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Get InspiredNorth AmericaUnited StatesCaliforniaSanta Monica

Santa Monica

California, United States
City·Lively, Coastal, Vibrant
Santa Monica
Photo by Tina Webb from Google Places
Santa Monica
Photo by F. W. from Google Places
Santa Monica
Photo by Maria Urena from Google Places
Santa Monica
Photo by Ammar Gosilah from Google Places
Santa Monica
Photo by American “Doll” Girl from Google Places
Santa Monica
Photo by Tina Webb from Google Places
Santa Monica
Photo by F. W. from Google Places
Santa Monica
Photo by Maria Urena from Google Places
Santa Monica
Photo by Ammar Gosilah from Google Places
Santa Monica
Photo by American “Doll” Girl from Google Places

Santa Monica, located along California's South Coast, is a vibrant city known for its stunning beaches and bustling entertainment scene. With a rich history dating back to its founding in 1875, the city has developed into a popular resort town. Visitors can enjoy the iconic Santa Monica Pier, explore diverse dining and shopping options, and experience a rich cultural scene. The city also hosts headquarters for major companies, adding to its dynamic atmosphere. Whether you're a beach lover or an entertainment seeker, Santa Monica offers something for everyone.

Santa Monica, located along California's South Coast, is a vibrant city known for its stunning beaches and bustling entertainment scene. With a rich history dating back to its founding in 1875, the city has developed into a popular resort town. Visitors can enjoy the iconic Santa Monica Pier, explore diverse dining and shopping options, and experience a rich cultural scene. The city also hosts headquarters for major companies, adding to its dynamic atmosphere. Whether you're a beach lover or an entertainment seeker, Santa Monica offers something for everyone.

Highlights

  • Stunning beaches along the Pacific Ocean.

  • Iconic Santa Monica Pier with amusement park.

  • Diverse dining and shopping options.

  • Rich cultural and entertainment scene.

  • Proximity to Los Angeles attractions.

Before you go: Santa Monica essentials

  • Close access to Los Angeles attractions.

  • Beautiful beaches and coastal views.

  • Diverse cultural and entertainment options.

Getting Around

Santa Monica is pedestrian-friendly, but also offers convenient public transportation options including buses and the Metro Expo Line.

Local Cuisine

Explore the diverse dining scene, from beachfront seafood restaurants to trendy cafes.

Best For

Beach lovers and entertainment seekers.

Currency

USD $

Average Cost

$150-$250 p/day

Languages Spoken

English, Spanish

Beach Access

Visit the Santa Monica State Beach for a classic Southern California beach experience.

Shopping

Don't miss the Third Street Promenade for a mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment.

Occasion Tags

Tourists, Beach Vacation, Cultural Exploration, Family, Business

Best time to visit Santa Monica

April-JuneSeptember-November

Best Season

Spring

Spring offers mild temperatures and fewer tourists, ideal for beach activities and sightseeing.

Best Season

Summer

Summer is lively but crowded, perfect for enjoying the beach and outdoor festivals.

Best Season

Fall

Fall brings pleasant weather and fewer crowds, great for exploring the city.

Winter

Winters are mild, making it a good time to visit indoor attractions and enjoy off-peak travel.

Join millions of curious travelers.

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Location

Santa Monica, California, United States
Open in Maps

Where to stay in Santa Monica

Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Sea Shore Motel

4.5(376)
Santa Monica, California
Laid Back, Casual, Beach Friendly
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Place
Place
Place
Place

Hotel Casa del Mar

4.6(1,6 K)
Santa Monica, California
Sophisticated, Serene, Upscale
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Shutters on the Beach

4.5(2,5 K)
Santa Monica, California
Cozy, Luxurious
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Place
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Place

Sandbourne Santa Monica, Autograph Collection

4.2(1,3 K)
Santa Monica, California
Luxurious, Beachside, Relaxing
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Regent Santa Monica Beach

4.9(139)
Santa Monica, California
Luxurious, Serene, Beachfront
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Sea Blue Hotel

4.0(545)
Santa Monica, California
Charming, Relaxed, Beachside
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Place
Place
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Place

Hyatt Centric Delfina Santa Monica

4.1(1,9 K)
Santa Monica, California
Modern, Laid Back, Airy
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Place
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Hilton Santa Monica Hotel & Suites

4.1(2 K)
Santa Monica, California
Refined, Comfortable, Convenient

Food & drink in Santa Monica

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Place
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Terrazza

4.3(243)
Santa Monica, California
Stylish, Relaxed, Coastal
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Capo

4.4(270)
Santa Monica, California
Sophisticated, Upscale, Intimate
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Sweet Maple

4.5(582)
Santa Monica, California
Lively, Casual, Family Friendly
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Piccolo Santa Monica

4.6(145)
Santa Monica, California
Cozy, Inviting, Intimate
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The Surfing Fox

4.5(400)
Santa Monica, California
Vibrant, Lively, Welcoming
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Meat On Ocean

4.4(2,6 K)
Santa Monica, California
Upscale, Ocean View, Carnivore Friendly
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LouLou Santa Monica

4.3(847)
Santa Monica, California
Cosmopolitan, Vibrant, Scenic
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The Curious Palate

4.7(761)
Santa Monica, California
Cool, Relaxed, Casual

Things to do in Santa Monica

2-Hour Kayak or Paddleboard with Sea Lions in Marina del Rey
From $79

2-Hour Kayak or Paddleboard with Sea Lions in Marina del Rey

4.8(59)
Duration: 2h
Santa Monica
Best of LA: Hollywood, Griffith, Santa Monica, Venice, and Rodeo
From $98

Best of LA: Hollywood, Griffith, Santa Monica, Venice, and Rodeo

4.8(810)
Duration: 7h
Anaheim & Buena Park
Hollywood, Beverly Hills, & Celebrity Home Tour from Santa Monica
From $59

Hollywood, Beverly Hills, & Celebrity Home Tour from Santa Monica

4.9(242)
Duration: 3h 30min
Santa Monica
City Cruises Los Angeles Brunch Cruise from Marina del Rey
From $101

City Cruises Los Angeles Brunch Cruise from Marina del Rey

4.7(112)
Duration: 2h
Santa Monica
Luxury Los Angeles Tour – Private SUV Experience
From $659

Luxury Los Angeles Tour – Private SUV Experience

5.0(139)
Duration: 6h
Los Angeles
Half Day Best of Los Angeles City Tour from Santa Monica
From $69

Half Day Best of Los Angeles City Tour from Santa Monica

5.0(313)
Duration: 5h 30min
Santa Monica
Shared 2 Hour Small Group Surf Lesson in Santa Monica
From $85

Shared 2 Hour Small Group Surf Lesson in Santa Monica

4.8(144)
Duration: 2h
Santa Monica
Small-Group Electric Bike Tour of Santa Monica and Venice Beach
From $89

Small-Group Electric Bike Tour of Santa Monica and Venice Beach

4.9(480)
Duration: 3h
Santa Monica
Explore on Viator

Attractions in Santa Monica

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Aqua Surf School

4.9(155)
Santa Monica, California
Energetic, Family Friendly, Beachy
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Jameson’s Pub

4.3(1 K)
Santa Monica, California
Lively, Casual, Local
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Fun Surf LA

4.9(495)
Santa Monica, California
Energetic, Beachy, Adventurous
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Learn to Surf LA

4.8(142)
Santa Monica, California
Energetic, Fun, Beachy
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Go Surf LA

5.0(854)
Santa Monica, California
Vibrant, Coastal, Sporty
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Crescent Bay Park

4.6(2,9 K)
Santa Monica, California
Tranquil, Scenic, Relaxing
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Midway Car Rental Santa Monica

4.9(2,3 K)
Santa Monica, California
Efficient, Friendly, Professional
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West Coaster

4.3(167)
Santa Monica, California
Exciting, Family Friendly

Natural & historic sites near Santa Monica

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Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area

4.7(7,2 K)
Calabasas, California
National Park · Natural, Serene