Located in the westside of Los Angeles, Santa Monica is a beach city that offers beautiful beaches, great shopping destinations, and a wide variety of food choices. The city is well-known for its iconic Santa Monica Pier and beautiful sunset views. In this article, we will guide you through a perfect day in Santa Monica with the best beaches, shopping spots, and food choices to make your day memorable.
Morning: A Beach Day
Santa Monica has some of the best beaches in California, and starting your day at one of these beaches is a great idea. Here are some of the best options:
Santa Monica State Beach
Located along Ocean Avenue, Santa Monica State Beach is the most famous beach in the city. With wide sandy beaches, it offers plenty of space for visitors to sunbathe, swim, and play volleyball. You can rent a bike and ride the beach path that runs parallel to the beach or take a morning walk on the beach while enjoying the beautiful scenery.
Will Rogers State Beach
Located at the Pacific Palisades, Will Rogers State Beach is a quieter option compared to Santa Monica State Beach. The beach has soft sand, gentle waves, and clean water, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. It also has a picnic area and volleyball courts, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing morning.
Afternoon: Shopping Time
After spending the morning at the beach, you can hit the shops to buy some souvenirs or gifts for friends and family. Here are some of the best shopping destinations in Santa Monica:
Third Street Promenade
Third Street Promenade is a pedestrian-only shopping promenade that stretches for three blocks in downtown Santa Monica. It houses popular retail chains such as H&M, Zara, and Forever 21, as well as local boutiques and specialty stores. You can also find street performers, live music, and movie theaters in the area.
Santa Monica Place
A contemporary shopping mall, Santa Monica Place is known for its luxury stores such as Bloomingdale’s, Nordstrom, and Louis Vuitton. It also has an outdoor rooftop dining deck with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and dessert shops.
Evening: Food Choices
Santa Monica has a diverse food scene, ranging from gourmet restaurants to food trucks. Here are some of the best places to grab a bite:
The Lobster
Located on the Santa Monica Pier, The Lobster is a seafood restaurant with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. It serves fresh seafood dishes such as lobster bisque, clam chowder, and grilled fish. It also has a full bar with signature cocktails and a fine selection of wines.
The Misfit Restaurant + Bar
The Misfit Restaurant + Bar is a farm-to-table restaurant that offers American comfort food with a modern twist. It serves dishes such as roasted chicken, beef sliders, and mac and cheese. It also has a wide selection of craft beers and wines.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, spending a day in Santa Monica is a perfect way to enjoy the beach, shopping, and food. Starting your day at one of the beaches and ending at a great restaurant is a fantastic way to make the most of your visit. With so many great options for food, shopping, and beaches, you won’t be disappointed with your experience in this iconic beach city.