The 6 Best Running Routes in Santa Monica

Running along the beach
Running along the beach | © Bradley Wentzel / Unspalsh
Dominic Bertolami

Freelance writer

Angelenos love to run, and Santa Monica is an ideal place to get it done. As it offers everything from parks and beaches to stairs and hiking trails, this city is not short of options for those growing tired of the treadmill.

These top running routes located in the neighborhoods or along the coastlines of Santa Monica will inspire those looking for fitness encouragement, while the avid runner will find the unique options just as fun.

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GORGEOUS GUATEMALA

Gorgeous Guatemala

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1. Guatemala

An express adventure for those with limited time off. Prepare yourself incredible experiences. You will hike a volcano, visit mayan temples and witness a ceremony and take in beautiful colonial Antigua.

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CentralAmerica

BEACHY BELIZE

Beachy Belize

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2. Belize

A quick trip not too far away for those seeking a relaxing mini break. You will have plenty of free time to relax but also some awesome activities to experience the rainforest and the caribbean sea.
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CentralAmerica

COLONIAL MEXICO

Colonial Mexico

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3. Mexico

An exciting mini trip exploring the lesser known colonial towns of central Mexico. This is hte perfect trip for someone with limited time off and still wants to turn on explorer mode and do something different.
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SouthAmerica

ADVENTUROUS ECUADOR

Adventurous Ecuador

8 days . Epic
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1. Ecuador

A remarkable 8 days adventure through the Andes and the Amazon rainforest. The best choice for adventure seekers wishing to visit the 2 most iconic areas of South America, in only 1 week and no flights.

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SouthAmerica

ANCIENT PERU

Ancient Peru

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Europe

SEDUCTIVE SOUTHERN ITALY

Seductive Southern Italy

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1. Italy

The ultimate Italian experience from the vibrant streets of Naples to the breathtaking sceneries of the Amalfi Coast followed by Matera and down to Puglia with its golden beaches, intense flavours and fascinating destinations.

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Europe

EDINBURGH AND THE SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS BY TRAIN

Edinburgh And The Scottish Highlands By Train

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2. Scotland

Embark on this great adventure starting from London all the way to Scotland with a true Scottish experience made of breathtaking sceneries, whisky tasting and ..lots of fun! Ideal for train lovers and explorers.
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COMPLETE PORTUGAL BY TRAIN

Complete Portugal By Train

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3. Portugal

A wonderful train journey around Portugal, from the romantic city of Porto to the Douro Valley, to the beautiful Aveiro all the way to Lisbon and Sintra. The perfect trip to train, culinary and culture lovers.
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Asia

SOULFUL SOUTH KOREA

Soulful South Korea

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1. South Korea

Discover incredible temples, mountains and modern cities on this 10 day adventure. This trip is perfect for those seeking immersion in the cuisine, culture and natural wonders of South Korea.

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THAILAND, CAMBODIA & VIETNAM

Thailand, Cambodia & Vietnam

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2. Thailand

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SECRETS OF SRI LANKA BY TRAIN

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3. Sri Lanka

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Africa

EPIC MOROCCO

Epic Morocco

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1. Morocco

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Africa

ULTIMATE EGYPT

Ultimate Egypt

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2. Egypt

From Cairo to Aswan, this trip brings the land of the pharaohs to life. You'll visit the Pyramids, Valley of the Kings and Luxor Temple and cruise down the Nile in style. This is the perfect way to explore Egypt.
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Africa

IMMERSIVE KENYA

Immersive Kenya

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An immersive blend of culture and wildlife for first time travelers to Africa. Learn about Nairobi, sample local coffee in the Aberdares and finish up with a fantastic safari stay in the Masai Mara.
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Douglas Park

Natural Feature

With multiple benches surrounding its quaint duck pond plus a large playground and plenty of trees, this family-friendly park in Santa Monica is an excellent place for a run. Cool down in the shade, or stretch out on the grass. Meet a friend for a jog and a game of tennis on either of the park’s courts, or bring the dog for a bit of midday exercise. With plenty to see in the park, your workout session will fly by in no time.

Santa Monica Stairs

Natural Feature

stairs-jogging-Santa-Monica
© Bruno Nascimento / Unsplash

Located in the heart of Santa Monica, this staircase and its surrounding area offer a popular place for exercise with a breathtaking view. Take your workout to the next level by tackling this moderately difficult run. With no memberships or waiting in lines, burn off that extra travel weight while enjoying the peace of the outdoors. Make sure to hydrate and bring plenty of water as the California sun can be brutal in the middle of the day.

Palisades Park, Santa Monica

Park

Palisades Park, Santa Monica
© SD Anderson / Flickr
Situated atop Santa Monica’s coastal sandstone bluffs, take in the Pacific Ocean view while jogging along this grassy path. As Palisades Park lies just a few steps from the beach, end a midday run in the refreshing ocean water, or relax in the cool shade of a palm tree. Bring your dog for a sunset outing, and let the relaxing atmosphere clear your mind while exercising your body. With multiple bus stops and ample parking, this running route is easily accessible no matter where you are coming from.

Santa Monica State Beach

Natural Feature

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© Konrad Hädener / Flickr

There is no better place to run for free than at the beach. Whether a crisp morning jog or a relaxing sunset sprint, Santa Monica State Beach offers an ideal setting for a bit of outdoor exercise. Take advantage of the variety of training equipment found near the Santa Monica Pier, or treat yourself to a post-run smoothie at the pier. Whatever your goal is, running this route offers plenty to see while leaving your skin with a healthy sun-kissed glow.

Will Rogers State Beach

Natural Feature

will-rogers-bike-LA-CA
© JCS / Wikimedia Commons / Lizenz: CC-BY-SA-3.0 / GFDL

Made famous as the beach from Baywatch, Will Rogers State Beach is a secluded haven away from the city’s bustling center. This relaxed flat path through Santa Monica and under the famous Santa Monica Pier extends farther toward dramatic bluffs and rolling waves. Stop for a game of volleyball, or just enjoy the view. This escape along the Marvin Braude Bike Path will keep you motivated.

Temescal Canyon Loop

Hiking Trail

View of the Temescal Canyon in Pacific Palisades, California.
© Jon Bilous / Alamy Stock Photo

Just north of Santa Monica, this moderate hiking trail features a waterfall during wet seasons and high panoramic ocean views contrasted by deep wooded canyons. Accessible year round, this trail is ideal for a daytime run away from the city. With multiple paths, choose from a variety of routes depending on endurance, strength or fitness levels. It’s a great choice for group outings or to improve on personal goals.

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