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    Oceanfront picnic spots with unmatched views

    9. Oceanfront picnic spots with unmatched views

    Dining in Santa Monica doesn't always require a reservation at a Michelin-starred restaurant. Some of the best meals in the city are enjoyed on a blanket spread across the grass or the sand. Santa Monica offers an abundance of spectacular, public picnic spots that combine incredible food access with unmatched ocean views.

    Palisades Park: The Crown Jewel

    Stretching for 1.5 miles along the sandstone bluffs overlooking the beach, Palisades Park is arguably the most beautiful picnic spot in Southern California. The park is meticulously landscaped with towering palm trees, rose gardens, and expansive lawns.

    Setting up a picnic here means you have a panoramic, elevated view of the entire Santa Monica Bay, the Pier, and the Pacific Ocean. It's the perfect spot to grab takeout from one of the nearby restaurants on Ocean Avenue or Montana Avenue, lay out a blanket, and watch the sunset.

    Beachfront Picnicking

    If you prefer to have your toes in the sand, the wide beaches of Santa Monica offer endless opportunities for a classic beach picnic. North Beach, away from the hustle and bustle of the Pier, is particularly well-suited for a quiet meal by the water. The gentle sound of the waves and the salty breeze elevate even the simplest sandwiches into a memorable feast.

    For families, the Annenberg Community Beach House offers public picnic tables and a splash pad, making it an incredibly convenient and comfortable spot to enjoy lunch right on the beach without dealing with sand in your food.

    Sourcing Your Picnic

    The true magic of a Santa Monica picnic lies in the quality of the food you can bring. The city is famous for its Farmers Markets (especially the Wednesday and Saturday markets in Downtown), where you can source artisanal cheeses, fresh-baked breads, seasonal fruits, and prepared foods directly from local farmers and chefs.

    Alternatively, the city is packed with incredible delis, artisanal sandwich shops, and gourmet grocers where you can curate the perfect picnic basket. Grab a famous Godmother sandwich from Bay Cities Italian Deli, head to the bluffs, and you have the quintessential Santa Monica culinary experience.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Is alcohol allowed in public parks or on the beach?

    No, alcohol is strictly prohibited on all public beaches and in public parks in Santa Monica, including Palisades Park.

    Are there picnic tables available?

    Yes, there are picnic tables scattered throughout Palisades Park, near the Pier, and at the Annenberg Community Beach House. However, bringing a blanket gives you the flexibility to sit anywhere.

    Can I bring a BBQ grill?

    Personal BBQ grills are generally not allowed on the beach or in Palisades Park due to fire hazards. It's best to bring prepared, cold, or room-temperature foods.