Looking for a relaxed, picture-perfect way to spend time on California’s iconic coast? The Classic Beach Picnic in Santa Monica offers a curated experience that combines scenic views, stylish decor, and the freedom to bring your own food. While it’s not a traditional guided tour, it’s a fantastic option for those wanting to unwind, socialize, or capture memorable photos in a stunning setting.
What makes this experience stand out? Firstly, we love its proximity to the ocean, ensuring you’re never far from the surf and sand. Second, the professionally styled picnic setup turns an ordinary beach outing into a visually appealing scene—perfect for snapping that perfect shot. And third, flexible dining options allow you to bring your favorite food or order from nearby Perry’s Beach Cafe, making it adaptable to all tastes and dietary needs.
One potential consideration? The price at $100 per person might seem steep for some, especially since food isn’t included. But when you factor in the quality of the furnishings and decor, along with the convenience of everything being set up and ready to go, many find it well worth the cost.
This experience is ideal for individuals, couples, or private groups seeking a stylish, fuss-free way to enjoy Santa Monica’s beach scene. It’s perfect for brunch gatherings, sunset watching, or just soaking up some California sunshine.
Good To Know

- Stylish Setup: The professionally curated picnic includes comfy furnishings, decor, and essentials, making it photo-ready.
- Customizable Dining: Bring your own food, order from Perry’s, or arrange special catering with advance notice.
- Perfect Location: Directly on Santa Monica’s sands, with easy access to parking and scenic views.
- Flexible Schedule: Available mornings, afternoons, and evenings, with a duration of 2 hours.
- Group Friendly: Suitable for private groups, with prices decreasing as more people join.
- Thoughtful Inclusions: Everything from water to entertainment accessories is provided, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
An In-Depth Look at the Santa Monica Beach Picnic Experience

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Setting and Location
The picnic takes place on the sand right in front of parking lot LOT 3 NORTH, at 1200 Pacific Coast Highway. This specific spot offers a prime vantage point for watching the waves roll in and enjoying Santa Monica’s lively beach atmosphere. Accessing the setup is straightforward—just park and walk to the designated area, making it convenient whether you’re arriving alone or with a group.
The proximity to the ocean means you’ll be immersed in the sights, sounds, and smells of the surf, elevating your relaxation. The white tassel umbrellas and rugs offer shade and comfort, while the low picnic tables and large pillows create a cozy environment to unwind.
The Setup and Decor
What truly makes this picnic special is the attention to aesthetic detail. The curated decor includes tablecloths, runners, succulents, flameless candles, and a chalkboard, all designed to give your outing a chic, yet effortless vibe. The furnishings are not just functional but designed to enhance photos—perfect if you want to capture those memorable moments.
The inclusion of tableware, plates, silverware, and cups ensures you won’t need to bring your own essentials. Plus, the picnic basket features a wireless speaker and other thoughtful touches like incense and paddleball, encouraging relaxed, fun-filled time on the sand.
Food and Beverage Options
While food isn’t included in the package, you have a few options to consider. Many guests choose to bring their own picnic—whether homemade or purchased in advance. Alternatively, ordering from Perry’s Beach Cafe is a popular choice; just arrive 30 minutes early to place your order or coordinate ahead of time if you want specific dishes or drinks.
The cafe offers a full bar, making it easy to enjoy a cold beer, wine, or cocktails during your picnic. Water, both still and sparkling, is provided, ensuring you stay hydrated as you lounge under the sun or watch the sunset.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyThe Experience
The two-hour duration is ample time to settle in, enjoy your food, take photos, and relax. The setting is intimate enough for private groups but flexible for solo travelers or couples wanting a tranquil escape. The professional styling and curated environment mean you’re not just on the beach—you’re in a thoughtfully designed space, elevating the typical picnic experience.
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Who It’s Best For
This experience caters well to those looking for a stylish, low-stress way to enjoy Santa Monica. It suits brunch lovers, sunset chasers, or anyone wanting to relax with friends or family in a beautiful setting. Since it’s a private group experience, it also works well for special occasions or romantic dates.
Pricing and Value
At $100 per person, the cost reflects the quality of furnishings, decor, and the convenience of the setup. For a special occasion or a luxurious day at the beach, many find it offers solid value. The option to decrease costs with larger groups makes it more accessible for friends or family gatherings.
Final thoughts

The Classic Beach Picnic in Santa Monica balances style, comfort, and flexibility in a way that few beach outings can match. It’s an excellent way to elevate a casual day at the beach into a memorable experience, especially if you love beautiful scenery and Instagram-worthy setups. While not a guided tour, it offers all the essentials for a relaxing, picture-perfect escape, with the added bonus of professional styling and convenience.
If you’re after a hassle-free, chic way to enjoy Santa Monica’s sands with loved ones or friends, this picnic setup is a splendid choice. It’s perfect for those who appreciate crowd-free, thoughtfully curated environments and are happy to bring their own food or coordinate with nearby eateries.
FAQ

Is food included in the picnic package?
No, food is not included. You are welcome to bring your own picnic, or order from Perry’s Beach Cafe in advance.
Can I order special food items?
Yes, you can contact the provider at least 2 days ahead to arrange for special food options.
What items are included in the picnic setup?
The setup includes furnishings like low tables, pillows, umbrellas, rugs, beach chairs, decor, tableware, water, and some entertainment accessories like a wireless speaker and paddleball.
Where exactly is the meeting point?
The picnic will be on the sand in front of parking lot LOT 3 NORTH at 1200 Pacific Coast Highway.
How long does the experience last?
The usual duration is 2 hours, with options available in the morning, afternoon, or evening.
Is this experience suitable for large groups?
Yes, the price per person decreases as more people join, making it ideal for private groups or larger gatherings.
Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is suitable for most ages, especially if you’re planning to bring children or teenagers.
What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
To sum it up, the Classic Beach Picnic in Santa Monica offers an elegant, stress-free way to enjoy California’s famous coastline. It’s perfect for those wanting a stylish, private space to relax, snap photos, or share a meal without the fuss of traditional beach outings. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, this experience delivers both comfort and charm in a spectacular setting.
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