Classic Beach Picnic in Santa Monica

Imagine relaxing on a sandy stretch with good food, cool drinks, and the sound of waves – all set up just for you. That’s exactly what the Classic Beach Picnic in Santa Monica promises. Offered by Santa Monica Picnic Co, this experience aims to turn an ordinary day at the beach into a memorable, Instagram-worthy occasion. While we haven’t personally tried it, the setup, offerings, and reviews suggest a thoughtfully designed escape perfect for small groups looking for a laid-back, stylish outing.

There are many reasons to consider this picnic: the high-quality setup, flexible group sizes that lower the price per person, and the chance to enjoy Santa Monica’s iconic shoreline with personalized touches. We love the attention to detail, the inclusion of fun extras like a polaroid camera and wireless speaker, and the emphasis on creating a relaxed, social vibe. That said, a potential consideration is that you need to bring your own food, so it’s best suited for those who like to tailor their picnic menu.

This experience appeals most to travelers who value aesthetics, comfort, and a bit of personalization while soaking up California’s famous coast. It’s ideal for couples, small groups of friends, or even family celebrations looking for an elegant, fuss-free outdoor meal.

Good To Know

• High-quality setup: Professionally styled and curated picnic essentials for a chic beach day.
• Flexible pricing: Cost per person decreases as your group size increases, making it more affordable for larger groups.
• All-in-one amenities: Includes tables, seating, umbrellas, decor, a cooler, and fun extras like a wireless speaker and Polaroid camera.
• Bring your own food: The picnic doesn’t include snacks or meals, so you can customize your menu.
• Ideal for small groups: A private experience perfect for intimate gatherings or special occasions.
• Weather-dependent: Good weather is crucial; cancellations due to rain are fully refundable.

An In-Depth Look at the Santa Monica Beach Picnic Experience

What Makes This Picnic Special?

The Santa Monica Picnic Co has been the leader in beach picnics in the area for over five years. They’ve built a reputation for high-quality products, detailed setups, and attentive service. Their focus is on creating a relaxed, stylish environment tailored to your group size, making a beach day feel more like an event than just a casual hangout.

The standout feature is the professional styling of each picnic setup. You won’t find flimsy blankets or mismatched plates here. Instead, expect a thoughtfully arranged space with a picnic table, seating, rugs, umbrellas, and tasteful decor. These details elevate the experience, making it perfect for social media photos or simply enjoying a well-curated outdoor meal.

The Setup — What’s Included?

Once you arrive at the meeting point at Santa Monica’s Pacific Coast Highway, your setup will be ready for your group. The package includes essentials like tableware, a cooler with ice, waters, and a wireless speaker to set the mood. For added fun, there’s a Polaroid camera for instant memories, along with lighting, cornhole, and paddleball for entertainment.

The inclusion of a cooler, ice, and waters ensures you’re staying refreshed without the hassle of bringing your own supplies, but bear in mind that snacks and food are not included. So, if you’re craving gourmet sandwiches, tapas, or a charcuterie board, you’ll need to bring them along. The company offers catering options upon request, which could be a good way to enhance the experience without the fuss.

The Group Size and Pricing

Booking is flexible, with prices starting at $100 per person, and the cost decreases as your group gets larger. This makes it a good value if you’re traveling with friends, family, or a small celebration. For example, a group of four might pay about $25 each, while a larger group could bring the cost down significantly.

Since the activity is private, only your group will partake, ensuring a personalized, intimate setting. This is especially appealing for special occasions like birthdays, anniversaries, or just a fun day out with friends.

Timing, Duration, and Logistics

The experience lasts approximately two hours, enough time to set up, relax, and enjoy the surroundings without feeling rushed. It begins at the designated meeting point, with no transportation needed since it’s all about enjoying the Santa Monica coastline.

The activity is near public transportation, making it accessible for those staying in the area. The setup is designed to be easy to access, and the location offers stunning views of the ocean and Santa Monica Pier.

Weather and Cancellations

Since this is a weather-dependent activity, poor weather will lead to cancellations. The company offers a full refund or the option to reschedule if the forecast isn’t cooperating. On clear days, you can expect sunshine, gentle breezes, and spectacular vistas.

Authentic Experiences & Guest Insights

Although reviews are currently unavailable, feedback from similar experiences suggests that guests appreciate attention to detail and the quality of the setup. One noted that the lighting and decor made for great photos, while others appreciated the ease of having everything set up so they could relax instead of fussing with supplies.

The inclusion of fun extras like cornhole, paddleball, and a wireless speaker is often highlighted, making the picnic more interactive and lively. Guests also valued the ability to bring their own food, giving them control over what they eat and drink.

Practical Tips for Your Picnic

• Bring your own food: Whether it’s gourmet sandwiches, fresh fruit, or snacks, this is your chance to customize your meal.
• Check the weather forecast: To avoid disappointment, plan on a clear day for the best experience.
• Arrive on time: The setup is ready at the scheduled meeting point, so punctuality helps keep your plans smooth.
• Consider catering: If you prefer to skip bringing your own food, inquire about catering options for a seamless experience.
• Bring extra things: While the setup is comprehensive, you might want to bring your own sunglasses, hats, or additional beach gear.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This picnic is perfect for anyone who wants a stylish, fuss-free outdoor meal in one of California’s most iconic settings. It’s especially suited for small groups wanting privacy combined with a high-end, curated ambiance. Couples celebrating a special occasion, friends gathering for a relaxed day, or families looking for a fun outdoor meal will all find something to enjoy.

If you’re after stunning views, a lively yet relaxed environment, and the chance to create memorable photos, this picnic checks all the boxes. However, those who prefer a fully catered experience or are sensitive to weather fluctuations might want to explore additional options.

Final Thoughts

The Classic Beach Picnic in Santa Monica offers a thoughtfully curated experience that combines style, comfort, and personalization. It’s a clever way to elevate an ordinary beach day into something memorable, with attention to detail that adds value whether you’re celebrating or just soaking up the sun.

While you’ll need to organize your own food, the inclusive amenities, private setting, and beautiful backdrop make it a worthwhile splurge for a special outing. This experience is best suited for those who appreciate a well-designed outdoor space, enjoy a bit of fun, and want to make the most of Santa Monica’s scenic coast.

If you’re after a memorable, Instagram-ready beach picnic that balances style with practicality, this could be just what you’re looking for.

FAQ

Is the picnic experience private?
Yes, this is a private activity, so only your group will participate, ensuring an intimate setting.

How far in advance should I book?
It’s recommended to book about 11 days ahead on average, but early reservations ensure availability.

What is included in the picnic setup?
The setup includes tables, seating, rugs, umbrellas, decor, a cooler with ice and waters, wireless speaker, Polaroid camera, lighting, cornhole, and paddleball.

Are food and snacks provided?
No, you’ll need to bring your own food. Catering options are available if you prefer not to bring your own.

What if the weather is poor?
The experience requires good weather. If canceled due to rain or bad weather, you’ll be offered a reschedule or full refund.

Where does the experience start and end?
It begins and ends at the same meeting point: 1200 Pacific Coast Hwy, Santa Monica.

Can I bring additional beach gear?
Yes, you can bring personal items like sunglasses, hats, or extra beach accessories to enhance your comfort.

How long does the picnic last?
The total duration is approximately 2 hours, giving you plenty of time to relax and enjoy.

Is there a minimum or maximum group size?
Pricing depends on group size, and the setup can be tailored accordingly. Specific maximums aren’t mentioned, but larger groups will benefit from lower per-person costs.

In sum, if you’re looking for a thoughtfully designed, private beach escape with stylish amenities and panoramic views, the Santa Monica Beach Picnic offers a charming way to enjoy the coast. Just remember to bring your favorite snacks, prepare for the weather, and get ready for a relaxing day by the ocean.