Select your travel dates to find the best prices and availability
Step into the Totem Pole in Santa Monica and feel history whisper through the ocean breeze. This striking coastal sculpture isn’t just art—it’s a living story of Indigenous heritage, standing tall against the Pacific sky. Whether you’re snapping photos or just soaking in the moment, it’s where nature and culture meet in perfect harmony.
Everything you need to know about Totem Pole
Near the totem pole in Santa Monica, The Malibu Inn and Santa Monica Beachfront Hotel are top choices. Both offer ocean-view rooms, free Wi-Fi, and a private beach access just a 5-minute walk from the totem pole. The properties feature outdoor pools and coastal-inspired design, blending cultural ambiance with California lifestyle. Conveniently located near Metro Bus Line 21, guests enjoy easy access to downtown LA and other attractions.
Take Metro Bus Line 21 or 940 Express Bus, alighting at the "Santa Monica Pier" stop, then walk 7 minutes along the boardwalk to reach the totem pole. For drivers, use Google Maps to navigate to "Pier Avenue & Ocean Park Boulevard," where public parking is available—though spaces fill up quickly on weekends. Alternatively, rent an e-bike from nearby stations along the pier for a scenic, eco-friendly journey along the coastline.
The totem pole represents Indigenous Pacific Northwest artistry and serves as a cultural landmark. Nearby, join monthly outdoor art markets hosted by Santa Monica Cultural Affairs, showcasing traditional carvings, beadwork, and native attire. Special exhibitions at the California Science Center and MOCA explore Indigenous history and contemporary expressions. At night, experience the coastal light tour, which uses projections and storytelling to bring the totem pole’s ancestral legends to life.
Near the totem pole, enjoy a blend of Californian fusion cuisine and Indigenous-inspired dishes. Try the grilled meat bowl at The Halal Guys, or dine at Café Gratitude for plant-based gourmet meals. Turtle Beach Café offers seaside dining with a signature dish: coconut-infused stewed fish reflecting Pacific Island flavors. Many restaurants source ingredients from local farms, supporting sustainable food practices, making each meal not only delicious but also environmentally conscious.
Yes, the totem pole area is highly family-friendly. Safe, well-marked pathways and interactive signage explain Indigenous legends through simple visuals. Nearby, the Santa Monica Pier Playground features slides, swings, and climbing structures perfect for kids aged 3–12. Daily parent-child workshops—such as miniature carving and nature collage-making—are offered onsite. Most eateries provide high chairs and gluten-free menu options, ensuring comfort for all family members.
Yes, weekend and holiday evenings feature a nighttime light projection show that animates Indigenous myths onto the totem pole using dynamic visuals and ambient soundscapes. During these events, pop-up craft stalls and interactive zones offer activities like pottery, weaving, and symbolic painting. Arrive by 6 PM to secure a good viewing spot. Event details are available on the City of Santa Monica Official Website, with many shows offering free admission.
The Malibu Beach Inn is a top choice just 1.5 km from the Santa Monica Totem Pole, offering ocean-view rooms and direct access to the beach. This coastal retreat blends modern elegance with Southern California charm, featuring private sand access and a luxurious spa. Guests can immerse in the cultural significance of the Totem Pole, a symbol of Indigenous heritage, while enjoying nearby art galleries and gourmet dining spots that reflect Santa Monica’s vibrant creative scene.
Beyond viewing the Totem Pole, visitors can join guided tours hosted by local Indigenous cultural centers to explore its tribal legends and symbolic meanings. The annual "Indigenous Heritage Festival" at Santa Monica Pier features traditional dances, handcrafted artifacts, and oral storytelling, offering a profound connection to Pacific Northwest Native spirituality. Scattered around the area are public art installations and sculptures that celebrate multicultural fusion, enriching the visitor’s understanding of regional history and artistic expression.
The Totem Pole is located near Santa Monica Pier, where the free Santa Monica Shuttle Bus (Route 2) provides direct service to downtown in about 15 minutes. Alternatively, Metro Bike Share stations offer convenient access to rent bicycles for a scenic 10-minute ride along the oceanfront promenade. For walkers, the 1.8-kilometer journey offers a pleasant route past shops and cafés, combining urban convenience with eco-friendly travel. These options ensure seamless, sustainable access to the city’s core attractions.
Yes, the Santa Monica Pier adjacent to the Totem Pole features children’s play zones, an aquarium with marine life exhibits, and interactive science displays perfect for families. Nearby, Santa Monica State Park offers bike trails, picnic areas, and nature walks ideal for outdoor exploration. Weekly outdoor movie nights under the stars add a magical touch, allowing families to enjoy classic films together. With safe, engaging environments and a blend of education and fun, this area is a top destination for family vacations.
Staying near the Totem Pole, properties like Hotel Casa del Mar offer panoramic views of the Pacific sunset from spacious balconies or guest rooms. Mornings bring sights of seagulls soaring and fishing boats gliding across the water, creating a serene atmosphere. Some hotels provide private beach access, plus indoor and outdoor pools and ocean-view bars, blending relaxation with coastal luxury. At night, stroll along the seaside promenade, listen to the waves, and embrace the poetic rhythm of ocean life—a quintessential Southern California experience.
Carved from red cedar wood using traditional Indigenous craftsmanship, the Totem Pole features intricate relief carvings of symbolic figures such as bears, eagles, and sea lions—representing clan lineage and mythological narratives. Its bold colors and three-dimensional design exemplify the essence of Pacific Northwest tribal artistry. Engraved with dates and artist names at the base, it stands not only as a cultural landmark but also as a testament to reverence for nature and ancestral heritage. It serves as a vital window into Indigenous worldviews and social structure.
See what other travelers say about Totem Pole
Staying at The Eden in Santa Monica was an absolute dream come true. It was our first visit to the city, and from the moment we arrived, everything felt perfect. The room was spacious, beautifully designed, and incredibly comfortable—just what we needed after a long journey. The staff went above and beyond with their warm, attentive service, making us feel right at home. The pool and hot tub area is serene and stylish, especially in the evening when the lights come on—it’s the ideal spot to unwind. The atmosphere throughout the hotel is calm, elegant, and inviting. Plus, being just a short walk from downtown and public transit made exploring the city so easy. Every detail, from the decor to the quiet ambiance, reflects thoughtfulness and quality. If you’re planning a trip to Santa Monica, this hotel should be at the top of your list. We couldn’t have asked for a better experience.
Staying at Ocean Lodge Santa Monica Beach Hotel was an absolute delight. The location is unbeatable—practically steps from the Santa Monica Pier, with easy access to beaches, restaurants, and local attractions. The room was spotless, cozy, and thoughtfully designed, making it feel like a home away from home. From the warm welcome to the attention to detail, every aspect of the stay exceeded expectations. I’ll definitely be returning on my next trip to the area and highly recommend this gem to anyone visiting Santa Monica.
Staying at Cal Mar Hotel Suites was an absolute delight for our family of five. The space is generously sized, making it perfect for both relaxing and dining in—no need to worry about cramped quarters or crowded tables. The rooms are well-designed, spotlessly clean, and packed with thoughtful touches that make you feel right at home. What really stood out was the location: just a short walk from Santa Monica Beach and surrounded by great dining options. Compared to other four-star hotels we've stayed at, this one offers far better value and convenience. Friendly staff, excellent amenities, and a peaceful atmosphere—it’s definitely a top pick for any family trip.
I was extremely disappointed with this property. I initially booked through a platform and had a free cancellation option, yet they charged me for the first night despite still being within the cancellation window—due to a date error. When I rebooked, we canceled the day before because of troubling reviews about the hotel. I accepted the $217 cancellation fee without issue, but then the hotel charged me the full amount of $651 instead! That’s completely unacceptable. To make matters worse, the place itself is a disaster. We encountered French guests who stayed only one night and left immediately—they mentioned cockroaches, filthy conditions, and unbearable noise. The room was not clean, the building felt rundown, and the overall experience was far below any standard I’d expect. Avoid this hotel at all costs—it’s not worth the money or the stress.
The hotel is incredibly convenient, just a short walk from Santa Monica Beach and surrounded by great dining options and shops. The room was clean, spacious, and the bed was super comfortable—perfect for a good night's sleep. The breakfast was outstanding: generous portions with a wide variety of fresh options including juice, hot dishes, pastries, and eggs. It’s the kind of breakfast that makes your day start right. Staff were friendly and attentive, and overall, the value for money is excellent. I’d definitely stay here again.
This budget-friendly hotel is an absolute gem! Located just steps away from the transit stop and nestled in a safe, convenient neighborhood, it’s perfect for travelers who value both comfort and affordability. The area is lively yet peaceful, with plenty of local eateries and shops within walking distance. I was impressed by how clean and well-maintained the rooms were—great value for the price. Whether you're here for a quick weekend getaway or exploring Santa Monica, this hotel delivers on every front. Definitely a top pick!
I arrived earlier than check-in time, but the staff welcomed me immediately and got me checked in without any hassle. The owners are a lovely couple—so warm and flexible with their service that it felt like staying at a friend’s place. The garden on-site is absolutely beautiful—peaceful, well-maintained, and perfect for relaxing after a long day. It’s super convenient too: there are plenty of restaurants nearby, a 7-Eleven right across the street, and fast food options just steps away. I’m already planning my next trip to Santa Monica just so I can come back here. This place has a genuine charm and excellent value—you won’t regret booking with the platform.
Staying at Sea Blue Hotel was a great experience overall. The location is unbeatable—just steps away from Santa Monica Pier and Muscle Beach, making it super convenient for exploring the area on foot. The property itself is clean, well-maintained, and has a nice modern vibe. Our room was spacious and comfortable, with plenty of room to relax after a day of sightseeing. While there’s no air conditioning, the weather was pleasantly cool during our visit, and the fan in the room worked perfectly to keep things breezy. One thing to note is that the neighborhood can get a bit noisy at night, especially if you leave the window open—something we were aware of and managed accordingly. We felt safe during the day, but walking back late at night, we noticed a few people around who made us cautious. That said, it’s more reflective of the local area than anything the hotel did wrong. Overall, the value for money is excellent, the staff were friendly, and the central location makes it hard to beat. I’d definitely stay here again.
Staying at Pavilions Motel in Santa Monica was an absolute delight. Right next to the beach and just a short walk from the pier, it's perfect for those who love easy access to coastal vibes. The motel itself is clean, well-maintained, and surprisingly cozy—my room was compact but thoughtfully designed with all the essentials. The bed was incredibly comfortable, and I slept like a baby every night. What really stood out was the staff—friendly, attentive, and genuinely helpful. They even gave me some great local dining tips that made my trip even better. For the price, this place offers incredible value. If you're looking for a relaxed, no-frills stay in a prime location, this is definitely the spot.
I stayed at Palm Motel for just one night, and I was genuinely impressed. The property was spotless and quiet—perfect for a relaxing getaway. My room was cozy and well-furnished, with everything I needed for a comfortable stay. The staff were incredibly polite and attentive, always ready to help with anything. I’ll admit I was a little nervous at first about the shared bathroom setup since it was my first time staying in such a space. But honestly, it wasn’t an issue at all—during my entire stay, I never encountered anyone else using the facilities while I was in there. Privacy was respected, and the bathrooms were kept clean and well-maintained. For a budget-friendly option in Santa Monica, this place offers excellent value. I’d definitely recommend it to travelers looking for a quiet, clean, and welcoming base.
Staying at Hotel Carmel Santa Monica was an absolute delight. The location is unbeatable—just a short walk to Santa Monica Beach and the Pacific Park amusement area, with everything you need within easy reach. I loved strolling along the nearby pedestrian street for dinner and shopping; there’s such a vibrant mix of restaurants and boutiques. The hotel itself offers excellent amenities and top-notch service—clean rooms, friendly staff, and a welcoming atmosphere. It’s clear they care about guest comfort. I’ll definitely be returning next time I visit Santa Monica.
I stayed here during my English language course in Santa Monica, and it was a great experience. The breakfast was simple but included, which was a nice touch—especially helpful when you're on a tight schedule. The staff were incredibly friendly and helpful, making the stay feel welcoming and stress-free. That’s why I ended up rebooking for a longer stay. The location is excellent—close to everything, and super convenient for getting to class by public transit. Overall, a fantastic value with a warm, reliable vibe. Definitely coming back.
Explore more amazing destinations