Mix culture with ocean air and museums with a view. Spend the day at the hilltop Getty Center or head up the PCH to the Getty Villa to explore ancient antiquities. For something more unexpected, stop by L.A. Louver Gallery, a renowned contemporary gallery near the beach in Venice. If you are looking to add to your art collection, take a Waymo or Uber to Bergamot Station and browse over 15 fine art galleries, one of Santa Monica’s most significant cultural attractions.

Walk or bike the beach path to the Santa Monica Pier for classic California fun. Rollercoaster rides, carnival games, and a spin on the Ferris wheel all come with Pacific Ocean views. Explore over 100 local species on display at the award-winning Heal the Bay Aquarium and immerse yourself in Pacific marine life. Once you have worked up an appetite, stop at Snackville to indulge in Smashie’s Burgers, Mr. Nice Fry, Churrita Churro, Scoops Ice Cream, or even the classic Hot Dog on a Stick. Follow @pacpark on Instagram to stay up to date on events. There is always something happening at the Pier.

Just south of Bayside, Venice Beach brings bold personality and nonstop energy. Explore Dogtown’s surf and skate roots, take in the street scene, and stop by Muscle Beach, where fitness culture meets pure spectacle or tackle the bowl at Dennis “Polar Bear” Agnew Memorial Skatepark, if you dare. Named after famed Z-Boy skater Dennis Agnew. The 16,000 square foot park is located near Windward Avenue and Ocean Front Walk in the Venice Beach Recreation Area. Bikes and rollerblades are always available for rent at Perry’s Beach Rentals twelve locations throughout Venice and Santa Monica Beaches. 

Main Street Santa Monica is lined with standout dining, all within easy walking distance. Highlights include Crudo e Nudo for pristine seafood, Cobi’s for vibrant globally inspired flavors, Edgemar for refined dining in a design forward setting, and Ashland Hill for relaxed wine bar vibes and comfort driven menus. From casual bites to celebratory dinners, it is all right outside your door. For beachside dining, Bayside’s pick is Coast Beach Café and Bar for breakfast, lunch, or dinner over sunset cocktails. Stop by the Front Desk for more suggestions!

Stroll the boutiques and local shops along Main Street Santa Monica, browse fashion forward finds on Abbot Kinney Boulevard, or explore major brands at Santa Monica Place, just steps from the beach. Make sure you stop at the Dodgers Clubhouse on the Third Street Promenade for Official World Champions gear.