Itineraries for Your Trip to Santa Monica
3 Days in Santa Monica for Families
When people think of Los Angeles, they think of the Westside with its waving palm trees, beaches, and celebrity clientele. My family and I live in Northeast Los Angeles, known for its diverse neighborhoods, eclectic arts scene, and hip eateries. So, when we head off to Santa Monica—often for the beach—it feels worlds away. Some places we love to visit include Tongva Park, Annenberg Beach, and Bay Cities Italian Deli.
Start your visit at Palisades Park for an elevated view of Santa Monica Pier from iconic Ocean Avenue. With its carnivalesque atmosphere, the pier is a fun place for families. Try to pair a visit with the Wednesday or Saturday Farmers Market on Arizona Avenue. Here's how to spend three days in Santa Monica.
Warm, sunny weather is the norm year-round, but cool temperatures happen in winter and the mornings and evenings.
There is no better way to see Santa Monica and Venice Beach than on a bike (scooter, Segway, skateboard, or Onewheel). Check out the sights on a tour or on your own. Head south towards Venice Beach from Santa Monica and let your legs take you on an adventure.
Just off these Santa Monica shores, George Freeth showcased surfing in 1907. The rest, as they say, is history. Take part in Southern California’s iconic beach lifestyle by catching waves with a private lesson on one of LA’s most famous beaches.
Just off these Santa Monica shores, George Freeth showcased surfing in 1907. The rest, as they say, is history. Take part in Southern California’s iconic beach lifestyle by catching waves with a private lesson on one of LA’s most famous beaches.
Santa Monica is an excellent base for exploring the rest of Los Angeles, Orange County, and Malibu. Some favorite stops include the Getty Villa in Pacific Palisades and Paradise Cove in Malibu. Or, hike up to Griffith Observatory from Trails Cafe in LA and see a pre-show and movie at the El Capitan Theater off the Hollywood Walk of Fame. If you have a car, drive Sunset Boulevard from the Pacific Coast Highway to Downtown Los Angeles. After all, while LA and Hollywood can be a tourist trap, it is fun to see the sights, even on a drive-by.
