Just a few blocks from the Santa Monica pier, Third Street Promenade is Santa Monica's premier shopping area. Third Street is home to mostly large retail shops, though there are some boutique shops. Art galleries and more fine dining are located further south on Ocean Ave.
In the mood for a little magic?
Located in Santa Monica along 4th Street, Magicopolis first opened its door in March of 1998 with magicians Penn & Teller performing its very first show. The shows at Magicopolis aren't what you'd normally expect from a traditional magic show…you won't find tuxedos, top hats, and rabbits here. Instead, you'll enjoy a highly entertaining live performance featuring comedy, magic, music, illusions, and best of all – audience participation.
The shows at Magicopolis run about 90-minutes and public performances are held Friday through Sunday. Magicopolis also holds shows for private parties, events, and tapings on other days of the week.
Visit their website for up-to-date show time information and/or to purchase tickets.
Parking
Metered parking may be a little hard to come by in Santa Monica, but if you're lucky enough to find a spot, make sure to read the signs carefully. Alternatively, there is a parking structure (#5) between Broadway and Santa Monica Blvd (same block as Magicopolis). Parking is free for the first two hours if you're entering before 6pm, otherwise, there's a flat-rate of $3 if you enter after 6pm.
Located along 4th Street in Santa Monica (next door to Benihana), Border Grill is an upbeat and trendy Mexican restaurant with a fantastic vibe. Originally a taco stand along Melrose Ave, Border Grill was relocated to its Santa Monica location in 1990 by owners/chefs Susan Feniger and Mary Sue Milliken. For those of you who used to watch the Food Network in the mid to late 90’s, you may remember them from their show, “Cooking With Too Hot Tamales”. Ok, maybe I was the only one who watched that show; anyhow, let’s start with the ambiance.
The Ambiance
One of the first things you’ll notice as you step inside Border Grill is the vibrant colors; there is definitely no shortage of red, blue, and yellow. A little too bold for some, I think it transitions perfectly into the second thing you’ll notice – the noise. Although it’s bearable, I would suggest going elsewhere if you’re looking for something romantic. But when you combine the vibrant colors and acoustics, what you get is a setting that perfectly complements the food you’re about to enjoy.
The Food
I have frequented Border Grill on quite a few occasions and have always found the food to be full of flavor and consistently good. The cuisine is Contemporary Mexican, which in my interpretation and understanding, is a twist on traditional Mexican fare.
For your appetizer, I would recommend the Green Corn Tamales...they are always flavorful and come out just right. The Tortilla Soup is usually pretty good, but it was a little too salty the last time I had it. For your entrée, the Grilled Skirt Steak is a favorite; it’s infused with garlic, cilantro, and lime and served with a handmade flour tortilla (I’m actually getting a little hungry while writing this).
If you still have room left for desert, go for the Tres Leches cake; it’s served with passion fruit and topped with a sweet pear sauce. The Pastel Ruffians is also a great choice. It’s a fluffy layered pastry with cream cheese and fresh berries.
If you happen to be at Border Grill during Happy Hour, make sure to try the Margaritas or the Sangrias…they’re not always the strongest, but good nonetheless. Happy Hour is from 4pm to 7pm on the weekdays and most drinks can be had for about $3.
Cost & Reservations
Expect to spend about $5-$10 on appetizers and anywhere from $15 to $30 for the main course. It does get busy in the evenings, especially on the weekends, so I suggest that you call ahead to make reservations.
Bay Cities Italian Deli is a gourmet market and deli with a great selection of Italian and Mediterranean specialty foods. Located in Santa Monica along Lincoln Blvd, it has been a local favorite since 1925. Although they have a great selection of imported olive oil, fine coffee, and other Italian goodies, it’s the sandwiches that bring most people into the Deli. Using only the freshest ingredients and the finest Italian products, there are few places in Los Angeles that can match the quality and taste of a Bay Cities sandwich.
If you’ve been to Bay Cities Italian Deli in the past, you’re probably already used to the long lines. On any ordinary day, and depending on how busy it is, you should expect to wait anywhere from 10-20 minutes before you can get your hands on a sandwiches. If you’re in a hurry or want to come by on your lunch break, I would suggest placing your order ahead of time so that you can avoid the wait. You can fax in your order or submit it online, just make sure to do it about 45 minutes before you’re ready to come in.
The Sandwiches
You can create your own sandwich from a great selection of Italian meats and cheeses; alternatively, you can opt for one of their sandwich combos. If it’s your first time, I would suggest going for the latter. Their most popular sandwiches are the Poorboy (with Bologna, Cotto Salami, Swiss Cheese), the Godmother (with Genoa Salami, Mortadella Coppacola, Ham, Prosciutto, Provolone) and the Caprese (with Water Mozzarella, Onion, Tomato, Basil, Oregano, Olive Oil, Balsamic Vinegar, Salt & Pepper).
The sandwiches are a little on the pricey side, so expect to pay around $8 (depending the combination and size). Once you have your sandwich, you can either take it with you or enjoy it outside on the patio.
If you’re looking for a chill place to get some drinks, head on over to Temple Bar. This eclectic Asian and urban themed bar sets the perfect chill mood for a fun (but not too wild and crazy) night out. The great thing about Temple Bar is that you have options to set your own tone and feel for the night. The main bar room is where you can just chill and sip on some apple martinis. There are booth tables lined up all against the wall where you can sit and relax. Get comfy, no worries because there are friendly waiters who will be glad to take your order at the table.
After a few drinks, you might get the feel to boogie down on the dance floor. That’s where the second room comes into the play, the dance room. This floor offers live music and performances by in-house / local DJs and other artists. Monday is jazz and electronica, Tuesday is more for the Indie Rock crowd, Wednesday is Hip Hop, Thursday is Latin, Reggae, and African beats, and the weekends are Hip Hop and soul.
If you build up an appetite after dancing, order some food. Their menu consists of delicious finger foods, salads, pasta, skewers, burgers, and desserts.
The cover charge is about $10 and drinks will run around $10 each as well. If you get there early enough, you might get lucky and win a free parking spot in the back.
Located in Santa Monica, the Pier offers a plethora of activities that will keep you busy for hours.
Aquarium
The Santa Monica Pier Aquarium is located right below the Carousel. There are a total of 8 different exhibits to enjoy, including 3 touch tanks that will allow you to get up close and personal with over 30 different species of marine life.
Arcade
The Playland Arcade features over 200 different arcade games, from the newer titles to traditional favorites, such as Pac Man, Air Hockey and Pinball.
Fishing
If you’re looking for a relaxing activity, grab your fishing supplies and head out to the Pier. It’s also a great activity to enjoy on a date, especially the first. While you probably won’t catch anything, you’ll have plenty of time to talk and get to know each other better. The best spots for fishing can be found towards the end of the Pier.
Theme Park
Located on the Pier, Pacific Park is a small amusement park with something for everyone. There are about a dozen rides in total, including a steel rollercoaster and the iconic ferris wheel – both providing a spectacular view of the Pacific Coast.
Getting There
The main entrance to the Santa Monica Pier is on Colorado Ave and Ocean Ave. You can park your car at the Pier lot, but if you want to save a little money and don’t mind the walk, park your car at the Santa Monica Mall structure (located 2 blocks away on Colorado & 2nd). If you arrive in the day (8am to 5pm), you can park for 3 hours at no cost; in the evening (5pm to 2am), there’s a $3 flat rate.
As a native of Los Angeles, I take a lot of things for granted – namely, the beauty and tranquility of the Pacific Ocean. Whether or not you grew up in the Los Angeles, there’s no denying that there are few things which can compare. The sound of the waves breaking against the rocks, the sunlight glistening on the water, the ocean breeze, and that irreproducible salt water scent. It really touches all of your senses and helps you tune out even the most stressful of days.
On a clear day, head out for a drive along the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) and take in all that it has to offer. Start in Santa Monica and just drive northbound until you feel like turning back. It’s also a great idea for a date or something to enjoy with a significant other. If it’s nearing the end of the day – park your car, walk down to the shore, and enjoy a spectacular sunset.
If you really want to experience the coastline and soothe the senses, you can rent a convertible for about $80; in fact, why not make a day out of it. Leave in the morning and take PCH north until you reach Santa Barbara (it’s about a 2 hour drive) and spend the day there. If you enjoy listening to music while you drive, take some CDs with you because the radio reception drops in and out.
Click here to find additional scenic routes in and around Los Angeles.
One of the best places to go bike riding in Los Angeles is along the South Bay Bicycle Trail. The paved bike trail is 22 miles in length and spans from Will Rogers State Beach to Torrance County Beach. You will run into a few sections where you will have to take the city streets, but they are pretty short in length. Don’t worry if you don’t have your own bike; you’ll have the opportunity to one from a plethora of shops along the way.
If you’re looking for other places to go bike riding in your area, check out the following page: Local Bike Riding Spots
