Santa Monica Beach Tours

Santa Monica Beach which includes general coastal views and a sunset

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Located just west of downtown Los Angeles, this iconic southern California beach is a haven for swimmers, surfers, beachcombers and fitness enthusiasts.

Get the iconic southern California sun-and-surf experience at Santa Monica Beach. Discover a sandy stretch of oceanfront delights close to one of the nation’s biggest cities.

At 3.5 miles (5.6 kilometers) long, Santa Monica Beach is one of the area’s largest beaches. Stroll down its length and claim a portion of its soft sand. Swim in the clear Pacific Ocean or take advantage of the prime surfing conditions.

Explore the iconic Santa Monica Pier, located in the center of the beach and hosting an amusement park, aquarium and a variety of restaurants. Play arcade games in Pacific Park or enjoy the view from atop the Ferris wheel. Take a spin on the historic carousel and learn about the ocean around you in the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium. Try fishing at the end of the pier.

South of the pier the beach joins the city, which contributes to its bustling atmosphere. Check out the original Muscle Beach, popularly known as the birthplace of America’s fitness boom in the 20th century. Gymnastics equipment is still abundant on the beach. Observe or participate in a chess game in the International Chess Park. Sample the restaurants and browse the shops lining the beach.

North of the pier, Santa Monica Beach meets the soaring palisades. The ocean bluff, coupled with the bordering Pacific Coast Highway, give this section of the beach a more remote atmosphere. Spread out your beach towel and soak up the sun or start a friendly game of beach volleyball.

Santa Monica Beach is accessible by public transportation via light rail or bus. Alternatively, drive here and park in one of the more than eight main parking lots located along the length of the beach. On-street parking is also available.

Head just 16 miles (25 kilometers) west of downtown Los Angeles to take advantage of southern California’s famous weather. Visit Santa Monica Beach throughout the year. Although the weather gets chillier in winter, temperatures never dip below freezing. In summer, the days are long and warm. Come prepared with sunglasses and sandals to enjoy the sand in any season.

Plan a trip to see Santa Monica Beach

Glendale Hotel
Anaheim Discovery Inn & Suites
The Huntley Hotel
Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Browse tours and tickets to explore Santa Monica Beach

Reviews of Santa Monica Beach

4.4
Top Destination
5 - Excellent
1878
" "5 - Excellent 56.02625298329355%
4 - Good
1168
" "4 - Good 34.84486873508353%
3 - Okay
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" "3 - Okay 6.921241050119332%
2 - Disappointing
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" "2 - Disappointing 0.8949880668257757%
1 - Terrible
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" "1 - Terrible 1.3126491646778042%

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler
Mar 9, 2020

If you're not used to walking to nearby shops and sights, try it but remember walking shoes. It's actually rather convenient to walk rather than drive in a number of instances.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler
Mar 2, 2020

We chose to take our own old school razor scooters. Just wear comfortable shoes.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler
Feb 17, 2020

Walking shoes and sweater!

4/5 - Good

Verified traveler
Jan 28, 2020

Last minute trip to Pacific Park on Santa Monica pier, it was crowded bit it was a Saturday afternoon.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler
Aug 27, 2019

Go really early to find parking.

4/5 - Good

Verified traveler
May 9, 2019

The crepes are goog

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Best Lodging Options Near Santa Monica Beach

The Huntley Hotel
The Huntley Hotel
4.5 out of 5
1111 2nd St, Santa Monica, CA
The Huntley Hotel
Fairmont Miramar Hotel
Fairmont Miramar Hotel
5 out of 5
101 Wilshire Blvd, Santa Monica, CA
Fairmont Miramar Hotel
Hotel Carmel
Hotel Carmel
3 out of 5
201 Broadway, Santa Monica, CA
Hotel Carmel
The Pierside Santa Monica
The Pierside Santa Monica
4 out of 5
120 Colorado Avenue, Santa Monica, CA
The Pierside Santa Monica
Ocean View Hotel
Ocean View Hotel
3 out of 5
1447 Ocean Ave, Santa Monica, CA
Ocean View Hotel
Sonder The Beacon
Sonder The Beacon
3.5 out of 5
1301 Ocean Avenue, Santa Monica, CA
Sonder The Beacon
Shore Hotel
Shore Hotel
4 out of 5
1515 Ocean Avenue, Santa Monica, CA
Shore Hotel
Hilton Santa Monica Hotel & Suites
Hilton Santa Monica Hotel & Suites
4 out of 5
1707 4th St, Santa Monica, CA
Hilton Santa Monica Hotel & Suites
The Georgian Hotel
The Georgian Hotel
4 out of 5
1415 Ocean Ave, Santa Monica, CA
The Georgian Hotel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.