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 Third Street Promenade is an outdoor pedestrian shopping area in the heart of Santa Monica. It features a variety of shops, restaurants, and street performers.
The Getty Villa is a museum and educational center dedicated to the study of the arts and cultures of ancient Greece, Rome, and Etruria. It features a stunning collection of Greek and Roman artifacts and impressive architectural features.
While Santa Monica is a walkable city with plenty of public transportation options, renting a car is recommended to maximize your sightseeing time. Car rentals can range from $30-$100 per day, depending on the type of vehicle and time of year. Parking is easily accessible in each location, but may come with an additional cost. Fuel costs may also need to be factored in, as Los Angeles traffic can be notoriously congested during peak hours; plan accordingly.
If you have more time, consider visiting the nearby Venice Beach or touring the Annenberg Community Beach House. Alternatively, if you have less time, condense your visit by choosing only one or two attractions instead of all three.
The nearest airport to Santa Monica is Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), located just 8 miles away. Other nearby airports include Burbank Bob Hope Airport (BUR) and Long Beach Airport (LGB), about 20-25 miles away.
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.