Things to do nearSanta Monica Bay

Santa Monica Bay has shaped the identity of Los Angeles for generations. The Tongva people lived along its shores for thousands of years before Spanish missionaries arrived in the late eighteenth century, and the bay later became the economic and recreational heart of the growing region. Today it is one of the most visited stretches of coastline on the West Coast, drawing millions of visitors annually to its interconnected beaches, piers, and parklands.

On the water, the bay supports an impressive range of activities. Surfers chase reliable swells near Malibu and El Porto, while kayakers and paddleboarders explore quieter coves closer to shore. Organized boat tours head out from local marinas, offering close encounters with sea lions, dolphins, and seasonal whale populations. The Santa Monica Pier anchors the central stretch of the bay and remains one of the most recognizable landmarks on the California coast.

Along the shoreline, the Marvin Braude Bike Trail runs the length of the bay, connecting beaches from Malibu to Torrance and offering one of the finest cycling routes in Southern California. Seafood restaurants, casual taco stands, and beachfront cafes line the communities that rim the bay, making it easy to eat well without straying far from the sand. Santa Monica Bay rewards every visitor who takes the time to explore beyond the shoreline.