Best Things To Do In Santa Monica
Santa Monica has a way of making you forget you have a to-do list. One minute you're stuck in traffic on the 10, and the next you're watching a pelican act like it owns the pi...
Santa Monica has a way of making you forget you have a to-do list. One minute you're stuck in traffic on the 10, and the next you're watching a pelican act like it owns the pier. That shift is the whole point.
Start With the Beach, Because Of Course
The beach here isn't just a backdrop for selfies. It's a giant, sandy living room where joggers, toddlers, and dogs all pretend they're not people-watching each other. Bring a towel, kick off your shoes, and let the Pacific do its slow, salty thing.
A word to the wise: the water is colder than it looks. Dip a toe, laugh, and retreat to your towel.
Must Read
Walk the Santa Monica Pier
Yes, the pier is touristy. It's also genuinely fun if you lean into it. Watch the fishermen, ride the Ferris wheel, and buy a churro you don't need.
The solar-powered Ferris wheel is a cheerful landmark, and the views from the top stretch all the way to Malibu on a clear day. Go near sunset and the whole thing turns gold.
Visit the Aquarium Under the Pier
Heal the Bay Aquarium sits right beneath the pier, which feels a little secret even though it isn't. It's small, hands-on, and perfect for kids or adults who like touching sea stars. You'll leave knowing more about local marine life than you expected.
Ride, Skate, or Stroll Along the Coast
The Marvin Braude Bike Trail is a flat, paved path that hugs the ocean for miles. You can rent a bike, lace up roller skates, or just walk. The breeze does most of the work for you.
Palisades Park at Sunset
Palisades Park sits on the bluffs above Ocean Avenue, and it's basically Santa Monica's front porch. Locals walk their dogs there, couples share benches, and everyone pauses for the sunset. The palm trees make even a bad phone photo look cinematic.
14 Best Things to Do in Santa Monica, California - Camping Ground Info
Beach Yoga and Morning Volleyball
If you've ever wanted to try yoga but hate quiet studios, the beach is your friend. The sound of waves covers your awkward breathing, and nobody cares if you wobble. Later, join a pickup volleyball game near the pier—people are friendlier than you'd think.
Wander Downtown Without a Plan
Third Street Promenade is closed to cars, which makes it feel like a block party that never quite ends. You'll find street performers, movie theaters, and more ice cream shops than any human needs. It's a great place to kill an hour or three.
Shop and Snack on Montana Avenue
Montana Avenue is quieter and more local-feeling than the promenade. Think boutique shops, coffee spots, and bakery windows that make you stop mid-step. It's where you go when you want Santa Monica to feel like a neighborhood, not a destination.
Eat at the Farmers Market
The Wednesday and Saturday farmers markets are packed with strawberries, avocados, and flowers that look almost fake. Grab a piece of fruit for now and a pastry for later. Everything tastes better when you're standing outside.
Feed Your Face Like a Local
Santa Monica has fancy restaurants, sure. But the real magic is in the casual stuff: fish tacos, smash burgers, and cones from Bay Cities or Sweet Rose Creamery. You don't need a reservation to have a great meal here.
21 Best Things To Do In Santa Monica, California (2026)
Tacos and Happy Hour
Hit a taqueria on Main Street or near the pier for tacos that drip down your wrist. Then find a happy hour with an ocean view. Two tacos and a sunset can fix almost any bad week.
Picnic at Tongva Park
Tongva Park is a modern little green space with winding paths and weird, wonderful sculptures. Grab takeout and claim a bench. It's close to the beach but feels calmer, like a secret garden with better people-watching.
Slow Down and Do Nothing
The best thing to do in Santa Monica might be nothing at all. Sit on a bench, watch the waves, and let your phone die. That's not lazy—that's the local sport.
If you only have one day, pick two things: the pier and the beach path. If you have a week, do one thing a day and leave room for naps. Santa Monica rewards the unhurried.
So why care? Because this city is a reminder that a good day doesn't need a packed itinerary. It needs salt air, a snack, and maybe a Ferris wheel. Go see for yourself.
Pack a light jacket, too. The marine layer can turn sunny into misty in ten minutes.
