8 Activities To Do During 'Golden Hour' In Santa Monica

SANTA MONICA, CA – Daylight Saving Time is Sunday, which means Southern California will be treated to an extra hour of daylight right as spring approaches. To celebrate springing forward, here are eight activities to do in Santa Monica during "golden hour" – the hour or so before sunset when the daylight is redder and softer than the afternoon.

From happy hours at beachside bars to shopping, spin classes and bike rentals, there's something for everyone to fully enjoy the extra hour of daylight.

Here are eight activities perfect for golden hour in Santa Monica:

Élephante

• Enjoy sunlight-filled views overlooking the ocean with dinner highlights like Cacio e Pepe Pizza and Aspen Ridge Ribeye, along with specialty cocktails such as the Pisolino and Agnelli Martini.
• Reservation Link

Palisades Park

• Stroll through the park and enjoy Instagram-worthy views (especially sunsets!) overlooking the Santa Monica Bay.

Ryde4 at Burn Fitness

• Work up a sweat during a spin class while enjoying gorgeous sunset views on the Burn Fitness rooftop.
• When:
  • Monday and Wednesday: 6:15 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. (Ryde 45 Strength)
  • Tuesday and Thursday: 6:30 p.m. to 7:15 p.m. (Power Ryde)
• Reservation Link

Santa Monica Bike Center

• Start your golden hour ride at the Santa Monica Pier and bike until the sun goes down. Choose from the Comfort Bike, City Bike, Tandem, Electric Assist and more.
• Reservation Link

The Bungalow

• Cozy up to a fire pit on the outside deck and watch the sky change colors while enjoying craft cocktails.
• Reservation Link

The Craftsman Bar & Kitchen

• Soak in the gorgeous views at this beachside bar happy hour, featuring drink specials, live music and games.
• When: Daily from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
• Reservation Link

The Lobster

• Indulge in seafood cuisine and drink specials with a sunset view at the Happiest Hour.
• When: Monday through Friday, 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
• Reservation Link

Third Street Promenade

• Walk and shop at the Third Street Promenade, featuring stores like Alo Yoga, Banana Republic, Free People and more.
• Merchant hours may vary.