Selfie style on Venice Beach promenade. Escape Oz for the US summer.
Santa Monica, the end of the line for Route 66, is famous for its sunshine, surf and sand. It’s a paradise for anybody who wants to get away from the hustle and bustle of downtown Los Angeles, and enjoy everything this gorgeous, sunny patch has to offer.
The first thing you should do when you fly into LA airport is hire a car with DriveNow, and head west towards Santa Monica. Check out these five top attractions and activities.
Venice Beach
The buzzing beachside town of Venice Beach is among LA’s top attractions. It’s graced with stylish boutique stores, cafes, live entertainment and awesome surf. It’s also just a short distance from Santa Monica. The Venice Boardwalk is a popular spot where you can casually stroll or take a bike tour as you enjoy the ocean scenery and nearby canals.
Sailing Cruise
Imagine sunset out on the water, where you can enjoy stunning views of the coast. You can choose a private sailing boat rental or you can hop on board a passenger boat. Either way, your journey to Santa Monica will be relaxing and unforgettable. There’s even whale watching cruises for those who want to spot the amazing creatures of the Pacific Ocean.
Santa Monica Pier
You know you’re in California when you spot the iconic Ferris wheel on the Santa Monica Pier. This is the landmark where travellers come to find those iconic, postcard perfect views. There’s also a history lesson that comes with it. The Santa Monica Pier was constructed in 1909, making it the West Coast’s first concrete pier. With the gorgeous and historic Carousel, family-friendly cafes and also the pier aquarium, it’s a great spot to take kids of all ages. The pier will keep you busy for hours.
Third Street Promenade
It’s one of the most popular pedestrian shopping zones in all of Los Angeles. This is where you go if you’re a lively person and want to spend some time being connected to others as you browse the various stores. In the evenings during the summer, this charming spot turns into a festive atmosphere.
Palisades Park
Breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Monica Mountains await at Palisades Park. This is the place to go when you just want to soak up a bit of nature. The 26 acre park is set on top of the coastal sandstone bluffs, while its pathways are lined with palm and eucalyptus trees.
BRIANNA PIAZZA
