The Ultimate Family Travel Itinerary in Santa Monica

Begin your day with a relaxed beachfront breakfast at Coast Beach Café and Bar and try the Lemon Ricotta Pancakes to share. Afterward, pick up bikes from our onsite Beach Concierge and ride along the 22‑mile oceanfront bike path. Whether you choose a traditional cruiser, a tandem bike for two, or kid‑friendly options, it’s one of the most scenic and memorable ways to experience the coastline.

With Venice Beach only a short seven‑minute ride away, families can explore the lively boardwalk, watch performers, or grab a quick treat. Along the route, admire Montana Avenue’s vibrant murals or stop by the Heal the Bay Aquarium under the Santa Monica Pier.

Cool down with artisan ice cream from a local favorite before returning to the hotel.

Spend the afternoon at our iconic beachfront pool, a favorite among families. Settle into a private cabana, enjoy a casual poolside lunch, and soak up the California sunshine.

Kids can play in the family-friendly pool, while adults unwind with a refreshing frosé from the pool bar and ocean views. It’s an easy, sun-soaked break that highlights the best of Santa Monica’s coastal lifestyle.

Enjoy a parents only dinner at 1 Pico, the signature restaurant at our Santa Monica resort. Seasonal California cuisine with Southern Italian flare and sweeping Pacific views create a refined and memorable dining experience. Be sure to explore 1 Pico’s standout dishes, such as the Spaghetti with Maine Lobster, Calabrian Chili, and Cherry Tomato, the Nantucket Island Scallops served with parsnip cream, mushrooms, frisée, chervil, and herbs, and the richly satisfying Mezzi Paccheri with sausage. Each plate is crafted with coastal inspiration and thoughtful technique.

Save room for dessert, the house made gelato topped with candied popcorn and warm chocolate brownie is an indulgence worth savoring — the perfect sweet ending.

Our Concierge team can arrange babysitting services, giving kids a cozy night in the room. Settle in for a movie night or quiet reading time with a fresh popcorn amenity. It’s a great way to end a day full of adventures.

Start the new day with breakfast in bed with favorites like Eggs Benedict, Belgian Waffles, Egg White Omelets, and Yogurt Parfaits. It’s the perfect fuel for another day of fun.

Let our Beach Concierge set you up for a classic Santa Monica beach day. Beach chairs, umbrellas, boogie boards, and family games like corn hole are all available through our dedicated team.

For families looking to try something new, book a private surfing lesson, one of the most memorable activities in Santa Monica and a great way to enjoy the Pacific Ocean.

After a day in the sun, take a scenic walk, just a 5-minute stroll from Shutters on the Beach to the Santa Monica Pier, one of the area’s most iconic attractions. Ride the Pacific Wheel or play classic arcade games.

Be sure to visit the Instagram worthy Route 66 “End of the Trail” sign, a must-have family photo spot marking the end of the historic highway.