10 Things to Know this Summer in Santa Monica

May 24, 2019 11:00 AM
by Robyn Carmichael

Memorial Day weekend is here, marking the unofficial start of the summer season. Whether you’re a local or are planning a visit to Santa Monica, we want you to get the most out of the many events, programs, and activities our beautiful beachside city has to offer.

Read on to find out what you need to know to have a safe and fun-filled summer!

  1. "Go with the Flow" and Public Transit

    Summer is peak tourism season in Santa Monica, with a high volume of people traveling into Downtown during weekends and holidays. “Go with the Flow” is a summer traffic management program that aims to keep cars moving, streets safer and parking easier to find. Read more about what to expect.

    Looking to avoid driving on busy roads this summer? Santa Monica has one of the most extensive transit networks among cities of its size. Learn about your public transit options—including the Metro Expo Line, an L.A. Metro Bus or Big Blue Bus, the Santa Monica Free Ride, shared rides, bikes and e-scooters, and walking.

  2. Art in the Parks

    From May through October, Art in the Parks invites you to explore the City’s many parks through a range of free art and performances including live music, dance and visual art for all ages. There’s something for everyone--from the family-fun activities at Meet Me at Reed, to Make Music Los Angeles, to Jazz on the Lawn.

  3. SaMo PRIDE

    This June, Downtown Santa Monica, Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica Place, and the City of Santa Monica present the first ever SaMo PRIDE. The month-long, family-friendly series of events features festivities and programming to raise awareness and celebrate the LGBTQ+ community as well as individuality, empowerment, and inclusivity within Santa Monica. For more information and the calendar of events, go to www.smpride.com.

  4. Hit the Beach and Pack your Trash

    There’s no better place to be during the summer than Santa Monica’s beaches, which are among some of the best in the world. In order to keep our beaches beautiful and clean, we all need to be good beach stewards. It’s simple: throw away or take everything you bring out with you. Even small things like straws and bottle caps are harmful for the beach ecosystem and they are the most common items left behind. Also, use reusable bags, containers and water bottles to cut down on plastic pollution.

  5. Scooter Safety

    Since launching the Shared Mobility Pilot Program, we have been working to protect public safety as part of our commitment to become a multi-modal community and reduce emissions and congestion. As we prepare for the busy months ahead, we’re working to keep our sidewalks clear and continuing to cite those who ride in prohibited areas (sidewalks, 3rd Street Promenade, Pier Bridge, Ocean Front Walk, and Beach Bike Path) and violate other laws. We ask that you follow the rules of riding to make the summer safe and enjoyable for everyone.

  6. Main Street Summer SOULstice

    On June 23, a one-mile stretch of Main Street will be shut down to traffic for the community to enjoy live music and local business offerings, with multiple stages and acts performing throughout the day. Find out more about the 19th annual free festival.

  7. Annenberg Community Beach House Events

    Celebrate 10 years of summer fun at the Beach House by taking in a Beach Dances performance, bringing the family to a pop-up library event, enjoying the Summer Game Room, swimming in the Beach House Pool, joining the annual Community Picnic, checking out summer-inspired classes, and more!

  8. Camps and Activities for Kids

    Santa Monica offers a wide variety of activities to keep kids learning and having fun all summer long:
       ·     Camps and classes for youth (and adults!) are offered by the City throughout the summer.
       · Splashpads at the Annenberg Community Beach House, Virginia Avenue Park and Tongva Park are a great way to beat the summer heat!
       · Summer Reading Program at the Santa Monica Public Library for children and teens.

  9. Sidewalk Vending

    Summer means more vendors selling their goods in busy public spaces. The sidewalk vending program approved by City Council in April complies with state law, protects public safety and health, and gives opportunities for those who are looking to vend lawfully and safely.

  10. Annual 4th of July Parade

    The Santa Monica Fourth of July Parade, presented by The Ocean Park Association, has grown every year and brings together families, musicians, civic groups and exhibitionists of all stripes.

Happy Summer!

Authored By

Robyn Carmichael
Marketing and Communications Assistant