2-Day Family Friendly Itinerary for Santa Monica, California

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.
Walk from your accommodation to the cafe, or take a short ride-share if staying further away.
$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.
Walk straight down Colorado Avenue to reach the pier.
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.
Located on the Santa Monica Pier itself.
$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.
Located on the Santa Monica 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.
Walk directly from the pier to the adjacent beach area.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Santa Monica Pier Aquarium

Visit this small but engaging aquarium for some educational family fun.
Located under the pier, just a short walk from the beach.
$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.
Located on the Santa Monica 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.
You are already on the pier.
Free, 1 hour
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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.
Walk or take a short ride-share from your accommodation.
$15-20 per person, 1 hour

9:30AM

Tongva Park

Explore this beautifully designed park with its playgrounds, gardens, and walking paths.
A short walk from downtown Santa Monica.
Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Santa Monica Farmers Market

Visit the farmers market for fresh produce, local crafts, and a lively atmosphere.
Walk to the corner of Arizona Avenue and 4th Street.
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.
A short walk from the farmers market.
$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.
Walk two blocks to reach Third Street Promenade.
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.
Located at the southern end of Third Street Promenade.
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.
Located within walking distance from Santa Monica Place.
$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.
Walk back to the Santa Monica Pier.
$30-40 for an unlimited ride wristband, 1.5 hours
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