Things to do in Santa Monica

Activities, attractions and tours

Santa Monica showing street scenes, a city and general coastal views
Santa Monica showing general coastal views
Santa Monica
Santa Monica featuring general coastal views and marine life
Santa Monica showing a city, modern architecture and a playground

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Most popular experiences in Santa Monica

Tours & day trips

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Private & custom tours

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Adventure & outdoor

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Food, drink & nightlife

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What to do in Santa Monica


Popular places to visit

Areas of Santa Monica

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Downtown Santa Monica

4.5/5(45 area reviews)

While you're in Downtown Santa Monica, take in top sights like Santa Monica Beach and jump on the metro at Downtown Santa Monica Station to see more of the city.

Downtown Santa Monica
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Ocean Park

4/5(23 area reviews)

Ocean Park is known for its stunning beaches, and you can see some sights area like Venice Beach and Santa Monica Beach.

Ocean Park
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Pico

While you're in Pico, take in top sights like Santa Monica Place or Third Street Promenade, and hop on the metro to see more of the city at 17th Street/SMC Station or 26th Street/Bergamot Station.

Pico
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Sunset Park

4/5(7 area reviews)

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Sunset Park and surrounding area, you can visit Bergamot Station Arts Center and Main Street Santa Monica.

Sunset Park
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Wilshire Montana

If you're spending some time in Wilshire Montana, Santa Monica Beach and Third Street Promenade are top sights worth seeing.

Wilshire Montana
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Mid-City

4/5(10 area reviews)

Even though there aren't top sights in Mid-City, you can explore the larger area and take in top sights like Santa Monica Beach. Jump on the metro at 17th Street/SMC Station to see more of the city.

Mid-City

Frequently asked questions

Is Santa Monica worth visiting?
Offering a mix of family-friendly attractions and history, there are many things to do in Santa Monica. While you're here, head to Santa Monica Beach, a must-see attraction in the area.
How do I spend a day in Santa Monica?
Santa Monica Beach and Venice Beach are two good places to kick-start your getaway adventures. Remember to explore the dining and retail options in Santa Monica while you're here too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Santa Monica?
The top tourist attraction in Santa Monica is Santa Monica Beach, so make sure to put it on your itinerary.
Is three days enough to stay in Santa Monica?
You can easily tick off top attractions like Santa Monica Beach, Venice Beach and Santa Monica Pier with a three-day escape to Santa Monica. On average, most travellers plan three days here. There's plenty to explore nearby too, so stay a little longer and check out Los Angeles.
Is Santa Monica a walkable city?
It all comes down to what you want to do and see in Santa Monica. Several key sights, like Santa Monica Beach and Venice Beach, are reachable on foot. If you're up for a stroll through some of Santa Monica's neighbourhoods, Downtown Santa Monica is 0.16 kilometres away from downtown, while Pico is 2 kilometres away from the centre and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Santa Monica with kids?
Deciding what to do in Santa Monica with kids has never been so simple. Whether you're taking a trip with little ones or teenagers, there's a range of family-friendly sights to keep everyone busy here.

What to do in Santa Monica for adults?
There are lots of things to do in Santa Monica, with entertainment for adults of all ages. Finish your day off at Melrose Avenue or Wilshire Boulevard.
Are there free things to do in Santa Monica?
From enjoying parks to wandering around hip neighbourhoods, it's easy to find free things to do in Santa Monica. If you need new ideas, get some recommendations from a local tour guide. Santa Monica Beach is a must for anyone wanting to save on their travel adventures.