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The iconic pier. Golden sands. Countless TV programmes. In many ways, you already know what’s to love about Santa Monica – even if only in daydreams. Now it’s time to live it.
Across 3.5 miles of stunning coastline, our Santa Monica Multi-Centre Holidays can take you to the famous Muscle Beach, the historic Pacific Park theme park, rooftop dining in Santa Monica Place, and hidden gems all set against the glistening Pacific Ocean.
Santa Monica is where the city meets the sea, as irresistibly modern as it is naturally beautiful, and you can see it all with a tailormade itinerary.
Santa Monica Highlights
From lying on sun-kissed beaches to shopping 'til you drop to diving into coastal forests, Santa Monica has all the holiday worth having.
Beaches
When you think of Santa Monica, you think of beaches. And none is more famous than the 3.5-mile-long Santa Monica State Beach. This sandy paradise has it all: wide-open stretches of shoreline, scenic bike trails, and Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier. For something quieter, head to Will Rogers State Beach for peaceful beach walks or active beach volleyball games. Palisades Beach stuns with its dramatic coastal bluffs and ocean views, while the Original Muscle Beach is where fitness lovers flex their skills in the California sun.
Iconic sights
If Santa Monica had a heartbeat, it would be the Santa Monica Pier - a true SoCal legend for over a century. Beyond this fun-fuelled funfair, Santa Monica is home to other famous attractions like the Annenberg Community Beach House, a historic estate turned beachfront retreat, complete with a pool, café, and fitness centre. Stroll through Palisades Park, where stunning ocean views steal the show or wander the Venice Canal Historic District, brimming with colourful houses, charming bridges, and dreamy waters.
Nature
Beyond its beaches, to the north of the city lies the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area. This mountainous region is a hiker's paradise, offering trails that reward adventurers with breathtaking panoramic views of the ocean and city below. With its diverse ecosystems, from coastal forests to oak woodlands, the area is a sanctuary for wildlife like deer, coyotes, and birds. Closer to the city, places like Douglas Park and Santa Monica Canyon provide peaceful retreats brimming with native plants and local wildlife.
Beachside Shopping
What pairs better than sunshine and sandy toes? Shopping, of course. Put on your flip-flops and wander into a shopper's paradise just steps from the beach. Stroll through the open-air Third Street Promenade, where street performers add extra charm to your shopping spree, or explore Santa Monica Place for upmarket fashion finds and rooftop dining with a view. Soak in the bohemian flair of Main Street, packed with vintage treasures, indie boutiques, and artsy vibes. Souvenirs, statement pieces, or that perfect coastal outfit? You'll find it all here in Santa Monica.
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Multi Centre Itineraries
Our bespoke multi-centre itineraries turn your daydreams into dream days. No matter whether you’re a sun chaser, nature lover or thrill seeker – we can help you find, design, and combine your favourite holiday experiences. Utilising our first-hand knowledge of destinations gained from over twenty years of award-winning service, we can deliver a free personalised itinerary within an hour or so. Better yet, you can make changes to your quote at any time before departure. Holiday your way by getting in touch today.
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Our Santa Monica Favourites
Santa Monica Pier
Picture yourself at the heart of Santa Monica, where the ocean waves dance with pink and purple sparkles. Here, incredible views are all around, even before you jump on the Ferris Wheel that lights up the area. Whether you’re looking for culture, history, events or simply a chance to let your hair down, the Santa Monica Pier delivers.
Venice Canal Historic District
Experience the old-world charm of Mediterranean Venice under the golden Californian sun. Founded in 1905, the Venice Canal Historic District is hidden within the sprawling modern day city of Santa Monica and offers the traditional beauty of a seaside town in Italy. 6 man-made canals stretch east to west, and in our experience, offer a unique way to explore.
Santa Monica Downtown Walking Tour
Imagine glamorous Art Deco hotels, historic speakeasies, and walking in the footsteps of icons like Jim Morrison. Spanning 6 blocks and lasting a leisurely 2 hours, this walking tour promises an unforgettable experience for anyone curious about Santa Monica's storied past. Just bring your walking shoes, and an expert guide will show you the real Santa Monica.
Palisades Park
For stunning views, look no further than Palisades Park. The mountains, ocean, and palm trees create a true skyline masterpiece. Think the classic LA image everyone always pictures, but with less crowds. Stretching over twenty-six acres along Ocean Avenue, it is perfectly placed beside Santa Monica Bay and all the best beaches.
Santa Monica State Beach
Think of Santa Monica, and one place instantly comes to mind - Santa Monica State Beach. Spanning 3.5 miles of sandy shoreline, Santa Monica State Beach is an invitation for those dreamy beach walks where the waves play tag with your toes. And let's not forget the star of the show - Santa Monica Pier. With Pacific Park's iconic Ferris wheel, roller coaster, arcade, and aquarium, it's the perfect spot for endless family fun.
Will Rogers State Beach
Situated north of Santa Monica, Will Rogers State Beach provides a more tranquil setting. The 3-mile shore was made famous as the star-studded backdrop of blockbuster movies and the legendary Baywatch series, paying homage to its namesake, the actor Will Rogers. It attracts active visitors with its volleyball courts, bike paths, excellent surfing conditions, and opportunities for sailing and windsurfing.
Original Muscle Beach
Not to be confused with nearby Muscle Beach in Venice, the Original Muscle Beach is located on the iconic Ocean Front Walk in Santa Monica. Its outdoor gym, complete with parallel bars and ropes, is an active holidaymaker’s dream. Whether you’re a fitness freak, a leisurely exerciser, or just fancy a look, entry is free and the atmosphere is always laid-back.
Palisades Beach
Perfect for low crowds and space to spread out, this slim strip of soft sand is an inviting alternative to the ever-popular Santa Monica Beach. Unlike its next-door neighbour, there isn’t lots of beachfront bars. Instead, there is the beautiful Palisades Park right behind the beach. Palisades Beach is perfect for being at one with nature, as all the surfers here will tell you.
Downtown Santa Monica
This shopping experience adds some culture to your basket. Its 3rd Street Promenade is home to 80 retailers and also a number of street performers. Consisting of three car-free, open-air blocks, you will find everything from high fashion to fresh fruit here. It’s also easily accessible on the Metro between Santa Monica, CA and Downtown LA.
Santa Monica Place
This one-of-a-kind, tri-level, all-outdoor shopping complex is located in Downtown Santa Monica. Just steps away from the Pacific Ocean, it promises shopping in style. Treat yourself to souvenirs from big bands like Nike, Rolex, Uniqlo and even Tesla, before enjoying an array of restaurants such as The Cheesecake Factory or family entertainment at attractions like Children’s Museum.
The Plaza at Santa Monica
Set to open ‘around 2025’, The Plaza at Santa Monica will be a hub activity, not least shopping. Innovatively designed, the obliquely oriented building will feature a fully accessible public plaza and roof terraces that embrace the ‘open space’ identity of the project. The result will be a destination for ‘gathering, play, education, innovation, entertainment, and celebration’.
Third Street Promenade
Third Street Promenade is located a short stroll from the beach, making it one of Santa Monica's most popular shopping destinations. This outdoor shopping destination features a wide variety of stores, including well-known brands like Apple and Anthropologie, along with one-of-a-kind local boutiques - perfect for finding that special souvenir. With street performers adding to the buzz and an array of lively restaurants and cafes to choose from, it's the ideal spot to soak up the California vibe.
Misfit Bar & Restaurant
If you're looking for a fun, casual dining experience with delicious comfort food and crafted drinks in a trendy setting, Misfit is the place to be. Located in the heart of Santa Monica, Misfit Bar & Restaurant offers a lively, eclectic atmosphere with a focus on American comfort food and creative cocktails. Known for its welcoming vibe, Misfit boasts a menu that blends bold flavours and classic favourites, such as their crispy Brussels sprouts, truffle fries, and gourmet burgers.
True Food Kitchen
True Food Kitchen stands out with its commitment to wholesome, fresh, and nutritious food. This restaurant is inspired by Dr Andrew Weil's anti-inflammatory food pyramid, offering a wide variety of dishes designed to support a healthy lifestyle. Their menu includes a mix of flavourful salads, grain bowls, pizzas, and creative entrees that cater to various dietary preferences, including vegan, gluten-free, and paleo options.
Bubba Shrimp Co.
Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. is a must-visit for seafood lovers. Inspired by the popular movie Forrest Gump, the restaurant is a fun, family-friendly spot specialising in shrimp dishes. Whether you prefer it fried, grilled, or in a hearty pasta, Bubba Gump offers a variety of ways to enjoy shrimp, along with other seafood options like fish and chips, crab cakes, and clam chowder.
The Penthouse
Located atop the Hotel Erwin in Venice, just a short drive from Santa Monica, The Penthouse is a sophisticated rooftop restaurant that offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the Los Angeles skyline. With its upscale ambience and stylish design, The Penthouse serves a range of contemporary American cuisine from fresh seafood to decadent desserts. Enjoying a meal here is an experience not just for the palate but also for the senses, as diners can indulge in delicious food while gazing at stunning vistas.
Fig Restaurant
For high-end, fresh, Mediterranean-inspired cuisine in a chic environment, FIG is the place to be. Situated in the Fairmont Miramar Hotel, FIG Restaurant offers a Mediterranean-inspired menu featuring fresh, flavourful dishes such as wood-grilled meats, seafood varieties, and vegetable-based options. FIG Restaurant is especially known for its relaxed, modern ambience, with an inviting outdoor patio where diners can enjoy the beautiful Southern California weather.
Santa Monica Holidays FAQs
Santa Monica Holidays FAQs
Santa Monica Holidays FAQs
Personally, we love visiting Santa Monica in autumn (from September until November), where the cooler climes suit our British nature, and when smaller crowds allow you to explore at your leisure. Spring can also be a sweet spot but naturally a little chillier.
As is the case for all California beaches, no alcohol is allowed. This is a California State Parks rule that aims to ensure every beach in the state stays safe and clean.
Santa Monica Beach is open from sunrise to sunset. In summertime, this will be from around 5:50am until 8pm. The Santa Monica Pier is open daily from 6am until 10pm.
In short, yes. However, unlike a lot of Los Angeles nightlife, Santa Monica’s party scene is a lot more laid-back. Think casual dress and easy laughter, with plenty of options to suit your taste. We love the Misfit Restaurant + Bar for signature cocktails and holiday comfort food.
Yes, we are pleased to say the Santa Monica Pier is free to visit 365 days a year. The Pacific Park amusement park on the Pier requires a small admission fee, where a Ferris wheel and carnival games await.
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