santa monica any time of year

Santa Monica

What to Do in Santa Monica Any Time of Year

Locals know that any time is a good time to visit Santa Monica. The beach always beckons, as does its pier, a non-stop pinnacle of fun. With moderate climes year round in this waterfront town, there’s plenty to do for any season. Let us count the ways.

When Temps Cool: Swim With the Fishes at Santa Monica Aquarium

Whether it’s winter, fall or just a cold, rainy day, the Santa Monica Aquarium is always a good idea. Take shelter and enjoy a collection of more than 100 species of marine animals and plants, all from the Santa Monica Bay. Kids, big and small, will get a kick out of the touch tanks featuring more than 30 different species or Shark Sundays, which ends with a jaw-dropping shark feeding.

When Spring Has Sprung: Stroll Around Santa Monica Pacific Park

Once it starts to warm up, embark on a vibrant adventure to Santa Monica Pacific Park, the area’s only admission-free amusement park located on a pier. Midway games, exciting rides, food spots and shopping all along the water are a major draw. Get a 360-degree view of the water on the Pacific Wheel or go on a pirate’s adventure on Inkie’s Pirate Ship. If rides don’t suit you, test your luck and skill at any of the games lining the pier like Water Race, Mini Hoops and Roller Derby.

Oh, Those Summer Nights: Sing Along During Santa Monica Summer Concerts

Late summer nights call for concerts on Santa Monica Pier. Twilight Concerts, around for over 30 years, are free on Thursday nights from 7 to 10 p.m. and offer a nice mix of musical artists and performers. Bring a few blankets or chairs, a cooler stuffed with your favorite beverages and some snacks to enjoy while sitting on the sand. For the lineup, more information or to sign up for special announcements, offers and invites, visit the Twilight Summer Concerts at the Santa Monica Pier website.

See more more cool things to do in Santa Monica by season in our infographic:
(Infographic: Lemonly)