Craving the LA beach vibe with just a little more sophistication? Santa Monica has been having a moment lately, and for good reason. With hot spot hotels like the newly restored Georgian and the Kelly Wearstler-designed Proper popping up along the boulevard, Santa Monica is more than just the famed pier. It’s home to A-List celebs like Christian Bale, The Beckhams, and Tom Cruise to name just a few, and is chock-a-block with noteworthy destinations for shopping, dining and culture. It’s the birthplace of Dogtown, the Goop flagship store and the legendary Santa Monica steps.
It’s got nearly four miles of beaches so there’s plenty of opportunity for surf culture, biking, or running, and by night you can dine at some of LA’s hottest restaurants like Dan Tana, Bar Monette, and the Erewhon Hot Bar. Weekends are prime time to enjoy the laid-back vibe of Santa Monica by hitting the farmers market, going for a stroll down Montana Avenue after a yoga class before heading to Brentwood Country Market for more shopping.
We had the opportunity to spend a few days there a few months back and wanted to share our hit list below in case you’re planning a visit soon.
STAY
The Georgian
Palihouse Santa Monica
Santa Monica Proper Hotel
Viceroy Santa Monica
Hotel Oceana
EAT
Dan Tana’s
Bar Monette
Crudo e Nudo
Tartine
Isla
Bread Head
Birdie G’s
Ghnarwhal Coffee
Élephante Beach House
Erewhon
Milo SRO
Rustic Canyon
Bungalow
Farm Shop
Fia
Cobi’s
Esters Wine Shop & Bar
La La Land
Heavy Handed
Vamos Vamos
Pasjoli
SHOP
Sanctuarie Shoppe
Brentwood Country Mart
Jill Roberts
Savannah
Goop
Turpan
Merchant
Dôen
Field Guide
Burro
Goodies
Zibby’s Bookstore
Divine Vintage
DO
Walk the Santa Monica Steps
Art appreciation at Bergamot Station Arts Centre
Catch a film at the Drive-in at Santa Monica Airport
Shop like a local at the Santa Monica Farmers Market
Get your kitsch on at the Airport Antique Market
Biohack away the jet lag at Upgrade Labs