Featured Hotels Near Santa Monica Bay

Marriott's Santa Monica Beach Resort is ideal for families, located steps from the beach with access to a private oceanfront patio. The resort features a children's activity center, indoor pool, and direct walking access to Santa Monica Pier. Guests enjoy panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and easy access to local dining, street art, and boardwalk entertainment, making it a perfect base for coastal adventures.

The most convenient option is taking the Metro Expo Line Rail, which departs from Santa Monica Station and reaches Downtown LA in about 40 minutes, with no traffic delays. Alternatively, Uber or Lyft take 15–20 minutes and cost $25–$35. For budget travelers, Metro Bus Line 21 offers a direct route to Union Station in approximately 30 minutes, providing reliable access without the stress of driving in heavy urban traffic.

Enjoy surfing, windsurfing, and snorkeling excursions at Santa Monica Bay. Local providers like Santa Monica Surf School offer beginner lessons and gear rentals. During summer, join a sunset cruise to witness Pacific sunsets and spot dolphins. Nearby, the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium combines marine education with interactive exhibits, making it a perfect choice for families seeking both fun and learning opportunities amidst the coastal beauty.

Try The Pike Restaurant & Bar, located right on the pier, renowned for its fresh seafood and live music performances. Signature dishes include grilled scallops with herb sauce and salmon tartare, reflecting California’s modern culinary style. Another top pick is Gjusta Bakery & Café, offering artisanal breads and Mediterranean-inspired light fare in a stylish setting—perfect for morning coffee or afternoon pastries. Both are favorites among locals and visitors alike, capturing the essence of coastal Southern California living.

Start with a morning jog or bike ride along the Pacific Coast Highway at Santa Monica Beach. Visit the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium for marine education, then explore the Santa Monica Museum of Art in the afternoon for contemporary exhibitions. End the day with dinner at Third Street Promenade, sampling global cuisine while enjoying the dusk lights display on the pier. This balanced itinerary blends seaside relaxation, cultural enrichment, and urban charm—perfect for a comprehensive day trip in Santa Monica Bay.

Some hotels, like the Hyatt Regency Santa Monica, provide complimentary parking, but availability depends on HopeGoo confirmation. Most downtown-area hotels charge $30–$50 per night for parking. To avoid congestion and parking hassles, consider using public transit or shared e-bikes/e-scooters (e.g., Lime, Bird). Santa Monica’s Green Mobility Program also rewards eco-friendly travel with small incentives, encouraging sustainable tourism practices across the bay area.