Whether you live here or are just visiting, you can always find something exciting going on. Cultural events, prestigious shows, vacation events… It’s almost impossible to get bored when you’re in Santa Monica!
Everyone loves to party. And there is nothing like the atmosphere of California events. You’ll find festivals, fairs, competitions and championships that are well worth a visit.
Wake up in front of the beach in a fancy hotel
If you’ve ever dreamed of having your own cottage on the beach, it probably looks like Shutters on the Beach. This hotel’s rooms are simple and elegant. The balconies are overlooking the wide sandy beaches of Santa Monica. Relax by the pool or rent a bike from the hotel and ride the 20-mile bike path along the coast. Shutters is just one of many upscale hotels in Santa Monica. Equally fantastic options are:
- Casa Del Mar
- Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows
- Viceroy Santa Monica
Stroll along the historic pier
Plenty of entertainment awaits you at the famous Santa Monica Pier where Route 66 ends. Its neon lights are one of Southern California’s most recognizable icons. The pier opened in 1909, and offers you a prime spot to watch the surfers and spectacular views of the entire coast. Take a ride on the beautifully preserved Looff Hippodrome carousel. This one dates back to 1922. Experience the underwater world at the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium.
Bring back your childlike spirit at Pacific Park
Pacific Park on Santa Monica Pier’s roller coasters and bumper cars take the classic amusement park to a new level. It’s the only amusement park on the West Coast located on a pier. Pacific Park has an arcade where you can practice your mole game or balloon shooting. Then take a ride and enjoy the incredible coastal views from the Pacific Wheel. It’s the world’s only solar-powered Ferris wheel.
Find shelter in a bungalow on the cliffs
The Bungalow embodies beachfront living. It’s inspired by both the laid-back spirit of Santa Monica and the romance of a Baja California casita. Seasoned ceilings, original furnishings and a game room. This hideaway is like a private beach club as surfers intend. You can relax on the patio with a house cocktail. And don’t miss out on one of Santa Monica’s unforgettable sunsets.
Stroll along the Third Street Promenade
The Third Street Promenade is an outdoor paradise for shoppers. It has many collections of brand-name stores like Lululemon, Abercrombie & Fitch. It also has a spectacular Apple Store. Check out the stores as you stroll down this pedestrian street. You’ll find street musicians serenade passersby and plant dinosaurs add a whimsical touch.
Other things you don’t want to miss out
Art lovers will want to stop by Bergamot Station. It’s a former water heater factory and warehouse complex. It now houses one of Southern California’s premier gallery complexes. For high-end fashion in a low-key setting, head to Montana Avenue. You’ll find cool boutiques and restaurants. And there’s a good chance of bumping into celebrities.
Other things you don’t want to miss out
Art lovers will want to stop by Bergamot Station. It’s a former water heater factory and warehouse complex. It now houses one of Southern California’s premier gallery complexes. For high-end fashion in a low-key setting, head to Montana Avenue. You’ll find cool boutiques and restaurants. And there’s a good chance of bumping into celebrities.