Santa Monica, LA's beach town
A century-old pier with amusement rides, sunsets from the Palisades Park bluffs and an oceanfront bike path that rolls all the way to Venice.
Find a hotel in Santa Monica
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Santa Monica hotels
Live rates for 3 nights and 2 adults, between Ocean Avenue and downtown.
Things to do in Santa Monica
From the pier to the Venice boardwalk and the Malibu coast: the best of LA's beach side.
- Sep–OctWarmest, clearest days
- ≈30 minFrom LAX without traffic
- 1909Year the pier opened
- ≈3.5 miOf sandy beach in the city
Santa Monica in photos
The pier at every hour, the Pacific breeze and the palm-lined coast.
- Sunset at the pier · GillyBerlin (CC BY 2.0)
- The pier from the ocean · Cayambe (CC BY-SA 4.0)
- Palms by the pier · AlisonRuthHughes (CC BY-SA 4.0)
- Pacific Park on the pier · Gzzz (CC BY-SA 4.0)
- Marine fog over the coast · Dave Lastovskly (CC0)
- Oceanfront homes in Malibu · Marika Bortolami (CC BY 2.0)
Santa Monica travel FAQ
Getting there from LAX, when to go and where to stay by the beach.
When is the best time to visit Santa Monica?
It works year-round. September and October usually have the warmest, clearest days and fewer crowds than summer. In May and June a marine layer often covers the beach in the morning. Winter is mild with a few rainy days.
How far is it from the airport?
Los Angeles International (LAX), with many nonstop flights from Mexico, is about 30 minutes away by car without traffic; at rush hour it can take twice as long. You can get there by taxi, rideshare or rental car.
What documents do I need when traveling from Mexico?
A valid passport and a valid U.S. visa. If you rent a car at LAX, also bring a valid driver's license and a credit card in the driver's name.
Where should I stay?
Hotels on Ocean Avenue and along the beach have ocean views and are steps from the pier. Downtown, near Third Street Promenade, is handy for walking to shops and restaurants. Main Street, to the south, has a neighborhood feel and puts you closer to Venice.
What is there to do in Santa Monica?
Ride the Pacific Park Ferris wheel on the pier, rent a bike and cruise the oceanfront path, watch the sunset from Palisades Park, shop the Third Street Promenade and stroll the Venice boardwalk with its street performers and famous skate park.
Is it true Route 66 ends here?
Yes, symbolically. A sign on Santa Monica Pier marks the end of historic Route 66, the highway that linked Chicago with the Pacific coast. It is one of the most photographed spots on the pier.
How do I get around Santa Monica and Los Angeles?
Santa Monica is easy on foot and by bike. The Metro E Line connects downtown Santa Monica with downtown Los Angeles. For Malibu, Hollywood or other parts of the city, a rental car or rideshare is most practical, keeping traffic in mind.
What is the water like for swimming?
The Pacific here is cool most of the year and is most pleasant in late summer. The beach is wide with lifeguard towers; swim near them, follow the flags and stay out of the water after heavy rain, when water quality advisories are common.
Is a trip to Malibu worth it?
Yes. Malibu lies north along the Pacific Coast Highway, with beaches and viewpoints along the coast. Go early, since traffic and parking get tough on weekends, and check road conditions before you set out.
How many days should I stay?
Two or three days is enough to enjoy the pier, the beach, Venice and Palisades Park. If you want to use Santa Monica as a base to explore Los Angeles, including Hollywood, downtown or the film studios, plan on five to seven days.
Keep your Santa Monica hotel and LAX flight on your phone, ready for your trip to LA's beach.
