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.
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.
Map preview generated from the featured coordinates for this destination.
Use the links below to open each attraction in Google Maps.
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. 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. 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. 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.
Two to three days is enough for core Santa Monica highlights plus one or two local experiences.
Yes—advance booking is recommended for weekends, holidays, and top-rated operators.
Santa Monica, California
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, California
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, California
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, California
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.
Santa Monica, California
Small Group Tour is a guided outdoor experience based in Santa Monica, California that keeps the logistics simple and the scenery front and center.…
Santa Monica, California
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…