When you think of the shimmering Southern California coast, Santa Monica likely tops your list. With its iconic pier, expansive beaches, and year-round sunshine, this vibrant coastal city invites you to step outside and soak up everything it has to offer.
Whether you're seeking laid-back relaxation or high-energy fun, you’ll find plentiful outdoor excursions that align with your lifestyle. From sunrise bike rides along the oceanfront to sunset yoga in the park, Santa Monica makes it easy to embrace the great outdoors. If you’re ready to explore one of the most scenic and active spots on the Pacific Coast, here are the top outdoor activities to enjoy in Santa Monica.
Relax on the Shores of Santa Monica State Beach
Santa Monica Beach is more than a premier destination; it’s a daily ritual for many who call this stunning city home. The beach stretches for over three miles along the coastline, offering wide stretches of golden sand, gentle ocean breezes, an iconic backdrop of palm trees and bluffs, and a warm atmosphere that encourages you to slow down and enjoy the landscape.
Whether you're laying out a towel to sunbathe, setting up a picnic with friends, strolling along the tide line, or exploring the bike path that runs parallel to the shore, Santa Monica State Beach is the kind of place where hours pass effortlessly. You can rent a beach cruiser or rollerblades and cruise along the Marvin Braude Bike Trail, bring your own gear and join in on a beach volleyball game, or simply watch the waves roll in.
The beach is also ideal for those early morning walks when the shoreline is quiet and the marine layer creates a dreamy atmosphere. And as the day winds down, this is one of the best spots in the city to catch a breathtaking sunset.
Whether you're laying out a towel to sunbathe, setting up a picnic with friends, strolling along the tide line, or exploring the bike path that runs parallel to the shore, Santa Monica State Beach is the kind of place where hours pass effortlessly. You can rent a beach cruiser or rollerblades and cruise along the Marvin Braude Bike Trail, bring your own gear and join in on a beach volleyball game, or simply watch the waves roll in.
The beach is also ideal for those early morning walks when the shoreline is quiet and the marine layer creates a dreamy atmosphere. And as the day winds down, this is one of the best spots in the city to catch a breathtaking sunset.
Ride the Marvin Braude Bike Trail
Known to locals as "The Strand," the Marvin Braude Bike Trail is a favorite for cyclists, runners, and skaters. This 22-mile path hugs the coastline, passing through some of the most iconic beach towns in Los Angeles County — and Santa Monica is one of the highlights.
Rent a beach cruiser, hop on your own bike, or lace up your running shoes and head south toward Venice Beach, where the energy is soaring and the people-watching is unmatched. You’ll pass local landmarks, artists at work, and street performers keeping the boardwalk buzzing. The path is well-paved, well-marked, and filled with scenic stops for photos or snacks along the way.
Rent a beach cruiser, hop on your own bike, or lace up your running shoes and head south toward Venice Beach, where the energy is soaring and the people-watching is unmatched. You’ll pass local landmarks, artists at work, and street performers keeping the boardwalk buzzing. The path is well-paved, well-marked, and filled with scenic stops for photos or snacks along the way.
Take a Surf Lesson or Paddle Out
For many, surfing in Santa Monica is a rite of passage. The consistent waves and accessible shoreline make it a popular spot for beginners and experienced surfers alike. If you've never surfed before, local surf schools offer group and private lessons, providing you with everything you need, including boards, wetsuits, and instruction tailored to your skill level.
After a lesson or two, you’ll likely feel comfortable paddling out on your own. If surfing isn't quite your speed, stand-up paddleboarding is another exciting way to get out on the water and enjoy the waves from a different perspective. The calm mornings are especially ideal for paddleboarding, offering a peaceful glide along the surface with dolphins occasionally visible offshore.
After a lesson or two, you’ll likely feel comfortable paddling out on your own. If surfing isn't quite your speed, stand-up paddleboarding is another exciting way to get out on the water and enjoy the waves from a different perspective. The calm mornings are especially ideal for paddleboarding, offering a peaceful glide along the surface with dolphins occasionally visible offshore.
Visit the Santa Monica Pier
It wouldn’t be a true Santa Monica experience without visiting the world-famous pier. But beyond its iconic status, the pier is an open-air hub of endless activity. Here, you can ride the Pacific Wheel, a solar-powered Ferris wheel with unrivaled coastal views, or try your hand at carnival games and classic amusement park rides at Pacific Park.
Anglers can drop a line from the end of the pier, while others may simply enjoy the salty breeze and live music from local performers. Street vendors and food stands offer fresh snacks, and outdoor dining at restaurants offers a great way to enjoy the ocean air while tasting local seafood. Whether you visit in the early morning before the crowds or during a golden hour sunset, the pier offers something different every time.
Anglers can drop a line from the end of the pier, while others may simply enjoy the salty breeze and live music from local performers. Street vendors and food stands offer fresh snacks, and outdoor dining at restaurants offers a great way to enjoy the ocean air while tasting local seafood. Whether you visit in the early morning before the crowds or during a golden hour sunset, the pier offers something different every time.
Shop and Stroll at the Santa Monica Farmers Market
Outdoor adventure doesn't always mean intense workouts or water excursions. Sometimes, it’s about engaging with your surroundings in a relaxed and meaningful way. The Santa Monica Farmers Market is a perfect example. Don’t miss the downtown farmers’ market on Wednesdays and Saturdays along Arizona Avenue, the Main Street Farmers Market on Sundays, or the Saturday Pico Market.
You can browse vibrant displays of organic produce, fresh-cut flowers, locally made cheeses, and creative goods. Chat with farmers, enjoy live acoustic performances, or sample something delicious from one of the market’s gourmet food stands. It’s an easy way to spend your morning outdoors, support local vendors, and take a little bit of Santa Monica home with you.
You can browse vibrant displays of organic produce, fresh-cut flowers, locally made cheeses, and creative goods. Chat with farmers, enjoy live acoustic performances, or sample something delicious from one of the market’s gourmet food stands. It’s an easy way to spend your morning outdoors, support local vendors, and take a little bit of Santa Monica home with you.
Make the Most of Every Moment
Santa Monica doesn’t just encourage you to go outside — it makes you want to stay there. With miles of beaches, scenic parks, local landmarks, and year-round events, every day is an opportunity to enjoy something new under the sun. Whether you prefer a high-energy bike ride, a meditative walk in the park, or a delicious meal with a view, Santa Monica offers endless ways to make the most of your time outside. All you need is a little curiosity and the willingness to explore.
If life in Santa Monica is calling your name, team up with Jonathan Ruiz for expert guidance as you discover your real estate options.
If life in Santa Monica is calling your name, team up with Jonathan Ruiz for expert guidance as you discover your real estate options.
