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2-Day Family Friendly Itinerary for Santa Monica, California

Viewed by 97 travelers

Day 1: Exploring Santa Monica Pier and Beach

Santa Monica, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Original Pantry Cafe

Kick off the day with a hearty breakfast at this classic diner located in downtown Santa Monica.
$15-20 per person, 1 hour

9:30AM

Santa Monica Pier

Head to the iconic Santa Monica Pier for some family fun, including the famous Ferris wheel and arcade games.
Free entry, rides cost $5-10 each, 2 hours

11:30AM

Pacific Park

Enjoy the amusement park on the pier with rides suitable for all ages.
$30-40 for an unlimited ride wristband, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Pier Burger

Grab a delicious burger and fries at this popular eatery on the pier.
$10-15 per person, 1 hour

2:30PM

Santa Monica Beach

Spend some relaxing time on the beach; swim, build sandcastles, or just soak up the sun.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Santa Monica Pier Aquarium

Visit this small but engaging aquarium for some educational family fun.
$5-10 per person, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Albright

Enjoy a seafood dinner with ocean views at this family-friendly restaurant on the pier.
$20-30 per person, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Sunset Walk on the Pier

End the day with a leisurely walk along the pier while enjoying the beautiful sunset.
Free, 1 hour

Day 2: Culture and Shopping

Santa Monica, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Blue Daisy Cafe

Start your day with a fresh and healthy breakfast at this charming cafe.
$15-20 per person, 1 hour

9:30AM

Tongva Park

Explore this beautifully designed park with its playgrounds, gardens, and walking paths.
Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Santa Monica Farmers Market

Visit the farmers market for fresh produce, local crafts, and a lively atmosphere.
Free entry, cost varies by purchase, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at True Food Kitchen

Enjoy a nutritious and delicious lunch at this popular eatery.
$15-25 per person, 1 hour

1:30PM

Shopping on Third Street Promenade

Stroll along this pedestrian-only shopping street filled with stores, street performers, and cafes.
Free to explore, cost varies by purchase, 2 hours

3:30PM

Santa Monica Place

Visit this upscale shopping mall for more shopping or just to enjoy the architecture and views.
Free to explore, cost varies by purchase, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at North Italia

Finish your day with a family-friendly Italian dinner at this popular restaurant.
$20-30 per person, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Evening at Pacific Park (Optional)

If you have some energy left, consider revisiting Pacific Park on the pier for some evening rides and games.
$30-40 for an unlimited ride wristband, 1.5 hours
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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