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 a popular outdoor shopping and dining destination located in Santa Monica. It’s known for its entertainment, street performers, and local boutiques.
The Getty Villa is a museum showcasing Ancient Greek and Roman art and artifacts located in Malibu. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful architecture and gardens as well. Admission is free but reservations are required.
Malibu Wine Safari is a unique wine tasting experience that includes a tour of Saddlerock Ranch and meeting exotic animals such as giraffes, alpacas, and zebras. Prices start at $145 per person and advanced booking is required.
Universal Studios Hollywood is a movie-based theme park located in Universal City. Visitors can experience rides, shows, and attractions based on popular movies and TV shows such as Harry Potter, The Simpsons, and The Walking Dead. Tickets start at $109 per person.
The Huntington Library and Botanical Gardens is a research and cultural center located in San Marino. Visitors can explore the art collections, rare books, and beautiful botanical gardens. Admission is $25 per person and advanced booking is required.
Venice Beach is a popular destination known for its colorful boardwalk, street performers, and beachfront restaurants. Visitors can people-watch, buy souvenirs, and enjoy the beach. Admission is free.
Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area is a beautiful natural park located in the Santa Monica Mountains. Visitors can enjoy hiking, picnicking, and take in the stunning views of the mountains and ocean. Admission is free.
While Santa Monica has a public bus system and ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft, renting a car or using your own vehicle is the most convenient way to get around the city and surrounding areas. Parking rates vary and can be expensive in popular tourist areas, so it’s recommended to research parking options beforehand. The estimated travel time and cost for each location is included in the itinerary above.
If you have more time, consider visiting other nearby attractions such as the Griffith Observatory, La Brea Tar Pits, and Rodeo Drive. If you have less time, prioritize your must-see locations and adjust your itinerary accordingly.
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is the primary airport serving Santa Monica and the surrounding areas. The airport is located approximately 11 miles southwest of downtown Los Angeles and 14 miles southeast of Santa Monica. 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.