The Santa Monica Pier is a prominent attraction in the city and features an amusement park, beautiful beaches, and various restaurants & bars. Take a stroll along the Pier to soak up the lively atmosphere or enjoy some fresh seafood at one of the restaurants.
The Annenberg Community Beach House is a public beach facility located on the shores of Santa Monica Beach. Visitors can indulge in various water sports activities, including swimming, stand-up paddleboarding, and beach volleyball. Enjoy a beautiful sunset view from the beach house with refreshing cocktails and live music.
The Lobster is a popular seafood restaurant located in the heart of Santa Monica Beach. Enjoy a delightful lunch with fresh seafood like oysters, mussels, and crab legs in a beautiful beachfront setting.
Palisades Park is a beautiful and serene park nestled on the bluffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Visitors can enjoy picturesque views of the ocean and the Santa Monica Pier, lush greenery, and scenic walking paths.
Third Street Promenade is Santa Monica's premier open-air shopping district with numerous retail stores, cafes, and street performers. You can undoubtedly spend hours strolling through the avenue, shopping, and meeting locals.
The most convenient mode of transportation in Marine Park Santa Monica is a car or ride-hailing apps like Uber and Lyft. However, you can also rent bicycles or use e-scooters to explore the city. For parking, You can find parking structures near main attractions, and street parking is also available. Expect to pay $10-20 for a day of parking near the beach.
If you have more time, You can add a visit to the Santa Monica beach and Muscle Beach outdoor gym for a scenic jog or workout. You can also explore the contemporary art sculptures at the Bergamot Station or take a 30 minutes trip to Venice Beach. If you have less time, You can skip Third Street Promenade to make more time for the beach or other attractions.
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is the nearest airport to Santa Monica. It's about 16 miles away from the city center, and the airport code is LAX. It's well-connected with Downtown LA and other parts of the city via public transportation such as metro buses, trains, and shuttles.
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.