While you’d be hard-pressed to have a bad time in Santa Monica any time of the year, summer in this California beachfront city just can’t be beat.

Muscle Beach and the Santa Monica Pier are two of the city’s main attractions. With so much pristine sand and the incredible history and energy of the pier, it’s hard not to wander the boardwalk, check out the shops and rides and soak it all in.

From walking tours to the Heal the Bay marine-education center to bike and surf rental kiosks, double-decker bus sightseeing trips and more, Santa Monica Pier is the place to start your area adventure.

Venture beyond the Santa Monica Pier and you’ll find all sorts of things to see and do — especially if you need a break from the beach and the boardwalk.

Check out some guitars. Since 1958, McCabe’s Guitar Shop has been the place to buy acoustic/folk instruments, and has hosted performances by luminaries such as Tom Waits, Joni Mitchell, Beck, Linda Ronstadt and many more.

Take in some art. Hit Bergamot Station to see over two dozen art galleries presenting a wide range of styles and genres for all tastes. Originally a railroad car storage facility, the space has been transformed into a breathtaking art-lover’s paradise.

Go shopping. Third Street Promenade is an outdoor pedestrian-only shopping district located close to the ocean, and is home to some of the city’s best shopping, no matter what your style. There are street performers, incredible eateries, and an organic farmer’s market every Wednesday and Saturday.

Catch a flick. The Third Street Promenade is also home to over a dozen movie screens, with the Criterion Theater and Aero Theaters — both built in the 1930s – not far away.

Of course, Magellan Luxury Hotels will get you close to the Santa Monica Pier and the rest of the area attractions in the city’s best hotels at the best rates.

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