Top 10 Things to Do in Santa Monica

Top 10 Things to Do in Santa Monica

Planning a trip to Santa Monica? This 2026 guide covers the top 10 things to do, from iconic outdoor experiences to local attractions worth adding to your itinerary.

Use this list to compare highlights, discover what makes Santa Monica unique, and find tours that match your travel style.

Santa Monica, California — Los Angeles eBike Rentals

Highlights of "Santa Monica"

Map preview generated from the featured coordinates for this destination.

Use the links below to open each attraction in Google Maps.

  1. 1. Visit Regional Park and Preserve TrailsView on map
  2. 2. Santa MonicaView on map
  3. 3. Venice BeachView on map
  4. 4. Los AngelesView on map

About Santa Monica

  • Location: Santa Monica is in California, United States.
  • Known for: Visit Regional Park and Preserve Trails, Santa Monica, Venice Beach, Los Angeles

Things to Do in Santa Monica

  1. 1. Visit Regional Park and Preserve Trails

    Regional Park and Preserve Trails is a park in Santa Monica, California. Regional parks and preserves near Santa Monica are ideal for nature loop hikes and family-friendly outdoor escapes. Expect well-marked trails, native landscapes, and quiet picnic areas for a slower pace. The surrounding area usually offers straightforward walking routes and practical access points for a short visit.

  2. 2. Santa Monica

    Santa Monica is a practical stop for understanding Santa Monica's local geography and culture. Spend time here for views, short walks, and context before connecting to nearby food, neighborhoods, or other signature landmarks in Santa Monica, California. It works well as an orientation stop before exploring nearby neighborhoods, food, and other city highlights.

  3. 3. Venice Beach

    Venice Beach is a practical stop for understanding Santa Monica's local geography and culture. Spend time here for views, short walks, and context before connecting to nearby food, neighborhoods, or other signature landmarks in Santa Monica, California. The surrounding area usually offers straightforward walking routes and practical access points for a short visit.

  4. 4. Los Angeles

    Los Angeles is a practical stop for understanding Santa Monica's local geography and culture. Spend time here for views, short walks, and context before connecting to nearby food, neighborhoods, or other signature landmarks in Santa Monica, California. It works well as an orientation stop before exploring nearby neighborhoods, food, and other city highlights.

Travel tips

  • Group activities by area to reduce transfers across Santa Monica.
  • Pre-book top tours and high-demand attractions when your dates are set.
  • Leave one flexible time block each day for weather and local recommendations.

FAQs about Santa Monica

How many days should I plan for Santa Monica?

Two to three days is enough for core Santa Monica highlights plus one or two local experiences.

Should I book tours ahead in Santa Monica?

Yes—advance booking is recommended for weekends, holidays, and top-rated operators.

Learn More About Santa Monica

Best Tours in Santa Monica

Santa Monica & Venice Beach eBike Tour
Cycling

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Santa Monica & Venice Beach eBike Tour

Santa Monica & Venice Beach eBike Tour is a guided outdoor experience based in Santa Monica, California that keeps the logistics simple and the…

Santa Monica & Venice Beach Bike Tour
Cycling

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Santa Monica & Venice Beach Bike Tour

Santa Monica & Venice Beach Bike Tour is a guided outdoor experience based in Santa Monica, California that keeps the logistics simple and the…

Santa Monica Private Bike Tour
Cycling

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Santa Monica Private Bike Tour

Santa Monica Private Bike Tour is a guided outdoor experience based in Santa Monica, California that keeps the logistics simple and the scenery front…

Santa Monica eBike Rentals
Rental
Likely to sell out
Cycling

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Santa Monica eBike Rentals

Santa Monica eBike is a self-guided equipment rental in Santa Monica, California. This equipment rental includes flexible duration options, clear pickup details, and rental terms so you can explore at your own pace.

Small Group Tour
Cycling

Santa Monica, California

Small Group Tour

Small Group Tour is a guided outdoor experience based in Santa Monica, California that keeps the logistics simple and the scenery front and center.…

The Best Private Tour in Town
Cycling

Santa Monica, California

The Best Private Tour in Town

The Best Private Tour in Town is a guided outdoor experience based in Santa Monica, California that keeps the logistics simple and the scenery front…