Downtown Santa Monica Travel Guide
Tourist Guide
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
The Santa Monica Pier is one of the best places in Los Angeles to soak up some rays and enjoy all the fun of the fair at this popular destination.
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.
Activities
City Sightseeing LA & Hollywood: Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour - 4 Routes
Hollywood, Beverly Hills & Celebrity Homes Open-Air Bus Tour
All Day LA Tour: Hollywood, Beverly Hills and Santa Monica
Los Angeles: La Brea Tar Pits Museum Ticket
Our pick of the best Downtown Santa Monica Hotel Deals
Hotel Carmel
"First thing we noticed was the dead bugs by the window. We had to go downstairs and ask the front desk for ice. Two out of the five nights we got this lady who was so rude and told us that if we wanted ice we should try coming down at a reasonable time. The sheets had a nasty stain on them."
Reviewed on 19 May 2026
Hilton Santa Monica Hotel & Suites
"Hilton was not what I expected, when we walked into our room it reeked of marijuana. And the beds are horrible, they are concaved and was so uncomfortable, every one of us woke up with back pain. Additionally, we ran out of toilet paper and waited 3 hours for it to arrive and had to call 3 times ..."
Reviewed on 19 May 2026
Hyatt Regency Los Angeles International Airport
"I only stayed at the Hyatt on a layover, but wished I had been able to arrive earlier and stay longer. I didn’t have to wait for the shuttle so I felt very safe despite my late arrival. The room was very spacious, immaculate, and comfortable. The staff was professional and friendly."
Reviewed on 19 May 2026
Hilton Los Angeles Airport
"It was great took advantage of the gym."
Reviewed on 19 May 2026
Loews Hollywood Hotel
"Great location, great room. The only issue we had was the room was a little dusty around the TV area and some of the furniture."
Reviewed on 19 May 2026
The Westin Bonaventure Hotel and Suites, Los Angeles
"What can I say?…we will definitely be back! Such a great experience. Everyone was super helpful. Nice bar, Starbucks handy, great breakfast buffet, and a nice little night menu if you choose to stay in. The pool was very enjoyable also. Looking forward to next time."
Reviewed on 13 May 2026
Check Downtown Santa Monica hotel availability
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 Airport Park and Lucky Strike Mar Vista.
Westwood
Museums, bars and art galleries highlight some of the noteworthy features of Westwood. Make a stop by Edwin W. Pauley Pavilion or Westwood Village 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.