The Santa Monica Pier is a landmark and popular attraction located in Santa Monica. It’s known for its amusement park, beautiful beach, and various attractions for tourists and locals to enjoy.
The Getty Villa is a museum dedicated to ancient art and artifacts from Greece, Rome, and Etruria. The museum is surrounded by beautiful gardens and features an outdoor amphitheater.
The Malibu Wine Safari is a unique wine tasting experience that takes visitors on a jeep tour through the vineyards and ranch. Guests can see exotic animals and taste wines in a beautiful setting.
The Third Street Promenade is a pedestrian shopping district in Santa Monica. It’s filled with retail stores, restaurants, and street performers. It’s a great place to stroll and people watch.
Universal Studios Hollywood is a theme park and working studio. Visitors can ride attractions based on popular movies and TV shows, see behind-the-scenes action, and catch live shows.
Venice Beach is a famous beachfront community in Los Angeles. It’s known for its unique culture, street performers, and Muscle Beach. Visitors can rent bikes and ride along the boardwalk or hang out at the beach.
The Griffith Observatory is a popular attraction located in Griffith Park. Visitors can learn about astronomy, see breathtaking views of Los Angeles, and explore exhibits about space and science.
The Getty Center is a museum dedicated to European art and architecture. The museum features beautiful gardens, fountains, and stunning views of Los Angeles. Admission is free, but parking costs $20.
The Broad is a contemporary art museum located in downtown Los Angeles. The museum features works by contemporary artists like Jeff Koons and Damien Hirst. Admission is free, but reservations are recommended.
A city tour of Los Angeles is a great way to see the city’s landmarks and attractions. Visitors can take a guided bus tour, hop-on and hop-off at various stops, or rent a car and explore on their own.
Transportation options in Los Angeles include renting a car, taking taxis or ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft, or using public transportation like buses and trains. Rental cars average about $40-$60 a day, while taxis and ride-sharing services vary based on distance and time of day. Public transportation costs about $1.75-$2.25 per ride, or visitors can buy a day pass for $7-$10.
If you have more time, consider visiting other nearby attractions like Disneyland or the Santa Monica Mountains. If you have less time, consider combining attractions that are close together, like the Getty Center and Griffith Observatory. Also, be prepared for traffic and plan for additional travel time during peak hours.
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is the primary airport serving Santa Monica. It is located about 10 miles south of Santa Monica and is the fifth busiest airport in the world. Other nearby airports include Burbank Bob Hope Airport (BUR) and Long Beach Airport (LGB).
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.