Santa Monica Travel Guide

Santa Monica, California, known best for its iconic pier and sunny beachside settings, is calling your name for a visit. The town has a population of just under 100,000 residents, and is just outside of Los Angeles, CA.

Things to Do in Santa Monica

While in Santa Monica, be sure to plan a visit to Santa Monica Pier, home to Pacific Park, rides, games, and tons of events all summer long, including concerts and shows right on the pier. Santa Monica State Beach is another popular spot to visit in the city. The beach is always full of visitors, both locals and tourists, and stretches the entire length of the town. Head to Third Street Promenade for the best shops, bars, and restaurants, and check out the Santa Monica Farmer’s Market for some Californian fresh fruits and veggies.

Best Time to Visit Santa Monica

Santa Monica is warm and full of sunshine all year, but can get crowded in the summer and in the spring during spring break season. Try to plan a trip around these dates.

A Local's Guide to Santa Monica Vacation Rentals

Possibly one of the most iconic coastal cities in all of the United States, Santa Monica offers visitors so much more than just a beautiful beach and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Santa Monica is truly the perfect destination for a vacation rental.

With 3.5 miles of pristine sandy Pacific Ocean beach and a total walkable area of 8.3 square miles, Santa Monica, California is the perfect home base for any Los Angeles area vacation. Additionally, Santa Monica is only eight miles north of LAX, making it a convenient destination for any traveler.

See & Do

Santa Monica is of course known for the iconic, family-friendly Santa Monica Pier, home to Pacific Park amusement park, the historic Looff Hippodrome Carousel, and Santa Monica Pier Aquarium. Adjacent to the Santa Monica Pier is the famed Muscle Beach which was popularized by Arnold Schwarzenegger.

Those renting vacation homes in Santa Monica will have access to some of the best shopping in the world at Santa Monica’s Third Street Promenade in the heart of Downtown Santa Monica. In Santa Monica, visitors can shop boutiques, straight from the runway designer labels, and classic beach fashion.

Surrounding Nature

In addition to the iconic attractions of Santa Monica, the surrounding natural landscape of Santa Monica offers unrivaled outdoors experiences. Explore the rugged California coastline or head inland to the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation area to hike or climb with a stunning view of the Pacific.