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One Perfect Day at Santa Monica Pier

Viewed by 65 travelers

Day 1: Santa Monica Fun

Santa Monica, California

8:00AM

Breakfast at Huckleberry Bakery & Café

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Huckleberry Bakery & Café, famous for its freshly baked pastries and hearty breakfast options including the delightful blueberry pancakes.
Get there by walking from most downtown hotels or using ride-sharing apps if you're staying a bit farther.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Santa Monica Pier

Stroll along the iconic Santa Monica Pier, taking in the vibrant atmosphere, with street performers and the mesmerizing Pacific Ocean as your backdrop.
It's just a short walk from Huckleberry Bakery to the pier entrance.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Ride the Ferris Wheel

Hop on the famous Pacific Park Ferris Wheel for spectacular views of the coastline and city skyline.
The Ferris Wheel is located within Pacific Park, right on the pier.
USD10, 30 minutes

12:00PM

Lunch at The Albright

Enjoy a seafood lunch at The Albright, where you can savor the catch of the day while overlooking the ocean.
A quick five-minute walk down the pier will get you there.
USD25, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit the Santa Monica Aquarium

Head over to the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium next to the pier to learn about local marine life and conservation efforts.
The aquarium is just a short walk from The Albright.
USD10, 1 hour

3:00PM

Relax at Santa Monica Beach

Spend some relaxing time at Santa Monica Beach, sunbathing or playing beach volleyball—whatever helps you unwind.
It's a short walk from the aquarium to the beach.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Sunset at the Pier

Make your way back to the pier to catch the beautiful sunset; the view is nothing short of breathtaking as the sun dips below the horizon.
Return to the pier via foot from the beach, it's very accessible.
Free, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Tar & Roses

Conclude your day with modern culinary cuisine at Tar & Roses, where you can enjoy their remarkable wood-fire grilled dishes.
A short five-minute walk from the pier will take you to the restaurant.
USD40, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Evening Stroll and Nightlife

Take a leisurely stroll along the pier at night, and soak in the lights and sounds of this vibrant coastal area as the pier comes alive with evening entertainment.
Simply walk back to the pier from Tar & Roses, as they are very close to each other.
Free, 1 hour
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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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