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
You'll find beachside kitsch, boardwalk ambiance and carnival fun at this sunbaked LA attraction that’s more than a hundred years old.
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.
Things to do
City Sightseeing LA & Hollywood: Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour - 4 Routes
Hollywood, Beverly Hills & Celebrity Homes Open-Air Bus Tour
Los Angeles: La Brea Tar Pits Museum Ticket
City Cruises Marina del Rey: Premier Dinner Cruise
Los Angeles: Academy Museum of Motion Pictures Ticket
Top hotels in Downtown Santa Monica
Hotel Carmel
Parking was not free but due to the location it was worth it.....The employees ALL OF THEM were very nice and helpful. I woukd stay there again.
Reviewed on 11 May 2026
The Pierside Santa Monica
We were very happy with our stay at the hotel. The location is outstanding — truly one of its biggest strengths. It is within walking distance of the Santa Monica Pier, the beach, restaurants, and shops, which made our trip much more convenient and enjoyable. The staff was extremely attentive, friendly, ...
Reviewed on 10 May 2026
Hilton Santa Monica Hotel & Suites
Friendly staff and very clean room.
Reviewed on 5 May 2026
Hyatt Regency Los Angeles International Airport
Clean room
Reviewed on 10 May 2026
Hilton Los Angeles Airport
When I made this reservation there was a note about renovations going on. Upon entering the hotel, it looks really good and classy. The rooms, however, that we stayed in, one coming and one going home, did not impress me. I was not sure if they had not been renovated or the renovation was not a good ...
Reviewed on 11 May 2026
Loews Hollywood Hotel
Staff wad ok
Reviewed on 11 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 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.
