With its festive ocean pier, stylish beach scene and artistic flair, Santa Monica is the premier beach community in Los Angeles. Some of LA’s best shopping, dining and partying happens in this upscale town, despite the ubiquitous homeless people lounging around the parks. With over 120 museums, art galleries and public art displays, this popular tourist destination never fails to please.
Proving that there’s more to Los Angeles than smog and traffic, Santa Monica is a fun and artsy oasis right on the beach. The city’s entertainment centers on its famous pier, where the action never stops. The neighboring beach is absolutely huge, backed by a paved bike path that runs all the way along the city’s coastline, with quirky Venice Beach just a few minutes to the south.
For shopping, the outdoor Third Street Promenade is a pedestrian’s dreamland, packed with top end places to eat, drink and spend, and as much people-watching as you can handle. Another wonderful side to Santa Monica is its twice-weekly Farmers’ Market, which brings a taste of the countryside into the city. There is also an incredible concentration of art galleries and performance venues in this town, so you can be guaranteed that something will be happening during your visit.
Highlights
Santa Monica Pier: one of the country’s last remaining old-fashioned beachside piers is the trademark of Santa Monica with its iconic Ferris wheel, aquarium, street performers and colorful scene of people from all walks of life.
Pacific Park: this amusement park on the pier is one of last grand old-style pleasure parks and a truly nostalgic place for the old and young alike.
Santa Monica State Beach: the city’s main beach is right next to the famous pier and always a great place for lounging, playing sports and swimming in the relatively clean water.
Bergamot Arts Station: this complex contains 20 galleries, a number of outdoor displays, and the prestigious Santa Monica Museum of Art.
Palisades Park: perched on a bluff overlooking the sea and pier, this central hang out is always full of people, homeless and otherwise, soaking in the ocean views.
Magicopolis: mind-boggling illusions and magic tricks are performed at this high quality venue focused on the mysteries of magic.
Third Street Promenade: is lined with quirky shops and buskers, giving Santa Monica an energetic feel and making for the perfect place to enjoy an alfresco beer.