Things To Do In Santa Monica This Weekend

Okay, Santa Monica weekend. Let's do this. But first, a confession. I think the pier is… overrated. Gasp! I said it. Don't get me wrong, the Ferris wheel's pretty. Just… there's more to life than overpriced corn dogs and screaming kids, right?

Alternative Pier Fun (Kinda)

So, ditch the pier… partly. Instead, stroll along the beach near the pier. People-watch! It's free entertainment. You’ll see everything from aspiring influencers awkwardly posing to dogs living their best lives. Pack some snacks. Avoid eye contact with the seagulls. They’re ruthless.

My unpopular opinion number two? Street performers can be a bit… much. Especially that one guy with the spray paint. I mean, I appreciate the art, but my sinuses do not. So, enjoy the spectacle from a safe distance, preferably with a strategically placed palm tree for cover.

Shopping (But Not That Shopping)

Okay, Third Street Promenade. It's a classic. But the stores? Mostly chains you can find anywhere. Where's the adventure? My suggestion? Head a few blocks inland. Explore Montana Avenue. Quirky boutiques! Unique gifts! Prepare to spend slightly more money on things you didn’t know you needed. It's retail therapy at its finest.

And hey, even if you do end up on the Promenade, grab a coffee at a local place instead of Starbucks. You'll thank me later. The coffee is usually better, and you’ll feel like a true Santa Monica insider. Plus, you might overhear some juicy celebrity gossip. Just saying.

Sunsets & (Gasp!) No Dinner Reservations

Okay, everyone knows Santa Monica sunsets are epic. Duh. But fighting for a reservation at some trendy beachfront restaurant? Not my idea of relaxation. My radical idea? Pack a picnic. Blanket. Bottle of something bubbly (or not, I'm not judging). Head to the beach. Enjoy the sunset without the pressure of tipping 20%.

Plus, you can wear sweatpants. Nobody cares. And if you're feeling brave, bring a portable speaker and play some chill tunes. Just be mindful of your neighbors. Nobody wants to hear your death metal playlist at sunset. Unless, you know, that’s their thing. Then crank it up!

Alternatively, grab takeout from one of the amazing food trucks around town. So many options! Tacos! Burgers! Lobster rolls! (Okay, maybe slightly pier-adjacent). Then find a bench with a view. Instant five-star dining experience (minus the white tablecloths and awkward small talk with your server).

Embrace the Tourist (Sometimes)

Look, I know, I know. "Don't be a tourist!" But sometimes, it's okay to embrace your inner tourist. Rent a bike. Cruise along the beach path. Get sand in your shoes. Take pictures of the palm trees. It's cheesy, but it's also kind of… fun? Just don't block the bike path for your Instagram photos. That’s a major faux pas.

And hey, maybe even gasp! go on the Ferris wheel. Just once. For the view. And then immediately leave the pier. My work here is done.

Bonus Tip: Parking is a Nightmare

Seriously. Just Uber. Or bike. Or walk. Or tele transport, if you have that technology. Anything is better than circling for hours looking for a parking spot. You’ll thank me later.

So there you have it. My (slightly controversial) guide to surviving – and maybe even enjoying – a weekend in Santa Monica. Remember, it’s about having fun. And avoiding overpriced corn dogs.

And if all else fails, there's always the option of staying home and binge-watching Netflix. Just kidding! (Mostly).