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 Annenberg Community Beach House is a family-friendly destination that offers various activities like swimming, volleyball, and a playground. It also has an on-site restaurant and bar.
The Getty Villa is a museum dedicated to ancient art and culture. It features Greek, Roman, and Etruscan artifacts, sculptures, and paintings. The villa also has beautiful gardens and views of the Pacific Ocean.
The Third Street Promenade is a popular shopping and dining destination in Santa Monica. It features a mix of high-end and affordable stores, restaurants, cafes, and street performers.
Palisades Park is a scenic park that offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and Santa Monica Beach. It's a great place to relax, take a stroll or watch the sunset.
It's recommended to rent a car to visit these places as they are spread out. However, visitors can also use ride-sharing services or public transportation like buses or the Metro Expo Line. Parking fees may apply in some locations. Estimated transportation costs range from $20-$50, depending on the chosen mode of transportation and the number of people.
If you have more time, you can also visit other popular attractions like the Santa Monica State Beach or the Santa Monica Mountains. If you have less time, consider skipping The Getty Villa and spending more time at the Santa Monica Pier, rent bikes and cycle down the beach, or enjoy more time shopping and dining at the Third Street Promenade.
The main airport serving Santa Monica is Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) with the airport code LAX. It's located approximately 10 miles southwest of Santa Monica's city center. Other nearby airports include Burbank Bob Hope Airport (BUR) and Long Beach Airport (LGB), which are approximately 25 and 30 miles away from Santa Monica, respectively.
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.