Santa Monica California

Quintessential Coastal California

In a state known for icons, Santa Monica’s landmarks are impressive. Several can be found along its 5.6-kilometer Pacific Ocean beachfront, celebrated for its surfable waves and waterside recreation. Its centerpiece is the famed Santa Monica Pier, which stretches out over the waves and lights up the sky with its solar-powered Ferris wheel, the flagship attraction at Pacific Park. There are also restaurants, an aquarium, games, street performers, sweet treats and epic views of nightly sunsets over the ocean. For a classic beach day, head north to the North Beach Playground and Annenberg Community Beach House, which features a pool, playground, splash pad and beach sports. It’s also free and open to the public, but has exclusive roots: It was built for actress Marion Davies by William Randolph Hearst and was visited by Hollywood icons such as Charlie Chaplin and Greta Garbo.

Activities Along the Shoreline

Your Santa Monica vacation shouldn’t stop at only seeing the breathtaking scenes and sights. To truly enjoy them, get out and experience them. On the south side of the pier, you’ll find Original Muscle Beach, an outdoor gym area featuring ropes, parallel bars and other equipment, where fitness buffs and families alike can show off for anyone who wants to watch. The 35-kilometer Marvin Braude Bike Trail, known locally as The Strand, runs along the coast and has been featured in countless films and TV shows. The cliffside houses in the Pacific Palisades will be instantly recognizable. For a lovely stroll just off the sand, Palisades Park runs the full length of downtown Santa Monica and features sculptures, a rose garden and views of the beach from a clifftop overlook.

Exquisite Shopping & Dining

Retail therapy is abundant in Santa Monica’s neighborhoods, especially at Third Street Promenade, a three-block area that’s free from cars. In between stops at retailers, you’ll have the chance to catch some amazing street performers. At its heart is Santa Monica Place, an upscale shopping destination with more than 80 stores from designer boutiques to world-famous brands. For a local shopping experience, Montana Avenue is home to luxurious and unique stores, while Main Street offers chic clothing shops, design stores and art galleries. When you’re ready for a break, grab a bite at one of many buzzworthy restaurants. Melisse is the region’s original Michelin-starred restaurant; Lunetta boasts quintessential Californian cuisine; and Birdie G’s melds American and Eastern European flavors. For a nightcap, grab a drink at one of the many bars and lounges along Third Street Promenade, where you can take in the hip California vibes.