Things to do in Santa Monica
Santa Monica Pier & Pacific Park
Iconic oceanfront pier with a solar-powered Ferris wheel, roller coaster, midway games, and an aquarium.
Pier free; ride wristbands ~$40Animals & NatureHeal the Bay Aquarium
Small hands-on aquarium tucked beneath the Santa Monica Pier with local sea creatures and touch tanks.
~$5 suggested; kids under 12 freeIndoor PlayCayton Children's Museum
Large hands-on children's museum at Santa Monica Place with imaginative play zones for young kids.
~$20 per personShopping & TreatsThird Street Promenade
Pedestrian shopping street with street performers, dancing topiary fountains, shops, and treats.
Free to strollFarmers markets in Santa Monica
Santa Monica Downtown Farmers Market
A huge year-round market with fresh produce, prepared food, and live music the whole family can graze through.
Santa Monica Main Street Farmers Market
A laid-back Sunday market with a kids' play area, pony rides, and food stalls just off the beach.
Local restaurants in Santa Monica
Gilbert's El Indio
Family-run Pico Blvd Mexican mainstay where all nine Rodriguez kids have worked.
Tacos Por Favor
Beloved family-owned Westside taco counter with Puebla family recipes.
Bay Cities Italian Deli & Bakery
The oldest Italian deli in LA, famous for the 'Godmother' sandwich.
Classic Pizza
Longtime Pico Blvd pizzeria, a community staple for casual family pizza nights.
Rae's Restaurant
Time-capsule Pico Blvd diner with vinyl booths, housemade biscuits, and cinnamon rolls.
New York Bagel Deli & Bakery
Independent East Coast-style bagel deli and bakery with bagels, sandwiches, and pastries.
Local shops in Santa Monica
The Acorn Store
Specialty shop of natural wooden toys, German playthings, and dress-up — a Waldorf-style haven.
Puzzle Zoo
Iconic Third Street Promenade toy and collectibles store famous for hard-to-find action figures.
Lost & Found
Pair of Main Street shops with independent-designer women's, men's, and kids' apparel.
Angel City Books
Main Street shop for vintage, rare, and collectible books plus vinyl records.
Listings are curated and may change — confirm hours and details before you go.