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Santa Monica is situated just west of downtown Los Angeles and is an ideal base for exploring all the attractions of LA and its environs. One of Santa Monica’s prime landmarks is the Santa Monica Pier where you will find Pacific Park amusement park, the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium, numerous restaurants with great Pacific Ocean views, and the historic Looff Hippodrome Carousel. Art lovers can visit the 18th Street Art Complex, or Bergamot Station, which houses over 20 art galleries. Cyclists can try the 22-mile Marvin Braude Bike Trail, while surfing and paddleboarding is great at Bay St. There is a wide variety of options for evening dining and entertainment.

Relax on the beach in Santa Monica
© Courtesy of lunamarina - Fotolia.com

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Enjoy lovely views of Dana Point Harbor Explore scenic Santa Catalina Island See giant trees at Sequoia National Park Choose from many activities in Long Beach Get to know California's Favorite Playground--Santa Barbara Hike in Death Valley National Park Relax on the beach in Santa Monica Tour famous attractions in Los Angeles Take the kids to Anaheim Day trip to Pasadena Enjoy parks and resorts in Palm Springs Go wine tasting in Livermore Valley Wine Country Drive to North Algodones Dunes Wilderness Area Savor the view in Malibu Day trip to La Jolla Cove Visit The Giant Forest Enjoy the view in Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve Stroll through the gardens in Heisler Park Have a picnic at Sturtevant Falls Take photos in Joshua Tree National Park Follow San Clemente Coastal Trail Take a self-guided hike in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park Go shopping in Beverly Hills See animals in San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge Admire McWay Falls

Explore more: Southern California > Places to Visit in Southern California

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