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 entertainment destination. With over 200 shops and restaurants, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy some retail therapy or grab a bite to eat.
Urth Caffé is a popular organic coffeehouse and restaurant that serves fresh, healthy food. It’s known for its exceptional coffee, salads, sandwiches, and pastries.
The Getty Villa is an educational center and museum dedicated to the study of the arts and cultures of ancient Greece, Rome, and Etruria. It’s located on a beautiful villa and garden in Pacific Palisades.
Santa Monica State Beach is a beautiful and iconic beach located in Santa Monica. It’s the perfect spot to relax, soak up some sun, and enjoy the ocean breeze.
Travelers can easily navigate between these attractions on foot or by using a bike-sharing service like Breeze Bike Share. For longer distances or those with less time, taxis or ride-share services like Uber or Lyft are also available. Travel costs will vary depending on mode of transportation and travel time.
If you have more time in Santa Monica, consider taking a scenic drive along Pacific Coast Highway or visiting other local attractions like the Santa Monica Museum of Art or the Annenberg Community Beach House. For those with less time, consider skipping The Getty Villa or reducing your time at Third Street Promenade to maximize your visit to other attractions.
The primary airport serving Santa Monica is Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). Located 10 miles from the city center, LAX is accessible by public transportation or taxi/ride-share services. Another option is Santa Monica Airport (SMO), which is located just 2 miles from the city center and primarily serves general aviation and private flights.
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.