Downtown Santa Monica Travel Guide
Los Angeles
Visit Downtown Santa Monica
Popular places to visit
Santa Monica Beach
Located just west of downtown Los Angeles, this iconic southern California beach is a haven for swimmers, surfers, beachcombers and fitness enthusiasts.
Santa Monica Pier
This sun kissed beachside boardwalk boasts a vibrant carnival atmosphere and a history that dates back over century.
Third Street Promenade
During your trip to Santa Monica, you can do some window-shopping at Third Street Promenade. Stroll along the area's beaches or simply enjoy its restaurants.
Santa Monica Place
During your trip to Santa Monica, you can browse for the perfect souvenirs at Santa Monica Place. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the top-notch restaurants while you're in the area.
Original Muscle Beach
Why not spend a care-free afternoon at Original Muscle Beach during your travels in Santa Monica? Wander the seaside or discover the area's sunsets.
Pacific Park
Bring the children to Pacific Park and have a fun-filled day at this theme park in Santa Monica. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the top-notch restaurants while you're in the area.
Top hotels in Downtown Santa Monica
Hotel Carmel
It was clean and in a great location
Reviewed on 23 Apr 2026
The Pierside Santa Monica
Friendly staff
Reviewed on 22 Apr 2026
Hilton Santa Monica Hotel & Suites
Everything is very good in general
Reviewed on 21 Apr 2026
Hilton Los Angeles Airport
Not place to get a drink or have a sit down meal until 4 pm. Pool area was a disaster with towels left everywhere and the used town bin overflowing. Had to clean up other peoples used towels to make a seat for us. And it wasn’t even busy. Heat pool is also not heated. Room and staff were great. Nice ...
Reviewed on 22 Apr 2026
Hotel Burbank
Friendly Staff Nice Cafe Room Service Ample parking Clean establishment and Rooms.
Reviewed on 23 Apr 2026
Sonesta Los Angeles Airport LAX
You could hear a lot of the jet takeoffs and motorcycles roaring by on the street quite loud. Our side was facing LAX airport so may have been normal but would have been better on back of hotel for getting a room to get sleep. Breakfast burrito and sandwich very greasy if you order from front counter. ...
Reviewed on 22 Apr 2026
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Other neighbourhoods around Downtown Santa Monica
Ocean Park
Ocean Park is known for its stunning beaches, and you can see some sights area like Venice Beach and Santa Monica Beach.
Venice Canals
Venice Canals might not have many top sights, but Venice Beach and Venice Beach Boardwalk are two attractions nearby that you can check out.
West Los Angeles
Travellers choose West Los Angeles for its ample dining options. Hop aboard the metro at Expo/Sepulved Station or Expo/Bundy Station and check out top sights like Laemmle Theatres Royal.
Mar Vista
While visiting Mar Vista, you might make a stop by sights like Lucky Strike Mar Vista and Airport Park.
Westwood
Museums, bars and art galleries highlight some of the noteworthy features of Westwood. Make a stop by Westwood Village or UCLA Athletics Hall of Fame while you're exploring the neighbourhood.
Century City
Shopping, restaurants and beaches highlight some of the noteworthy features of Century City. Make a stop by Westfield Century City or 20th Century Fox Studios while you're exploring the neighbourhood.
