Santa Monica, California Travel Guide

Discover Santa Monica: California's coastal gem, where sun, sea, and city life blend seamlessly. Perfect for beach lovers, shoppers, and culture enthusiasts alike.

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Santa Monica, a vibrant beach city in California, is renowned for its stunning coastline, iconic pier, and laid-back vibe. The city offers a perfect blend of urban sophistication and seaside charm, making it an ideal destination for tourists seeking both relaxation and adventure. Santa Monica's pristine beaches are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and surfing, while the bustling Third Street Promenade is a shopper's paradise with its array of boutiques, restaurants, and street performers. A visit to the Santa Monica Pier is a must. This historic landmark, complete with an amusement park, aquarium, and family-friendly restaurants, offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. At night, the pier lights up, creating a magical atmosphere that captivates visitors of all ages. For a taste of culture, the city boasts a vibrant arts scene with numerous galleries, theaters, and public art installations. Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to do in Santa Monica. The city's extensive network of bike paths, including the famous Marvin Braude Bike Trail, provides scenic routes for cyclists and joggers alike. For those interested in wellness, the beachfront is a hub for yoga sessions and outdoor fitness classes. With its sunny weather, welcoming community, and diverse attractions, Santa Monica is a destination that truly has something for everyone.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Santa Monica.

Arrive early to the beaches to avoid crowds, especially during weekends and holidays.
Rent a bike to explore the Marvin Braude Bike Trail for a scenic ride along the coastline.
Visit the Santa Monica Farmers Market on Wednesdays and Saturdays for fresh local produce and unique finds.
Parking can be challenging; consider using public transportation or ride-sharing services.
Take a sunset walk along Palisades Park for stunning ocean views and photo opportunities.

Neighbourhoods in Santa Monica

Downtown Santa Monica

Ocean Park

Explore All Neighbourhoods in Santa Monica

Explore Santa Monica: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Santa Monica

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Universal Studios Hollywood

Discover the thrill of movies at Universal Studios Hollywood, where excitement meets cinematic magic in a fun-filled adventure for everyone.

4.6

Santa Monica Pier

Discover the iconic Santa Monica Pier, a historic landmark with thrilling rides, stunning ocean views, and vibrant seaside culture perfect for every traveler.

4.6

Griffith Park

Experience the beauty and culture of Griffith Park, a sprawling oasis in Los Angeles featuring trails, the Griffith Observatory, and diverse attractions.

4.7

Six Flags Magic Mountain

Experience the ultimate thrill at Six Flags Magic Mountain, where unforgettable roller coasters and family fun await in Valencia, California.

4.5

Best landmarks in Santa Monica

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Santa Monica Place

Discover the ultimate shopping experience at Santa Monica Place, where luxury meets the laid-back charm of California's coast.

4.5

Viceroy Santa Monica

Discover luxury at Viceroy Santa Monica, where modern elegance meets stunning ocean views in the heart of California's iconic beach city.

4.3

Santa Monica Statue

Discover the Santa Monica Statue in Palisades Park, a stunning cultural landmark honoring the Virgin Mary, offering serene beauty and breathtaking ocean views.

4.8

Ennis House

Explore the Ennis House in Los Feliz, a Frank Lloyd Wright masterpiece that blends innovative architecture with breathtaking views of Los Angeles.

4.5

Best restaurants in Santa Monica

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The Misfit Bar & Restaurant

Experience the vibrant flavors of American cuisine at The Misfit Bar & Restaurant in Santa Monica - where great food meets lively ambiance.

4.5

The Lobster

Experience exquisite seafood dining at The Lobster in Santa Monica, where ocean views meet culinary artistry for an unforgettable meal.

4.3

The Albright

Discover fresh seafood delights at The Albright on Santa Monica Pier, where ocean views and delicious flavors unite for an unforgettable dining experience.

4.3

Water Grill

Experience exquisite seafood dining at Water Grill in Santa Monica - where fresh catches meet stunning ocean views.

4.4

Best bars in Santa Monica

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Ye Olde King's Head

Discover the charm of British cuisine at Ye Olde King's Head in Santa Monica, a brewpub and tea house offering a delightful culinary experience.

4.4

The Misfit Bar & Restaurant

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious American cuisine at The Misfit Bar & Restaurant in Santa Monica, perfect for brunch or a night out.

4.5

THE BUNGALOW

Discover The Bungalow in Santa Monica: A vibrant bar and restaurant offering stunning ocean views, delicious cuisine, and a lively atmosphere.

4.3

Jameson’s Pub

Discover the charm of Jameson's Pub, an authentic Irish pub in Santa Monica serving hearty meals, craft drinks, and a warm atmosphere for all visitors.

4.3

Best nightclubs in Santa Monica

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The Misfit Bar & Restaurant

Experience the vibrant essence of American cuisine at The Misfit Bar & Restaurant, a must-visit dining spot in Santa Monica.

4.5

THE BUNGALOW

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and culinary delights at The Bungalow, a must-visit bar and restaurant in Santa Monica.

4.3

High Rooftop Lounge

Experience the breathtaking views and vibrant atmosphere at High Rooftop Lounge, an upscale destination in Venice, California, perfect for relaxation and socializing.

4.2

Busby's West

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Busby's West in Santa Monica, where delicious grill cuisine meets lively nightlife for an unforgettable outing.

4.2

Best shops in Santa Monica

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Downtown Santa Monica

Discover Downtown Santa Monica: A shopping paradise with dining, entertainment, and the stunning Pacific Ocean at your doorstep.

4.6

Ovation Hollywood

Discover the perfect blend of shopping, dining, and entertainment at Ovation Hollywood, where glamour meets vibrant culture in the heart of Tinseltown.

4.4

The Grove

Experience the ultimate shopping and dining destination at The Grove in Los Angeles, where luxury meets entertainment in a stunning outdoor setting.

4.6

Glendale Galleria

Shop, dine, and unwind at the Glendale Galleria, the ultimate shopping destination in downtown Glendale, CA.

4.5

Explore Santa Monica on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Santa Monica, mapped for you.

Santa Monica Essentials

Santa Monica is easily accessible from various parts of the United States and internationally. The nearest major airport is Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), located approximately 8 miles (13 kilometers) south of Santa Monica. From LAX, you can take a taxi, ride-sharing service, or shuttle bus to reach Santa Monica. Another option is Bob Hope Airport (Burbank), which is around 25 miles (40 kilometers) away. If you're driving, Santa Monica is conveniently located off Interstate 10 (I-10), which runs directly into the city.
Santa Monica offers various transportation options to help you get around the city. The Big Blue Bus system provides extensive coverage, with routes connecting to neighboring areas like Los Angeles. The Metro Expo Line also offers light rail service from Downtown Los Angeles to Santa Monica. For shorter distances, consider renting a bike or using e-scooters, which are popular and widely available. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also readily accessible.
The official currency in Santa Monica, like the rest of the United States, is the US Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, including restaurants, shops, and hotels. ATMs are abundant, so you can easily withdraw cash if needed. Mobile payment options like Apple Pay and Google Wallet are also commonly accepted.
Santa Monica is generally a safe destination for tourists, but it's always wise to take standard precautions. While most areas are safe, it's advisable to avoid the area around the Santa Monica Pier late at night, as it can attract some less desirable activity. Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places and avoid isolated areas after dark. Always be aware of your surroundings and use common sense.
In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Santa Monica has a well-equipped police department and several medical facilities, including the UCLA Medical Center, Santa Monica. Pharmacies are also readily available for minor health issues. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
Fashion: Do wear casual and comfortable clothing, especially if you plan to visit the beach. Don’t wear overly revealing swimwear away from the beach area. Religion: Do respect all places of worship and avoid disruptive behavior. Public Transport: Do be courteous and give up your seat to elderly passengers or those with disabilities. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a friendly 'hello.' Handshakes are also common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local restaurants and food trucks. Don’t tip less than 15-20% in restaurants, as tipping is customary.
To experience Santa Monica like a local, visit the Farmers Market on Wednesdays and Saturdays for fresh produce and local specialties. Spend some time at Palisades Park for stunning ocean views and a relaxing atmosphere. Consider renting a bike and riding along the Marvin Braude Bike Trail, also known as The Strand, which offers a scenic ride along the coast. Don’t miss a visit to the Third Street Promenade for shopping, dining, and street performances.

When is the best time to visit Santa Monica?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Santa Monica

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Santa Monica. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHey
  [hey]
- GoodbyeLater
  [lay-ter]
- YesYeah
  [yeh]
- NoNope
  [nohp]
- Please/You're welcomePlease/No worries
  [pleez/noh wur-eez]
- Thank youThanks
  [th-anks]
- Excuse me/SorrySorry
  [soh-ree]
- How are you?How you doin'?
  [how yoo doh-in]
- Fine. And you?Good. You?
  [gud yoo?]
- Do you speak English?You speak English?
  [yoo speek ing-glish?]
- I don't understandI don't get it
  [i dohnt get it]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMenu, please
  [men-yoo, pleez]
- I don't eat meatNo meat for me
  [noh meet for mee]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers]
- I would like to pay, pleaseCheck, please
  [chek, pleez]
- Help!Help!
  [help]
- Go away!Go away!
  [goh uh-way]
- Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [call the cops]
- Call a doctor!Call a doc!
  [call a doc]
- I'm lostI'm lost
  [im lost]
- I'm illI'm sick
  [im sik]
- I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [i wah-nuh buy]
- I'm just lookingJust browsing
  [just broh-zing]
- How much is it?How much?
  [how much?]
- That's too expensiveToo pricey
  [too pry-see]
- Can you lower the price?Can you do a deal?
  [can yoo doh a deel?]
- What time is it?What's the time?
  [whats the time?]
- It's one o'clockIt's one
  [its one]
- Half past (10)Ten-thirty
  [ten-thur-tee]
- MorningMorning
  [morn-ing]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [af-ter-noon]
- EveningEvening
  [ee-ven-ing]
- YesterdayYesterday
  [yes-ter-day]
- TodayToday
  [toh-day]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [toh-mor-row]
- 1One
  [wuhn]
- 2Two
  [too]
- 3Three
  [three]
- 4Four
  [for]
- 5Five
  [fahyv]
- 6Six
  [siks]
- 7Seven
  [sev-uhn]
- 8Eight
  [ayt]
- 9Nine
  [nain]
- 10Ten
  [ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [wheres the]
- What's the address?What's the address?
  [whats the address]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me (on the map)?
  [can yoo show mee on the map]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [whens the next bus]
- A ticket (to ....)One ticket (to ....)
  [wuhn tik-it to]

History of Santa Monica

Long before Spanish explorers set foot in what is now Santa Monica, the area was inhabited by the Tongva people. They lived in small villages along the coast and were skilled in fishing, hunting, and basket weaving. The Tongva referred to the area as 'Kecheek' which means 'where the land meets the sea'. Their rich culture and traditions laid the foundation for the community that would later develop.
In 1769, Spanish explorer Gaspar de Portolá led an expedition through the area, marking the beginning of European influence. By 1828, the land was part of the Rancho San Vicente y Santa Monica, a large Mexican land grant given to Francisco Sepúlveda. The mission period saw the establishment of the Mission San Gabriel Arcángel, which influenced the region’s development and introduced agriculture and livestock farming.
After the Mexican-American War, California became part of the United States in 1848. The land where Santa Monica now stands was purchased by Colonel Robert S. Baker and Senator John P. Jones in 1872. They envisioned a prosperous town and laid out the city streets. Santa Monica was officially incorporated in 1886, and it quickly became a popular seaside resort due to its beautiful beaches and favorable climate.
In 1909, the Pacific Electric Railway extended its line to Santa Monica, making the city more accessible to residents of Los Angeles and beyond. This development brought an influx of tourists and new residents, contributing to Santa Monica's rapid growth. The iconic Santa Monica Pier, built in 1909, became a popular destination and remains a historic landmark today.
During the 1920s and 1930s, Santa Monica became a playground for Hollywood stars and industry moguls. Its luxurious hotels, beach clubs, and piers offered a glamorous escape from the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles. Celebrities like Marion Davies and William Randolph Hearst built lavish beachfront estates, and the city’s reputation as a chic and fashionable destination was solidified.
World War II brought significant changes to Santa Monica. The Douglas Aircraft Company, based in the city, played a crucial role in the war effort by producing military aircraft. The aerospace industry continued to thrive post-war, attracting workers and boosting the local economy. This era marked a period of economic growth and urban development for Santa Monica.
In the latter half of the 20th century, Santa Monica faced challenges such as economic downturns and urban blight. However, the city underwent significant revitalization efforts starting in the 1980s. The redevelopment of the Third Street Promenade transformed it into a bustling pedestrian-friendly shopping and entertainment district. Santa Monica also became known for its progressive environmental policies, aiming to be a model of sustainability and innovation.