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
Friendly staff, awesome location, have refrigerators if you ask for one.
Reviewed on 17 May 2026
Hilton Santa Monica Hotel & Suites
Yes very nice
Reviewed on 16 May 2026
Hyatt Regency Los Angeles International Airport
Did not use.
Reviewed on 16 May 2026
Hilton Los Angeles Airport
Guest shouldn’t have to pay that much for parking but other then that it was good
Reviewed on 17 May 2026
Loews Hollywood Hotel
Loved staying here. It is a beautiful hotel wirh amazing, friendly and helpful staff and so close to so many attractions, shops and restaurants.
Reviewed on 17 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
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.
