Are you wondering what to do in Santa Monica? Then, In this article, you will get to know about things or activities that you can do in Santa Monica during your visit. Santa Monica is known for being surrounded by the lush green mountains on the one side and the dazzling blue beach on the other side. Not only this Santa Monica has many highly rated restaurants, luxurious resorts, nice night clubs and much more. You can also find many successful businesses, for example this Santa Monica self storage. There are many festivals and events that are held in Santa Monica throughout the year which you can witness. Keep reading the article to know more about what to do in Santa Monica.
What To Do In Santa Monica?
First, I will answer your question about what to do in Santa Monica during your visit briefly. After knowing these things to do in Santa Monica you no longer will be confused about what to do in Santa Monica.
- Visit the Past at California Heritage Museum
- Tour the famous Santa Monica Pier
- Hike up the Santa Monica Mountains
- Relax at Santa Monica State Beach
- See the Museum of Flying of Santa Monica
- View the Downtown & Third Street Promenade
- Hangout at Palisades Park
- Shop from the Santa Monica Farmers Market
- Ascend the Santa Monica Stairs
- Enjoy at Annenberg Community Beach House
- Admire the Bergamot Station Arts Center
- Indulge in Sweet Rose Creamery
- Taste food at BOA Steakhouse Santa Monica
- Fine dine at Rustic Canyon
- Breathe in the fresh air at Tongva Park
- Try the Pono Burger
- Go Shopping at Santa Monica Place
- Eat at Mercado
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Top 18 Best Things To Do In Santa Monica
In this section, I will give you more facts and details about what to do in Santa Monica in your free time. I am sure that you will have a good time with the things that we have listed under what to do in Santa Monica.
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Visit The Past At California Heritage Museum
If you are confused about what to do in Santa Monica? Visiting the California Heritage Museum is one of the first things to do in Santa Monica for you. You will get to know more about the vast and phenomenal history of California.
Several artifacts, exhibits, photos, and documents will give you insight into the local history of this place.
This museum building is also known as the Roy Jones house and has a spellbinding victorian architect that you must have a look at.
- Name: California Heritage Museum
- Address: 2612 Main Street, Santa Monica
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Tour The Famous Santa Monica Pier
The Santa Monica Pier is included in the best places to visit in Santa Monica for entertainment and fun. The answer to your question about what to do in Santa Monica with family is this place.
You will get many joyous experiences at Santa Monica Pier. There is a pacific park which has many thrilling and exciting rides like the roller coaster ride and the Ferris. At night, you will get to see the gorgeous lighted up Ferris which is a treat to watch.
If you love games then you can try some amazing games at the Playland arcade or the whimsical. Not only this you can even have a closer look at the aquatic life in the Santa Monica Pier Aquatic Museum.
- Name: Santa Monica Pier
- Address: 200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica
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Hike Up The Santa Monica Mountains
The Santa Monica Mountains are among the main tourist attractions of this city. It is a large recreational area of the city with around 20 different pretty parks within it.
You will get an opportunity to do various types of activities here such as hiking, biking in the mountains, camping and riding a horse, etc.
Some of the famous parks that you can go to our Point Mugu State Park, Malibu Creek State Park, and Topanga Creek state park.
Now, you must have got an idea of what to do in Santa Monica for recreation and enjoyment.
- Name: Santa Monica Mountains
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Relax At Santa Monica State Beach
Are you a beach lover? Then going to Santa Monica State Beach is place under the list of what to do in Santa Monica for you.
You can do so many fun activities on this beach like renting a bike, picnicking with your family, swimming, and enjoying water sports, etc. You can also enjoy the game of chess, volleyball as there are courts arranged for them as well.
There are various facilities available on this beach such as lifeguards, showers, bathrooms, picnic tables, and wooden walkways, etc.
You can even enjoy looking at the stunning sea or walking on the soft golden sand of the beach.
- Name: Santa Monica State Beach
- Address: Ocean Ave at Colorado Ave, Santa Monica
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See The Museum Of Flying Of Santa Monica
If you don’t know what to do in Santa Monica then touring the Museum of flying is the right option. For the Aviation enthusiasts taking a trip to the Museum of flying of Santa Monica is a must. This museum spans over a large area of about 22,000 square feet. There is a wide range of exhibits kept which show the growth, development, and changes in the aviation industry.
The main attraction of the Museum of Flying includes a replica wright flyer and the nosepiece of Boeing 727.
You can have a look at the aircraft of the different aviation companies like North American, Lockheed, and Hughes Aircraft, etc.
There are also many hands-on exhibits, documentaries, films, and an interactive flight simulator displayed in the museum.
- Name: Museum of Flying
- Address: 3100 Airport Ave, Santa Monica
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View The Downtown & Third Street Promenade
What to do in Santa Monica if you love shopping? You can go to the Third Street Promenade which is situated in Downtown Santa Monica.
This place has several bunches of shops, stores, outlets, and much more from where you can shop all sorts of items.
The street is crowded and you can walk on the pedestrian and enjoy the sights of this urban area.
For food lovers, it is heaven as there are many eateries, restaurants from where you can eat delicious local food.
If you are lucky then you also might get to watch some street performances and artists showcasing their talents.
- Name: Third Street Promenade
- Address: 1351 3rd Street Promenade, Santa Monica
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Hangout At Palisades Park
Do you want to relax and you don’t know what to do in Santa Monica? Then, you must visit the Palisades park which spans over an area of 26 acres.
You will get to see lovely roses, fantastic ocean views, and charming palm trees in this park. You can walk up to the Inspiration point of the park and watch the gorgeous views of the coastline.
Not only this there are many installations of art and wonderful courts for playing petanque made within the park. This place is perfect to chill, relax, and hang out for some time away from the city.
- Name: Palisades Park
- Address: Ocean Ave, Santa Monica
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Shop From The Santa Monica Farmers Market
Going shopping at the Santa Monica Farmers Market should be on your list of what to do in Santa Monica.
This farmers market is set up every Wednesday, Saturday, Sunday since the year 1979. You can buy anything here ranging from fresh vegetables to cottage cheese, flowers to locally harvested nuts, etc.
There are also many events hosted in this market such as street musician performances and cooking demonstrations etc.
You can even try the hot and mouth-watering local meals served in the eateries and hotels there.
- Name: Santa Monica Farmers Market
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Ascend The Santa Monica Stairs
You must have heard about the famous Santa Monica Stairs and the public walkaway. For fitness lovers ascending the Santa Monica stairs is under the index of what to do in Santa Monica.
These Santa Monica stairs have about 300 steps which are made of a mix of wood and concrete. Around 170 steps are made of wood and 199 steps are made of Concrete.
This place is full of sports enthusiasts who are often here for exercise. You can even go walking or just to see this enticing combination of stairs.
- Name: Santa Monica Stairs
- Address: 699 Adelaide Dr, Santa Monica
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Enjoy At Annenberg Community Beach House
Annenberg Community Beach house was constructed in the year 1920s and is situated on the north of Santa Monica Pier.
This beach house has so many pleasure activities to do on-site like swimming, pooling, splash pads, and playgrounds, etc.
Are you confused about what to do in Santa Monica for fun? Then, you can consider spending some days in this luxurious mansion. It also features an amazing art gallery and much more. They also offer free and guided tours that you can take if you want.
- Name: Annenberg Community Beach House
- Address: 415 Pacific Coast Highway, Santa Monica
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Admire The Bergamot Station Arts Center
What is there to do in Santa Monica? You can visit the Bergamot Station Arts Center to see some wonderful art and interesting craft.
It is packed with numerous rotating exhibits which are different pieces of art and craft from several artists. The artwork that you will get to see here ranges from ancient classical to contemporary and modern art.
The architecture of this center itself is worth seeing and exploring. The other important fact is that you don’t even have to pay to park or to see this fabulous art center.
- Name: Bergamot Station Arts Center
- Address: 2525 Michigan Ave, Santa Monica
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Indulge In Sweet Rose Creamery
Do you have a sweet tooth? If yes, then you should not miss out on eating the tasty homemade ice creams of the Sweet rose creamery.
If you are having thoughts about what to do in Santa Monica when it is summer? You can indulge in the rich taste of freshly made and locally sourced ice creams and desserts.
This popular ice cream parlor serves a variety of ice creams in different flavors.
The ice-cream variants that you must try here include Classic mint, chocolate chips, sweet potato swirl, and horchata coconut and kiwi, etc.
- Name: Sweet Rose Creamery
- Address: 2726 Main Street, Santa Monica
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Taste Food At BOA Steakhouse Santa Monica
Foodie people should not miss out on trying this yummy seafood restaurant in Santa Monica.
This steakhouse restaurant is known for its flavorsome gourmet steak offerings, signature rubs, and sauces, etc. They have a large menu which I am sure will end up confusing you.
Some of the popular dishes that you must try are Japanese wagyu, black truffle butter, blue cheese crust, and saffron jumbo prawns, etc.
You can also pair up your meal with premium wine or fine cocktails that are served there. Now, you know what to do in Santa Monica when you are hungry and want to eat something tasty.
- Name: BOA Steakhouse Santa Monica
- Address: 101 Santa Monica Blvd, Santa Monica
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Fine Dine At Rustic Canyon
Not sure about what to do in Santa Monica? Fine dining at the Rustic Canyon is a good option for you. This restaurant has a concept of farm to table and they serve authentic New American cuisine.
All the meals that they serve are made from locally grown, organic, and sustainable ingredients. You can try their signature dishes like Ricotta Dumplings, butterbeans and Olive oil poached Passmore Ranch Trout, etc.
They even have an extensive menu for drinks like wine, locally made beers and handcrafted cocktails, and beyond.
- Name: Rustic Canyon
- Address: 1119 Wilshire Blvd, Santa Monica
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Breathe In The Fresh Air At Tongva Park
To get away from the pollution of the city and to breathe in the fresh air, you can go to Tongva Park. It has an area of approximately about six acres and is situated off the ocean avenue.
What to do in Santa Monica on Sunday? This park is good to relax and spending a lazy boring Sunday with your kids. It has a lavish green garden, a fabulous fountain, excellent sculptures, and nice playgrounds.
You can spend good family time here and enjoy other fun activities like walking, camping, and sightseeing, etc.
- Name: Tongva Park
- Address: 1615 Ocean Ave, Santa Monica
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Try The Pono Burger
To eat healthy burgers that are made from locally sourced ingredients and are 100% organic you should go to Pono Burger.
Pono burger offers a variety of appetizing burgers that you can customize and add side options like milkshakes, fries, and handcrafted beers, etc.
If you have no plans about what to do in Santa Monica at night? You can go to Pono burger run by Chef Makani and try their yummy meals.
- Name: Pono Burger
- Address: 829 Broadway, Santa Monica
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Go Shopping At Santa Monica Place
Are you a shopping buff and wandering what to do in Santa Monica, California? Going shopping at Santa Monica Place is the best thing to do in Santa Monica.
You can shop from various popular brands and even local brands. The famous shops that you must go to are Bloomingdales and Nordstrom. They have more than a hundred designs from the designers of the town.
If you get tired after roaming around you can dine in and select from the various cuisine options available there.
- Name: Santa Monica Place
- Address: 395 Santa Monica Pl, Santa Monica
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Eat At Mercado
Eating at Mercado should be noted in your list of what to do in Santa Monica. This is a high-end restaurant with excellent decor and a luxurious design.
The Mercado restaurant specializes in serving a wide variety of classic and contemporary Mexican food. It is operated by the famous Mexican-born chef Jose Acevedo who specializes in Mexican flavor and cuisine.
You can even arrange a romantic date here as it has everything according to the latest trends like good ambiance, and fine lighting.
- Name: Mercado
- Address: Third Street Promenade, 1416 4th St, Santa Monica
FAQ
What Is There To Do In Santa Monica Today?
The things to do in Santa Monica today are mentioned below.
- Visit the Past at California Heritage Museum
- Tour the famous Santa Monica Pier
- Hike up the Santa Monica Mountains
- Relax at Santa Monica State Beach
- See the Museum of Flying of Santa Monica
- View the Downtown & Third Street Promenade
- Hangout at Palisades Park
- Shop from the Santa Monica Farmers Market
- Ascend the Santa Monica Stairs
- Enjoy at Annenberg Community Beach House
- Admire the Bergamot Station Arts Center
- Indulge in Sweet Rose Creamery
- Taste food at BOA Steakhouse Santa Monica
- Fine dine at Rustic Canyon
- Breathe in the fresh air at Tongva Park
- Try the Pono Burger
- Go Shopping at Santa Monica Place
- Eat at Mercado
What Is Santa Monica Known For?
Santa Monica is known for its nice climate and proximity to Los Angles. This coastal best city of California is popular for the lavish green mountains on one side and the beach on the other side. There are many tourist places to see and visit in this wonderful city.
Can I walk from Santa Monica To Venice Beach?
Yes, you can walk from Santa Monica to Venice Beach as it is only three and a half kilometers or over two miles. It takes around 45 mins to walk from Santa Monica to Venice Beach.
Is Santa Monica dangerous?
No, Santa Monica is not very safe and it was ranked at 808th position in the list of 989 cities. The violent crime rate of Santa Monica is 724.7 and the property crime rate of Santa Monica is 4,326.5.
Is Santa Monica Worth Visiting?
Not only is the beach a popular tourist destination (thanks in large part to the pier), locals love it, too, since it’s easy to get to from downtown and other parts of LA. And it’s walking distance to plenty of restaurants and shops. The beach is split into two parts: north and south of the pier.
How Much Do The Rides Cost At The Santa Monica Pier?
How much does it cost to go on the rides on the Santa Monica Pier? Individual rides range from $5-$12 per ride. Save and play all day with an Unlimited Ride Wristband. Wristbands cost $25-$20 for ages 7 & under and $45-$40 for ages 8 & over.
Is It Better To Stay In Los Angeles Or Santa Monica?
If you want to stay near the beach, stay in Santa Monica. For a quick weekend trip (and those on a budget), stay in Downtown LA. If you want to stay in one of the coolest neighborhoods in LA, stay in Silver Lake. If you want to stay in an area with amazing nightlife, stay in West Hollywood (also super LGBTQ+ friendly).
Why Do People Go To Santa Monica?
The Beach. Claiming 3.5 miles of stunning Californian coastline, the small city of Santa Monica is synonymous with the beach. Its famous pier, adorned with carnival rides and food stands, is the centrepiece of the long sandy stretch but there’s room enough for everyone on either side, with golden beaches for miles.
Is Santa Monica Beach At Night Safe?
Is Santa Monica Beach Safe? Santa Monica beach is a very safe beach to visit during the daytime. However you should be careful to avoid going too far south and ending up on the Venice Beach Boardwalk at night. It is a very sketchy area and there are homeless encampments set up throughout the entire area.
Is Santa Monica Or Venice Nicer?
The touristy areas of these cities offer different things. Venice Beach is a vibrant beach locale that’s perfect during the day, whereas the larger Santa Monica provides a wider range of things to do and a much more happening nightlife.
Is It Better To Stay In Downtown LA Or Santa Monica?
If you want to stay near the beach, stay in Santa Monica. For a quick weekend trip (and those on a budget), stay in Downtown LA. If you want to stay in one of the coolest neighborhoods in LA, stay in Silver Lake. If you want to stay in an area with amazing nightlife, stay in West Hollywood (also super LGBTQ+ friendly).
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Conclusion
In this article, I have given the answer to your question about what to do in Santa Monica. It is a well-known city in California with so much to look out for and explore. There are abundant green mountains, beautiful beaches, and many visitor sites to see here. You can enjoy a range of activities like hiking, biking, surfing, skateboarding, and much more. If you are a foodie then you should not miss out on trying some of the best restaurants. You will find many luxurious restaurants, high-end resorts, and lavish hotels here. After reading this article I am sure you will know what to do in Santa Monica on your holidays.
