Timeline
12:00
Start with a quick bite at Seaside on the Pier. It is located right on the boardwalk and opens at 11:00, so you can grab food early without a long wait. The hours are Mo-Fr 11:00-19:00; Sa-Su 11:00-20:30.
12:45
Walk down to the beach to feel the ocean air. The sand stretches out on either side of the pier, and the strand is famous for walking and biking. It is a 9-minute walk from the pier.
13:30
Head up to the Third Street Promenade. This pedestrianized street is just a few blocks from the beach and offers vibrant street life with musicians and dancers. It is the region's most popular shopping destination.
14:30
End your walk browsing the shops on Third Street. The area is packed with chain stores and independent boutiques, and the street itself is the main attraction.
Local tip
The promenade is very popular with people of all ages. If you want to avoid the biggest crowds, aim for the earlier part of your afternoon walk.
Check before you go
- Seaside on the Pier closes at 19:00 on weekdays and 20:30 on weekends.
- Third Street Promenade is an outdoor street; check for any special event closures.
Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to Santa Monica (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).