Santa Monica, California, is the quintessential beach town, offering sun-soaked beaches, a lively pier, upscale shopping, and a vibrant dining scene. Located just west of Los Angeles, Santa Monica is the perfect destination for a laid-back yet exciting coastal getaway. Whether you’re looking to relax by the ocean, explore cultural attractions, or indulge in fine dining, Santa Monica has something for everyone. Here’s a detailed 3-day itinerary to help you make the most of your visit.
Day 1: Beaches and Iconic Santa Monica Sights
Morning:
Arrival and Check-In: Begin your Santa Monica adventure by arriving early and checking into your hotel. Staying near the beach or in downtown Santa Monica will put you within walking distance of many attractions.
Breakfast at Huckleberry Café: Start your day with breakfast at Huckleberry Café, a beloved local spot known for its farm-to-table dishes, freshly baked pastries, and artisanal coffee. Try their famous ricotta pancakes or avocado toast to fuel up for the day.
Mid-Morning:
Santa Monica Beach: After breakfast, head to Santa Monica Beach, one of the most iconic beaches in Southern California. Spend the morning soaking up the sun, swimming in the Pacific Ocean, or renting a beach cruiser to ride along the 22-mile Marvin Braude Bike Trail, also known as The Strand. This scenic bike path runs along the coastline, offering beautiful views of the ocean and surrounding beach towns.
Santa Monica Pier: After some beach time, explore the Santa Monica Pier, a historic landmark filled with fun attractions. Ride the Ferris wheel at Pacific Park, visit the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium, and try your hand at classic carnival games. Don’t forget to take a photo by the end of Route 66 sign, marking the end of the famous highway.
Lunch:
Lunch at The Albright: For lunch, enjoy fresh seafood at The Albright, located right on the pier. This casual eatery offers a variety of dishes, including fish tacos, clam chowder, and grilled seafood. The outdoor seating area provides great views of the ocean and pier activities.
Afternoon:
Palisades Park: After lunch, take a leisurely stroll through Palisades Park, which runs along the cliffs overlooking the ocean. The park offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, palm trees, and the Santa Monica Mountains. Relax on a bench, take in the scenery, and enjoy the cool ocean breeze.
Explore Third Street Promenade: Spend the rest of the afternoon exploring the Third Street Promenade, a vibrant pedestrian shopping district located just a few blocks from the beach. Browse the shops, watch street performers, and enjoy the lively atmosphere. The promenade is home to a mix of high-end boutiques, popular retail stores, and unique local shops.
Evening:
Dinner at Tar & Roses: For dinner, dine at Tar & Roses, a popular Santa Monica restaurant known for its seasonal, wood-fired dishes. The menu features a variety of creative small plates, fresh seafood, and hearty entrees, all made with locally sourced ingredients. The cozy, rustic-chic atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for a memorable meal.
Sunset at Santa Monica Pier: After dinner, head back to the Santa Monica Pier to catch the sunset. The view of the sun setting over the ocean, with the Ferris wheel lights glowing in the background, is a classic Santa Monica experience.
Day 2: Culture, Arts, and Coastal Adventures
Morning:
Breakfast at Urth Caffé: Start your second day with breakfast at Urth Caffé, a popular spot known for its organic coffee, healthy breakfast options, and fresh pastries. The location on Main Street offers outdoor seating, perfect for enjoying the morning sunshine.
Visit the Getty Villa: After breakfast, take a short drive up the Pacific Coast Highway to visit the Getty Villa in nearby Pacific Palisades. This museum, designed to resemble an ancient Roman villa, houses an extensive collection of Greek, Roman, and Etruscan art. Explore the galleries, stroll through the beautiful gardens, and take in the stunning views of the coastline.
Mid-Morning:
Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area: After your visit to the Getty Villa, head to the nearby Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area for a morning hike. The area offers a variety of trails with beautiful views of the mountains and the ocean. The Los Liones Trail is a popular choice, offering a moderate hike with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and Santa Monica Bay.
Explore Venice Beach: Drive back to Santa Monica and spend the rest of the morning exploring the nearby Venice Beach. Venice Beach is known for its bohemian spirit, eclectic shops, and vibrant street performers. Walk along the Venice Boardwalk, check out the famous Muscle Beach, and explore the Venice Canals, a hidden gem with picturesque waterways and charming bridges.
Lunch:
Lunch at Gjelina: Head to Abbot Kinney Boulevard in Venice for lunch at Gjelina, a trendy restaurant known for its farm-to-table dishes and artisanal pizzas. The menu features a variety of seasonal small plates, salads, and wood-fired pizzas. The outdoor patio is a great spot to people-watch and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
Afternoon:
Shopping on Abbot Kinney Boulevard: After lunch, spend some time shopping on Abbot Kinney Boulevard, often referred to as "the coolest block in America." The street is lined with stylish boutiques, art galleries, and hip cafes. Browse the unique shops, pick up some souvenirs, and enjoy the laid-back Venice vibe.
Explore the Annenberg Community Beach House: Return to Santa Monica and visit the Annenberg Community Beach House, a public beach facility offering a variety of recreational activities. Relax by the pool, play a game of beach volleyball, or simply unwind on the beach. The Beach House also offers bike rentals, yoga classes, and a café with ocean views.
Evening:
Dinner at Cassia: For dinner, dine at Cassia, a stylish restaurant in Santa Monica offering Southeast Asian-inspired cuisine. The menu features a mix of traditional and modern dishes, including grilled seafood, noodle bowls, and flavorful curries. The lively atmosphere and creative cocktails make it a great spot for a night out.
Evening Walk on Ocean Avenue: After dinner, take an evening walk along Ocean Avenue. Enjoy the cool ocean breeze, the sound of the waves, and the twinkling lights of the Santa Monica Pier. Stop by Tongva Park, a beautifully designed urban park with fountains, sculptures, and quiet corners to relax and reflect on your day.
Day 3: Relaxation, Exploration, and Scenic Views
Morning:
Breakfast at The Butcher’s Daughter: Start your final day with breakfast at The Butcher’s Daughter, a trendy vegetarian café and juice bar in Venice. Enjoy a healthy and delicious breakfast, with options like avocado toast, smoothie bowls, and fresh-pressed juices.
Yoga on the Beach: After breakfast, unwind with a morning yoga session on the beach. Several local instructors offer beach yoga classes, allowing you to stretch and meditate with the sound of the ocean in the background. It’s a peaceful way to start your day and connect with nature.
Mid-Morning:
Explore the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium: Head back to the Santa Monica Pier and visit the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium. This small but informative aquarium, operated by Heal the Bay, focuses on marine life from the Santa Monica Bay. Explore the interactive exhibits, touch tanks, and learn about the local marine ecosystem.
Visit the Eames House: Take a short drive to the Eames House, also known as Case Study House No. 8. This historic mid-century modern home was designed by renowned designers Charles and Ray Eames. The house is a landmark of modern architecture and design, and you can take a guided tour to learn about the Eames' work and their influence on design.
Lunch:
Lunch at Blue Plate Oysterette: For lunch, enjoy fresh seafood at Blue Plate Oysterette, a popular oceanfront restaurant in Santa Monica. The menu includes oysters, lobster rolls, and seafood platters. The outdoor seating offers beautiful views of the beach and ocean.
Afternoon:
Visit the Santa Monica History Museum: After lunch, learn about the history of Santa Monica at the Santa Monica History Museum. The museum features exhibits on the city's development, the history of the amusement pier, and the people who have shaped the community. It’s a great way to gain a deeper understanding of the area’s rich history.
Rent a Bike and Explore the Coastline: Spend your afternoon exploring the coastline on two wheels. Rent a bike from one of the many rental shops in Santa Monica and ride along the Marvin Braude Bike Trail. Head south towards Marina del Rey or north towards Pacific Palisades, enjoying the scenic views, ocean breeze, and the relaxed coastal vibe.
Evening:
Dinner at Elephante Beach House: For your final dinner in Santa Monica, dine at Elephante Beach House, a rooftop restaurant with stunning views of the ocean. The menu features Mediterranean-inspired dishes, including wood-fired pizzas, fresh salads, and grilled seafood. The chic décor and lively atmosphere make it a perfect spot to end your trip.
Sunset at Palisades Park: After dinner, head back to Palisades Park to watch the sunset. The park’s clifftop location offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Monica Pier. It’s a beautiful and serene way to end your Santa Monica adventure.
Conclusion
Santa Monica is a vibrant and beautiful coastal destination that offers something for everyone. This 3-day itinerary ensures you experience the best of what Santa Monica has to offer, from its iconic beaches and lively pier to its cultural attractions and world-class dining. Whether you’re relaxing on the beach, exploring the local art scene, or enjoying fresh seafood with an ocean view, your trip to Santa Monica will be filled with unforgettable moments and stunning views.
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