the classic funnel cake, a sweet treat that is loved by both locals and tourists.
Conclusion
Santa Monica is a city that never fails to captivate its visitors. From the iconic Santa Monica Pier to the serene Palisades Park and the sun-drenched Santa Monica Beach, this city offers a variety of experiences.
Fun fact: What was once just another concrete parking lot in downtown Santa Monica has now been transformed into a seaside oasis of green space at Santa Monica's Tongva Park.
Whether you're looking for relaxation, adventure, or culture, Santa Monica has it all. Make the most of your trip by visiting these amazing places in Santa Monica, and you're sure to create lasting memories.