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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
This was such a relaxing stay at a clean and well-maintained property. The hotel is quiet, spotless, and very welcoming from the moment you walk in. I especially appreciated the parking space located at the back—easy access and secure, which made things much more convenient, especially if you're driving. Breakfast options were plentiful and varied, with hot items and fresh pastries that tasted great. The staff were friendly and helpful throughout my visit. It's a fantastic value for the location, right near Santa Monica’s vibrant area. Would definitely book again if I ever return to the city.
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.
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 The Pierside Santa Monica was an absolute delight—literally steps from the iconic Santa Monica Pier, making it perfect for morning walks or evening strolls along the boardwalk. The on-site valet parking is a real convenience, especially if you're arriving by car. While the rate is on the higher side at $68 before tax, the unbeatable location and thoughtful touches make it worth every penny. Guests can borrow beach towels, chairs, and even kid-friendly toy sets—perfect for families wanting to spend time at the beach without packing a thing. It’s clear that the hotel goes the extra mile to enhance your stay, and with such a prime spot right on the water, it’s easy to see why this place earns top marks.
The Ocean View Hotel truly delivers on every front—excellent staff, stunning views, and an unbeatable location right in front of the Santa Monica Pier. Waking up to the ocean breeze and watching the sun set over the water was pure magic. The staff went above and beyond to make our stay comfortable and memorable. Being steps away from the pier, restaurants, shops, and beaches made everything so convenient. It’s rare to find such a perfect blend of comfort, service, and location. I’d absolutely recommend this gem to anyone visiting Santa Monica.
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.
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.
We arrived at the hotel earlier than check-in time, which is 4 PM, so we checked in our luggage. The front desk staff, Tom, was incredibly welcoming and helpful right from the start. When I picked up my bags later, he noticed it was my first stay here and kindly took a moment to explain how to use the key card for the elevator—though I already knew, his thoughtful gesture made me feel truly valued. It’s clear this team genuinely cares about guest experience. From the warm greeting to the small but meaningful details, every interaction stood out. A fantastic first impression with excellent service that goes above and beyond. I’ll definitely be back.
Staying at The Georgian Hotel was an absolute delight! The room was spacious and impeccably clean, with a cozy bed that made for a restful night's sleep. Located just a short walk from Santa Monica Beach, it’s perfect for those who love to explore on foot. The neighborhood feels safe and vibrant, with plenty of great dining options nearby. I appreciated how quiet and well-maintained the area was—perfect for a relaxing getaway. With its unbeatable location and excellent service, this hotel is definitely a top choice for 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.
Staying at Palihouse Santa Monica was an absolute delight—classic American charm with a timeless elegance that truly stands out. From the moment I walked in, the atmosphere felt warm and inviting, with thoughtful design details throughout the property. The location is unbeatable; just a short walk from the beach and surrounded by great dining options. I fell in love with the vibe, the comfort, and the attention to detail. This isn’t just a place to sleep—it’s an experience. I’m already planning my next trip back. If you’re looking for something special, authentic, and beautifully curated, this is it.
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