If there’s one thing Santa Monica does better than any other neighborhood in LA, it’s their never-ending selection of health-conscious bars and restaurants.
Start the afternoon with a slight buzz at JuneShine, and then catch an Uber over to True Food Kitchen. From there, it’s just a block to the beach where you’ll find some of LA’s best people (and dog) watching.
Pregame with a flight of hard kombucha at JuneShine
📍 2914 Main St, Santa Monica, CA 90405
This breezy spot slings sessionable hard kombucha on draft, canned sake seltzers, and other mood-boosting bevs that’ll get you lightly buzzed without the bloating of normal booze. The vibe is pure West LA – think lots of plants, macrame hangers, and big leather couches sitting amongst the minimalist blonde wood decor. Order a flight to sample a few flavors of their better-for-you booch.
Know Before You Go
✔ There’s a paid parking lot behind the building.
Noise Level
Reservation Difficulty
Enjoy a truly farm-to-table lunch at True Food Kitchen
📍 395 Santa Monica Pl Suite 172, Santa Monica, CA 90401
You know that friend who’s always raving about their new “life-changing” diet? The one who goes from keto to carnivore to fruitarian with the conviction of a cult member? Well, True Food Kitchen is the restaurant equivalent of that friend – just way more likable. This sunny, airy chain feels plucked straight from a wellness influencer’s picturesque kitchen, serving up beautifully vibrant dishes packed with more superfoods than you can pronounce. You’ll leave feeling so clean and energized, you may just quit your vices cold turkey… at least until your next craving for a Double Double.
Know Before You Go
✔ They take reservations, but the space is huge so there’s always plenty of seating.
✔ There’s a big parking garage next door.
Noise Level
Reservation Difficulty
Walk a block to hang at Santa Monica beach
📍 200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA 90401
If people watching was an Olympic sport, Santa Monica Beach would be its training ground. This iconic stretch of sand offers a dizzying cross-section of LA eccentrics to shamelessly observe in their natural habitat. You’ve got bodybuilders grunting and flexing in what little clothing is legally permitted, yogis flowing through vinyasas, and rollerbladers in neon lyrca gracefully weaving between shirtless dudes slinging diabolo batons. Extend the trip by taking a detour through 3rd Street Promenade.
Know Before You Go
✔ Check out Tongva Park nearby if you prefer a quieter stroll.
Noise Level
Reservation Difficulty
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