With an average of 281 sunny days a year, Santa Monica is the perfect place for outdoor exercise. And, with a plethora of great options to choose from like biking, surfing, and paddleboarding, it’s easy to overlook activities, like walking and running. Santa Monica has some truly incredible spots for these innate exercises, especially on the beach.

Wide, sweeping vistas of the Pacific and the majestic Malibu coast, the trail that parallels the ocean is ideal for long runs and walks. Often comprised of hills, many of the other Santa Monica running trails offer up spectacular views of the Pier, Malibu, and the Pacific, as well as a gentle ocean breeze.

There's no better place to hit the waves than Southern California’s beaches. While staying at Viceroy Santa Monica, you can finally take those surf lessons you've been thinking about and learn tips and tricks from local pros.

Experience personalized surf instruction on the beach with private or group classes and feel confident surfing in Santa Monica.

Have dreams of flying? Make them a reality with the Trapeze School New York at Santa Monica Pier. While looking out at the waves lapping against the beach, you can enjoy an adrenaline rush unlike any other. Regardless of fitness level or background, these exhilarating classes offer an exciting aerial workout in a safe environment.

Every step of the way, expert instructors will guide you in building a foundation of skills, including taking off smoothly, the basics of knee-hanging and fun tricks. Two classes are offered — Flying Trapeze classes, which run for 2 hours, and Trampoline and Silks classes, which run for one.

Established as part of a refurbishment in 1934, Muscle Beach is said to be the birthplace of 20th century’s physical fitness boom. While its location is enough to attract beach-goers, the City of Santa Monica created the area as a recreation and athletics center, luring athletes who enjoyed outdoor gymnastics and wrestling. This unique setting became the place for the budding Hollywood film industry to seek stunt people and actors, leading to its international fame.

In recent years, paddleboarding has gained a lot of traction and it’s no wonder why. Relatively easy for anyone to do, the activity lures those of all age ranges — from 3 to 93 — and touts incredible health benefits, including improved balance, increased strength, and stress reduction. The Pacific Coast Highway is punctuated by shops where you can not only rent paddleboards but take lessons too.

Contact our concierge for information regarding rentals and lessons.

Hotel guests are invited to cruise around Santa Monica and the surrounding area on our fleet of Priority Bikes. These sleek and stylish bikes are perfect for an afternoon of meandering around Los Angeles’ Westside. From cruising up and down The Strand to shop hopping on Abbot Kinney, live like a local from the seat of our unique bikes.

In partnership with Priority Bikes, we've created a curated map of hotspots to enjoy while you explore the city and cultural enclaves of Santa Monica. Each stop is a personal recommendation for a favorite shop, coffee house, or sight to see.

There are several nearby yoga and pilates studios within walking distance from Viceroy Santa Monica, offering a variety of classes throughout the day and evening. YogaWorks™ is located six blocks away on Main Street, or you may contact the concierge for a private yoga session.