Top reasons to visit Santa Monica Beach
- Stunning Ocean Views: Santa Monica Beach offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, perfect for relaxation and sunset watching.
- Iconic Santa Monica Pier: Experience fun rides, games, and dining at the famous Santa Monica Pier, a favorite for visitors of all ages.
- Vibrant Atmosphere: Enjoy a lively ambiance filled with friendly locals, trendy shops, and vibrant cafes along the beachfront.
- Outdoor Recreation: Engage in various sports activities, from beach volleyball to biking along scenic paths.
- Diverse Accommodations: Choose from luxurious beachfront hotels to cozy guesthouses, catering to all travel needs.
Find great hotels near Santa Monica Beach
Explore a variety of hotel accommodations along Santa Monica Beach, where you can find everything from beachfront hotels to family-friendly guesthouses. Whether you're traveling for business or leisure, Santa Monica offers pet-friendly options and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for a memorable vacation. Enjoy stunning ocean views and convenient access to local attractions while you unwind in this beautiful coastal destination.
- Sheraton Gateway Los Angeles Hotel: Nestled in the vibrant shopping district, the Sheraton Gateway Los Angeles Hotel is a stylish 4-star accommodation perfect for families and LGBTQIA travelers alike. With its welcoming atmosphere, the hotel offers family-friendly amenities such as free cribs and specialized services for children, ensuring a comfortable stay for guests of all ages. Just 12.9km from Santa Monica Beach, it provides easy access to the area's attractions while offering a relaxing retreat with modern rooms and exceptional hospitality.
- Hilton Los Angeles Airport: The Hilton Los Angeles Airport serves as a versatile 4-star haven for families, pet owners, and LGBTQIA travelers. Located 12.9km from Santa Monica Beach, this hotel features a unique blend of comfort and convenience. Guests can enjoy essential amenities for children, including window guards and first aid kits, while also benefiting from the hotel's pet-friendly policies, allowing dogs in rooms and featuring a designated exercise area. Its proximity to the airport makes it a convenient choice for travelers looking to balance leisure and business.
- Four Points By Sheraton Los Angeles International: Aimed at business travelers and shopping enthusiasts, the Four Points By Sheraton Los Angeles International offers a cozy 3.5-star experience just 12.9km from Santa Monica Beach. With a focus on LGBTQIA inclusivity, this hotel is strategically located in a shopping district, making it easy for guests to explore and indulge in retail therapy. The property emphasizes comfort and convenience, ensuring that every guest can unwind after a busy day in the city.
Where to stay near Santa Monica Beach
Santa Monica Beach offers a perfect blend of coastal charm and urban style, making it an ideal destination for families and couples alike. Explore luxurious beachfront oases and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere filled with friendly locals. From the scenic Santa Monica Pier to the trendy shops and cafes, you'll find something for everyone. Experience the modern beach vibes that make Santa Monica a must-visit spot on your vacation.
- Los Angeles: As a vibrant metropolis, Los Angeles is the heart of Southern California, offering a diverse array of experiences. With Santa Monica Beach nestled within its borders, the city is a hub for travelers seeking family-friendly attractions, entertainment, and cultural experiences. The city boasts iconic landmarks like Hollywood and numerous theaters, while shopping areas provide endless retail opportunities. Peak travel seasons occur during July to August and October, but there's always something to explore, from theme parks to historic film studios.
- Santa Monica: Known for its picturesque beach and lively atmosphere, Santa Monica is a city that perfectly blends outdoor activities with urban charm. Visitors flock here for its family-friendly environment, entertainment options, and breathtaking coastal views. The Santa Monica Pier, with its amusement park rides, and a bustling shopping area make it a must-visit. Expect peak tourist activity from April and June to July, but the city's charm stays vibrant year-round, with plenty of beachfront attractions and parks for relaxation and fun.
- Ocean Park: just 1.6km from Santa Monica Beach, Ocean Park is a charming neighborhood known for its laid-back beach vibe and family-friendly atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities, stroll along the boardwalk, or explore local shopping areas. The peak travel months are March to April and July, making it a lively destination during spring and summer. With its proximity to Santa Monica, Ocean Park offers easy access to the same beautiful beaches while maintaining a more relaxed, local feel for an ideal beach getaway.
Things to do near Santa Monica Beach
Santa Monica Beach offers stunning ocean views and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for relaxation and recreation. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking sunsets, indulge in shopping at local boutiques, and participate in various sports activities. Whether you're lounging on the beach or exploring the nearby attractions, Santa Monica Beach promises an unforgettable experience filled with natural beauty and exciting adventures.
Shopping
For a great shopping experience, visit Jadis, a charming store just 1.6km from Santa Monica Beach. If you're up for a drive, Westfield Century City, located 9.7km away, offers a variety of shops and entertainment, while the Farmers Market, 14.5km away, showcases local goods and produce.
Recreation
Experience the vibrant energy at SoFi Stadium, a premier sports venue just 16.1km away, perfect for catching a game or concert. For a serene escape, enjoy a round of golf at Riviera Country Club, located 4.8km away, surrounded by beautiful outdoor scenery.
Adventure
Embark on the Nicholas Flat Trail for a scenic hike filled with breathtaking views, located 1.6km from Santa Monica Beach. Challenge yourself at OnRope Consulting, where you can experience thrilling climbing activities only 1.1km away. For underwater adventures, dive into the Eco Dive Center, situated 8.0km away.
Nightlife
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Dolby Theater for a romantic show or catch a film at TCL Chinese Theatre, perfect for families. For some fun, head to Sherman Oaks Castle Park, where you can enjoy arcade games and family adventures, all within a short drive from Santa Monica Beach.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Santa Monica Beach
To save money on your trip to Santa Monica Beach, plan your visit between November and January when prices are lower, and consider staying on a Monday for the best rates. Avoid weekends, especially Saturdays, for costly accommodations. Use Expediaās search tool to filter by budget and preferred hotel types, and look for package deals that combine flights, hotels, and activities for extra savings. Take advantage of free activities at the beach and explore on foot to minimize transportation costs.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Santa Monica Beach are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Santa Monica Beach is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Santa Monica Beach is Saturday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expediaās search tool to customize your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at Santa Monica Beach with your flights and activities by choosing an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions near Santa Monica Beach
Santa Monica Beach offers a vibrant mix of attractions, perfect for culture enthusiasts and families alike. Visitors can enjoy the iconic Santa Monica Pier, unwind at the beachfront hideaway, or relax on the beautiful Santa Monica Beach. With its lively urban parks and scenic streets, the area provides an unforgettable city experience, making it a must-visit destination for those looking to soak up California's coastal charm.
- Santa Monica Pier: Experience the iconic Santa Monica Pier, a lively jetty that offers stunning ocean views and a vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy the amusement park rides, local eateries, and street performers, creating a friendly and welcoming vibe.
- Venice Beach: Just a short distance away, Venice Beach is famous for its laid-back beach vibes. Stroll along the boardwalk, watch street performers, and explore unique shops, all while soaking up the sun and the lively beach culture.
- University of California, Los Angeles: A short drive away, UCLA boasts beautiful architecture and rich cultural history. Explore the campus, visit art galleries, and enjoy the vibrant academic atmosphere that adds a unique charm to your trip.
Best time to go to Santa Monica Beach
The best time to visit Santa Monica Beach can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Santa Monica Beach falls in August, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature around Santa Monica Beach falls in December, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is sunny with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Santa Monica Beach
Traveling to Santa Monica Beach is convenient with several major airports nearby. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is located 11.3km away and offers luxurious accommodations like The Ritz-Carlton, Marina del Rey, 6.4km from the airport, and the Fairmont Miramar Hotel, 12.9km away. Orange County Airport (SNA) is 69.2km away, with the 5-star Resort at Pelican Hill just 9.7km from the airport. Ontario International Airport (ONT) is 83.7km away, featuring hotels such as the DoubleTree by Hilton Ontario Airport, only 1.6km from the airport. Each hotel provides easy access to their respective airports, ensuring a smooth travel experience.