Day or night, Santa Monica has Something for everybody. Here are our recommendations!

1. Skate or play beach volleyball at Ocean View Park

As previously mentioned, the Ocean Park area and beach provide the most space for recreation and outdoor activities. There is always a pick up volleyball game happening in the area at pretty much all times so take off those shoes and dig your toes in the sand.

Locals love to come to this area to skate. When the parking lot clears, you can find tons of skaters playing S-K-A-T-E, sliding longboards, and cruising along The Strand roller skates.

2. Experience nightlife with a Santa Monica Bar Crawl

Santa Monica is one of the best places to go out in Los Angeles. There are three distinct areas we suggest going out (Ocean Park, Downtown and Mid City). Whether you drink Tequlia, whiskey or vodka these bars have got a drink for you. So, when you find yourself washed ashore in Santa Monica be sure to check out these spots and tag us in your best photos!

Santa Monica Pier is obviously the main attraction, and its county fair style vibes and rollercoasters makes it perfect for all ages. The pier is nice to stroll around and watch for sea life, maybe you will a seal or sea lion below deck. At the end of the pier you will find numerous fishermen baiting for all types of catches. The energy here is festive and many artists love to hang out and perform for the tourists.

One of the best local bars, The GasLite is known for 7 days a week karaoke, is located in Mid-City Santa Monica. At The Gaslite, you will be greeted by locals performing their best rendition of their favorite sing along. The energy here is always upbeat and the drinks are fairly priced. Be sure to put your name on the list for the karaoke stage. Who knows, you might just get your big break and signed for a record deal by the end of the night…good luck ;)

The best time to visit the pier is at night. All the shimmering lights against the ocean backdrop can be quite nostalgic. Recognizable to almost everyone, the Santa Monica is an iconic landmark that represents adventure, curiosity and community.

3. Explore Third Street Promenade and check out the historic Mayfair Music Hall

The charming Third Street Promenade is a Santa Monica staple and should not be missed. There is everything from name and luxury brands to boutique retailers, bars, restaurants and more.

Located at 2nd and Santa Monica, the distinguished Mayfair Music Hall is known for Its lavish exterior facade and severed as Santa Monica’s center for live entertainment throughout the 20th century. Its majestic presence has undoubtedly shaped the promenades’ and downtown Santa Monica’s entertainment culture. Although, the theater is now closed, it serves as a token of the city’s history in “high class” entertainment.

Witness a performance. Check out other nearby music/theater venues including Laemmle Monica Film Center, Westside Comedy Theater, TRIP Santa Moncia, Harvelle’s. The Santa Monica promenade is great for all backgrounds and the easy leisurely atmosphere makes for entertainment unmatched.

4. Retire the day at the shoreline and watch the sunset

Nothing beats a California Sunset. During the later months of the year (October-January), the sun will set just north of the city over the Santa Monica Mountains, setting up for one of the most magnificent views you will find in all of California. If you have the chance to be here later in the year, be sure to head to the beach and have your camera ready. The beach is one of the places where you can make your own party with your friends. Californians love to set up their own stereo and vibe with friends in the sand!

Local Golden Hour Tip: California sunsets aren’t hard to find and the striking red and yellow glow they give off is what makes the golden state one of the most visited places on Earth. Finding great sunsets in May and June isn’t uncommon, but these months usually experience more cloud cover, making it difficult to see an amazing sunset over the water.

Some of the best panoramic views can be found in the Santa Monica Mountains. The Will Roger’s State Park offers a spectacular view of the crescent malibu coast line to the Santa Monica pier and all the shoreline down past to Palos Verdes. Further to the east, just two canyons away Westridge Ridge Trail and Kenter Fire Road feature better views of Downtown Los Angeles on a clear day. As it sits 11 miles away across the valley, you can start to grasp how much there is to Los Angeles.

Stroll along Palisades Park. Located on a bluff, overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Palisades Park is a great place to take a mid-day stroll while staying close to the city. Further north, the park clears out and is a little quieter than the congested area closer towards the pier. Locals come here to walk dogs, practice yoga or sun bathe. This area is also a great option for a picnic.

5. Work Out at the Actual Muscle Beach

Muscle beach it widely believed to be at Venice Beach. But, locals will tell you if you want to get a real great beach workout, Santa Monica Ocean Park has one of the nicest outdoor gyms around. Walking along The Strand, you will find pull-up bars, dip bars, uneven bars, balance beams, climbing ropes, travelling rings, abdominal stations, and a variety of other outdoor exercise equipment.

On any given day, there will be dozens of gymnasts showing off their stuff and the sheer amount of equipment ensures that anyone can get a good workout.

6. Ride Bikes at the Strand

The Strand is the long bike/walking path that is synonymous with Santa Monica. Starting all the way down by Pacific Palisades, this path stretches miles and will take you all the way to Venice Beach and Marina Del Rey. Plenty of bike rentals can be found at either end of The Strand or near the Santa Monica Pier.

7. Get Brunch at Tartine

This Baker/Cafe is a reputable spot that was formerly a church. The unique adaptation of the architecture and the outdoor vine covered patio make this place a great Sunday brunch spot. The Tartine can fill up quickly on the weekends, so it is best to make a reservation or arrive early.

The outdoor seating area is the best. Draped in vines, the terrace provides a relaxing, shaded area to enjoy your morning coffee in the summer. Southern California summer mornings can be very hot! Sometimes reaching 80 degrees by 10 AM! For this reason, be sure to prepare with plenty of water and sunscreen if you plan on spending the whole day outside exploring.

8. Go to the Santa Monica Swap Meet

This off the beaten path Swap Meet (Flea Market) is located by the Santa Monica airport. There are tons of vendors who bring out all kinds of antiques, crafts and products. Stop by any first and fourth Sunday of the month to check it out!

9. Party in an Old Victorian Home

The name says it best, The Victorian was a historic Santa Monica Victorian Mansion repurposed to serve the local club scene goers their favorite poisons. Take your pick! With multiple levels, there are dance floors, lounges, and plenty of memories to be made.

When arriving at the Victorian, you’ll be struck by the bar’s white picket fence charm and a visit almost feels like walking into a friend’s raging house party.

Pro Tip: consider checking out this spot for Mediterranean food.

10. Enjoy a Fancy Cocktail and Oceanfront View at the Terrazza Lounge

Located in the luxurious Hotel Casa Del Mar, the Terrazza Lounge features stunning views of the beach right from the barstool. The bartenders know their drinks well, so don’t be afraid to ask for something special. Upon arrival, you will marvel at the foyer and understand why this place was frequented by the likes of Marilyn Monroe or Charlie Chaplin.

11. Grab a Drink at the Bungalow 

No one can pass by the Bungalow during a weekend day and not wonder what is going on there. This rowdy Santa Monica mainstay is popular among the college crowd and is always lively. With plenty of space, there are games, good views and even better vibes.

On a slow day this is a lively place to shoot them back… When it’s Poppin’ this place puts the spring in Spring break. The place is large enough to host several hundred people. There are numerous rooms and chill areas. Mingle with the local crowd, play ping pong or find a nice seat with an ocean view. There is also large tables inside so that you can host a number of your friends. This is a daytime favorite for many due to its location right next to the beach and earthy vibe. At night, The Bungalow comes alive and the party roars on. Your bar crawl in Santa Monica would not be complete without visiting The Bungalow.

12. Take a Walk Down Montana Avenue

Locals refer to ‘North of Montana Avenue’ as a neighborhood. Many of them like to live in this area because of the walkability it provides to nearby restaurants and trendy boutique shops. One of our favorites located on Montana Avenue is Marmalade Cafe, which is known for Breakfast All Day.

This area brings in lots of foot traffic and has many outdoor dining options. It is quite charming to see the local Santa Monica crowd biking to their favorite coffee or stopping by the marketplace. The walkability score is off the charts for this neighborhood and is another reason why so many want to be here!

13. Eat at the Penthouse Restaurant 

If you are looking for a good view of the city, make a reservation at The Penthouse Restaurant. Located in the Huntley Hotel, this restaurant is perfect for a romantic date or just a fun night out with friends overlooking Santa Monica.

14. Visit Buffalo Exchange at Ocean Park.

The Buffalo Exchange started in Arizona in 1970s, but really started taking off in California in the 90s. Some of their most successful stores are located near Haight and Ashbury, San Fransisco and in Ocean Park Santa Monica. Secondhand shopping is a Californian pastime loved by many. Buffalo Exchange features an array of trendy clothes and you are sure to find something you like, especially in the bohemian Ocean Park and Venice beach neighborhood.

15. Drink Coffee at Urth Caffé

Urth Caffé is a cute cafe in Ocean Park that serves tasty food. They have a lovely outdoor patio that is quiet and private - perfect for catching up on reading, remote work, or meditation (definitely the right place for meditation).

Bonus points: Thanks for reading!

16. Eat Italian Inspired Sushi..Or Sushi Inspired Italian at Uovo

This restaurant is awesome and known for its cozy setting and bar seating. Pulling up a chair you are able to watch the chef’s magic and choose from one of their many wines. The sushi style bar and was apparently modeled Uovo’s neighbors KazuNori, a popular sushi bar known for its handrolls served to you, just like Uovo, straight from the kitchen.

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