Hotels in Santa Monica

Santa Monica: Where Sunlit Shores Embrace Coastal Dreams

Nestled along the stunning California coast, Santa Monica is a vibrant beach city that effortlessly combines sun-soaked relaxation with urban sophistication. Famous for its iconic pier, where the thrilling amusement park rides meet breathtaking ocean views, Santa Monica invites visitors to stroll along its picturesque beachfront promenade. Enjoy the lively atmosphere of local markets, gourmet dining, and boutique shopping, while beachfront hotels offer the perfect retreat. With its lush parks and cultural attractions, Santa Monica is an enchanting destination that beautifully blends coastal charm with a lively urban spirit. Perfect for both romantic getaways and family adventures.

Top locations to stay in Santa Monica

Some of the great areas to stay in when visiting Santa Monica, California, are West Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and Inglewood. West Hollywood is known for its vibrant nightlife and sun-kissed atmosphere, while Beverly Hills offers hilly landscapes and luxury shopping. Inglewood boasts excellent shopping options. For first-time visitors, Beverly Hills is best suited due to its iconic attractions and upscale experiences.

1. West HollywoodOpens in a new window: West Hollywood is an exciting place to stay, known for its vibrant atmosphere and iconic nightlife. The area is famous for its trendy boutiques and high-end shopping along Melrose Avenue, as well as its cultural attractions like art galleries and theatres that showcase local talent. With a variety of dining options and a lively social scene, you can enjoy everything from upscale restaurants to casual cafes. Don't miss the scenic views from the Hollywood Hills, which add an extra touch of glamour to your stay.
2. Beverly HillsOpens in a new window: If you're looking for luxury, Beverly Hills is the perfect destination. This glamorous area is renowned for its stunning architecture and exclusive shopping experiences on Rodeo Drive. The tree-lined streets are ideal for leisurely strolls, and you can explore beautiful gardens and parks that offer a serene escape from the urban hustle. With its high-end hotels and proximity to cultural venues, Beverly Hills provides a sophisticated atmosphere that makes every visitor feel like a star.
3. InglewoodOpens in a new window: Inglewood is an emerging destination that offers a unique blend of shopping and local culture. Known for its diverse community, this area features various shopping centres that cater to all tastes. You can explore local markets and enjoy a range of dining options that showcase the city's culinary diversity. Inglewood is also home to the SoFi Stadium, which hosts major events and concerts, providing a lively atmosphere and plenty of entertainment options for visitors.

Things to do in Santa Monica

Santa Monica boasts stunning beaches and picturesque coastal views, perfect for leisurely strolls at sunset or invigorating water sports. With a vibrant atmosphere, visitors can enjoy boutique shopping, sip coffee in lush parks, and breathe in fresh ocean air while exploring art-filled promenades. It’s a delightful seaside escape!

• Melrose AvenueOpens in a new window – Stroll along Melrose Avenue, a vibrant street known for its eclectic mix of boutiques, cafes, and street art. Take in the colourful murals that adorn the walls and discover unique fashion finds at local shops. Whether you're hunting for vintage clothing or simply enjoying the lively atmosphere, this street is a great spot to explore.
• Wilshire BoulevardOpens in a new window – Cruise down Wilshire Boulevard, a major thoroughfare that showcases the architectural beauty of Los Angeles. Marvel at the iconic buildings and enjoy the bustling vibe as you pass by trendy restaurants and shops. It’s a perfect route for those keen to see the city’s urban landscape.
• Paradise CoveOpens in a new window – Spend a day at Paradise Cove, a picturesque beach that offers a slice of coastal paradise. Relax on the sandy shores, take a dip in the ocean, or enjoy a beachside meal at the café overlooking the waves. It’s a wonderful place to unwind and soak up the sun.
• Main Street Santa MonicaOpens in a new window – Experience the charm of Main Street Santa Monica, lined with delightful shops and eateries. This lively street is ideal for leisurely strolls, with plenty of spots to grab a bite or shop for souvenirs. Don’t miss the local farmers’ market if you’re around on a Sunday!
• Larchmont BoulevardOpens in a new window – Visit Larchmont Boulevard, a quaint street that features a mix of family-owned shops and eateries. Enjoy the relaxed vibe as you explore the local cafés and boutiques, making it a perfect stop for a laid-back afternoon of shopping and dining.

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Santa Monica

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Santa Monica is during January, November, and December, when hotel rates tend to be lower. For an enriching experience that covers the city's key landmarks and cultural attractions, it’s advisable to stay for at least 2 to 3 days. This duration allows you to enjoy the beautiful beach, engage in seaside sports, indulge in dining at charming cafes, explore shopping venues, and soak in stunning sunsets. Furthermore, you can immerse yourself in the local art scene and enjoy live music, all while ensuring great value for money on your trip.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To uncover last-minute deals to Santa Monica, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute Deals sections on Hotels.com, where you may discover discounted rates on hotels as your travel date approaches. To enhance your chances of finding savings, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications for flash sales and last-minute promotions. The Smart Shopping tool available via the app allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, helping you make informed choices. By staying informed about room availability and price drops, you’re more likely to seize opportunities for a spontaneous getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may fluctuate due to factors such as the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so being flexible with your dates could help you save on your stay at a hotel in Santa Monica. If you’re in search of something distinctive, boutique hotels often provide a more personalised experience and may offer better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we’ll inform you whether the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is on the higher side, we’ll recommend alternative dates that could be more affordable, helping you secure the best possible deal.
4. Consider your location: Hotels situated near the city centre usually tend to be more expensive, but with Santa Monica's superb public transport links, you may discover a more affordable independent hotel located further afield that remains well connected. For those keen to explore alternative, less crowded neighbourhoods or even lesser-known nearby towns, there is often excellent value for money to be found. Opting for these alternative destinations could provide a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.

Best time to go to Santa Monica

Santa Monica experiences its lowest average temperature in December, at 56.5°F (13.6°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 75.0°F (23.9°C). December is usually the wettest month. April, June, and July are the peak travel months in Santa Monica, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is sunny, accompanied by no rainfall. On the other hand, October to December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by no to light rainfall and sunny to mostly sunny conditions.