Santa Monica

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Santa Monica's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Relaxing Beach Escape
morning
:

Start your day with a peaceful walk along Santa Monica Beach as the sun rises. Enjoy a breakfast of fresh fruit and pastries at a local café.

afternoon
:

Visit the iconic Santa Monica Pier and enjoy some time on the rides and games. Grab lunch at one of the nearby beachfront restaurants with ocean views.

evening
:

Stroll the Third Street Promenade, taking in the street performers and shops. End your day with a sunset dinner at a rooftop restaurant.

day 2
Active Adventure
morning
:

Get your adrenaline pumping with a morning workout on the beach, like paddleboarding or beach volleyball. Follow it up with a healthy brunch at a nearby eatery.

afternoon
:

Bicycle along the scenic Marvin Braude Bike Trail and explore the coastal sights. Stop for lunch at one of the cafes along the way.

evening
:

Relax with a yoga session on the beach at sunset. Enjoy dinner at a trendy diner with a lively atmosphere afterward.

day 3
Art & Culture Day
morning
:

Visit the Bergamot Station Arts Center to explore its galleries and exhibitions. Enjoy coffee at a nearby café while reflecting on the art.

afternoon
:

Take a short walk to the Santa Monica Museum of Art. Have lunch at a local restaurant with unique, art-inspired dishes.

evening
:

Attend a local theater performance or music event. Grab a late dinner at a bistro that features local ingredients.

day 4
Foodie's Paradise
morning
:

Join a guided food tour to sample breakfast favorites from local food trucks and markets. Savor the fresh flavors of Santa Monica.

afternoon
:

Continue your culinary adventure with lunch at the Santa Monica Farmers Market. Discover fresh produce and delicious snacks from local vendors.

evening
:

Participate in a cooking class and learn to prepare a famous California dish. End your day with a gourmet dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant.

day 5
Surf & Turf
morning
:

Experience a surf lesson on the waves of Santa Monica Beach. Enjoy a quick breakfast of smoothies and acai bowls afterward.

afternoon
:

Visit the Santa Monica Aquarium and learn about local marine life. Have a seafood lunch at a nearby restaurant specializing in fresh catch.

evening
:

Go for a sunset beach bonfire to relax and unwind. Indulge in a casual dinner at a laid-back beach bar.

day 6
Shopping Extravaganza
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast in a quaint café downtown. Then, get ready to shop at the Third Street Promenade's boutiques.

afternoon
:

Take a break for lunch at an outdoor café while people-watching. Continue shopping at the Santa Monica Place for high-end stores.

evening
:

Enjoy a casual dinner at a restaurant with al fresco seating. Take a final stroll through the promenade to soak up the evening ambiance.

day 7
Scenic Nature Walks
morning
:

Begin your day with a hike in the nearby Santa Monica Mountains. Take in the fresh air and beautiful views as you trek.

afternoon
:

Head back to Santa Monica for a picnic lunch at Palisades Park. Enjoy the scenic cliffs and ocean views as you relax.

evening
:

Visit the Santa Monica Pier for a leisurely walk and some fun at the arcade. End the day with dinner at a beachfront restaurant.

day 8
Beach Life Bliss
morning
:

Wake up early to catch the morning waves with a surf session. Fuel up with breakfast at a popular beachfront café afterward.

afternoon
:

Spend time sunbathing or playing beach volleyball with friends and family. Have a casual lunch at a beachside taco stand.

evening
:

Take a stroll along the beach at sunset, enjoying the beautiful scenery. Enjoy dinner at a cozy seafood shack with fresh catches of the day.

day 9
Fun-Filled Family Day
morning
:

Start your family adventure with breakfast at a kid-friendly diner. Head to the Santa Monica Pier to enjoy rides and games.

afternoon
:

Visit the Pacific Park and enjoy the various attractions suitable for all ages. Grab a family lunch at the pier with plenty of options for kids.

evening
:

Have a fun movie night at one of the local cinemas. Cap off the day with dinner at a family-style restaurant.

day 10
Sunkissed Relaxation
morning
:

Take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque beach. Treat yourself to a breakfast of fresh smoothies and granola bowls.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon enjoying spa treatments at a luxurious wellness center. Have a light lunch in a serene setting to keep the relaxation going.

evening
:

Unwind with a beachside yoga class at sunset. Enjoy a peaceful dinner while soaking in the serene ocean waves.

Discover Santa Monica

Read more in our Santa Monica 2024 Travel Guide.

Santa Monica Travel Guide