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Perfect 2-Day Itinerary for Santa Monica, California

Viewed by 105 travelers

Day 1: Explore Santa Monica

Santa Monica, California

8:00AM

Breakfast at Huckleberry Café

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Huckleberry Café, known for its fresh pastries and hearty breakfast options.
$15-25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Santa Monica Pier

Head to the iconic Santa Monica Pier for a stroll, enjoy the amusement park rides, and take in the scenic ocean views.
Free to enter, rides range from $5-10, 2 hours

11:30AM

Santa Monica Beach

Spend some time relaxing on Santa Monica Beach, sunbathing, swimming, or playing beach volleyball.
Free, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Blue Plate Taco

Enjoy a coastal lunch at Blue Plate Taco, offering a variety of tacos, seafood, and refreshing beverages.
$20-30, 1 hour

3:00PM

Third Street Promenade

Explore the Third Street Promenade, a vibrant shopping and entertainment district.
Free to explore, shopping varies., 2 hours

5:00PM

Santa Monica Place

Visit Santa Monica Place, an upscale shopping mall with a variety of stores and dining options.
Free to explore, shopping varies., 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at The Misfit Restaurant + Bar

End your day with a delightful dinner at The Misfit, known for its eclectic menu and vibrant atmosphere.
$30-50, 1.5 hours

8:30PM

Sunset at Santa Monica Beach

Take a short walk back to Santa Monica Beach to watch the breathtaking sunset.
Free, 1 hour

Day 2: Venice Beach and Malibu

Venice Beach and Malibu, California

8:00AM

Breakfast at Dogtown Coffee

Kickstart your day with a hearty breakfast at Dogtown Coffee, a local favorite known for its coffee and breakfast burritos.
$10-20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Venice Beach Boardwalk

Explore the vibrant Venice Beach Boardwalk, famous for its street performers, shops, and murals.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Venice Canals

Stroll through the picturesque Venice Canals, a hidden gem with beautiful homes and tranquil waterways.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Gjelina

Enjoy a farm-to-table lunch at Gjelina, offering a variety of fresh and locally sourced dishes.
$25-40, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Drive to Malibu

Head north to Malibu for a scenic coastal drive and to explore its famous beaches.
Rideshare cost varies, 40 minutes

2:40PM

El Matador Beach

Visit El Matador Beach, known for its stunning rock formations and secluded coves.
Free, 2 hours

4:40PM

Malibu Pier

Explore Malibu Pier, a historic and picturesque spot with shops, restaurants, and great views.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Malibu Farm

Enjoy a farm-to-table dinner at Malibu Farm, located right on the pier, offering fresh and organic dishes.
$30-50, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Drive Back to Santa Monica

Return to Santa Monica after a beautiful day exploring the coast.
Rideshare cost varies, 40 minutes
Book This Trip
Garden Safaris

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.

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