Santa Monica, CA: Your Guide to the Best Attractions, Activities, and Hotels
- Dr. K.
- May 26, 2023
- 5 min read
Updated: Mar 8
Santa Monica is one of the most vibrant beachfront cities in Los Angeles, California, attracting visitors from around the world with its oceanfront beauty, outdoor adventures, and lively dining scene. Whether you're visiting for a weekend getaway, a family vacation, or a luxury retreat, Santa Monica is the perfect place to unwind and recharge.
With fresh ocean breezes, thrilling rides at Pacific Park, relaxing beach days, and a variety of plant-based dining options, this city radiates wellness and happiness. Locals and visitors alike enjoy the laid-back vibe, scenic coastal views, and active lifestyle—soak in the sun, indulge in nourishing food, and experience the joyful energy of Santa Monica. Here are the top things to do in Santa Monica, including must-visit attractions, scenic bike paths, best restaurants, and highly-rated hotels.
Best Things to Do in Santa Monica
1. Visit the Santa Monica Pier & Pacific Park
One of the most iconic spots in Southern California, the Santa Monica Pier offers breathtaking ocean views and a classic amusement park experience. Ride the famous Pacific Park Ferris wheel, play carnival games, and grab a funnel cake while soaking in ocean views. As the sun sets, the pier lights up, creating a stunning nighttime scene.Website: www.santamonicapier.org
2. Bike the Coastal Path
The Marvin Braude Bike Trail starts at Will Rogers State Beach and stretches past Torrance Beach, offering stunning oceanfront views. Rent a cruiser bike from Perry’s Café and Beach Rentals or opt for an electric bike from Pedego. Prefer a guided experience? Join a bike tour with The Bike Center, which takes you through Santa Monica and Venice Beach.
Bike Rentals: www.perryscafe.com
Electric Bikes: www.pedegoelectricbikes.com
Guided Tours: www.santamonicabikecenter.com
Keep an eye out for dolphins in the waves!
3. Relax at Palisades Park
Pick up breakfast from Tartine Bakery and enjoy a relaxing picnic with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and Santa Monica Mountains at Palisades Park. Stroll along the coastal bluffs or find a shaded bench to unwind.Website: www.smgov.net
4. Play at Santa Monica State Beach
Sunbathe, surf, or play beach volleyball on the pristine Santa Monica Beach. Facilities include public restrooms, walking paths, and nearby restaurants. If you're new to surfing, book a beginner’s lesson with Kapowui Surf Club or Fun Surf LA.
Surf Lessons: www.kapowui.com | www.funsurfla.com
Beach Permit for Volleyball: Email beach.permits@santamonica.gov
5. Watch a Movie at Aero Theatre
Experience classic and independent films at this historic Art Deco cinema.
Website: www.aerotheatre.com
6. Climb the Santa Monica Stairs
Test your endurance on two outdoor staircases designed for different workout levels.
7. Explore Third Street Promenade
This charming pedestrian-only district features an eclectic mix of restaurants, boutique stores, and street performers. Enjoy live music, grab a coffee, and shop at local businesses while soaking in the energy of downtown Santa Monica.
Website: www.downtownsm.com
8. Unwind at Tongva Park
Stroll through lush gardens, waterfalls, and scenic walkways offering breathtaking Pacific Ocean views.
BEST VEGETARIAN FOOD OPTIONS IN SANTA MONICA
Tartine Bakery (Santa Monica location)
Sidecar Doughnuts & Coffee (Santa Monica location)
JINYA Ramen Bar (Japanese, Santa Monica location)
Flower Child (Healthy, vegetarian, Santa Monica location)
UOVO (Pasta from Bologna, Italy - Santa Monica location)
True Food Kitchen (California cuisine, Santa Monica location)
Sweet Rose Creamery (Santa Monica location)
Wine at Wally’s Santa Monica
Top Rated Hotels to Stay in Santa Monica, CA for Tourists
Santa Monica offers a variety of accommodations ranging from budget-friendly motels to five-star oceanfront resorts. Here’s a selection of top-rated hotels, listed from most affordable to most luxurious:
The hotel listings below starts with the most reasonably priced hotel to the most expensive.
All hotels listed here have a guest rating of 8+ on Booking.com & on Expedia. The photos showcase a king size bed but you should find rooms with double beds that at least accommodate a family of four.
3102 Pico Blvd , Santa Monica, Los Angeles, 90405-2006, United States of America
No frills motel. Complimentary breakfast, free parking, and decent clean rooms, good location. You can take a bus to the beach. Some rooms have a kitchenette, some are pet-friendly. Located off I-10, this hotel is just 3 miles from Montana Avenue, Third Street Promenade and Santa Monica Beach.
1920 Santa Monica Boulevard, Santa Monica, Los Angeles, CA 90404, United States of America
This hotel is located two miles from the beach and is close to the Santa Monica metro line. Board at the 17th Street/Santa Monica College Station to Downtown Santa Monica, the beach and the Santa Monica Pier. Functional rooms, clean and great location. Breakfast is included. Free wifi.
1707 Fourth Street, Santa Monica, Los Angeles, CA 90401-3310, United States of America
Nice and clean hotel, great location, 7-10 minutes from the Santa Monica pier and few minutes to the main shopping area. Across the street is a bus stop that takes you to the LAX shuttle. Good for families, has a pool.
1819 Ocean Avenue, Santa Monica, Los Angeles, CA 90401, United States of America
Great location, pet friendly, easy walk to the beach, some ocean-view rooms, beautiful outdoor pools and cabana. Free bicycle rentals!
1515 Ocean Avenue, Santa Monica, Los Angeles, CA 90401, United States of America
This hotel is only 6 minutes away from the pier where you can enjoy the Pacific Park amusement rides. It also offers ocean views.
1111 2nd Street, Santa Monica, Los Angeles, CA 90403, United States of America
The Huntley is located less than 5 minutes walk to the 3rd Street Promenade and the Santa Monica State Beach path. This is a top notch luxury hotel with many ocean-view rooms. The penthouse restaurant reviews are amazing!
101 Wilshire Boulevard, Santa Monica, Los Angeles, CA 90401, United States of America
Old charm with big traditional rooms in an excellent location. A complimentary house car is available for a 3-mile radius.
1910 Ocean Way, Santa Monica, Los Angeles, CA 90405, United States of America
This is an oceanfront hotel with two onsite restaurants. The 3rd Street promenade is a 5- minute walk. Fancy, royal stay.
700 Wilshire Boulevard, Santa Monica, Los Angeles, CA 90401, United States of America
Beautiful luxury lifestyle hotel in a 1928 landmark building with contemporary architecture. There are two restaurant-bar destinations including a rooftop pool deck with views of Santa Monica. Exquisite rooms!
1 Pico Boulevard, Santa Monica, Los Angeles, CA 90405, United States of America
This luxury hotel is located directly on the beach and has two oceanfront restaurants. Santa Monica Pier is just a 5-minute walk. You will find both suites and hotel rooms at this property. Rooms have magnificent ocean views, some with double doors to let in the breeze!
