Plizio Visual Lab
Santa Monica
Santa Monica is a bustling coastal city west of Los Angeles, famous for its expansive sandy beaches and year-round mild climate. The heart of the city is the Santa Monica Pier, which serves as the symbolic end of the legendary Route 66. It is home to Pacific Park, an amusement park featuring the world’s only solar-powered Ferris wheel. This blend of family-friendly attractions and cool Californian vibes makes the city truly unique. Beyond the pier, the Third Street Promenade is a major draw for visitors. This pedestrian-only shopping district gives a vast array of stores, cinemas, and talented street performers. For those seeking tranquility, Palisades Park sits atop the bluffs overlooking the beach, providing fantastic ocean views. The Annenberg Community Beach House is another highlight for fans of historic architecture and beachfront pools. Santa Monica's culinary scene emphasizes freshness and sustainability. The weekly Santa Monica Farmers Market is considered one of the best in the nation, supplying many local fine-dining establishments. From upscale ocean-view restaurants to casual burger shacks on the sand, there is something for every palate. Californian fusion cuisine is particularly popular here. The city is easily accessible by car or via the Metro E Line from Downtown Los Angeles. Summer months are well-suited for beachgoers, while spring and autumn offer convenient weather for sightseeing without the largest crowds. Renting a bike and riding along "The Strand" path towards Venice Beach is an essential Santa Monica experience.
- Location: United States
- Top sights: Santa Monica Pier · Santa Monica City Hall · Saint Monica Roman Catholic Church
- Nearby: Marina del Rey (4 km)
- Population: ~93.220 (2021)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 14 | 13 | 15 | 15 | 17 | 19 | 21 | 22 | 22 | 20 | 17 | 13 |
| Rain mm | 96 | 86 | 59 | 21 | 10 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 3 | 19 | 30 | 75 |
Geography
Facts
- End of the historic Route 66
- First solar-powered Ferris wheel
- Three-mile long sandy beach
- Famous Third Street Promenade
- Original site of Muscle Beach
- World-class Farmers Markets
- Iconic wooden Santa Monica Pier
- Leader in sustainable tourism
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Santa Monica (18)
Virginia Avenue Park🌳 park
A park on Virginia Avenue with a community garden.
Frequently asked questions
Santa Monica: where is it located?
Santa Monica: what is there to see?
Santa Monica: when is the best time to visit?
Santa Monica: why is it worth visiting?
Nearby cities
