Quick ride by bicycle from Westwood, Los Angeles to Santa Monica

Looking for a scenic and mostly relaxed bike ride on the Westside? This route takes you from the heart of Westwood—home to UCLA and some iconic movie theaters—down to the sun-soaked shores of Santa Monica. The ride is right around 10.7 km, mostly on paved and asphalt surfaces (so you won’t need a mountain bike for this one).

You’ll start a bit elevated (about 85 meters up), so you can expect more downhill than uphill, especially with about 73 meters of descent. More than half the route uses dedicated cycleways, and you’ll spend the rest on quiet residential streets—great for a laid-back pace without much traffic. There are tiny stretches on busier roads, but they’re quick.

The end destination is Santa Monica, famous for its beach, pier, and those retro Pacific vibes. Finish your ride with a snack on the promenade or a stroll along the sand. Perfect for a sunny afternoon spin to the coast!