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 Cruises Marina del Rey: Premier Dinner Cruise
City Cruises Marina del Rey: Premier Bottomless Champagne Brunch Cruise
Los Angeles: Petersen Automotive Museum Entry & Vault Access
Los Angeles: Academy Museum of Motion Pictures Ticket
Los Angeles Airport Same Day Luggage Services 1 Ticket for 2 Bags
Los Angeles: La Brea Tar Pits Museum Ticket
Top hotels in Downtown Santa Monica
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
"The room is clean and the beds are comfortable. I really enjoyed my stay."
Reviewed on 19 May 2026
Hyatt Regency Los Angeles International Airport
"Very nice property and perfect for an overnight between flights!"
Reviewed on 20 May 2026
Hilton Los Angeles Airport
"The hotel is beautiful and modern, but the staff needs training in hospitality and customer service."
Reviewed on 20 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.
