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A Week of Family Fun at the Beach

Tuesday, November 21: Santa Monica Pier

Start your trip by immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Santa Monica Pier. In the morning, take a leisurely stroll along the iconic pier, enjoying the ocean breeze and stunning views. In the afternoon, visit Pacific Park, the amusement park located on the pier, and ride the Ferris wheel for panoramic vistas. As the evening sets in, explore the bustling Third Street Promenade, known for its shopping, dining, and street performers.

  • Santa Monica Pier: Prices vary, 2-3 hours
  • Pacific Park: Prices vary, 2-4 hours
  • Third Street Promenade: Free, 2-3 hours
Wednesday, November 22: Venice Beach

Spend the morning soaking up the sun and enjoying the unique beachside culture of Venice Beach. Walk along the boardwalk, admiring the street performers, artists, and vendors. In the afternoon, head to Muscle Beach, where you can watch or join in on the vibrant fitness scene. Take a leisurely bike ride along the Marvin Braude Bike Trail, and don't forget to explore the colorful Venice Canals. Wrap up the day with a beautiful sunset at the beach.

  • Venice Beach Boardwalk: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Muscle Beach: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Marvin Braude Bike Trail: Bike rental prices vary, 2-3 hours
  • Venice Canals: Free, 1-2 hours
Thursday, November 23: Malibu

Embark on a scenic drive along the Pacific Coast Highway to Malibu. Start your morning with a visit to Zuma Beach, known for its pristine sands and great waves. Enjoy a picnic in Malibu Bluffs Park while taking in the panoramic ocean views. In the afternoon, explore the famous Getty Villa, an educational center focused on ancient Greek and Roman art. End the day with a relaxing sunset walk along El Matador State Beach.

  • Zuma Beach: Parking fee, 2-3 hours
  • Malibu Bluffs Park: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Getty Villa: Admission fee, 2-3 hours
  • El Matador State Beach: Free, 1-2 hours
Friday, November 24: Santa Catalina Island

Take a day trip to Santa Catalina Island, located just off the coast. Start your morning by exploring the charming city of Avalon. Visit the Catalina Island Museum and take a stroll along Crescent Avenue, lined with shops and restaurants. In the afternoon, head to Descanso Beach Club and enjoy some water activities such as snorkeling or kayaking. End the day with a relaxing glass-bottom boat tour to catch glimpses of marine life.

  • Round-trip Ferry to Santa Catalina Island: Prices vary, 8-10 hours
  • Catalina Island Museum: Admission fee, 2-3 hours
  • Descanso Beach Club: Prices vary, 3-4 hours
  • Glass-bottom Boat Tour: Prices vary, 1-2 hours
Saturday, November 25: Newport Beach

Start your day in Newport Beach with a relaxing harbor cruise, where you can enjoy stunning views of luxury yachts and waterfront homes. In the afternoon, hit the sandy shores of the beach and try your hand at various water sports like surfing or paddleboarding. Explore the quirky shops and delicious seafood restaurants at Balboa Village. Don't miss the iconic Balboa Fun Zone, offering amusement park rides and a Ferris wheel.

  • Harbor Cruise: Prices vary, 1-2 hours
  • Newport Beach: Free, 2-4 hours
  • Balboa Village: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Balboa Fun Zone: Ride prices vary, 2-3 hours
Sunday, November 26: Laguna Beach

Indulge in the natural beauty of Laguna Beach. Start your morning with a hike in Laguna Coast Wilderness Park, offering various trails and stunning views. Afterward, relax on the pristine sands of Main Beach or explore the tide pools at Treasure Island Beach. In the afternoon, visit the Laguna Art Museum to appreciate the vibrant local art scene. End your day with a mesmerizing sunset at Heisler Park.

  • Laguna Coast Wilderness Park: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Main Beach: Free, 2-4 hours
  • Treasure Island Beach: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Laguna Art Museum: Admission fee, 1-2 hours
  • Heisler Park: Free, 1-2 hours
Monday, November 27: Huntington Beach

Spend your last day enjoying the lively atmosphere of Huntington Beach, also known as Surf City USA. Start your morning by watching surfers catch waves at the iconic Huntington Beach Pier. Join a surf lesson or simply relax on the sandy shores. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant International Surfing Museum and learn about the rich history of surfing. End your beach vacation with a stroll along the scenic Huntington Beach Bike Trail.

  • Huntington Beach Pier: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Surf Lessons: Prices vary, 1-2 hours
  • International Surfing Museum: Admission fee, 1-2 hours
  • Huntington Beach Bike Trail: Bike rental prices vary, 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

If you're looking for hidden gems and local favorites, be sure to visit Crystal Cove State Park. This beautiful beach area offers a tranquil escape from the bustling tourist spots and allows you to connect with nature. Take a hike through the park's trails, spot wildlife, and enjoy a picnic on the beach. It's a family-friendly destination with stunning coastal views.

Hotel and Flight Prices

To check hotel and flight prices for your trip to the beach, click here.

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