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 is a small hotel with limited amenities. Just your average stay. I would go for another hotel next time.
Reviewed on 7 May 2026
The Pierside Santa Monica
We found a cockroache in the room restroom and also had the toilet fkush out of order. Despite that was ok
Reviewed on 8 May 2026
Hilton Santa Monica Hotel & Suites
Friendly staff and very clean room.
Reviewed on 5 May 2026
Hilton Los Angeles Airport
Great hotel thats super convenient being so close to LAX. The hallways have a heavy carpet that made pulling suitcase(s) really difficult from the elevator to the room. Driver(s) for shuttle busses were not super friendly but got the job done.
Reviewed on 8 May 2026
Loews Hollywood Hotel
It's a great hotel in a great location. But hotels should have bathtubs. A microwave would be nice.
Reviewed on 8 May 2026
The Westin Bonaventure Hotel and Suites, Los Angeles
Beautiful lobby and view from our room
Reviewed on 8 May 2026
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.
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.
Westchester
You might enjoy the shopping while in Westchester. Bowlero Los Angeles is a notable sight, and you can get around town at Westchester/Veterans Station or LAX/Metro Transit Center to see more of the city.
