One-Day Itinerary in Santa Monica

• Start the Day at the Santa Monica Pier (8:30am)
  Begin your day at one of Santa Monica's most popular destinations, the Santa Monica Pier. Take a stroll along the boardwalk and admire scenic views of the beach and Pacific Ocean. Enjoy a ride on the Pacific Wheel or take a spin on the old-school carousel. Be sure to stop by the famous Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. and grab some breakfast or brunch to fuel yourself for the day ahead.
• Visit the Santa Monica State Beach (10:30am)
  Next, head on over to the beautiful Santa Monica State Beach to soak up some sun and take a refreshing swim in the cool water. This iconic beach is perfect for beach volleyball and people watching, so make sure to bring your camera and take some memorable shots.
• Explore the Third Street Promenade (12:00pm)
  Take a pleasant walk down the Third Street Promenade, where you can find a variety of outdoor shopping, dining and live entertainment. Grab some lunch at local favorites like Mercado or True Food Kitchen, and take in the vibrant street performances.
• Relax at Tongva Park (2:00pm)
  Escape the hustle and bustle of city life by relaxing in the beautiful and peaceful surroundings of Tongva Park. This contemporary park offers a variety of unique features, such as a stunning overlook, amphitheatre, and playground for kids. Take a quick nap or have a picnic under the shady trees, and enjoy the moment.
• Visit the Getty Villa (4:00pm)
  Conclude your day with a visit to the Getty Villa, which is located in the hills above the Pacific Coast Highway. This museum is dedicated to the study of the arts and cultures of ancient Greece, Rome, and Etruria. The Getty Villa is renowned for its impressive collection of antiquities, beautiful landscaping, and serene ambiance, making it an unforgettable experience.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Santa Monica Pier (2 hours, free)
• Santa Monica State Beach (2 hours, free)
• Third Street Promenade (2 hours, varies)
• Tongva Park (1 hour, free)
• Getty Villa (2 hours, free, but parking is $20)
Total Estimated Costs: $20 for parking and additional expenses at the Promenade.

Transportation

Most of the attractions in Santa Monica are located near each other, so walking or biking is a convenient option. However, you can also use the Big Blue Bus or call a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft, which will cost about $5-$10 depending on your distance. If you're driving, be aware of the parking rates along the beach and downtown, which can be expensive.

Useful Tips

If you have extra time, you could add visiting the Santa Monica Mountains, driving along the Pacific Coast Highway, or watching a live show at the Santa Monica Playhouse. If you're short on time, you could skip the Getty Villa and visit the Museum of Flying or the Santa Monica Bay Aquarium instead. Remember to bring sunscreen, comfortable shoes, and a camera to capture the beautiful moments of your Santa Monica adventure!