Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Santa Monica, California

When it comes to coastal cities in California, Santa Monica stands out as an attractive destination for travelers seeking a diverse array of attractions and experiences.

Situated on Santa Monica Bay, just 15 miles from Los Angeles, this charming city, home to nearly 100,000 residents, is renowned for its delightful climate and stunning beaches.

The city’s atmosphere strikes a balance between vibrancy and relaxation. These characteristics, along with an abundance of top-tier restaurants, shops, hotels, nightlife venues, and unique attractions, position Santa Monica as an excellent base for exploring Southern California.

Santa Monica features several distinct shopping districts, including Montana Avenue in the north, Main Street in the south, and the bustling downtown area. Given the city’s compact layout, it is easy to traverse between different sections on foot.

Moreover, Santa Monica is home to numerous art galleries and hosts a variety of events and festivals throughout the year, including the Santa Monica Film Festival.

Below are 15 of the most remarkable activities to engage in while visiting Santa Monica, California.

1. Learn About Local History at the California Heritage Museum

Located within a beautiful Victorian-era residence known as the Roy Jones House, the California Heritage Museum serves as an excellent starting point for your adventure in Santa Monica.

During your visit to this museum, you will not only admire the unique architectural features of the house but also delve into local history through various exhibits that showcase artefacts, photographs, and documents.

The museum features a permanent exhibit detailing the history of the house and the Jones family, along with several temporary exhibitions rotating throughout the year. Past exhibits include “On the Road,” “Broken Dreams,” and “Art Quilts.”

2. Spend a Day at the Iconic Santa Monica Pier

A visit to Santa Monica is incomplete without spending time at the iconic Santa Monica Pier. This beloved landmark has offered locals and visitors a place to unwind and enjoy entertainment for over a century.

The pier presents an excellent venue for viewing spectacular sunsets, observing people, or leisurely walking along the boardwalk while absorbing the neighborhood’s vibrant atmosphere.

The surrounding pier area features numerous amenities and attractions, including restaurants, cafes, and shops. Pacific Park, located nearby, offers an amusement park experience with roller coasters, a Ferris wheel, a carousel, and a variety of games.

Underneath the pier lies the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium, which showcases an assortment of marine life native to Santa Monica Bay.

Additionally, the Santa Monica Pier is recognized for hosting numerous events throughout the year, including music festivals.

3. Kick Back Beachside at Santa Monica State Beach

While various beaches can be found in the Santa Monica area, none rival the accessibility and excitement of Santa Monica State Beach.

Spanning nearly four miles along the coastline, this popular and picturesque stretch is a favored spot for crowds on hot, sunny days. However, should you prefer a more tranquil space to swim in the Pacific, more secluded areas are located further along the beach.

The beach offers various amenities, including lifeguards, restroom facilities, playgrounds, picnic areas, and wooden walkways. Rentals for bicycles and water sports equipment are also available, along with volleyball courts and chess tables.

4. Immerse Yourself in the History of Southern California Aviation

The Museum of Flying, located at Santa Monica Airport, highlights the rich history of aviation in Southern California through a collection of exhibits and artefacts.

Visitors can explore historical items and rare artworks related to flight, as well as learn about the evolution of aviation and companies like Boeing, Northrop, and Lockheed.

The museum features an impressive array of aircraft, including a replica of the Wright Flyer and the nose section of a Boeing 727. For those interested in a more interactive experience, the flight simulator is a popular attraction.

Knowledgeable staff members provide guided tours for a comprehensive understanding of the exhibits.

5. Sweet Rose Creamery

While ice cream parlors are ubiquitous throughout Southern California, Sweet Rose Creamery in Santa Monica distinguishes itself by serving homemade local ice cream delicacies in the greater Los Angeles region.

These scrumptious treats, in conjunction with various toppings, are prepared on-site using local, organic ingredients. Guests can select from a wide array of traditional and unique flavors, such as sweet potato swirl.

6. Experience a Shopping Paradise on the Third Street Promenade

The downtown district of Santa Monica is a lively and vibrant locale. At its heart lies the Third Street Promenade, a favored pedestrian shopping area that stretches across four blocks.

This palm tree-lined avenue is filled with various shops, restaurants, cafes, vendors, and nightlife establishments. Street performers provide entertainment for visitors throughout the day, and numerous events are hosted here annually.

7. Enjoy the Area’s Natural Surroundings and Scenery

The Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area offers an ideal excursion that combines a scenic road trip with ample outdoor recreational opportunities in an unspoiled wilderness setting.

During your visit, enjoy sweeping views of both the mountains and the Pacific Ocean. Take the opportunity to surf in the waves and scale a mountain in the same day. Traverse well-known beach towns like Malibu and Oxnard. The area offers over 500 miles of hiking trails, and overnight camping is available at various campgrounds should you choose to extend your stay.

Explore several state parks along the way, including Topanga State Park, Malibu Creek State Park, and Point Mugu State Park.

8. Browse the Santa Monica Farmers’ Market

As you draw near to the Santa Monica Farmers’ Market, the first aspect you will notice is the inviting aroma of freshly cooked food permeating the air. The lively ambiance is the second thing to capture your attention. This long-standing market, a staple in Santa Monica for over 40 years, offers more than just fresh vegetables.

As you navigate the market, you will encounter street entertainers and live cooking demonstrations. Various options for produce, baked goods, and freshly prepared meals await you. The market operates throughout the year.

9. Bike the South Bay Bicycle Trail

Prepare your bicycle or rent one in Santa Monica and make your way to Will Rogers Beach, where you will embark on a 22-mile journey along the coast.

The South Bay Bicycle Trail holds the distinction of being the longest oceanfront bicycle path in the world. Enjoy breathtaking coastal views and witness iconic sights, including the Venice Boardwalk and Venice Pier, while passing through multiple coastal towns.

10. Spend the Day at Annenberg Community Beach House

Imagine the thrill of living in a California beach town during the roaring twenties, accompanied by a luxurious beach house and club.

The Annenberg Community Beach House in Santa Monica, once owned by actress Marion Davies, was a hotspot during its time.

Today, the expansive grounds are accessible to the public, alongside various recreational facilities including a swimming pool, café, and volleyball and tennis courts.

The Marion Davies Guest House, located on the premises, also features an art gallery, and free tours are offered.

11. Admire Fine Art at Bergamot Station

Once a railroad station, Bergamot Station has transformed into a celebrated art complex, making it an ideal location for a rainy day spent browsing galleries and exhibitions. Within this five-acre site, visitors can view modern and classic art from around the globe.

The architecture of the building itself is also noteworthy. At the conclusion of your exploration, take a moment to enjoy a warm beverage and a sweet treat at the on-site café.

12. Try Some Hawaiian Cuisine at Sea Salt Poke

Sea Salt Poke specializes in traditional Hawaiian cuisine, emphasizing poke bowls.

Guests can opt to create their own poke bowl from a diverse collection of ingredients or select from the chef’s curated menu. All components are fresh, and various toppings and sauces are made on-site.

13. Catch A Show at the Broad Stage

Since its establishment in 2008, the Broad Stage at the Performing Arts Center in Santa Monica has offered both locals and visitors a distinctive and intimate environment to enjoy a broad range of performing arts.

While it stands as the city’s largest performing arts venue, it is only equipped with 500 seats, guaranteeing a cozy atmosphere. A variety of events take place here throughout the year, including theatre, dance, musical performances, as well as symphony and orchestra concerts.

14. Grab a Healthy Meal at Pono Burger

When one thinks of burgers, the mind may initially gravitate towards the typical unhealthy, greasy fast-food options. At Pono Burger in Santa Monica, diners can experience an alternative.

Pono Burger offers a selection of wholesome burgers and other dishes for both lunch and dinner. All offerings on their menu are organic and sourced from local ingredients, with grass-fed beef used in their exquisite handcrafted burgers.

Alongside burgers, patrons can choose from various accompaniments, including fries, sandwiches, milkshakes, and craft beer.