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14-Day Ultimate Santa Monica Experience: Beaches, Culture & Culinary Delights

Viewed by 84 travelers

Day 1: Beach Day

Santa Monica, USA

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Huckleberry Bakery & Cafe

Kick off your Santa Monica adventure with a delicious breakfast featuring fresh pastries and locally-sourced ingredients.
Take a short walk along Wilshire Blvd to reach Huckleberry.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Santa Monica Beach

Spend the morning soaking up the sun on Santa Monica Beach, known for its golden sands and lively atmosphere.
Walk straight to the beach from Huckleberry.
FREE, 3 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at The Albright

Enjoy a seafood lunch with ocean views; their clam chowder is a must-try.
Stroll down to the Santa Monica Pier and enjoy the ocean breeze.
USD30, 1.5 hours

2:30 PM

Santa Monica Pier

Explore the iconic Santa Monica Pier, with its amusement park rides and the famous Ferris wheel.
Walk onto the pier from The Albright.
USD10 (for rides), 2 hours

5:00 PM

Stroll along Third Street Promenade

Enjoy shopping, street performers, and outdoor dining as you enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
Head north from the Pier to reach the promenade.
FREE, 2 hours

7:30 PM

Dinner at Tar & Roses

Savor wood-fired dishes and seasonal ingredients at this popular local spot.
Take a 10-minute walk to Tar & Roses.
USD50, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Art and History

Santa Monica, USA

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Butcher, The Baker, The Cappuccino Maker

Indulge in hearty breakfast options; their brioche French toast is excellent.
Head to The Butcher, The Baker by walking a few blocks inland.
USD25, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Santa Monica History Museum

Discover Santa Monica's rich history through engaging exhibits and artifacts.
Take a short 10-minute walk to the museum.
USD10, 1.5 hours

11:00 AM

Visit the Annenberg Community Beach House

Explore this historic beach house with a lovely pool and beach access.
Walk back towards the beach; it's a short 15-minute walk.
USD5 (Pool access), 2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at the Beach House Cafe

Enjoy a casual lunch with ocean views at this beachfront cafe.
Located conveniently at the Beach House.
USD25, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Palisades Park

Take a leisurely stroll through Palisades Park for stunning ocean views and beautiful gardens.
Walk north along the beach to reach the park.
FREE, 1.5 hours

5:00 PM

Point Dume Nature Preserve

Explore the stunning cliffs and natural landscapes of this nearby preserve.
Hail a rideshare to reach Point Dume from Palisades Park.
USD15 (rideshare), 2 hours

7:30 PM

Dinner at Cassia

Sit down for a delightful blend of Southeast Asian and French cuisine.
Return to Santa Monica for dinner.
USD60, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Adventure Day

Santa Monica, USA

8:00 AM

Breakfast at the Farmshop

Start your day with fresh, organic dishes; the eggs benedict is highly recommended.
A short walk inside the Santa Monica Place.
USD30, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Bike Rental at Santa Monica Bike Center

Rent a bike for a fun day exploring the coastal bike path.
Walk a few blocks to the Santa Monica Bike Center.
USD20 (for the whole day), 15 mins

10:00 AM

Bike Ride to Venice Beach

Enjoy a scenic bike ride along the coast to Venice Beach, taking in great ocean views.
Follow the bike path along the beach.
FREE, 1 hour

11:00 AM

Explore Venice Beach Boardwalk

Walk along the vibrant boardwalk and watch street performers and artists showcase their talents.
Park your bike and walk through the boardwalk area.
FREE, 2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at The Butcher’s Daughter

Savor fresh and healthy vegetarian dishes at this popular cafe.
Just a short walk from the boardwalk.
USD25, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Muscle Beach

Take a look at the iconic Muscle Beach gym where the legendary bodybuilders worked out.
Just steps from the boardwalk, continue walking east.
FREE, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Bike Ride to Santa Monica

Head back to Santa Monica with ocean views accompanying you along the bike path.
Use the same coastal bike path back.
FREE, 1 hour

4:00 PM

Relax at the beach

Unwind at the Santa Monica Beach after your adventurous day.
Return your bike and head out to the beach.
FREE, 2 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at Cora’s Coffee Shoppe

Enjoy fresh, traditional American diner fare before wrapping up your day.
Walk from the beach to Cora’s.
USD18, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Cultural Experience

Santa Monica, USA

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Omelette Parlor

Start your day with creative omelettes in this charming diner.
Walk to The Omelette Parlor for breakfast.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit the Bergamot Station Arts Center

Explore various art galleries showcasing contemporary art from numerous artists.
Take a short rideshare to the venue.
USD10 (rideshare), 30 mins

12:00 PM

Lunch at The Misfit Restaurant + Bar

Savor seasonally-inspired dishes in a lively atmosphere.
Return to downtown Santa Monica for lunch.
USD40, 1.5 hours

1:30 PM

Santa Monica Public Library

Take a moment to enjoy the architecture and explore their extensive book selection.
Walk four blocks east to the library.
FREE, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

International Chess Park

Challenge locals at this popular chess park, or just enjoy the laid-back environment.
Walk from the library to the park.
FREE, 1 hour

4:00 PM

Live Music at Perry’s Café

Relax and enjoy a musical performance while sipping a refreshing drink.
Head to Ocean Front Walk to reach Perry’s.
USD15 (for drinks), 2 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at Blue Plate Taco

Feast on delectable tacos and lively atmosphere just a stone’s throw from the beach.
Walk back towards the beach for dinner.
USD30, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Shopping & Relaxation

Santa Monica, USA

8:00 AM

Breakfast at the Breakfast Bar

Enjoy a hearty breakfast from a variety of options to fuel up for the day ahead.
Walk over to the Breakfast Bar from your accommodation.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Shopping at Santa Monica Place

Browse upscale shops and unique boutiques for a fun shopping experience.
Head to Santa Monica Place, a short walk away.
FREE, 3 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at The Yard

Indulge in classic American comfort food with fresh ingredients.
Take a break from shopping and enjoy lunch at The Yard.
USD30, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Visit the Santa Monica Farmers Market

Explore local produce, artisanal foods, and handmade goods at this vibrant market.
Walk a few blocks to reach the market on Arizona Ave.
FREE, 1.5 hours

3:30 PM

Relax at the Beach

Enjoy some downtime by the ocean, perfect for reading or people-watching.
Walk back to Santa Monica Beach.
FREE, 2 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at Margo’s

Wrap up your shopping day with a dinner featuring sustainably-sourced ingredients.
Head to Margo’s for a relaxed dining experience.
USD50, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Adventure and Nature

Santa Monica, USA

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Caffe Concerto

Enjoy exquisite baked goods and unique breakfast options at this cozy cafe.
Walk to Caffe Concerto from your accommodation.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Hiking at Topanga State Park

Let your adventurous spirit soar on the trails of this beautiful state park, offering stunning views.
Take an Uber or Lyft to Topanga State Park.
USD30 (rideshare), 3 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Malibu Farm

Dine on locally-sourced dishes with a farm-to-table concept while enjoying ocean views.
Continue to Malibu for lunch, a scenic 20-minute ride.
USD35, 1.5 hours

2:30 PM

Explore Malibu Beach

Relax on the sandy shores of Malibu Beach, perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
Walk a short distance from the restaurant to the beach.
FREE, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Return to Santa Monica

Head back to Santa Monica after a beautiful day in Malibu.
Take a rideshare back to Santa Monica.
USD30 (rideshare), 30 mins

6:30 PM

Dinner at The Independence

Enjoy a blend of casual yet refined dishes at this trendy eatery.
Just a short walk around the area.
USD45, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Santa Monica Exploration

Santa Monica, USA

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Baked Potato

Savor baked potatoes with creative toppings to energize your day.
Walk to The Baked Potato for breakfast.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit the Santa Monica Carousel

Experience the nostalgic carousel located inside the Santa Monica Pier.
Head over to the pier for the carousel.
USD5, 30 mins

10:00 AM

Explore the Santa Monica State Beach

Wander around, enjoy the scenery, and take photos of the oceanfront.
Just steps from the carousel.
FREE, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Sweet Rose Creamery

Treat yourself with homemade ice cream in a variety of unique flavors.
A short walk from the beach.
USD10, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Fishing at Santa Monica Pier

Try your luck at fishing; you may catch a fun souvenir!
Return to the pier area for fishing opportunities.
USD20 (fishing license), 2 hours

3:00 PM

Visit the Pacific Park

Enjoy more amusement park attractions at this lively venue on the pier.
Easily accessible at the end of the pier.
USD15 (for rides), 1.5 hours

5:00 PM

Relax at the Beach

Enjoy another session of sunbathing or playing beach volleyball at Santa Monica Beach.
Head back for more beach fun.
FREE, 2 hours

7:30 PM

Dinner at The Lobster

Feast on ocean-fresh seafood with breathtaking views of the ocean.
Make your way to The Lobster for a delightful meal.
USD60, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Relax and Unwind

Santa Monica, USA

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Cora's Coffee Shoppe

Enjoy a delicious breakfast from this local favorite, perfect for starting your day.
Walk to Cora’s for your morning meal.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Yoga on the Beach

Join a morning yoga class on the beach to energize yourself for the day.
Walk to the designated yoga area on the beach.
USD20 (for class), 1 hour

10:30 AM

Explore the Venice Canals

Take a short bike ride to the beautiful Venice Canals; a perfect spot for photos.
Rent a bike and head towards the canals.
USD20 (bike rental), 2 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at The Venice Ale House

Enjoy locally-sourced food with beachside atmosphere and craft beers.
A short walk from the canals to the Ale House.
USD30, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Leisure Time at the Beach

Spend your afternoon relaxing at the beach; grab a good book and enjoy the coast.
Walk back to Santa Monica Beach.
FREE, 3 hours

5:30 PM

Dinner at The Counter

Custom-build your burger with premium ingredients at this gourmet burger spot.
Short walk to The Counter.
USD25, 1.5 hours

7:30 PM

Evening Stroll on the Beach

End your day with a peaceful stroll along the shore, enjoying the sunset.
Easily accessible from downtown Santa Monica.
FREE, 1 hour
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Day 9: Day Trip to Los Angeles

Santa Monica, USA

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Bru's Wiffle

Indulge in delicious sweet and savory waffles to start your day off right.
A 10-minute drive to Bru’s Wiffle.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit the Getty Center

Explore impressive art collections and beautiful gardens at this iconic museum.
Take a rideshare to The Getty Center.
USD25 (rideshare), 3 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at The Getty Restaurant

Dine with a view at The Getty's on-site restaurant for locally sourced dishes.
Enjoy lunch at The Getty before continuing your adventure.
USD35, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Hollywood Sign Viewpoint

Take fun photos at the iconic viewpoint of the world-famous Hollywood Sign.
Take a ride to Griffith Park for the Hollywood sign.
USD20 (rideshare), 2 hours

4:00 PM

Explore Hollywood Boulevard

Walk the Hollywood Walk of Fame and explore shops and attractions on buzzing Hollywood Boulevard.
A short ride to Hollywood.
FREE, 1.5 hours

5:30 PM

Dinner at Musso & Frank Grill

Dine at one of Hollywood’s oldest restaurants, known for its classic American cuisine.
Short walk to Musso & Frank.
USD60, 1.5 hours

8:00 PM

Return to Santa Monica

Head back after a fun-filled day in LA.
Take a rideshare back to Santa Monica.
USD25 (rideshare), 30 mins
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Day 10: Outdoor Activities

Santa Monica, USA

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Nalu Health Bar & Cafe

Enjoy a healthy breakfast at this cafe serving smoothies and acai bowls.
Walk to Nalu Health Bar from your accommodation.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Stand-Up Paddleboarding

Experience paddleboarding on the Pacific Ocean; great fun for all levels.
Head to Santa Monica Beach for rentals.
USD30 (for rental), 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at The Waterfront

Feast on California-style dishes at this casual beachfront bistro.
Walk up the beach from paddleboarding.
USD25, 1.5 hours

1:30 PM

Visit the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium

Explore marine life native to Santa Monica Bay at this small, family-friendly aquarium.
A short walk to the aquarium located at the pier.
USD15, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Beach Volleyball

Join locals and have fun playing beach volleyball at designated courts.
Move to the beach area with volleyball nets.
FREE, 1.5 hours

4:30 PM

Downtime at the Beach

Relax on the beach after an active day; perfect for unwinding and simplifying life.
Stay at the beach area.
FREE, 1 hour

6:30 PM

Dinner at Tar & Roses

Enjoy a wood-fire meal with a casual flair at this must-visit restaurant.
Head to Tar & Roses for dinner.
USD50, 1.5 hours
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Day 11: Gastronomic Day

Santa Monica, USA

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Cassia

Savor delectable breakfast dishes inspired by Southeast Asian and French cuisines.
Head to Cassia for an unforgettable breakfast.
USD30, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Culinary Tour

Join a guided culinary tour and taste the best local flavors around Santa Monica.
Meet your guide at Santa Monica Place.
USD75, 3 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at The Misfit

Relish your meal at this local hotspot known for cocktails and savory dishes.
Return to The Misfit for lunch.
USD40, 1.5 hours

2:30 PM

Visit Gourmet Food Trucks

Explore the collection of food trucks serving a variety of cuisines; it’s a food lover’s paradise.
Head over to the food truck lot in downtown Santa Monica.
USD10, 2 hours

4:30 PM

Wine Tasting at the Santa Monica Pier

Wrap up your culinary day with a delightful wine tasting experience.
Join a wine tasting event at the pier.
USD15, 1.5 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at Forma

Experience luxurious pasta dishes at Forma; known for its handmade creations.
Make your way to Forma for dinner.
USD60, 1.5 hours
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Day 12: Leisure and Arts

Santa Monica, USA

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Griddle Cafe

Dive into oversized breakfast pancakes with a variety of toppings.
Take a short drive or rideshare to The Griddle Cafe.
USD25, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)

Explore a vast collection of art from various cultures and time periods.
Take a rideshare to LACMA.
USD30 (rideshare), 2.5 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at LACMA Café

Charges your exploration with a delightful lunch at the museum's café.
Grab lunch before continuing your museum visit.
USD20, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Explore nearby Museums

Visit nearby museums like the La Brea Tar Pits or the Petersen Automotive Museum.
Take a rideshare to visit these attractions.
USD10 (rideshare), 2.5 hours

3:30 PM

Return to Santa Monica

Travel back to Santa Monica after a delightful day.
Take a rideshare back to Santa Monica.
USD25 (rideshare), 30 mins

4:00 PM

Visit local Art Galleries

Wander around the local art galleries and enjoy contemporary art exhibits.
Explore galleries in the downtown area.
FREE, 2 hours

7:30 PM

Dinner at Your Place

Experience cozy home-style cooking at this delightful restaurant.
Take a short walk to the restaurant.
USD35, 1.5 hours
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Day 13: Beach and Chill

Santa Monica, USA

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Sarah’s Market & Cafe

Fuel up with freshly made breakfast sandwiches at this local café.
A short walk from your accommodation.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Beach Yoga Class

Join a local yoga class at the beach to rejuvenate your mind and body.
Head to the designated area on the beach.
USD20 (for class), 1 hour

10:30 AM

Beach Time

Enjoy some relaxing time at the beach with sunbathing and enjoying the ocean.
Continue to enjoy the beach area.
FREE, 3 hours

1:30 PM

Lunch at Tongva Park Cafe

Have a light lunch at this cafe nestled in Tongva Park with splendid views.
Head to the nearby cafe from the beach.
USD20, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Relax at Tongva Park

Wander around Tongva Park and enjoy the beautiful landscapes and gardens.
Take a short stroll to Tongva Park.
FREE, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Visit the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium

Explore more on marine life at the aquarium; great fun for families.
Just a short walk back to the pier.
USD15, 1 hour

6:30 PM

Dinner at Water Grill

Savor high-quality seafood dishes with a variety of selections.
Enjoy a scenic walk towards Water Grill.
USD60, 1.5 hours
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Day 14: Farewell Santa Monica

Santa Monica, USA

8:00 AM

Farewell Breakfast at Circling the Sun

Enjoy a final delightful breakfast featuring globally-inspired dishes.
Head to Circling the Sun for your last breakfast.
USD25, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Last-minute Shopping

Pick up souvenirs or gifts in Santa Monica Place for your memories.
Take a short walk to the shopping mall.
FREE, 1.5 hours

11:00 AM

Relax at the Beach

Spend some final moments by the ocean, soaking in the beauty of Santa Monica.
Head back to the beach for relaxation.
FREE, 2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at The Albright

Have one last seafood meal with an ocean view to reminisce your Santa Monica adventure.
Walk to The Albright for a farewell lunch.
USD30, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Departure

Check out from your accommodation and bid adieu to Santa Monica.
Travel to your next destination.
USD0 (depending on transportation), Variable
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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.

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