Santa Monica
Santa Monica is a beachside city in California’s western Los Angeles County. Since the late 1980s, the city has seen a boom thanks to the renovation of its downtown center, major job growth, and rising tourism.
Most Popular things to do in Santa Monica California
Most Popular Airports in Santa Monica California
Los Angeles (LAX)
Burbank (BUR)
Santa Ana (SNA)
Long Beach (LGB)
Ontario/San Bernardino (ONT)
Most Popular Airlines in Santa Monica California
Santa Monica Pier is a must-see sight in Los Angeles, and it’s close to other popular destinations like downtown Santa Monica and Venice Beach. Santa Monica Pier is not only a gorgeous place to visit and photograph, but it also marks the western end of Route 66, America’s most famous road trip.
This bluff-top park on Santa Monica’s northern coast is the place to go if you want to see the ocean and the Santa Monica Mountains. The area near the Santa Monica Pier will have more people, so head toward the northern Pacific Palisades-adjacent end, past the majestic concrete sculpture at Wilshire and the colorful totem pole at San Vicente.
The Third Street Promenade is a renowned retail location that runs from Broadway to Wilshire Boulevard. There are additional choices for outside dining.
The 3.5-mile-long Santa Monica State Beach runs along the California coast. You can hire bikes, go to a picnic area, swim under lifeguard supervision, take your kids to the playground, or reserve water sports equipment at this fantastic state beach.
The historic Santa Monica Bike Path, commonly known as ‘The Strand’ by locals, brings you past some truly breathtaking coastal views. The 20-mile-long paved cycling path winds gently along the shore of Santa Monica Bay, providing breathtaking vistas of the Pacific the entire way.
Heal the Bay Aquarium, located beneath the Santa Monica Pier, strives to educate locals and visitors about the aquatic creatures that call Santa Monica Bay home. There are exhibits for more than 100 local species, as well as hands-on activities and daily educational events, at this modest aquarium.
Best time to Visit Santa Monica California
Between September and November is the finest time to visit Santa Monica. You’ll be able to enjoy some of the warmest weather of the year while avoiding the overcrowding that occurs in June, July, and August. Plus, if you come in the fall, you’re more likely to get good hotel and flight rates.
Consider visiting in December, January, or February if you’re on a budget and don’t mind a higher chance of rain – though showers are few and far between thanks to the city’s 280 days of sunlight per year. Deals are sometimes available in the spring as well.
The surge of spring breakers in March and April, however, may detract from the city’s laid-back atmosphere. Families travel here in June, July, and August to soak up some sun while the kids are out of school. Expect to pay extra if you intend on visiting during the high summer season.