Things to do in Santa Monica

    Discover amazing Santa Monica activities and premium in-home experiences.

    Santa Monica is a vibrant seaside haven where golden beaches meet the charming bustle of the pier and promenade. Known for its iconic Ferris wheel, oceanfront dining, and artistic flair, this sun-drenched city invites you to enjoy unforgettable sunsets over the Pacific amidst an atmosphere that perfectly balances relaxation with coastal charm. Whether you're cycling along palm-lined paths or exploring unique boutiques, Santa Monica promises a quintessential Southern California experience that's both lively and welcoming.

    Popular Activities in Santa Monica

    Santa Monica Surf Tour

    Surf iconic Los Angeles breaks with local experts, gear and lunch included

    4.8 2.5K reviews
    $175/ person

    Surfboard and Wetsuit Rental

    Reserve foam longboards and wetsuits in advance to hit the waves with ease

    4.8 140 reviews
    $15/ rental

    Private Surf Lessons in Santa Monica

    Improve your surfing skills with personalized instruction and full gear provided.

    4.8 140 reviews
    $185/ person

    Levy Plus E-Scooter Rental in Santa Monica

    Cruise the Santa Monica bike path at up to 18 mph on a beginner-friendly Levy electric scooter rental.

    4.9 1.1K reviews

    Weekday Harbor Cruise

    Enjoy a private Marina del Rey yacht cruise with captain and crew included.

    5.0 62 reviews

    Private LA in a Day Electric Bike Tour

    Cover 35 miles of Los Angeles highlights by electric bike in just five hours.

    4.9 1.6K reviews
    $226/ person

    Hollywood Sign Electric Bike Tour

    Ride an e-bike past iconic Hollywood landmarks and capture unbeatable photos of the famous sign with a local guide.

    4.9 1.6K reviews
    $132/ person

    Private Hollywood Sign Hike

    Hike to the closest Hollywood Sign vantage with a guide and capture sweeping city views.

    4.9 1.6K reviews
    $42/ person

    4-Hour Beach E-Bike Ride

    Explore the South Bay coastline with effortless electric power for four hours.

    5.0 172 reviews
    $80/ e-bike

    Redondo Beach Glass Bottom Boat Wildlife Tour

    View harbor sea lions and colorful fish through large underwater windows on a 45-minute cruise.

    4.7 158 reviews
    $14/ person

    Redondo Beach Private Glass Bottom Boat Charter

    Charter a glass-bottom boat for up to 19 guests and spot vibrant marine life and California sea lions

    4.7 158 reviews

    Abbot Commuter Unisex E-Bike Rental

    Ride up to 20 mph with pedal assist and explore the coast on a smooth, powerful e-bike.

    4.9 899 reviews

    Guided Kayak Tide Pool Adventure

    Reach remote tide pools by kayak and explore marine life on a 3-hour guided outing

    4.7 6.8K reviews
    $196/ person

    Private Beach Movie Night at Terranea Beach Cove

    Enjoy an exclusive seaside movie screening with chairs, blankets, and refreshments

    4.7 6.8K reviews
    $1,325

    Spa Cabana Rental with Refreshments

    Relax in a private cabana with personal server, refreshments, and room for four during your spa day

    4.7 6.8K reviews
    $486/ cabana

    Private Falconry Experience at Terranea

    Connect with majestic birds of prey during a guided falconry session led by an expert

    4.7 6.8K reviews
    $196/ person

    Archery Tag Experience at Terranea Beach Cove

    Compete in a thrilling archery dodgeball mash-up on scenic beach sand.

    4.7 6.8K reviews
    $175/ person

    Emerald Cove Guided Snorkel Tour

    Explore a thriving kelp forest with expert guides and top-tier snorkel gear

    4.7 6.8K reviews
    $196/ person

    Oceanfront Archery Lesson and Practice

    Master archery on a scenic coastal range with guided instruction and interactive games.

    4.7 6.8K reviews
    $159/ person

    Long Beach Dolphin and Whale Watching Adventure

    Spot dolphins, whales and sea lions on a 2.5-hour cruise guided by an experienced naturalist.

    4.9 177 reviews
    $80/ person

    Catalina Island Private Yacht Day Charter

    Sail a fully equipped yacht to Catalina Island for eight unforgettable hours

    4.9 199 reviews

    Three-Hour Ocean Adventure Cruise

    Enjoy coastal views and wildlife spotting with wine and appetizers for up to six guests.

    4.9 199 reviews

    Luxury Private Harbor Dinner Cruise

    Savor a gourmet meal and wine aboard a private yacht while gliding through tranquil harbor waters.

    4.9 199 reviews
    $199/ person

    In-Home Experiences

    Sunset S'mores on the Beach

    Gather around private beach fire tables and toast s'mores at sunset.

    4.7 6.8K reviews

    Sips and Sunsets Wine and Charcuterie Experience

    Unwind at golden hour with fine wines, live music, and Pacific Ocean views.

    4.7 6.8K reviews
    $56/ person

    Explore the Charms of Santa Monica

    Santa Monica is a vibrant seaside city where sun-drenched beaches meet urban sophistication. With its iconic pier, bustling promenade, and breathtaking sunsets over the Pacific Ocean, it's an ideal destination for those seeking both relaxation and adventure. Whether you're cycling along the beach path or exploring local boutiques on Montana Avenue, Santa Monica offers something special at every turn.

    Start your day with a stroll down Third Street Promenade—an open-air shopping district alive with street performers and unique shops. As you wander toward Palisades Park, take in sweeping views of the coastline before heading to the famous Santa Monica Pier. Here, you'll find classic amusement rides like the Ferris wheel alongside fresh seafood eateries offering oceanfront dining experiences.

    For outdoor enthusiasts, nearby Topanga State Park provides hiking trails that wind through lush canyons with panoramic vistas of Los Angeles below. Alternatively, rent a bike to explore miles of scenic paths stretching from Venice Beach to Malibu's serene shores. In Santa Monica, each moment invites discovery—from catching waves at surf-friendly spots to savoring farm-to-table cuisine under starry skies—it’s truly Southern California living at its finest.

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