What to Do

What to Do on Your Santa Monica Vacation

Both a seaside town and bustling city, Santa Monica has activities for young and old, from beach games and bike paths to art galleries and nightclubs, from shopping and fitness to theater and concerts. In the pages that follow you will find comprehensive listings of what to do on your Santa Monica, CA vacation.

Where to Go for Santa Monica Shopping

World-renowned designers, name brands and independent boutiques line the streets of Santa Monica. And because of our central location, you can also travel outside of our walkable districts to explore the multitude of Los Angeles shopping possibilities – Melrose Avenue, Rodeo Drive, the Beverly Center and much more.

Things to Do on Santa Monica Beach

Santa Monica Beach is unique among California beach vacation locations because of the array of activities available. From swimming and surfing to biking and volleyball, from outdoor chess to beachside gymnastics, Santa Monica is a haven for those seeking an active, outdoors vacation.

California Attractions in and around Santa Monica

In Santa Monica proper and greater Southern California as a whole, the attractions are numerous. From the Santa Monica Pier and Muscle Beach to Disneyland and Magic Mountain, there is a variety of activities to choose from for fun, education and adventure.

Santa Monica Arts and Culture

Santa Monica’s cultural offerings run the gamut, with over 75 museums and art galleries within the walkable 8.3 square mile city limits. Not to mention the array of public art and sculpture exhibited in the streets.

Santa Monica’s Nightlife

Both daytime and nighttime activities are abundant in Santa Monica. Bars, clubs and performance venues dot the city streets, making leisure and indulgence, live music and eye-catching people easy to find and there are over 50 happy hour specials offered at restaurants and bars around town.

Calendar of Events in Santa Monica

Many world-renowned acts make their way through Santa Monica, and we keep a running tally of the best events you won’t want to miss.

CIrque du Soleil in Santa Monica

We are excited to announce the return of Cirque du Soleil to the Santa Monica Pier with OVO - a headlong rush into a colourful ecosystem teeming with life, where insects work, eat, crawl, flutter, play, fight and look for love in a non-stop riot of energy and movement - opening January 20th, 2012. Spend a day or weekend enjoying Santa Monica's shopping, dining and a Cirque show with discounts and deals for ticket holders.

Valentine's Day Special Offers

Santa Monica businesses show some LOVE this Valentine's Day! What could be more romantic than a beach-side meal or romantic weekend at one of Santa Monica's accommodations? Plan the ultimate romantic getaway with special Valentine's Day inspired menus, packages and activities for two.