Wyndham Hotels & Resorts Group Hotels Near Santa Monica

The Malibu Beach Inn is a top choice, located just a 5-minute walk from Santa Monica Beach and offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean from its private balconies. This boutique resort features a children’s pool, free bicycles, and attentive staff—perfect for families seeking comfort and coastal charm. The iconic Santa Monica Pier, with its Ferris wheel and street performers, is a 10-minute stroll away.

Alternatively, consider Hilton Los Angeles Airport & Convention Center, which offers convenient shuttle service to LAX, an indoor pool, fitness center, and spacious rooms ideal for extended stays. Though slightly farther from the beach, it provides excellent value and easy access to all major attractions in the area.

The fastest option is taking the Metro Local Line 942 bus, which runs every 15–20 minutes and travels directly from Santa Monica Pier to Union Station in about 30 minutes. It follows Pacific Coast Highway and Silverton Avenue, providing scenic views along the way. A one-way fare is just $2.25, payable via TAP card.

For a quicker trip, use Lyft or Uber, which take 15–20 minutes and cost approximately $25–35, ideal for late-night travel or luggage-heavy trips. Alternatively, rent a Metro Bike Share bike and ride along the Pacific Coast Highway—a scenic 40-minute journey perfect for enjoying the coastal breeze and urban landscape.

Must-try experiences at Santa Monica Pier include riding the historic Ferris wheel for panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and bustling pier scene; sampling the famous Santa Monica fish tacos at the pier’s food court; enjoying live street performances that showcase local talent.

Don’t miss the miniature golf course on the pier—just $10 for a fun round perfect for families. For nature lovers, book a boat tour along the coast to spot dolphins and seabirds, offering unforgettable photo opportunities and a unique perspective of the coastline.

The best sunset photography spots near Santa Monica are located at the western end of Santa Monica Beach, especially near La Playa Street and Maxim Avenue. This stretch offers long, open sandscapes with the Pacific Ocean glowing in golden hues during sunset, creating perfect silhouette compositions.

Arrive 30 minutes before dusk, bring a tripod, and capture the dynamic interplay of waves, light, and shadows. Use the pier’s wooden planks and moored boats as foreground elements for added depth. Nearby Pacific Coast Highway also features trees and streetlights casting elegant light trails in twilight, ideal for urban photography.