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santa monica to venice beach

hello everyone

We are travelling from Santa Barbara by car to spend the day in Santa Monica, is it possible to do the walk from there to Venice beach? is it worth us stopping at Malibu on the way?

Traveling from Santa Barbara to Santa Monica by car makes for a scenic day along the California coast. Depending on your timing, you can enjoy a mix of beach walks, piers, and coastal scenery.

Walking from Santa Monica to Venice Beach:

  • The walk is very doable and quite popular. The distance along the oceanfront path is about 2–3 miles (3–5 km), taking roughly 45 minutes to an hour at a leisurely pace.
  • The route follows the paved Marvin Braude Bike Trail / Ocean Front Walk, passing Muscle Beach, Venice Skate Park, and the Venice Boardwalk with street performers, shops, and murals.
  • It’s a flat, scenic walk and gives you a feel for both the Santa Monica and Venice Beach vibes. You can start at the Santa Monica Pier and stroll south toward Venice Beach or vice versa.

Stopping at Malibu on the way:

  • Malibu is definitely worth a short stop if you have time, especially for beach views and photo opportunities. Popular stops include Zuma Beach, Malibu Pier, or El Matador State Beach (more rugged and scenic with cliffs and sea caves).
  • Keep in mind that traffic along the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH/CA-1) can be heavy, particularly on weekends and during summer, which may add extra time.
  • If you’re pressed for time, a quick scenic drive through Malibu with a brief stop at a lookout or beach can still be rewarding without significantly delaying your Santa Monica plans.

Additional tips:

  • Parking in Santa Monica can be expensive or limited; consider arriving early to secure a spot near the pier.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for the walk and bring sunscreen and water, as the sun can be strong even in the morning.
  • Consider combining the walk with a bike rental if some in your group prefer cycling, as the path accommodates both walkers and bikers.

In summary, the walk from Santa Monica to Venice Beach is very enjoyable and worth doing, offering beach scenery and local culture along the way. Malibu is optional but recommended if you have time for a scenic stop before reaching Santa Monica.

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Venice
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Mali

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