Shaded playgrounds and parks in Santa Monica
Tongva Park
Winding paths, a splash pad and quirky play structures, a short walk from the pier.
Marine Park
Big shade trees and a kid-sized copy of the famous pier sign, which ends up in every photo.
Heal the Bay Aquarium
Touch tanks and about 100 local species tucked under the pier. Small enough to do in an hour with a toddler.