Santa Monica, often favored over the broader Los Angeles area, offers a refreshing escape with its clean air, pedestrian-friendly streets, ideal climate, and stunning ocean views. After spending 15 years enjoying this coastal gem, I’ve discovered it’s a fantastic destination for families. Below is a rundown of ten engaging activities in Santa Monica that kids will love.
- Santa Monica Pier – This iconic landmark, celebrating over a century of fun, features attractions for all ages, including a thrilling roller coaster and a charming carousel. Families can enjoy nostalgic carnival games, arcade classics like Ms. Pacman, and even a little aquarium. For the adventurous, the trapeze school allows children as young as six to learn the flying trapeze. Don’t forget to ride the Pacific Wheel, the world’s only solar-powered Ferris wheel, where kids can let out their screams while overlooking the ocean.
- Main Street Farmer’s Market – Every Sunday morning, families flock to this vibrant market filled with colorful produce and delicious, freshly-made meals. Children will delight in the petting zoo, where they can interact with adorable farm animals, and enjoy face painting, balloon animals, and pony rides—hand sanitizer is readily available.
- Annenberg Beach House – Located just north of the Pacific Coast Highway, this beach area is especially kid-friendly, boasting a shaded sandy play area, a warm-water splash pad, and a casual snack bar called Back on the Beach. In summer, families can take a dip in the heated public pool (reservations are advised) and enjoy amenities like floaties, lockers, and a game room.
- Third Street Promenade – This bustling outdoor shopping destination is alive with stores, eateries, and theaters. Kids are particularly drawn to the street performers, ranging from musicians to acrobats. My little one loves to spend time by the playful dinosaur fountains—be sure to check them out!
- Santa Monica Place – If you’re visiting during the holiday season, this three-level outdoor mall adjacent to the Promenade is the perfect spot for capturing holiday photos with Santa Claus or the Easter Bunny. There’s also a food court on the top floor where parents can catch a breather while keeping an eye on “The Whale,” a play area for younger kids. For a healthy meal option, True Food Kitchen’s kids menu is a winner.
- The Museum of Flying – Tucked away at Santa Monica Airport, this hidden treasure features fascinating aircraft and a flight simulator. Children aged five and under can enter for free. After exploring the museum, families can enjoy lunch at the Spitfire Grill and watch planes take off and land from the nearby bleachers.
- Tongva Park – This expansive six-acre park near the Santa Monica Pier is a paradise for kids, complete with climbing structures, slides, a picnic area, and a splash pad. Parents will appreciate the stylish seating options and scenic observation decks with ocean views.
- Books and Cookies – On those rare rainy days in Santa Monica, this delightful children’s bookstore and indoor play space is a perfect retreat. Located on Main Street, it also offers a café serving freshly baked cookies and healthy snacks. Check their schedule for drop-in classes ranging from arts and crafts to music.
- Santa Monica Bike Path – To avoid the notorious traffic, consider biking along the scenic 8.5-mile path that runs parallel to the ocean, all the way to Venice Beach. You can rent bikes or rollerblades from any of Perry’s Cafe and Rentals, conveniently located along the beach.
- Sweet Rose Creamery – For a sweet ending to your day, this beloved ice cream shop is a must-visit. Known for its organic ingredients and unique flavors, the line can be long, but it’s worth the wait. My daughter loves their chocolate-dipped ice cream bon-bons. Located at Brentwood Country Mart, where you can also find quarter-operated rides and a charming food court, it’s a great spot for post-dinner ice cream.
Have any more suggestions for family-friendly activities in Santa Monica? Feel free to share them in the comments!
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Summary: Santa Monica is a prime destination for families, offering numerous engaging activities for kids, such as the Santa Monica Pier, farmer’s market, and beach house, among others. This coastal city combines fun with relaxation, ensuring memorable experiences for family outings.