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Santa Monica isn’t just a place—it’s a vibe. Feel the Pacific breeze on your skin, wander past vibrant street artists and boutique gems, and let the laid-back energy of this coastal gem sweep you off your feet. It’s not about shopping; it’s about soaking in that effortlessly cool LA magic.
This hotel is a hidden gem in the heart of Los Angeles, just minutes away from Rodeo Drive and Sunset Boulevard. Indulge in the luxurious spa treatments or take a dip in the outdoor pool, while the 24-hour fitness center and Turkish bath offer ultimate relaxation. The rooms are elegantly designed with heated floors and Egyptian cotton sheets, complemented by 24-hour room service for your convenience. Perfect for both family vacations and business trips, with childcare services and state-of-the-art meeting facilities. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience!
Looking for a luxurious yet homely stay in Los Angeles? This hotel offers rooms with heated floors and Egyptian cotton linens, along with 24-hour room service and à la carte dining to satisfy your cravings. Unwind at the full-service spa with massages, or relax by the outdoor pool and steam room. Traveling with kids? Childcare services and family-friendly amenities make it easy. Enjoy free WiFi and limousine service, with quick access to Rodeo Drive and Sunset Strip. Whether for business or leisure, this hotel has everything you need!
This hotel is a hidden gem in Los Angeles! Nestled in Beverly Hills, it's just a 10-minute walk to the Hammer Museum and Westwood Village—perfect for exploring. Enjoy top-notch amenities like an outdoor pool, 24-hour fitness center, and tailored services including concierge and babysitting (kids and pets welcome!). Rooms are stylishly designed with luxury Frette linens and premium toiletries for ultimate comfort. Don’t miss the nightly complimentary wine hour to mingle with fellow guests. After a busy day, unwind at the sleek bar—pure bliss for your stay!
Everything you need to know about 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.
See what other travelers say about Santa Monica
The location and service were absolutely outstanding! I know prices have skyrocketed over the past few years, but considering the exceptional quality of the hotel, it still feels like a fantastic value. The entire experience was so memorable that I’d definitely return. Being just steps away from everything in LA made exploring the city a breeze—this place truly elevates your stay.
Staying at the Kimpton Hotel Palomar Los Angeles Beverly Hills was an absolute delight. The location is fantastic—just a short walk from Rodeo Drive and perfect for exploring nearby areas like UCLA. The staff were incredibly warm and welcoming, making every interaction feel personal and genuine. The amenities are top-notch: clean, stylish rooms with thoughtful touches throughout. While there's a daily guest amenity fee of $35, it’s well worth it. Of that, $15 can be used at the on-site restaurant, which offers a diverse menu—especially impressive was the seafood stew featuring half a lobster, fresh shrimp, and scallops. Breakfast included free coffee and milk, a nice start to the day. I also loved being able to borrow bikes for a ride around the neighborhood, and the complimentary 3-mile Uber ride per day made getting to places like Rodeo Drive effortless. Plus, the evening wine hour from 5 to 6 PM was the perfect way to unwind after a long day. Overall, this hotel delivers exceptional value and a truly memorable experience.
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