The Essentials
Tips, tricks and advice for visiting Santa Monica
Santa Monica may be a laid back and picturesque destination with plenty to do and explore, but there are some tips to ensure you make the most of your trip. The essentials will give you up to date Santa Monica tourist information, transportation tips, advice on what to expect (and what to pack), and any important Santa Monica information and travel impacts to the Los Angeles County area.
Travel safely and sustainably to help maintain Santa Monica’s beauty while staying healthy with these tips.
Getting around Santa Monica in every season
Santa Monica is an iconic year-round tourist destination due to its warm summers, mild winters and gorgeous springs and falls. Whenever you decide to visit, you will have every reason to get outside, enjoy the many nearby Southern California amenities and, of course, play in the sparkling Pacific Ocean. Although pleasant all year long, each season varies in popularity – boasting special events, activities and unique price points. Find the best time to visit Santa Monica.
Ideal year-round weather makes getting around Santa Monica’s 8.3 square miles a breeze. Beyond being easily walkable, Santa Monica also boasts public transportation to get you all over the city and to downtown Los Angeles both safely and efficiently. If you decide to drive into and around the city, there are numerous parking lots throughout, including by the beach and the Santa Monica Pier. Explore some of the safety, accessibility and sustainability features and initiatives that make Santa Monica a renowned destination.
Santa Monica neighborhoods
Each of Santa Monica’s streets and neighborhoods has a distinctive look and feel, as well as its own set of activities and attractions. Whether shopping in Downtown Santa Monica and the Third Street Promenade (cross link to promenade), eating at a quaint restaurant on Montana Avenue, bar hopping on Main Street or taking in the action of the Santa Monica Pier, you will find each area worth exploring. During both day and night, you will find dining and entertainment that is just your taste.
Visiting Santa Monica
There’s so much to see and do in Santa Monica, but you also need to know how to get around and what to pack. Explore some hacks, tips and tricks for making the most out of your trip.
