There are plenty of reasons why Santa Monica, California draws in 6.7 million visitors every year. With 3.5 miles of sandy beaches and the South Bay Bicycle Trail, visitors spend plenty of time outside in the day.
But what are some of the best things for visitors to do in Santa Monica at night? Santa Monica may be an oceanfront city, but that doesn’t mean the fun has to stop once the sun sets.
Are you traveling to Santa Monica soon? Wondering what there is to do after the sun goes down? Here are the 4 best things to enjoy at night!
1. Santa Monica Pier
The Santa Monica Pier is one of the most famous piers in the world. With its neon-lit entrance, you’ll have plenty to choose from as soon as you arrive.
Pacific Park is a family-friendly amusement park that serves as the heart of the pier. There’s a rollercoaster, a number of thrill rides, and, of course, the iconic Pacific Ferris Wheel.
That’s not all that this famous pier has to offer! There are loads of souvenir shops and street performers at the pier. There’s also the world-renowned arcade with over 200 games to play!
So, when the sun starts to set, pack up your beach towel and enjoy the Santa Monica Pier at night!
2. The Beach
Can’t get enough of Santa Monica Beach? After exploring the rest of Santa Monica at night, you may find yourself wanting to head back to the beach.
Santa Monica Beach has one of the most beautiful sunsets on the West Coast. You’ll not only see beautiful sunset action but the local surfers in the water, as well.
Grab some ice cream after dinner and head back to the beach. The beaches in Los Angeles County close by 10 pm, and until then, it’s usually bustling at Santa Monica Beach at night.
3. Third Street Promenade
When there’s plenty to do at the beach during the day, that doesn’t leave much time to go shopping. Luckily, the best time to go shopping in Santa Monica is at night!
After soaking up the sun all day, head over to the Third Street Promenade in downtown Santa Monica. Here you’ll find more than 50 stores to shop at, including art galleries.
You can do more than shopping at this sparkling promenade. Find a cool spot, people watch, and enjoy the crisp evening breeze!
4. Nightlife
Looking to party it up in Santa Monica at night? Wondering what to do until the wee hours of the morning?
There’s no shortage of bars, nightclubs, and live music venues to choose from. Compared to Hollywood and downtown L.A., the nightlife in Santa Monica is much more relaxed.
So, after enjoying a meal at the pier, find a happy hour, grab a drink, and mingle with the locals. Last call is at 2 am!
Enjoy Yourself in Santa Monica at Night
The fun doesn’t stop when the sun goes down. Between the pier, the nightlife, and all the happening spots, it’s easy to enjoy yourself in Santa Monica at night.
We hope our list has given you some enjoyable places to check out during your upcoming trip to Santa Monica. For more ideas on what to do, check out our blog!