Check into a boutique hotel near the beach, then stroll to the iconic Santa Monica Pier where you can ride the historic carousel and enjoy ocean views from Pacific Park. Be sure to snap photos of the Ferris wheel and the neon sign.
Walk along Santa Monica Beach to the Annenberg Community Beach House for a dip in the pool or a quick tour of the historic pavilion, then head to Third Street Promenade for lunch, boutique shopping, and street performances.
Find a spot on Santa Monica State Beach to watch a spectacular sunset, followed by dinner at a beachfront restaurant such as The Bungalow, where you can savor fresh seafood and craft cocktails.
Start with a walk along the Venice Beach Boardwalk, watching skateboarders at the Venice Skate Park and bodybuilders at Muscle Beach. Grab a coffee at a local café and soak up the eclectic vibe.
Explore the colorful Abbot Kinney Boulevard, stopping for lunch at Gjelina and browsing unique boutiques, art galleries, and the famous Venice Canals for a quieter, picturesque stroll.
Return to Venice Beach for a sunset walk along the shoreline, then enjoy dinner at The Venice Whaler, a classic spot known for its grilled fish and ocean breezes.
Head north to Malibu Pier, where you can enjoy breakfast at Malibu Farm Café and watch surfers catch waves. Continue to El Matador State Beach for dramatic sea‑stack formations and tide‑pool exploring.
Visit the upscale Malibu Country Mart for boutique shopping and a light lunch at Malibu Farm Restaurant, then drive up to Point Dume for panoramic cliff‑side views and a short hike.
Conclude your adventure with a sunset at Zuma Beach, followed by a farewell dinner at Nobu Malibu, where you can indulge in world‑class Japanese‑Peruvian fusion cuisine overlooking the Pacific.
Tour Operator Urban nature & discovery walking tours
Garden Safaris offers immersive, guided walking tours that reveal the hidden natural beauty of Santa Monica. We specialize in urban “safaris” that blend gardens, architecture, secret stairways, canyon paths, and ocean views into unforgettable local adventures. Led by knowledgeable guides, our tours go beyond typical sightseeing, inviting travelers to explore peaceful, lesser-known landscapes and discover the stories, design, and nature woven into the city. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing garden stroll or an active scenic hike, Garden Safaris turns the city into a living outdoor escape.