Santa Monica Saturday: Market, Illusions, Pier, Malibu

4.7 (509)

Wed, Sat, 08:00 – 13:00

155-199 Arizona Avenue

On Arizona Avenue, Santa Monica Downtown Farmers Market brings dozens of California farms into a strictly grower-only market. Saturdays run from 8am to 1pm, with organic produce, fresh flowers, and artisanal goods across a spacious, organized site. Local chefs often arrive early, while specialty stands include Fat Uncle Farms almonds and Santa Barbara Pistachio Company nuts. Bring your own bags.

4.9 (941)

Mon – Thu, Sun, 10:00 – 21:00; Fri – Sat, 10:00 – 22:00

1232 3rd Street Promenade

Museum of Illusions Santa Monica sits at 1232 3rd Street Promenade. Visitors enjoy its interactive photo sets, entertaining optical illusions and helpful staff, and call it great for families and teens, best visited during off-peak morning hours. It opens 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and until 9:00 p.m. Sunday to Thursday.

4.6 (135,135)

Mon – Sun, 06:00 – 22:00

200 Santa Monica Pier

Santa Monica Pier sits at 200 Santa Monica Pier and opens daily from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Pacific Park adds a Ferris wheel and roller coaster, and the waterfront brings ocean views. It holds a 4.6 rating.

4.6 (231)

Mon – Sun, Open 24 hours

23500 Civic Center Way

At Legacy Park in Malibu's Civic Center, walking paths cross native coastal habitats. The 15-acre public garden also operates as a stormwater treatment facility. Informational kiosks and living learning centers explain the native plant habitats. Look for ducks and rabbits along the paths.