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3-Day Santa Monica Adventure and Relaxation Itinerary

Viewed by 60 travelers

Day 1: Adventure & City Experience

Santa Monica, CA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Huckleberry Bakery & Café

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Huckleberry, renowned for its freshly baked pastries and organic breakfast options.
Located at 1014 Wilshire Blvd, it's just a short walk from the beach.
USD20, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Santa Monica Beach Cycling

Rent a bike from a local shop and ride along the scenic beach path, enjoying the fresh ocean air and stunning coastal views.
Bike rentals are available at various points along Ocean Ave, just steps from the café.
USD15, 2 hours

11:30AM

Explore Santa Monica Pier

After cycling, head to the iconic Santa Monica Pier to enjoy the amusements, shops, and the lively atmosphere.
The pier is within a short ride from the beach bike path.
Free, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The Albright

Indulge in fresh seafood at The Albright, located right on the pier, where you can taste the ocean's bounty.
Easily accessible from the pier attractions.
USD25, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Shopping at Third Street Promenade

Stroll down the Third Street Promenade, a vibrant pedestrian area filled with shops, street performers, and cafes.
A short walk from the pier, heading east on Colorado Ave.
Free entrance; shopping costs vary, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Tar & Roses

Savor a luxurious dining experience at Tar & Roses, known for its open-fire cooking and seasonal dishes.
Located at 602 Santa Monica Blvd, 10 minutes from the Promenade on foot.
USD65, 2 hours

8:00PM

Sunset Stroll at Santa Monica Beach

End your day with a peaceful stroll on the beach, watching the sunset paint the sky in hues of orange and pink.
Accessible from Tar & Roses via a short walk.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 2: Nature & Relaxation

Santa Monica, CA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Crepe

Kickstart your day with a sweet or savory crepe at Café Crepe, known for its delightful menu.
Located on the Promenade, easy access post-accommodation.
USD15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Palisades Park Walk

Stroll through the tranquil Palisades Park, enjoying the ocean views and mature trees lining the path.
Head north from the café along Ocean Ave.
Free, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Santa Monica Mountains Hike

Drive or take a rideshare to the Santa Monica Mountains for an invigorating hike, surrounded by scenic hills and wildlife.
Rideshare to the entrance of the park (for instance, Los Liones Trailhead).
Free entrance; parking may vary, 3 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The Misfit Restaurant + Bar

Refuel with a delicious farm-to-table meal at The Misfit, known for its creative seasonal menu.
Return to Santa Monica and head to 225 Santa Monica Blvd.
USD30, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Relax at the Hotel

Return to your hotel for a relaxing afternoon by the pool or at the spa, unwinding from the morning hike.
Travel back to your accommodation.
Varies by hotel, 2 hours

5:00PM

Luxury Spa Treatment

Pamper yourself with a rejuvenating spa treatment to invigorate your body and mind.
Most luxury hotels offer spa services or check nearby spas.
USD100, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Harvest at The Hotel Calamar

Dine at Harvest, which showcases local ingredients in its contemporary dishes, perfectly paired with wine.
Located at The Hotel Calamar, a short walk from your hotel.
USD75, 2 hours
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Day 3: Relaxation & Leisure

Santa Monica, CA

9:00AM

Brunch at Blue Daisy Café

Enjoy a delightful brunch at Blue Daisy Café, praised for its egg dishes and brunch specials.
Located at 1006 Pico Blvd, a short bike ride away.
USD20, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Bike Ride in the Coastal Area

Enjoy a leisurely bike ride along the coast back to Santa Monica Pier, soaking in the sun and sea breeze.
Bikes can be rented from local shops near the café.
USD15, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Visit Annenberg Community Beach House

Discover the beautiful beachfront complex that includes a historic pool, restaurant, and stunning views.
Located a short ride down the beach path from the pier.
USD10 for pool access (optional), 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Ocean Park Pizza

Grab a casual lunch at Ocean Park Pizza, where you can enjoy their famous slices and salads.
Just a 5-minute bike ride back down the coast.
USD15, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore the Santa Monica Farmers Market

Wander through the vibrant Farmers Market, held on Wednesdays and Saturdays, to sample local produce and artisanal goods.
Walk or bike east to Arizona Ave from Ocean Park.
Free entrance; purchases vary, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Relax on the Beach

Spend your last evening simply relaxing on Santa Monica Beach, enjoying the waves and unwinding.
Head west back to the beach.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Casa Martin

Conclude your Santa Monica adventure with dinner at Casa Martin, known for its vibrant Mexican cuisine and lively atmosphere.
Located on 3102 Pico Blvd, a quick ride from the beach.
USD30, 1.5 hours
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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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