Plan Your Trip to Santa Monica: Best of Santa Monica Tourism
Santa Monica, California
Essential Santa Monica
Things to do
Food & drink
Browse collections
- Beachfront luxury hotelsLuxury hotels with stunning views
- Farm-to-table diningEateries with farm-fresh ingredients
- Outdoor activitiesFun outdoor experiences for everyone
- Surfing beachesSurf spots for novices and pros alike
- Boutique shoppingLocal shops with unmatched flair
- Hidden gemsDiscover the city's lesser-known delights
- Family-friendly museumsMuseums that kids and adults will love
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Santa Monica Is Great For
Surfing Lessons
Make & see art
Photography Tours
Local eats
Bars
Santa Monica travel advice
Hotel Options and Pricing
According to forum posts, travelers looking for luxury options might consider Shutters on the Beach, which offers a resort-like atmosphere directly on the beach but can be quite pricey, often over $500 per night. Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel is another option that is mentioned for its beachfront location and family-friendly activities, with prices under $500 per night.
Family and Budget-Friendly Options
For those traveling with family and looking for more budget-friendly options, the Sea Shore Motel is recommended by some travelers for its proximity to the beach, cleanliness, and affordability. The DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Santa Monica is also suggested as it offers suites and is relatively close to the beach.
Additional Recommendations
The Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows is called out for its views and landscaping, offering a somewhat resort-like feel. Jamaica Bay Inn in Marina del Rey is highlighted as a less expensive option near Santa Monica, providing good amenities and proximity to dining options.
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This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?Activities and Attractions
According to forum posts, Santa Monica offers a vibrant nightlife with options like bars with live music, which are especially enjoyable during the summer. Travelers have called out popular spots such as Harvelle's, Trip, and Basement Tavern for live music. For daytime activities, the Santa Monica Pier and beach are iconic spots for leisure and fun.
Shopping and Dining
Some travelers suggested exploring local shopping and dining options around areas like Abbot Kinney, which is close to Venice but still accessible from Santa Monica. This area is known for its unique shops and restaurants, providing a pleasant experience for those who prefer walking to dining locations.
Outdoor and Cultural Activities
For outdoor enthusiasts, forum users recommend nearby hiking opportunities in places like Temescal and Los Liones in Pacific Palisades. Additionally, cultural attractions such as the CA Science Center and Natural History Museum in nearby Los Angeles are accessible via public transport, offering a mix of educational and recreational activities.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?Public Transit Options
According to forum posts, Santa Monica offers various public transit options, including buses and metro services. The Big Blue Bus is frequently mentioned as a viable option for getting around the area. Additionally, the Metro Expo Line facilitates travel between Santa Monica and downtown Los Angeles.
Ride-Sharing and Car Rentals
Travelers have noted that ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are convenient for navigating Santa Monica. For those considering car rentals, it is suggested to pick up the vehicle at LAX rather than in Santa Monica due to better availability and the option to return the car at the airport.
Alternative Transportation
Some users recommend the Circuit shuttle for free transportation within Santa Monica. This option is particularly praised for its convenience in navigating the local area without incurring any cost.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.Was this helpful?