The best running trails around Santa Monica
4.6
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6,958
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Jogging around Santa Monica offers diverse landscapes, from flat, scenic coastal paths to challenging mountain trails. The city's terrain includes extensive beachfront, bluffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean, and access to the rugged Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area. These features provide varied running experiences, from paved urban routes to natural dirt trails.
Best jogging routes around Santa Monica
- The most popular jogging route is Venice Beach Boardwalk out and back & Santa Monica, a 6.9 miles (11.1 km) trail that takes 1 hour 8 minutes to complete. This route offers a lively atmosphere along the iconic Venice Beach Boardwalk and ocean views.
- Another top favourite among local runners is Marvin Braude Bike Trail β Santa Monica Pier loop from Santa Monica State Beach, a difficult 11.5 miles (18.5 km) path. This route provides continuous ocean views along the extensive Marvin Braude Beach Trail.
- Local runners also love the Santa Monica Pier β Venice Beach Boardwalk loop from Will Rogers State Beach, a 13.9 miles (22.4 km) trail leading through coastal paths, often completed in about 2 hours 24 minutes.
- Jogging around Santa Monica is defined by coastal paths, ocean bluffs, and nearby mountain trails. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy beachfront runs to more challenging routes with elevation gain.
- The routes in Santa Monica are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 40 reviews. More than 7000 runners have used komoot to explore Santa Monica's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 24, 2026
4.9
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1,761
runners
11.1km
01:09
20m
20m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.9
(12)
1,540
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(2)
654
runners
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
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301
runners
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
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369
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Other adventures around Santa Monica
Tips from the Community
Palisades Park is an iconic park that stretches over twenty-six acres along Ocean Avenue. This landmark park draws visitors from around the world with its gorgeous views of the Santa Monica Bay. The park has many features including benches, picnic areas, artworks and monuments, a rose garden, the Camera Obscura Art Lab, and more.
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This beach extends for almost two miles along the shore, with a nice bike path, walkway, playground equipment, and volleyball courts. Do check the current restrictions, because as of now (June 2025), the beach is closed due to its proximity to the staging site for recovery from the Palisades fire.
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Arnold Schwarzenegger mural is a great spot for photos while you explore the vibrant Venice Beach area.
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Before Arnold Schwarzenegger became Hollywood's biggest action star he used to workout in Venice Beach. Now, many decades later the city that helped to create the Arnold we know has honored him with a giant mural near "Muscle Beach" as he calls it.
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Muscle Beach is one of the most famous beaches in Los Angeles. It is credited with being the birthplace of the US physical fitness boom and is a popular tourist attraction.
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The Beach House Market is a great, small shop right along the beach. If you need a drink or snack during your run, this is a good option.
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Great trail for a walk or run. It follows along the beach and gives you great views of the water. Make sure not to run on the Venice Beach Bike Path, as that is meant for bikes only.
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We look at the Santa Monica Pier and the surrounding area. This is also the end of Route 66. The route is very famous and legendary. Again and again you come across individual sections or you are reminded that this highway existed.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many running routes are available in Santa Monica?
Santa Monica offers a wide variety of running experiences, with over 70 routes available. These range from easy coastal paths to more challenging mountain trails, catering to all fitness levels.
Are there easy running paths for beginners in Santa Monica?
Yes, Santa Monica has several easy running paths perfect for beginners. The Marvin Braude Beach Trail, also known as The Strand, offers flat terrain and continuous ocean views, making it ideal for a gentle run. Palisades Park also features gentle crushed-granite and paved paths with stunning ocean vistas.
What are some options for long-distance running in Santa Monica?
For long-distance runners, the Marvin Braude Beach Trail is an excellent choice, extending for 22 miles along the coast. You can also explore routes like the Santa Monica Pier β Venice Beach Boardwalk loop from Will Rogers State Beach, which covers nearly 14 miles. For a more rugged challenge, the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area offers extensive trails, including segments of the nearly 70-mile Backbone Trail.
Can I find running routes with scenic ocean views in Santa Monica?
Absolutely! Santa Monica is renowned for its scenic ocean views. The Marvin Braude Beach Trail provides continuous ocean panoramas. Palisades Park, perched on bluffs, offers breathtaking views of the coastline, the Santa Monica Pier, and Malibu. Even routes like the Marvin Braude Bike Trail β Santa Monica Pier loop from Santa Monica State Beach offer extensive coastal scenery.
Are there any dog-friendly running trails in Santa Monica?
While dogs are generally not allowed on the sand or pier in Santa Monica, many paved paths and some trails in the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area are dog-friendly, provided they are on a leash. Always check specific park regulations before heading out with your furry friend. For more information on park rules, you can visit the National Park Service website for the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area: nps.gov.
What running routes are suitable for families or strollers in Santa Monica?
The flat, paved sections of the Marvin Braude Beach Trail are excellent for families and strollers, offering easy access and beautiful ocean views. Palisades Park also provides gentle, paved and crushed-granite paths that are stroller-friendly, allowing everyone to enjoy the coastal scenery.
Are there any running routes that feature waterfalls or unique natural features?
Yes, for those seeking unique natural features, the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area offers trails like the Temescal Canyon Loop Trail. This moderate 2.9-mile trail rewards runners with beautiful scenery, including seasonal waterfalls and panoramic views of the coast and city, despite some steep inclines.
How can I access Santa Monica's running trails using public transport?
Many popular running areas in Santa Monica are accessible via public transport. The Santa Monica Pier and Venice Beach Boardwalk, for instance, are well-served by local bus routes and the Metro E Line (Expo Line). For trails further afield in the Santa Monica Mountains, public transport options might be more limited, so checking specific route planners for your chosen trailhead is recommended.
What are some interesting landmarks or attractions I can see while running in Santa Monica?
Santa Monica's running routes often pass by iconic landmarks. Along the coast, you'll encounter the famous Santa Monica Pier, the lively Ocean Front Walk, and the extensive Marvin Braude Bike Trail. Further north, you might pass Will Rogers State Beach. Inland, the Santa Monica Mountains offer historical sites like the ruins of an old stone house on the Solstice Canyon Trail.
Are there any loop running routes in Santa Monica?
Yes, Santa Monica offers several excellent loop running routes. Popular options include the Santa Monica Pier β Marvin Braude Bike Trail loop from Venice, which is about 9.5 miles, and the Santa Monica Lagoon β Palisades Park loop from Will Rogers State Beach, a longer 14-mile route that incorporates both coastal and park sections.
What do other runners enjoy most about the trails in Santa Monica?
The running routes in Santa Monica are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 40 reviews. Runners frequently praise the stunning ocean views, the variety of terrain from flat beach paths to challenging mountain trails, and the vibrant atmosphere, especially along the coastal routes.
What is the best time of year to go running in Santa Monica?
Santa Monica boasts pleasant year-round weather, making it an excellent destination for running in any season. Consistent ocean breezes help keep temperatures comfortable, even during summer. Mornings and evenings are particularly popular for avoiding the midday sun and enjoying beautiful sunrises or sunsets over the Pacific.
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