Hey, it’s Wes and Chanda! We found ourselves with just a short layover in Southern California less than 36 hours before our flight to Tokyo and China. Usually, when we’re in the area, we head straight to Disneyland or Knott’s Berry Farm, but this time, we decided to take it easy and explore some of the classic tourist spots we’d always skipped. With no set itinerary, we wandered down to Santa Monica Pier, ready to take in the sights, enjoy the ocean breeze, and see what the area had to offer.
Santa Monica Pier had a laid-back vibe, with its small amusement park, boardwalk shops, and great views of the Pacific. We checked out the historical markers, admired the classic Route 66 sign, and watched the roller coaster make its rounds though it seemed like most people were more interested in taking in the scenery than riding. After strolling along the pier, we made our way over to the Third Street Promenade, which had changed quite a bit since our last visit. Many businesses had closed, and it lacked the lively atmosphere we remembered, but we did find a great spot for lunch at an old-school British pub, The King’s Head. The food was surprisingly authentic, and the relaxed, welcoming atmosphere made it a great place to take a break.
After lunch, we took a short Uber ride down to Venice Beach. The boardwalk was packed with quirky shops, street performers, and plenty of touristy stops. We passed Muscle Beach, wandered through the bustling marketplace, and even stumbled upon the Venice Canals, which we hadn’t realized were so close by. Walking through the peaceful, picturesque neighborhood was a stark contrast to the lively beachfront just blocks away. The beautiful homes, charming bridges, and quiet water made it feel like a hidden gem tucked away from the chaos.
As the day wound down, we reflected on how nice it was to just explore without a strict schedule. This part of California is often overshadowed by its big attractions, but it turned out to be the perfect way to spend a layover. If you ever find yourself with extra time near LAX, Santa Monica and Venice Beach make for an easy, low-key adventure. Sometimes, the best travel days are the ones where you just wander and see where the day takes you. Remember, as always, whatever you decide to do, just get out there and do it!
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