Santa Monica
A tranquil seaside retreat west of the metropolis
Santa Monica, a walkable sanctuary with 280 days of sunshine a year and just 20 minutes west of Downtown Los Angeles, is brimming with outdoor activities, upscale wellness facilities, and chances to unwind beneath clear skies and breathtaking sunsets. In this classic coastal city, enjoy the surf, unwind on immaculate beaches, and ride bike routes with breathtaking vistas. Enjoy the famous Santa Monica Pier’s Pacific Park, where you can ride roller coasters, bumper cars, and other beachside attractions. Explore eight unique neighborhoods with shopping, art, and entertainment options; peruse the monthly farmers markets; and enjoy outdoor dining at an endless array of top-notch restaurants. Choose from more than 40 hotels, several of which are close to the bustling center and the beach. This enchanted seaside city offers retreats at any time of year.
The epitome of coastal California
Impressive landmarks may be found in Santa Monica, a state noted for its symbols. Many are located along the 5.6 km Pacific Ocean shoreline, which is well-known for its waves that are suitable for surfing and leisure time spent by the water. The main feature of Pacific Park is the renowned Santa Monica Pier, which extends over the waters and illuminates the night sky with its solar-powered Ferris wheel. In addition, there are eateries, an aquarium, games, street entertainers, sweets, and breathtaking views of the ocean’s nightly sunsets. Visit the North Beach Playground and Annenberg Community Beach House in the north for a traditional beach day. These locations provide beach activities, a swimming pool, and a playground. It’s also free and accessible to the general public, but it has a private history: Hollywood greats like Charlie Chaplin and Greta Garbo paid it a visit when it was constructed by William Randolph Hearst for actress Marion Davies.
Activities by the Water’s Edge
You shouldn’t limit your Santa Monica trip to just enjoying in the amazing views and landscapes. Get out and enjoy them if you want to genuinely enjoy them. Original Muscle Beach, an outdoor gym area with ropes, parallel bars, and other equipment where fitness enthusiasts and families alike may show off for anybody who wants to watch, is located on the south side of the pier. Films and television productions have frequently featured the 35-kilometer Marvin Braude Bike Trail, also referred to as The Strand locally. The trail runs along the shore. You will recognize the Pacific Palisades cliffside residences right away. Palisades Park, which stretches the entire length of downtown Santa Monica, offers sculptures, a rose garden, and views of the ocean from a clifftop overlook. It’s a great place for a stroll just off the sand.
Fine Dining & Shopping
The neighborhoods of Santa Monica are full of opportunities for retail therapy, particularly at Third Street Promenade, a three-block stretch devoid of automobiles. There will be opportunities to see some incredible street performers in between visits to stores. The center of it is Santa Monica Place, an upscale retail area featuring over 80 businesses ranging from world-famous brands to designer boutiques. Main Street boasts stylish apparel stores, design boutiques, and art galleries, while Montana Avenue is home to opulent and distinctive retailers for a more intimate local shopping experience. When you’re ready to take a break, stop by one of the numerous well-regarded eateries for a snack. The area’s first Michelin-starred restaurant, Melisse, serves classic Californian fare, while Birdie G’s combines elements of Eastern European and American food. Get a drink at one of the many clubs and bars along Third Street Promenade for a nightcap and enjoy the laid-back California vibes.