3 day itinerary for Santa Monica

Itinerary

Day 1:

Start your day with a leisurely stroll along the iconic Santa Monica Pier. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, ride the Ferris wheel, and try your hand at some of the fun carnival games. Don't forget to grab a delicious breakfast at one of the many cafes or restaurants nearby.

Afterward, head to the Third Street Promenade, a vibrant outdoor shopping district filled with a variety of stores, boutiques, and street performers. Take your time exploring the shops, and be sure to stop by the Santa Monica Place mall for even more shopping options.

For lunch, indulge in some fresh seafood at one of the many oceanfront restaurants along Ocean Avenue. Afterward, take a relaxing walk along the beach, dip your toes in the water, or simply soak up the sun on the sandy shores.

In the afternoon, visit the Annenberg Community Beach House, a historic beachfront estate that offers a variety of recreational activities. Take a dip in the pool, play beach volleyball, or simply relax in the beautiful gardens.

In the evening, head to the Santa Monica Pier again, this time to enjoy a stunning sunset. Grab a seat at one of the waterfront restaurants and savor a delicious dinner while watching the sky turn into a beautiful palette of colors.

Day 2:

Start your day with a visit to the Santa Monica Farmers Market, located on Arizona Avenue. Explore the stalls filled with fresh produce, artisanal products, and delicious food. Grab a coffee and a pastry to enjoy as you wander through the market.

Afterward, rent a bike or rollerblades and take a ride along the Marvin Braude Bike Trail, also known as "The Strand." This scenic path stretches along the coast, offering stunning views of the ocean and the Santa Monica Mountains. Take your time and enjoy the fresh ocean breeze as you cruise along.

For lunch, head to Main Street, a vibrant neighborhood filled with trendy shops, cafes, and restaurants. Choose from a variety of cuisines, from Mexican to Italian, and enjoy a leisurely meal in one of the charming outdoor patios.

In the afternoon, visit the Getty Villa, a stunning museum dedicated to ancient Greek and Roman art. Explore the beautiful gardens, admire the intricate sculptures, and learn about the rich history of these civilizations.

In the evening, head to the Santa Monica Pier once again, this time to catch a live performance at the Santa Monica Pier Twilight Concert Series. Enjoy the music, dance along with the crowd, and soak up the lively atmosphere.

Day 3:

Start your day with a visit to the Santa Monica Museum of Art, located in the heart of downtown Santa Monica. Explore the contemporary art exhibits and immerse yourself in the vibrant art scene of the city.

Afterward, head to the Tongva Park, a beautiful urban park that offers stunning views of the ocean and the city skyline. Take a leisurely stroll through the park, relax on the grassy lawns, and enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by nature.

In the afternoon, take a short drive to the nearby Getty Center, a world-renowned art museum that houses an impressive collection of European paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. Explore the stunning architecture of the museum, take in the panoramic views of the city, and immerse yourself in the world of art.

In the evening, head to the Santa Monica Pier one last time to enjoy the vibrant nightlife. Grab a drink at one of the beachfront bars, listen to live music, and dance the night away.

Remember, this itinerary is just a suggestion, and there are plenty of other attractions and activities to explore in Santa Monica. Feel free to customize it based on your interests and preferences. Enjoy your trip!