Things to Do in Santa Monica, CA
The definitive guide to things to do in Santa Monica, CA—from the iconic Santa Monica Pier and the Third Street Promenade to rooftop bars, farmers markets, and free outdoor activities under the year-round sunshine. Updated for 2026.
Planning a trip to Southern California? There are so many incredible things to do in Santa Monica, from the world-famous Santa Monica Pier and the bustling shops of the Third Street Promenade to the miles of pristine sand and year-round sunshine that define our coastal lifestyle. Whether you're seeking relaxation on our beaches or looking for vibrant entertainment and nightlife, our city offers endless experiences for every type of traveler.
Santa Monica is a compact, walkable city that perfectly blends urban energy with a laid-back beach vibe. With eight distinct districts, each offering its own character, dining scene, and attractions, you'll find that one visit is rarely enough to see it all. From the luxury of the beachfront resorts to the local charm of Montana Avenue, here is your definitive guide to the best of Santa Monica.
Top Attractions in Santa Monica
Santa Monica is home to several world-renowned landmarks that are must-visit stops for any traveler. The city's geography, with its dramatic bluffs overlooking the Pacific, provides the perfect backdrop for these iconic sites. Whether you're exploring the historic wooden planks of the Pier or window shopping along the Promenade, these top attractions represent the heart and soul of the city. For those planning an extended stay, knowing where to stay in Santa Monica near these hubs is key to an easy and enjoyable trip.
Things to Do at Santa Monica Pier
The Santa Monica Pier is arguably the most recognizable landmark in California. This historic wooden structure is packed with activities for all ages. You can spend an entire afternoon at Pacific Park, riding the world's only solar-powered Ferris wheel or the West Coaster for breathtaking views of the bay. Below the deck, the Heal the Bay Aquarium offers an educational look at local marine life, while the historic 1922 carousel provides a nostalgic trip back in time. Don't forget to walk to the very end of the Pier to see the "End of the Trail" sign marking the western terminus of Route 66.
Santa Monica Beach Activities
With 3.5 miles of wide, sandy shoreline, the beach is Santa Monica's biggest playground. Beyond just sunbathing, there are endless activities to enjoy. You can rent a bike and ride the Marvin Braude Bike Trail (The Strand), which stretches 22 miles along the coast. For the more active, the Original Muscle Beach offers public gymnastics equipment, and there are dozens of free volleyball courts available for pickup games. Surfing and paddleboarding are also popular year-round, with several schools offering lessons for beginners right on the sand.
Free Things to Do in Santa Monica
Santa Monica doesn't have to be expensive. Many of the city's best experiences are completely free. Here are our top recommendations for free things to do:
Palisades Park
Stroll along the 26-acre blufftop park for the best ocean views in the city. Perfectly free and open 24 hours.
Santa Monica State Beach
All 3.5 miles of sand are free to access. Bring a towel and enjoy the Pacific breeze.
The California Incline Viewpoint
Walk the pedestrian path for a dramatic view of the Pacific Coast Highway and the coastline.
Tongva Park
Explore modern sculptures, native plants, and a fun splash pad for kids in this award-winning urban oasis.
Farmers Market
Browse the world-famous markets on Wednesday and Saturday in Downtown. Free to explore and enjoy the local vibe.
Beach Volleyball Courts
Join a pickup game or just watch the pros at the free public courts along the sand.
Things to Do in Santa Monica at Night
When the sun goes down, Santa Monica's energy shifts to its vibrant nightlife scene. The Pier takes on a magical glow with the neon lights of Pacific Park reflected in the waves. The Third Street Promenade remains lively with street performers and evening shoppers, while the surrounding streets are filled with bars, lounges, and nightclubs. From rooftop bars with sunset views to historic live music venues like Harvelle's, there's always something happening. For a complete look at where to go after dark, check out our Santa Monica nightlife guide.
Things to Do in Santa Monica with Kids
Santa Monica is an incredibly family-friendly destination. Kids will love the rides and games at Pacific Park, the hands-on exhibits at the Cayton Children's Museum, and the splash pads at Tongva Park and the Annenberg Community Beach House. The wide, flat beaches are perfect for building sandcastles and playing in the shallow surf. Many local restaurants are also very accommodating to families, offering outdoor seating and kid-friendly menus that make dining out a breeze.
Shopping in Santa Monica
From high-end luxury to unique local boutiques, Santa Monica is a premier shopping destination. The Third Street Promenade and Santa Monica Place offer a mix of major global brands and department stores in a beautiful open-air setting. For a more curated and local experience, head to Montana Avenue for upscale boutiques and home goods, or Main Street for a more eclectic, bohemian vibe. No matter your style, you'll find something special in our diverse shopping districts.
Santa Monica Events This Week
There is always something happening in our city. From the weekly Farmers Markets to seasonal festivals and live concerts, staying up to date with the local calendar is the best way to enhance your visit. Whether it's a free outdoor movie in the park or a major festival on the Pier, check out our upcoming events in Santa Monica to see what's on during your stay.
Explore by Vibe
Santa Monica Events This Week
Top Attractions in Santa Monica(49)
Santa Monica Pier & Pacific Park
The iconic wooden pier features an amusement park, an aquarium, arcade games, and classic boardwalk food. Ride the world's only solar-powered Ferris wheel for incredible views of the coastline.
Third Street Promenade
Three car-free blocks of open-air shopping, dining, and entertainment. Street performers line the walkway, making it a lively spot day or night.
Palisades Park
A 26.4-acre park located along Ocean Avenue on top of the coastal sandstone bluffs, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the entire coastal range.
Santa Monica Farmers Market
One of the best farmers markets in the country. Top chefs from across LA come here to source their ingredients. Open Wednesdays and Saturdays in Downtown, and Sundays on Main Street.
Montana Avenue
A 10-block stretch of more than 150 high-end boutiques, restaurants, and cafes. It's the perfect spot for a relaxed afternoon of window shopping and grabbing a coffee or healthy lunch.
Tongva Park
A 6.2-acre modern urban park just south of Colorado Avenue. Features native plants, striking art sculptures, a splash pad for kids, and ocean observation decks.
Annenberg Community Beach House
A unique public beach facility on the site of a former Hollywood estate. It offers a historic pool, splash pad, beach volleyball courts, and a café right on the sand.
Santa Monica Stairs
A famous outdoor workout spot nestled in a residential neighborhood. The steep wooden and concrete stairs offer an intense cardio workout with glimpses of the ocean.
Annenberg Community Beach House
The Annenberg Community Beach House is a unique community destination, open to all. With spectacular views, splash pad, playground, tours of the Marion Davies Guest House, beach courts & fields, community & cultural events, historic summer pool, free wi-fi, and more, theres something for everyone to enjoy! As an event space like no other, the Beach House provides the perfect setting for your next meeting or celebration, accommodating groups as intimate as ten to celebrations for 400, also available for film and photoshoots.
Bergamot Station Arts Center
Bergamot Station is an internationally recognized creative arts complex featuring over 20 fine art galleries and creative businesses. It showcases a diverse range of rotating exhibitions and experiences across various art mediums, including live performances, video art, and educational programs.
Camera Obscura Art Lab
The City of Santa Monica, California is a coastal city west of downtown Los Angeles in Los Angeles County. The city was founded in 1875 and incorporated in 1886.
Cayton Children's Museum
Cayton Children’s Museum is a nonprofit organization that activates the power of PLAY to enrich the lives of children and their families, build stronger, more connected communities, and create a better world. We strive to nurture children of all backgrounds and abilities to become responsible citizens of the world by providing outlets for experiential learning and creative expression, both in our museum space and through our community programs.
Christine Emerson Reed Park
The City of Santa Monica offers a wide range of programs and services aimed at enhancing community living, including affordable housing, public safety, and recreational activities. It serves various clients, including residents, businesses, and visitors, by providing resources for housing, transportation, and community engagement.
Clover Park
The City of Santa Monica offers a wide range of programs and services aimed at enhancing community living, including affordable housing, public safety, and recreational activities. It serves various clients, including residents, businesses, and visitors, by providing resources for housing, transportation, and community engagement.
Colorado Center Park
The City of Santa Monica offers a wide range of programs and services aimed at enhancing community living, including affordable housing, public safety, and recreational activities. It serves various clients, including residents, businesses, and visitors, by providing resources for housing, transportation, and community engagement.
Downtown Santa Monica
Downtown Santa Monica is a premier destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment, located near the Pacific Ocean. It features attractions like the Third Street Promenade and the renowned Farmers Market offering a wide selection of local produce.
Gandara Park
The City of Santa Monica offers a wide range of programs and services aimed at enhancing community living, including affordable housing, public safety, and recreational activities. It serves various clients, including residents, businesses, and visitors, by providing resources for housing, transportation, and community engagement.
Heal The Bay Aquarium
Heal the Bay is a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting Southern Californias coastal waters and watersheds through community engagement and education. They offer a variety of programs including beach and neighborhood cleanups, educational field trips, and events at their kid-friendly aquarium.
Liferush Adventures
LifeRush Adventures is an electric bike rental and tour company based in Santa Monica, California, offering exhilarating experiences for both beginners and experienced riders. They provide guided tours through Southern Californias scenic mountain ranges and ocean views, including popular destinations like Malibu Canyon and Griffith Park Observatory.
Malibu Discovery
Malibu Discovery Wine Tours offers a premier wine tour experience as well as adventure and sightseeing tours in the Malibu and Los Angeles area. Their services include signature wine tours, corporate events, bachelorette parties, and custom tours tailored to special occasions.
Marine Park
The City of Santa Monica offers a wide range of programs and services aimed at enhancing community living, including affordable housing, public safety, and recreational activities. It serves various clients, including residents, businesses, and visitors, by providing resources for housing, transportation, and community engagement.
Museum Of Flying
The Museum of Flying in Santa Monica, CA offers a rich array of exhibits, including the California Aviation Hall of Fame, vintage aircraft, artifacts, and special events honoring aviation pioneers. The museum also hosts corporate and private events in a unique setting with a history dating back to 1974.
North Beach Playground
Santa Monica Arts Commission is a company that operates in the Architecture & Planning industry. It employs 11-20 people and has $0M-$1M of revenue. The company is headquartered in Santa Monica, California.
Pacific Park On The Santa Monica Pier
Located on the world-famous Santa Monica Pier, Pacific Park® is the family place to play! Featuring 12 thrilling rides, including the West Coaster and Pacific Wheel, the first solar-powered Ferris wheel. Millions of visitors each year enjoy all the rides, games and fun youd expect from one of Southern Californias leading entertainment destinations.
Palisades Park
The City of Santa Monica offers a wide range of programs and services aimed at enhancing community living, including affordable housing, public safety, and recreational activities. It serves various clients, including residents, businesses, and visitors, by providing resources for housing, transportation, and community engagement.
Pedal Or Not Electric Bike Tours
Pedal Or Not offers semi-private guided electric bicycle tours in Santa Monica and Venice, CA, providing a unique way to explore these vibrant coastal areas. Their tours, suitable for participants aged 13 and older, are led by knowledgeable guides who share insights while riders enjoy the sights from the comfort of electric beach cruisers.
Things to Do FAQ
What is Santa Monica best known for?
Santa Monica is world-renowned for its iconic Santa Monica Pier, which features the solar-powered Pacific Wheel and a historic carousel. It's also famous for its expansive sandy beaches, vibrant shopping at the Third Street Promenade, and its role as the official end of the legendary Route 66.
Is Santa Monica worth visiting?
Absolutely! Santa Monica offers a unique blend of coastal beauty and urban sophistication. With its Mediterranean climate, world-class dining, and diverse range of activities from surfing to luxury shopping, it provides an quintessential Southern California experience that appeals to all types of travelers.
What are the free things to do in Santa Monica?
There are numerous free activities in Santa Monica, including strolling through Palisades Park for breathtaking ocean views, exploring the sculptures at Tongva Park, visiting the weekly Farmers Markets, and enjoying the 3.5 miles of public beach sand.
How many days do you need in Santa Monica?
While you can see the major highlights in a single day, we recommend staying at least 2 to 3 days to fully experience the different neighborhoods, enjoy the beach at a relaxed pace, and explore the extensive local dining and nightlife scenes.
What is the best time of year to visit Santa Monica?
Santa Monica is a year-round destination, but many locals consider September and October to be the best months. During this time, the summer crowds have thinned, and the weather remains warm and sunny with very little marine layer fog.
Is Santa Monica good for families?
Yes, Santa Monica is exceptionally family-friendly. Between the amusement park rides on the Pier, the hands-on exhibits at the children's museum, and the numerous parks and splash pads, there is no shortage of activities to keep children of all ages entertained.
Looking for a Place to Stay?
Discover the best hotels in Santa Monica, from beachfront luxury to budget-friendly picks near the Pier.
