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Santa Monica
89,736 people
Santa Monica pairs a sun-drenched pier and Ferris wheel with a buzzing Third Street Promenade, farm-to-table dining, and yoga-on-the-beach culture. The Pacific breeze, walkable bluffs, and proximity to Venice and Malibu make it a quintessential SoCal base.
Written by our AI
Weekend getawayFamily-friendlyFoodieWellness
Our AI's themes
How long
2–4 days
Our AI's estimate of a typical stay.
Sightseeing weather
April, May, June, July and October
Weather only, worked out from the town's records.
On the map
Where it is, and the other places we have mapped around it.
Skip the map- This place
- Things to do
- Places to eat
- Places to stay
Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors. Tiles by OpenFreeMap.
Things to do in Santa Monica
25 of the 119 we list here
Written by our AI
1Santa Monica PierBeaches & water·About 2h·Easy·Best in the eveningThe Santa Monica Pier boasts a vibrant atmosphere with its iconic Ferris wheel, amusement rides, and stunning ocean views.
2Santa Monica State BeachBeaches & water·About 2h·Easy·Any timeSanta Monica State Beach offers a vibrant slice of coastal California, where golden sands meet the Pacific Ocean and a plethora of activities await both relaxation and adventure.
3Palisades ParkScenic drives & viewpoints·About 30m·Easy·Best at golden hourPalisades Park offers sweeping ocean vistas and a relaxing stroll along lush green paths, especially stunning during sunset.
4Tongva ParkOutdoor adventure·About 1h·Easy·Any timeTongva Park offers beautifully designed landscapes, playful installations, and art pieces that provide a serene space for relaxation and family activities.
5Kenneth Hahn State Recreation AreaOutdoor adventure·About 2h·Easy·Any timeThis 308-acre park features a Japanese garden, a workout course, athletic fields & scenic trails.
6Santa Monica PlaceShopping & markets·About 2h·Easy·Any timeSanta Monica Place is a vibrant shopping destination that offers a mix of luxury brands and diverse dining options, complete with a rooftop area showcasing stunning ocean views.
7Palisades BeachBeaches & waterPalisades Beach is a beautiful and relaxing beach area, perfect for sunbathing, picnicking, and enjoying water activities.
8Venice BeachBeaches & waterWorld-renowned for its bohemian spirit, Venice Beach offers stunning ocean views and a lively boardwalk.
9The J. Paul Getty MuseumMuseums & galleriesThe J.
10Will Rogers State Historic ParkWildlife & natureThis historic park offers scenic trails and a glimpse into the life of famous actor Will Rogers, set against beautiful landscapes.
11Santa MonicaArts, music & nightlifeSanta Monica is famous for its iconic pier, stunning beach, and vibrant shopping districts.
12Bay Street BeachBeaches & waterBay Street Beach is renowned for its beautiful sandy shores and stunning sunset views.
13Ocean Front WalkAttractions & monumentsA beautiful promenade along the beach, perfect for strolling, biking, or rollerblading while enjoying ocean views.
14Santa Monica Farmers MarketShopping & marketsThe Santa Monica Farmers Market is known for its fresh produce, artisanal goods, and vibrant atmosphere, attracting locals and tourists alike.
15Six Flags Magic MountainFamily & kids attractions·About 4h·Easy·Any timePopular, longtime amusement park featuring many modern roller coasters, plus rides for young kids.
16Knott's Berry FarmFamily & kids attractions·About 4h·Easy·Any timeClassic theme park boasts fast rides, old-fashioned charm & famous fried chicken.
17Venice Canal Historic DistrictAttractions & monumentsThis picturesque area is famous for its charming canals and beautiful architecture.
18Eames HouseMuseums & galleriesThe Eames House is a landmark of modernist architecture and design, showcasing the innovative work of Charles and Ray Eames.
19Venice Fishing PierAttractions & monumentsA must-visit landmark that offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and a wonderful experience for fishing enthusiasts.
20Grand Central MarketShopping & markets·About 1h·Easy·Any timeEmporium hosting food vendors & florists, plus game nights, movies & other events, since 1917.
21Pershing SquareShopping & markets·About 30m·Easy·Any timeModern park known for its 10-story purple bell tower features summer concerts & community events.
22Abbot Kinney BoulevardAttractions & monumentsKnown for its trendy shops and eateries, Abbot Kinney Boulevard is a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience the eclectic vibe of Venice.
23Mother's BeachBeaches & waterA family-friendly beach with calm waters, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
24Santa Mónica Pier AquariumWildlife & natureThe Santa Mónica Pier Aquarium provides an engaging experience for all ages, featuring marine life exhibits and interactive displays.
25MacArthur ParkOutdoor adventure·About 1h·Easy·Any timePark made up of 4 square blocks features a lake with geese against a city skyline backdrop.
Durations, effort and best times are our AI's estimates.
Places to eat in Santa Monica
25 of the 435 we list here
Written by our AI
1Intelligentsia CoffeeSuits breakfast, brunch·$$Intelligentsia Coffee is known for its high-quality brews and commitment to sustainable sourcing.
2Kappo MiyabiSushi·Suits dinner·$$$$An upscale dining experience that focuses on kaiseki, showcasing seasonal and fresh ingredients.
3KanpaiJapanese·Suits lunch, dinner·$$$Kanpai is a celebrated sushi bar known for its fresh fish and innovative rolls.
4Cafe GratitudeSuits breakfast, lunch·$$$Cafe Gratitude is a vegan restaurant celebrated for its nourishing, plant-based offerings.
5NuevaTacos, Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch·Suits dinner·$$$Nueva is known for elevating traditional Mexican dishes with modern twists and seasonal ingredients.
6Tsukiji SushiSushi·Suits lunch, dinner·$$$This sushi restaurant is praised for its authentic Japanese flavors and fresh seafood, bringing a taste of Tokyo to Malibu.
7Caffe LuxxeCoffee shop·Suits breakfast, brunch·$$Known for its expertly crafted coffee and inviting atmosphere, this café is a haven for coffee lovers.
8Sol Mexican CocinaSuits lunch, dinner·$$$SOL is famed for its fresh, vibrant Mexican cuisine and lively atmosphere.
9Fogo de ChãoBrazilian, Steak house·Suits dinner·$$$$This Brazilian steakhouse is known for its impressive selection of grilled meats and extensive salad bar.
10Cha Cha MatchaTea·Suits brunch, late-night·$$This trendy cafe specializes in matcha-based drinks and offers a bright and Instagram-worthy setting.
11Breakfast By Salt's CureBreakfast·Suits breakfast, brunch·$$$This breakfast spot is celebrated for its creative dishes and use of locally sourced ingredients.
12Market VeniceSuits lunch, dinner·$$$Market Venice is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
13Sidecar Doughnuts & CoffeeDonut·Suits breakfast, snack·$$Famous for its gourmet donuts, this spot offers unique flavors and high-quality coffee.
14UovoSuits dinner·$$$A cozy, intimate Italian restaurant specializing in fresh pasta flown in from Italy, offering dishes like truffle tagliatelle and cacio e pepe.
15FelixItalian·Suits dinner·$$$Felix offers a refined take on Italian cuisine with a focus on handmade pasta and seasonal ingredients.
16Trejo‘s TacosMexican, Tacos, Burritos, Quesadillas, Empanada, Taquitos·Suits lunch, dinner·$$Trejo's Tacos, owned by actor Danny Trejo, boasts a vibrant atmosphere and mouthwatering tacos with unique flavors.
17Del Frisco's GrilleSuits dinner·$$$$Del Frisco's Grille provides a sophisticated dining experience with a diverse menu featuring steaks, seafood, and craft cocktails.
18Chinois on MainAsian, French·Suits dinner·$$$A fusion of Chinese and French cuisines in a sleek, modern setting, offering signature dishes like Shanghai Lobster and Szechuan Beef.
19CitrinAmerican, Fine dining·Suits dinner·$$$$A Michelin-starred French restaurant known for its elegant prix-fixe and à la carte options, offering a refined dining experience.
20Bludso's BBQBarbecue·Suits lunch, dinner·$$$Bludso's BBQ is renowned for its authentic Texas-style barbecue and mouthwatering smoked meats.
21Jeni's Splendid Ice CreamsSuits dessert·$$A renowned ice cream shop, Jeni's is famed for its innovative flavors and high-quality ingredients.
22Rita's Gate of IndiaIndian·Suits dinner·$$$Offering authentic Indian cuisine, this restaurant is praised for its flavorful dishes and warm hospitality.
23The PenthouseAmerican·Suits dinner·$$$$A rooftop restaurant offering panoramic views and a diverse menu of Californian cuisine.
24TartineSuits brunch, late-night·$$A well-regarded cafe famous for its artisanal baked goods and delightful brunch options, Tartine is a must-visit for foodies.
25Dudley MarketSeafood, Fish·Suits lunch, dinner·$$$Dudley Market is a seafood restaurant known for its fresh catch and rustic decor.
Cuisine from OpenStreetMap. "Suits" and price bands are our AI's estimates.
Places to stay in Santa Monica
25 of the 49 we list here
Written by our AI
Type of stay from OpenStreetMap. "Good for" and price bands are our AI's estimates.
Each place opens our booking partner, where you can check prices and book. We may earn a commission if you book.
The weather you'd get
Typical daily high and low, and the share of days with rain, from historical records (2011-2025). Average weather for Santa Monica, not a forecast.
January high 66°
low 46°
rain on 16%
February high 66°
low 47°
rain on 16%
March high 67°
low 50°
rain on 18%
April high 70°
low 53°
rain on 7%
May high 71°
low 57°
rain on 5%
June high 75°
low 60°
rain on 1%
July high 80°
low 64°
rain on 2%
August high 82°
low 66°
rain on 2%
September high 81°
low 65°
rain on 4%
October high 78°
low 59°
rain on 5%
November high 71°
low 52°
rain on 10%
December high 66°
low 47°
rain on 16%
Warmest month: August, highs around 82°F, 28°C. Wettest: March, rain on about 18% of days. Driest: June.
Sightseeing weather. The mildest, driest and calmest months for sightseeing are April, May, June, July and October. That is weather only. It says nothing about ski seasons, beach days or festivals, which is often why people go.
Nearby towns
From Wikipedia
Santa Monica is a city in Los Angeles County, California, United States. It is situated along Santa Monica Bay on California's South Coast. As of the 2020 census, Santa Monica had a population of 93,076. Santa Monica is a popular resort town, owing to its climate, beaches, and hospitality industry. It has a diverse economy, hosting headquarters of companies such as Hulu, Activision Blizzard, Universal Music Group, Game Show Network, Starz Entertainment, Lionsgate Studios, Illumination, Snap Inc., and The Recording Academy.
Text: Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 4.0
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Sources and credits
Names, place details, opening times and addresses © OpenStreetMap contributors, available under the Open Database Licence.
Text: Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 4.0.
Weather: Open-Meteo historical weather data.
Airports: OurAirports, public domain.
Photo: Casa del Mar Santa Monica (cropped) by User:User2004, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons.
Descriptions, themes and estimates are written by Journey Builder's AI.