Updated for 2024
Santa Claus is a jolly symbol of the joy and magic of the Christmas season, and he is coming to a Los Angeles area town near you! Photos with Santa are a wonderful holiday tradition, whether your little ones cry or smile. This list will help you find the best places to see — and get a selfie with — Santa Claus in Los Angeles.

Get Photos with Santa Claus in Los Angeles 2024
Surfing Santa — The Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel
One Ritz-Carlton Dr., Dana Point, CA 92629
Bringing joy this holiday season, The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel celebrates with the return of the annual Surfing Santa and Stand Up Paddle Board Contest at Salt Creek Beach in Dana Point on Sunday, December 8th. Following, the resort will host the Annual Holiday Surfboard Auction. The Surfing Santa and Stand Up Paddle Board Contest is a one-day event where contestants dress as Santa or other holiday-inspired characters and battle it out in the waves. So while it’s not the same as a traditional photo opportunity with Santa, it’s pretty awesome.

Santa in the Sand
Manhattan Beach Pier, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266, Hopkins Wilderness Park, Redondo Beach, CA 90266, Hermosa Beach, CA 90254 — pet friendly!
Meet Santa by the iconic Manhattan Beach Pier and get a family photo shoot at the same time. Or, instead of posing for photos on the beach, how about a setting with nature as a backdrop at Hopkins Wilderness Park — or at Hermosa Beach with your pets? Photo sessions are being booked now, so don’t wait until the schedule is full to schedule your pictures and visit with Santa. Santa in the Sand: 11/26, 11/27 & 12/20 8 am – noon* Santa in the Wilderness: 12/8 8 am -noon*
Related: Find all the Best Holiday Events in Los Angeles
Santa at Santa Monica Place
395 Santa Monica Place, Santa Monica, CA 90401
Starting November 15th, shoppers will be able to capture cherished moments with Santa himself as he makes his annual return to the center at Santa’s house. Festive lights and decor will also be back along with the iconic 50-foot Christmas tree in Center Plaza. Guests can also bring their furry friends along and visit Santa’s house for pet photos on December 11th and 12th.

Holiday Season at SkyPark at Santa’s Village
28950 California CA-18, Skyforest, CA 92385
Santa’s Village is amazing year-round, but there’s just something extra magical about a visit during Christmas. Give your family a gift that will create memories for a lifetime. Get photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus, eat delicious treats, make fun crafts, and so much more. This year the event runs from November 14th through January 5th. Check their website for ticketing info.
Breakfast with Santa at Terranea Resort
100 Terranea Way, Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
Saturday, December 21st, at 9 am-1 pm (seatings are every 30 minutes). The Menu includes: Santa’s Mini Bakery, The Vanilla Pancake Kitchen, a French Toast Station, Mrs. Claus’ Egg Kitchen, and the Red Nose Fueling Station has a wide array of holiday beverages. There’s also a Hot Food Station, the Little Elf’s Decorating Bend – and Dessert. $138.25 for adults, $58.21 for children (five to 12 years old), $29.10 for toddlers (three to four years old), and complimentary for children (ages two and under) exclusive of tax and gratuity. Santa will be present for fun family photo opportunities. For reservations, please book online.

Black Santa at Baldwin Hills Crenshaw Plaza
3650 W. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90008
Come see Santa and get holiday photos! Running from December 2nd through the 24th. One of the only spots in SoCal where you can find Black Santa. Book online and check for special events, plus special discounts for seniors, military, first responders, and more.
The Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel Breakfast with Santa
One Ritz-Carlton Dr., Dana Point,, CA 92629
Bring the whole family and delight in a buffet-style breakfast to please everyone’s taste buds including a meet-and-greet with Santa on Sunday, December 8th. Reservations to this event are required. Priced at $95 per guest, $65 per children ages 3 to 9 years old, and is complimentary for children under 3 years old. Pricing is exclusive of tax and F&B House and Staff Charge. Kindly note that seating is pre-assigned in the event space.
Dinner with Santa
Dorothy Chandler Pavilion at The Music Center
December 2 at 4pm & 6pm (2 Time Slots)
Join us on Monday, December 2nd for a magical evening at The Music Center’s Dorothy Chandler Pavilion as we celebrate the holiday season with Dinner with Santa! This special event will be held alongside The Music Center’s annual Christmas Tree Lighting—a perfect way to embrace the festive spirit with family and friends. Guests will enjoy a family-style dinner, a photo booth meet-and-greet with Santa, cookie decorating for the kids, a delightful dessert bar, and a cozy hot cocoa station with all the toppings. Whether you’re coming after the tree lighting or joining us just for the dinner, this fun-filled event is not to be missed. Put on your holiday best, bring your loved ones, and make memories that will last a lifetime!
Related: Homemade Holiday Food Gift Ideas
Christmas on the Farm
Underwood Family Farms, 3370 Sunset Valley Rd., Moorpark, CA 93021
Don’t miss visits with Santa Claus at the charming Underwood Family Farms. While Christmas on the Farm is happening from November 29th through December 24th (closing at noon on Christmas Eve), Santa will be attending on the weekends from 11 am–4 pm ONLY.

Photos with Santa at Westfield Culver City
6000 Sepulveda Blvd., Culver City, CA 90230
Santa arrives November 15th through December 24th, and you can find him and his elves on Level 1, near Pandora. Special Events include Holiday PJ’s events every Tuesday and Ugly Sweater events. Book a reservation here.
Aquarium Holidays
Aquarium of the Pacific
100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach, CA 90802
Meet Santa Diver for a one-of-a-kind Santa visit this year. While you won’t be able to pose your little one on Santa’s lap, you’ll all get to see him in the giant tank at the Aquarium, as he floats into view and has a chat with visitors. Included with the price of admission. Starting December 7th through the 21st.
See Santa’s Workshop at Holidays on The Hill
The Hill Los Angeles, 555 Universal Hollywood Dr., Universal City, CA 91608
Come take photos with Santa and meet The Big Man in Red himself starting Saturday, November 30th. Guests will be welcomed by Santa’s helpers to guide them down a candy cane adorned entrance as they make their way into cozy interiors with a crackling fireplace, tinsel, and twinkling lights. At the center of it all, Santa Claus will be ready to listen to heartfelt holiday wishes that spark enchantment and wonder in this magical place.

Photos With Santa at The Collection at RiverPark
2751 Park View Court, Oxnard, CA 93036
The holiday season isn’t complete without a family picture with Santa! Be sure to visit Santa’s Workshop from November 22nd through Sunday, Dec. 24 at 620 Collection Boulevard to create special memories with keepsake photos that will bring holiday joy for years to come. Reservations are required and can be made online.
See Santa at Citadel Outlets
100 Citadel Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90040
Saturday, December 7th, join Santa’s Big Day. Get ready for a day filled with festive cheer and joyful celebrations including breakfast and photos with Santa, balloons, carolers, games, music, and more. It’s the perfect way to kick off the holiday season and create unforgettable memories with family and friends.
Get Photos with Santa at Westfield Valencia
24201 W. Valencia Blvd., Ste. 150, Valencia, CA 91355
The most wonderful time of year means Santa Claus has arrived! Come get photos! Running November 8th through, and December 24th. Located on Level 1 near H&M. Special events include Santa Paws Pet Nights on select Mondays. Reservations are recommended but not required.

Get Photos with Santa at The Shops At Santa Anita
400 S. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia, CA 91006
The most wonderful time of year means Santa Claus has arrived! Come get photos! Location: Center Court, Level 1. Special Events include Santa Paws Pet Nights and Santa Cares. Lock in your date and time online.
See Santa on a Stand-Up Paddleboard
Ventura Harbor Village, 1583 Spinnaker Drive in Ventura, CA 93001
HO! HO! HO! Now on Saturday, December 21, 2024, head to Ventura Harbor for the Santa Paddle. Santa will ditch his reindeer and hop on a paddleboard, and visitors can partake in the adventure by renting a kayak, SUP, or character pedal boat from Ventura Boat Rentals. Participants are encouraged to get into the holiday spirit by dressing up as Santa, Mrs. Claus, elves, reindeer, or any other holiday character! Bright reds and green colors are encouraged. This event will be weather permitting.
Ol’ Saint Nick shows up around 11:00 am, participants should arrive a little early to secure rentals with Ventura Boat Rentals (located on C Dock in Ventura Harbor Village – down on the docks below Brophy Bros. and On the Alley restaurants). After a group photo on the water, Santa will lead a festive precession from Ventura Boat Rentals to through the marina to Channel Islands National Park Visitors center and back.
After the Santa Paddle, visitors can continue your holiday festivities by enjoying music, waterfront dining, and holiday shopping at Ventura Harbor Village. It’s a great opportunity to do some holiday shopping while supporting local businesses.
Jingle Bell Jump
Janss Marketplace, 275 N. Moorpark Rd. East, Thousand Oaks, CA 91360
Santa Claus will make a spectacular arrival from the sky at Janss Marketplace in Thousand Oaks at 12 noon on Friday, November 29th. Santa will make his precise parachute landing near the Fountain Courtyard near Sharkey’s at Janss Marketplace to launch the FREE Jingle Bell Jump holiday event.
Starting at noon on the dot, welcome Santa Claus with an unforgettable parachute arrival. Kids’ Activities will be located throughout the shopping center from noon to 3pm including face painters, kids crafts, story-time and sing-a-longs with Mrs. Claus, and more!
Lights. Camera. Santa!
Del Amo Fashion Center
3525 Carson St., Torrance, CA 90503
Santa is ready to spread joy to kids and families at the Del Amo Fashion Square. Santa arrives starting November 14th and will be available until December 24th. Make your reservation online so you don’t miss your chance!
Winter Festival Tree Lighting
The Horseshoe Garden at The Langham Huntington Hotel
1401 S. Oak Knoll Ave., Pasadena, CA 91106
Kick off the holiday season in style with the lighting of their enormous Horseshoe Garden tree at this fun family event, featuring cookie decorating, seasonal bites and beverages, live carolers, and a visit from Santa Claus. Sunday, December 1, 2024 from 3 pm–6 pm. Tickets will be available online on November 6th.
Santa’s House at the Americana at Brand
889 Americana Way, Glendale, CA 91210
November 15 – December 24, 2024
Embrace the magic of the season with a visit to Santa’s House! Meet Santa, share your wishlist, and capture the experience with keepsake photos to treasure starting November 15th. In collaboration with Disney+ and Children’s Hospital Los Angeles.
Pet Nights: November 19 & 26, 4 pm – 9 pm Located near The Fountain.
Reservations are recommended. Walk-ups are welcome based on availability.
Santa’s Cottage at the Promenade at Westlake
140 Promenade Way, Thousand Oaks, CA 91362
November 23 – December 24, 2024
Embrace the magic of the season with a visit to Santa’s Cottage! Meet Santa, share your wishlist, and capture the experience with keepsake photos to treasure. In collaboration with Disney+ and Children’s Hospital Los Angeles.
Pet Nights: November 27, December 4, December 11, & December 28, 4 pm – 7 pm. Located between Farfalla Trattoria and World Market. Reservations are recommended. Walk-ups are welcome based on availability.
Santa’s Workshop at the Grove
189 The Grove Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90036
November 26 – December 24, 2024 Embrace the magic of the season with a visit to Santa’s Workshop!
Meet Santa, share your wishlist, and capture the experience with keepsake photos to treasure. In collaboration with Disney+ and Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. Located on First Street near Barnes & Noble. Reservations are recommended. Walk-ups are welcome based on availability.
Photos With Santa Los Cerritos Center
239 Los Cerritos Ctr., Cerritos, CA 90703
November 8-December 24th. Make a lasting memory and get your photo taken with Santa. Pre-book now and receive a free personalized digital message from Santa before your visit, powered by Portable North Pole. Show up at your designated time. Share your wish list with Santa and his helpers.

Photos With Santa Lakewood Center Mall
500 Lakewood Center Mall, Lakewood, CA 90712
Experience the Magic of Santa! The magic of the holiday season comes alive with a visit to Santa’s winter wonderland. Santa will be here starting November 14th and is located in Center Court near Macy’s. A visit with Santa is always free and photo packages are available for purchase.
Santa’s North Pole Adventure at Westfield Century City
10250 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles 90067
Journey through the North Pole at Westfield Century City’s Holiday Village to meet Mrs. Claus at her bakery & Santa in his bungalow, share your Christmas wishes, and embark on a hunt across The Holiday Village to send spirits soaring! Tickets and More info on their website.
Santa at Manhattan Village
3200 Sepulveda Blvd., Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
Thursday, November 14th – Tuesday, December 24th Children can visit with Santa at Manhattan Village. Create unforgettable holiday memories by visiting Santa at his charming Coastal Cottage! Starting November 14th, bring your family and friends to capture the magic of the season with a special photo alongside Saint Nick himself. Situated conveniently inside next to Macy’s, this enchanting experience offers the perfect opportunity to celebrate the spirit of the holidays. Whether you’re continuing a cherished tradition or starting a new one, Photos with Santa is an event not to be missed! Don’t forget to bring your wish list for Santa!
Holiday Family Faire
Will Geer’s Theatricum Botanicum
1419 N. Topanga Canyon Blvd., Topanga, CA 90290
Just in time for the holidays, the Holiday Family Faire will include festive music, food, drink, and an Artisan Holiday Marketplace. You can also enjoy special performances! Both Santa and Mrs. Claus will be available for photos. December 14th 2024 from 11 am – 5 pm (Rain Date: December 21st). Tickets required.

See Santa Claus at Dana Point Harbor
34555 Golden Lantern St., Dana Point, CA 92629
Santa Claus arrives on December 6th at the Mariner’s Village Clock Courtyard. Santa will be available for photos from 4 to 6 p.m. Create lasting holiday memories with the Dana Point Harbor.
Lights. Camera. Santa!
Brea Mall, 1065 Brea Mall, Brea, CA 92821
Santa is ready to spread joy to kids and families at the Ontario Mills Mall. Santa arrives November 7th and will be available until December 6th. Make your reservation online.
Lights. Camera. Santa! Ontario Mills Mall
1 Mills Cir., Ontario, CA 91764
Families can meet Santa at Ontario Mills as part of the Simon Santa Photo Experience. Santa arrives on Friday, November 8th and will be available until Christmas Eve. The Santa Photo Experience operating hours vary by day, so please check our website here for exact times. Reservations are encouraged. Make Santa reservations today by clicking here.
Ontario Mills shoppers may also meet Santa this season at various events including:
Santa’s Secret Surprises – Schedule your Santa photos early in the season and take home a special gift to celebrate the best time of the year! Giveaways are available from November 8th to December 1st, while supplies last.
Caring Santa® – Exclusive event for children with special needs and their families. Reservations are required for this private, sensory-friendly experience. Caring Santa is December, 8th from 9:00 am-10:30 am.
Craft with Santa– Take home a special memory from your time with Santa. You can craft before or after your photo experience near the Santa Set, while supplies last. The craft event starts Monday, December 2nd and ends Friday, December 6th from 11:00 am – 3:00 pm each day.
Santa Magic at Glendale Galleria
100 W. Broadway, Ste. 100, Glendale, CA 91210
The Glendale Galleria is hosting Santa Claus this year for photos with your family and your pets! Need a new holiday tradition or just want your pets to get in the Christmas spirit? Don’t miss pet photos with Santa on select Mondays and Tuesdays from November 21st to December 24th!
See Santa at Riverside Plaza
3639 Riverside Plaza Dr. Riverside 92506
Riverside Plaza invites the community to the annual Holiday Celebration Event on Friday, December 6th from 6 to 8 p.m, on Main street in front of Regal Cinemas. This festive, family-friendly event will feature photo opportunities with Santa, face painters, balloon twisters, magical falling snow and more. Guests can enjoy an exciting tree lighting ceremony and experience a snow pit area with sledding for a true winter wonderland experience.
Holiday Celebration at Long Beach Towne Center
7575 Carson Blvd Long Beach, CA 90808
Long Beach Towne Center invites the community to a festive Holiday Celebration Event on Saturday, December 21 from 12 to 2 p.m. Guests can enjoy take-home photos with Santa, kids’ crafts, face painting, balloon twisters and the magical touch of falling snow for a delightful holiday experience. This holiday event is free and open to the public. Families of all ages are welcome to join in the seasonal fun and capture unforgettable holiday memories.
Holiday Spectacular
Anaheim Hills Festival, 8020 E. Santa Ana Canyon Rd., Anaheim, CA 92808
You can get pictures of your child with Santa at this event — and you can even bring your own camera. Feel free to wear an “ugly” sweater to this event and be prepared for lots of activities including crafts, face painting, balloon art, train rides, and more.

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Disclaimer: MomsLA has made every effort to confirm the information in this article; however, things can often change. Therefore, MomsLA makes no representations or warranties about the accuracy of the information published here. MomsLA strongly urges you to confirm any event details, like date, time, location, and admission, with the third party hosting the event. You assume the sole risk of relying on any of the information in our list. MomsLA is in no way responsible for any injuries or damages you sustain while attending any third-party event posted on our website. Please read our Terms of Use which you have agreed to based on your continued use of this website. Some events have paid to be listed on MomsLA.
mrs kimboes
Thursday 5th of December 2019
Santa's favorite food? waffles, scrambled eggs, bacon and home fries! with a cup of hot chocolate! gotta get that hearty meal :)
Nicole Thomas
Thursday 5th of December 2019
Eggs, bacon and a COOKE latte!
Graciela Chavez
Thursday 5th of December 2019
Santa's favorite breakfast items are a mug of hot chocolate and chocolate chip pancakes and eats them like cookies ; )
Kathy Wu
Thursday 5th of December 2019
Santa's favorite breakfast has got to be chocolate chip waffles and a tall glass of milk.
Wendy Vor
Thursday 5th of December 2019
Santa's favorite food is French toast! For dessert milk and cookies of course.