The Ultimate Family Travel Itinerary in Santa Monica

Santa Monica is an ideal destination for a family getaway, offering a walkable beachfront and easy access to everything you need for a memorable stay. From the iconic Santa Monica Pier to the energy of nearby Venice Beach, there are plenty of kid-friendly attractions just minutes away. Families can enjoy great dining, shopping, and outdoor activities, all while returning to the comfort of a beachfront stay at Shutters on the Beach with thoughtful amenities designed for all ages.

Day One Itinerary

Morning

Beachfront Breakfast

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 Beach Concierge and ride along the 22‑mile oceanfront bike path

A couple is riding bicycles on the beach under the bright sun, surrounded by palm trees.

Morning

Coastal Adventures

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.

Afternoon

Poolside Relaxation

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.

Evening

Oceanfront Dining

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.

A woman and a girl smiling while looking at a book together on a couch.

Evening

Cozy Family Time

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.

Key Location Details

A man and a girl laughing, with the girl holding binoculars and the man holding a jacket.

a close up shot of the Santa Monica Pier Farris Wheel and park sign

Santa Monica Pier & Pacific Park
0.4 miles (3-minute drive or 10-minute walk)

Heal the Bay Aquarium
0.4 miles (3-minute drive or 10-minute walk)

Clayton Children’s Museum
0.7 miles (5-minute drive or 16-minute walk)

Annenberg Community Beach House
1.8 miles (6-minute drive)

The Getty Villa
5.3 miles (15-minute drive)

Day Two Itinerary

Breakfast in Bed

Day Two: Morning

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.

The Perfect Beach Day

Two kids play in the sand, one holding a toy and the other with a bucket, ocean in the background.

Day Two: Afternoon

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

Walk to the Santa Monica Pier

Day Two: Evening

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.

Explore Featured Experiences

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.

Browse Experiences