Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

Explore the Best of Santa Monica and Venice Beach

Viewed by 88 travelers

Day 1: Santa Monica Highlights

Santa Monica, USA

9:00AM

Breakfast at The Butcher, The Baker, The Cappuccino Maker

Kick off your Santa Monica adventure with a sumptuous breakfast featuring their famous Brioche French Toast or the savory Breakfast Burrito.
Located at 1223 Wilshire Blvd, it's just a 10-minute walk from the Santa Monica Pier.
USD 20, 1 hour

10:30AM

Santa Monica Pier

Stroll along the iconic Santa Monica Pier, where you can enjoy the bustling atmosphere and take in the stunning ocean views.
Walk to the pier, located at 200 Santa Monica Pier.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Lobster

Savor a seaside lunch at The Lobster with its renowned lobster rolls and gorgeous views of the ocean.
Located at 1602 Ocean Ave, a 5-minute walk from the pier.
USD 45, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Third Street Promenade

Explore the vibrant Third Street Promenade filled with shops, street performers, and local art.
A short 10-minute walk from The Lobster.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Santa Monica State Beach

Relax on the beautiful Santa Monica State Beach, perfect for some sunbathing or a light beach stroll.
Just a 10-minute walk from the promenade.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Tar & Roses

Enjoy an exquisite dinner at Tar & Roses, known for its wood-fired dishes and vibrant atmosphere.
A 20-minute walk from the beach or a quick Uber ride.
USD 60, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Santa Monica

Day 2: Venice Beach Vibes

Venice Beach, USA

9:00AM

Breakfast at Gjusta

Start your day at Gjusta, where you can enjoy their delicious smoked fish platter or the tasty breakfast sandwich.
Take a ride-share to 320 Sunset Ave, Venice.
USD 25, 1 hour

10:30AM

Venice Beach Boardwalk

Wander along the famous Venice Beach Boardwalk, where you can soak up the local arts and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
A quick walk from Gjusta.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Cheesecake Factory

Grab a laid-back lunch at The Cheesecake Factory enjoying their signature dishes and, of course, a slice of cheesecake.
Just a 10-minute walk north of the boardwalk.
USD 30, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Venice Canals

Take a leisurely stroll along the serene Venice Canals, a hidden gem perfect for some picturesque photo ops.
A 15-minute walk from The Cheesecake Factory.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Muscle Beach

Experience the iconic Muscle Beach and watch locals showcase their fitness skills in this historic outdoor gym.
Just a 15-minute walk back to the Boardwalk.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at the Venice Whaler

Enjoy a seaside meal at the Venice Whaler with fantastic ocean views and burgers that satisfy.
Located at 5 Washington Blvd, a short walk from Muscle Beach.
USD 40, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Venice Beach

Day 3: Final Day of Fun

Santa Monica and Venice Beach, USA

9:00AM

Breakfast at Huckleberry Bakery & Café

Begin the day with a delightful breakfast from Huckleberry, where the pastries and breakfast burritos steal the show.
Take a ride-share to 1014 Wilshire Blvd, Santa Monica.
USD 25, 1 hour

10:30AM

Paddleboarding at Santa Monica Beach

Try your hand at paddleboarding on Santa Monica beach for an unforgettable morning on the water.
Rent equipment from one of the beachfront vendors.
USD 50, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Albright

Refuel with a fresh seafood lunch at The Albright, located right on the pier.
Walk back to the pier, just a 5-minute stroll.
USD 35, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the Getty Villa

Spend your afternoon at the Getty Villa, marveling at the art and architecture inspired by ancient Greece and Rome.
Take a ride-share to 17985 Pacific Coast Hwy, a 15-minute drive.
Free, but parking is USD 20, 2 hours

4:30PM

Explore Abbot Kinney Boulevard

Wander Abbot Kinney Boulevard's trendy shops and cafes, the heartbeat of Venice's creative scene.
A 10-minute ride-share from the Getty Villa.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Casa Linda

Wrap up your trip with Mexican delights at Casa Linda, famous for its tacos and enchiladas.
A short 5-minute walk from Abbot Kinney Boulevard.
USD 30, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Santa Monica and Venice Beach
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.

Visit Website Email
0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

More About santa monica and venice

Los Angeles Family Trip: Shawn, Tonya, Lilee, Dylan
Packing List
Itinerary created by AI-assisted, human-reviewed

Plan Your santa monica and venice Trip

Cost Estimator
Estimate your trip budget
Packing List
Get a custom checklist
Weather Expert
Check weather & best time to go