Vacation In Santa Monica

Santa Monica is a vibrant and energetic beach city in Southern California, less than a 90-minute drive from Los Angeles. With postcard-worthy views of the Pacific Ocean, renowned beaches, and stunning architecture everywhere you look, Santa Monica has endless activities and surprises for visitors of all ages and interests. Discover Santa Monica’s hotels, things to do, history and events in our blog and get the most out of your vacation in Santa Monica!

Whether you’re visiting Santa Monica for the first time or you’re a long-term resident, it’s always helpful to have a resource at your fingertips that can provide insider information about the city. That way, you can get a better feel for the place you live and surroundings, so you’ll feel more confident when you’re out and about.

My family and I had an amazing trip to Santa Monica. This post is all about our vacation. We packed a lot into 3 busy days (which was great in my opinion), so we were able to hit a variety of attractions while we were there.

Some of the best restaurants, most theatrically-inclined movie and television writers, and deep-and-heady brewers are here. And yet, thanks to our charming seaside setting, world-class attractions, historical architecture and public art — plus our nearly perfect weather (umm, except when it’s foggy) — we are much more than a tourist destination.

I was lucky enough to have been able to visit Santa Monica twice already. The first time I went there I loved the vibe of the city so much that I wanted to move there.

Vacation In Santa Monica

It’s close enough to Los Angeles that you can easily go there for the day. But it’s also nice to stay overnight. We added Santa Monica onto our L.A. trip and stayed there for a day and a half. 

There’s not too much to do there, other than relaxing and shopping. But I’ll give you some different activities to do, where to eat, and a hotel recommendation.

Psst! This blog post contains affiliate links in it which sends me a bit of extra money if you use them… at no extra cost to you!

Finding A Place To Stay Near Santa Monica California

Finding a place to stay in Los Angeles can be quite overwhelming – it’s HUGE!

I stayed at the Sofitel and would highly recommend it. It was in a safe area, and across the street from the Beverly Hills mall (which proved to be very convenient). It was also within walking distance to some local restaurants you need to try – like the Kings Road Cafe! See room rates & availability here.

If you want to stay on the beach outside of the city life instead, we stayed at The Georgian in Santa Monica and couldn’t recommend it enough! It’s only about a 25 minute drive from the city. This was a beautiful art deco hotel that is begging you to go there! It’s a minutes walk to the beach, Santa Monica Pier, and the Third Street Promenade. See room rates & availability here.

For more accommodation options in Los Angeles, click here. Interested in longer stays in L.A. check out Plum Guide here.

What To Do During Your Stay In Santa Monica California?

If you’re not shopping along Third Street Promenade or surfing, there isn’t much else to do in Santa Monica. Luckily for you, I found some other activities.

Walk Along the Boardwalk & Go To The Santa Monica Pier

Go on some rides or play some games in the arcade. You can even pick up some cute knick-knacks along the way. But be sure to make it all the way to the end of the pier to take in the views where the vast ocean meets skyline.

Bike To Venice Beach

Even if you’re not active biker this is the easiest bike ride. No hills, just great views. There are a lot of people though, either biking or rollerblading. So you’ll still have to watch out for them.

Once you’ve reached the beach get off and walk around. I warn you, Venice beach is very different from Santa Monica. There are a lot of hipsters, artists, and street vendors. Pick up some ice cream while you walk, watch the graffiti artists or skateboarders in the park. Walk through to see the canals. Or if you’re there after 12:00 on Sunday, check out the drum circle, and maybe even join in, if you feel bold enough.

Organized Tours From Santa Monica

For more Santa Monica organized tours from Viator, click here.

Visit The Camera Obscura

Before I say where it is, just keep in mind that it’s fun and a FREE activity to do. So… it’s at the senior citizen’s centre in Santa Monica. But if you’re a real film buff you have to do this.

It doesn’t take long but it’s a bit awkward to go in to see. It’s open Monday to Friday from 9 am-3 pm and Saturday 11 am-4 pm.

Plan the ultimate vacation

My digital travel planner template has everything you need to plan your vacation: research templates, travel planner itinerary, travel budget templates…etc. . You can print it out or use it digitally on your phone, tablet, or computer.

Santa Monica Farmer’s Market

If you’re there over the weekend, or Wednesday, check out the local farmers market on Arizona Av. They have fresh produce from the area. If you’re just visiting, you probably won’t be able to buy the food but they’ll give out tasters that you can try. And we found a freshly squeezed OJ juice stand. It’s there from 8:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M.

Why Stay At The Georgian Hotel?

So there’s no doubt that you’re going to Santa Monica for the beach, so why would you stay anywhere other than on the coast? Get ready to pay a bit more for this, but it’s worth it. This way you also won’t have to move your car at all during your entire stay.

I loved The Georgian so much the first time that I had to come back to stay here the second time I came.

It’s right on the coast, in the heart of DT Santa Monica. It’s this beautiful turquoise art deco hotel. You can’t miss it.