SANTA MONICA
THE ULTIMATE TRAVELERS MAP
YOU BELONG HERE
Downtown Santa Monica/ Third Street Promenade
Downtown is an entertainment hub and a creative culinary scene within Santa Monica, home to farmers markets, restaurants, attractions, bars and new businesses lining the bustling streets.
Downtown Santa Monica is both a shopping haven and streetperformer stage. Just east of the Pier, Third Street Promenade consists of three open air, car-free blocks anchored by upscale Santa Monica Place, home to more than 40 retailers. With everything from fresh farmers market produce and designer fashions to restaurants featuring locally sourced ingredients and craft cocktails, Downtown Santa Monica is the terminus of the Metro E Line offering easy access by light rail to Downtown Los Angeles.
Main Street
Cafés, shops, public parklets and sandy beaches add to a welcoming neighborhood vibe.
Like the tides of the Pacific just a few blocks away, Main Street is characterized by a slow shift in personalities. By day, it’s a favorite for up-at-dawn locals, who come for breakfast or coffee after a sunrise surf session or to patronize the eclectic collection of businesses with their dogs and children in tow. Visitors can join in, easily filling an afternoon at laid-back patio-lined cafes and indie boutiques. In the evening, trendy restaurants and watering holes glow with a lively mix of options for nightlife lovers.
A visit to Main Street isn’t complete without a taste of the neighborhood’s acclaimed culinary offerings, like Southeast Asian flavors at Cobi’s — a Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant — and the new fine-dining experience at SELINE. Immerse yourself in the neighborhood’s skate culture at Dogtown Coffee or enjoy farm-to-table freshness at Papille Gustative.
bs-SM_Visitors_Guide_ads-3.indd
Dive deeper into Santa Monica’s rich history throughout the Main Street neighborhood with a visit to the California Heritage Museum. History buffs can also visit the Shotgun House for a tour of the 120-year-old structure. With a beloved weekly farmers market on Sunday and buzzing annual events including Summer Soulstice and the 4th of July Parade, Main Street is a true hub for celebration in Santa Monica.
Mid-City
This centrally located enclave is home to a thriving arts scene.
Bordered by two major thoroughfares, Wilshire and Olympic boulevards, and two Metro E Line stations, this easily accessible neighborhood garners plenty of attention for its arts and entertainment offerings. Home to 18th Street Arts Center’s exhibitions, Bergamot Station’s galleries and BroadStage’s live performances as well as topnotch eateries, it’s no wonder Mid-City welcomes many locals and visitors year-round to enjoy its celebrated restaurants and art-filled experiences.
Montana Avenue
Stretching for 10 blocks, this tree-lined street’s shopping district is filled with popular eateries, juice bars, upscale boutiques and a historic movie theater.
Montana Avenue, which sits at the city’s northern edge, is home to a stretch of more than 150 restaurants and retailers. Though it’s just a short walk from Downtown Santa Monica, Montana embraces visitors with its own unique personality. From sunrise to sunset, a steady stream of shoppers and diners explore amid a relaxed crowd of A-list celebrities strolling the boutiques, out-oftowners leaving a film screening at the historic Aero Theatre and locals at their favorite neighborhood hangout, none of whom seem in a hurry to leave.
6:26 PM
Ocean Park Boulevard
The city’s southeastern-most enclave is an up-and-coming destination for diners and shoppers in the know.
Ocean Park Boulevard boasts an authentic local vibe, a host of buzzy restaurants and ‘’Where did you get that?!’’ boutiques and shops. The neighborhood also hosts playful sports games and picnics at Clover Park, and is home to The Barker Hangar which has hosted many awards shows like the Kids’ Choice Awards, People’s Choice Awards and more. The Santa Monica Airport, Ruskin Group Theatre Co. and the Museum of Flying also planted their roots in Ocean Park, with ecofriendly gardens and a twice-monthly antique market drawing visitors to the neighborhood.
Pico Boulevard
Culture abounds on this lively strip— in the form of street art, international cuisine, a weekly farmers market and the sands of Santa Monica State Beach.
Pico Boulevard is a main artery connecting Santa Monica to Downtown Los Angeles, though the neighborhood is much more than a busy thoroughfare. Home to buildings adorned with a variety of striking murals, Pico Boulevard patrons are drawn to a mix of small galleries, live music venues, shops and a variety of popular restaurants offering unique menus for almost any palate, all accessible from the three Metro E Line stations in town.
Cafes, cultural hubs, public parks and a strong sense of community make Pico Boulevard one of Santa Monica’s most authentically vibrant neighborhoods. Stretching east from the beachside energy of Ocean Avenue, Pico offers a relaxed yet bustling atmosphere that draws artists, foodies, families and students alike. Soak up the local vibe by browsing creative studios, small shops and multicultural eateries, or experience music venues and neighborhood bars showcasing the area’s eclectic spirit.
A visit to Pico Boulevard isn’t complete without sampling its globally inspired culinary scene. Stop by Gilbert’s El Indio, a beloved local institution serving classic Mexican dishes, or dig into seasonal comfort cuisine at Lunetta, a modern bistro serving both brunch and dinner. Garden enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the familyrun Merrihew’s Sunset Gardens, a neighborhood staple since 1947. On Sundays, the Pico Farmers Market is a local favorite for fresh produce, live music and handmade goods. From vibrant street art to educational institutions like Santa Monica College, Pico Boulevard celebrates diversity, creativity and a dynamic neighborhood spirit.
Santa Monica Travel & Tourism operates three Visitor Information Centers and an online store. All locations have merchandise, maps and knowledgeable staff.
TOLL FREE: (800) 771-2322
TEXT: (424) 443-7444
PHONE: (310) 319-6263
FAX: (310) 319-6273
CALL & TEXT HOURS: Monday through Friday 9:00am to 5:30pm; Saturday & Sunday 9:00am to 5:00pm
MAIN VISITOR INFORMATION
CENTER
2427 Main Street
Santa Monica, CA 90405
MON-FRI 9:00am to 5:30pm
SAT-SUN 9:00am to 5:00pm
PIER SHOP
VISITOR CENTER
200 Santa Monica Pier
Santa Monica, CA 90401
(In the historic Carousel Building)
DAILY 9:00am to 5:00pm
CLOSED: Tuesdays
KIOSK VISITOR INFORMATION
1400 Ocean Avenue
Santa Monica, CA 90401
(In Palisades Park)
DAILY 9:00am to 5:00pm
info@santamonica.com | santamonica.com
BE SAFE! STAY ALERT!
WALKING
• Pedestrians have the right-of-way at crosswalks. Use caution and make eye contact with drivers to make sure they have seen you and are stopping their vehicle. You may only cross in marked crosswalks. Crossing outside of a marked crosswalk jaywalking is an offense, and police ticket for violations.
• Texting or wearing headphones or earbuds and listening to music while walking impedes your hearing and can be distracting.
• Know when to cross-only with the green light or when the “walk” sign and audible signal are activated. Pedestrian scrambles are in operation throughout Downtown Santa Monica. At these intersections, a pedestrian-only phase is included in the signal light cycle, allowing people on foot and bikes to cross in every direction, including diagonally, at the same time.
• Use extra care when crossing with children and strollers. Remember, drivers may not see little ones; stand back away from the curb and hold little hands while crossing.
• Don’t assert the right of way with a fast-moving vehicle. Allow vehicles enough time to stop.
• Hold your children’s hands at all times when walking near busy streets and intersections.
BIKING
• Pay attention and stay alert.
• Always wear a helmet. (Riders under 18 must wear a helmet by law.)
• Riding against traffi c is illegal and dangerous. Ride on the right side of the road, with the flow of traffic, and use the bike lane where available. Biking on sidewalks is prohibited.
• Obey all traffic laws and signals. Stop at stop signs, red lights and pedestrian crossings.
• Use hand signals and eye contact to communicate with motorists, other bicyclists and pedestrians.
• Texting or wearing headphones or earbuds and listening to music while biking impedes your hearing and can be distracting.
• Make yourself visible to drivers, especially at night Use lights and refl ectors and wear bright clothing.
• At pedestrian scramble crossings, ride across when the bicycle specific traffic signal lights up with a green bike symbol.
SCOOTERING
• Motorized scooter riders must be at least 16 years old and have a valid driver’s license or instruction permit.
• Helmets are required for riders under age 18, and it’s recommended for riders of all ages to wear one. Riding with a passenger is prohibited.
• Motorized scooters must be driven on the road, never on the sidewalk. Follow traffic rules and watch for obstructions and potholes.
• Scooters cannot be parked on the sidewalk in the way of pedestrian traffic. Park in the “furniture zone” (the section of sidewalk between the curb and the pedestrian traffic zone containing street furniture, lighting fixtures, benches, utility poles, tree pits and bicycle racks) in Downtown Santa Monica and on Main Street or in one of the areas marked specifi cally for scooter and bike parking.
• Motorized scooters may not be driven on sidewalks, beach bike paths, Santa Monica Pier, Third Street Promenade or in municipal parks, including Palisades Park.
• Night use of motorized scooters lacking proper lighting equipment, which includes refl ectors and a front light source visible from the front and sides, is illegal.
• Visitors can pick up free adult helmets at any of the three Santa Monica Visitor Center locations: 2427 Main Street, 200 Santa Monica Pier and 1400 Ocean Avenue.
RIDING THE RAIL
• Always keep your distance from a train in motion. Stay away from the edge of the platform, never run after or next to a moving train, and wait for the train to come to a full stop before approaching.
• Hold onto your children and be alert when a train approaches to prevent them from getting too close to the tracks.
• Don’t skate or ride your bicycle on the platform, stairs or escalators.
• When boarding, be careful while crossing the gap between the platform and train.
• Stand clear of the train doors; touching them or leaning on them could obstruct their movement.
• Never climb railroad vehicles or walk on the tracks.
• Be mindful of lowered crossing gates. Never try to beat the train by going around the gates. Instead, wait for them to rise after the train passes.
• As a pedestrian, look and listen for trains in all directions.
DRIVING
• Drivers and passengers must always wear seat belts. Children under 8 years old and shorter than 4 feet 9 inches tall must use a child safety seat.
• In general, pedestrians have the right-of-way whenever they are in the road. Flashing red lights at crosswalks are treated like stop signs. Stop, look both ways, THEN proceed. Always stop for pedestrians crossing at intersections and marked crosswalks. Wait until they have safely reached the opposite curb to proceed.
• Except at pedestrian scrambles when the “walk” light is on, or unless otherwise posted, drivers are allowed to turn right at a red light after bringing the vehicle to a stop as long as foot, bicycle and auto traffi c are clear. When making right turns, and left turns against traffi c, STOP and look for pedestrians before making your turn.
• Cars are not permitted in bus lanes, except to make right turns, which are restricted during peak periods by posted signs.
• Obey posted speed limits and use common sense in congested areas.
• Drivers are required to pull over to the right side of the road for law-enforcement and other emergency vehicles with lights and sirens on.
• Don’t text or otherwise handle your phone while driving; it’s against the law and research shows it increases the likelihood of a collision 23 times that of driving when unimpaired.
HOMELESSNESS
Wish to donate or volunteer? Rather than give money directly to someone who may solicit spare change, donate through Santa Monica’s text donation program (310-494-7011), downtownsm.com/text-support. The money is collected and given as a grant to a nonprofit agency that addresses homelessness.
While law enforcement does everything they can to keep the streets safe, visitors should understand the unhoused are a mix of individuals from different backgrounds. Please treat them with courtesy, kindness, and dignity, but be circumspect. For more information on homelessness resources, visit santa moni ca .gov/ homelessness-resources.
Santa Monica Pier/ Ocean Avenue
This lively Santa Monica neighborhood is the quintessential picture of the California lifestyle, home to the landmark Santa Monica Pier, sandy beaches, miles of bike path and the sunlit eateries and hotels of Ocean Avenue.
Alfresco dining spots, coastal hotels, palm-lined Palisades Park and the distinctive Tongva Park provide enviable beachfront hangouts. The Original Muscle Beach flexes its charm with local athletes performing feats of fitness on the sands as bikes and skateboards drift down the Marvin Braude Bike Trail. Perched over the Pacific, the Santa Monica Pier features the world’s only solar-powered Ferris wheel at Pacific Park, the century-old Looff Hippodrome and the “End of the Trail” Route 66 sign.
Wilshire Boulevard
This bustling corridor is lined with restaurants, a variety of shopping opportunities and a trio of parks.
Stretching nearly 16 miles from Downtown Los Angeles to Ocean Avenue in Santa Monica, Wilshire Boulevard is a kaleidoscope of California culture. Visitors will delight in Michelin Star dining hot spots near mom-and-pop bakeries and generations-old Mexican eateries. A collection of vintage and designer consignment stores also make the area a favorite for thrifty shoppers in search of unique finds.
Top Instagram Worthy Spots
The best places to capture your coastal adventure
Santa Monica is a photographer’s dream, with its gorgeous beachfront views, iconic landmarks and its colorful, buzzing city life. Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or just exploring the local scene, there’s no shortage of Insta-worthy spots to fill your feed. From the classic views of the Pacific Ocean to secret spots in the city, here are our top Instagram locations.
1. Santa Monica Pier
Why It’s Instagrammable: The Santa Monica Pier is the instantly identifiable heart of our seaside city. With its colorful Ferris wheel, retro amusement park rides and shoreline views it’s the perfect place to capture both the energy of the city and the tranquility of the coast. Get one shot on the Ferris wheel, a second with the boardwalk and a third posing with a churro or cotton candy with the ocean behind you. Tip: Visit at night to catch the Pier illuminations at their most spectacular.
2. Palisades Park
Why It’s Instagrammable: This park offers one of the best panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Monica coastline. With its palm tree-lined walkways and cliffside overlooks, it’s a
good location for a serene nature shot. There are plenty of spots to sit, relax and take in the view (and, of course, snap some pictures!). Tip: Head to the park’s western edge at sunset for breathtaking views of the Pacific — this is where you’ll capture that golden light spilling over the water.
3. Third Street Promenade
Why It’s Instagrammable: If you’re after a blend of urban energy and style, the Third Street Promenade is the place to be. This pedestrianised street is filled with beautiful trees, outdoor sculptures and eclectic storefronts. Capture street art, local performances and bustling crowds as you explore the area. Tip: Look for the light installations along the Promenade, especially in the evening when the street comes alive.
4. The Beach Annenberg Community Beach House
Why It’s Instagrammable: For a unique twist on your beach photos, head to the Annenberg Community Beach House. With its beautiful Mediterranean-style architecture, ocean views and iconic “pool house” design, this historic spot has a vintage vibe that’s perfect for a stylish, retro-inspired shot. Tip: The pool area, complete with a beautiful backdrop of the ocean, is a great place for a sun-soaked, summery shot. Try a vintage filter.
5. The Beach (of course)
Why It’s Instagrammable: Santa Monica’s beach is legendary, and no visit would be complete without snapping a photo with that cinematic backdrop. Whether you’re lounging on the sand, playing volleyball, catching a wave or simply soaking up those Pacific vibes, the beach offers endless photo opportunities. Tip: Capture the waves crashing against the shore or pose against the soft pastel hues of the sky during sunset for the perfect beach shot.
6. Tongva Park
Why It’s Instagrammable: Modern, green and beautifully designed, Tongva Park is an urban oasis that combines art, nature and architecture. With its sleek pathways, striking sculptures, water features and well-maintained landscaping, this park is made for the ‘gram. Tip: Snap a photo in front of the vibrant modern sculptures or pose in the park’s lush green spaces for a relaxing vibe.
Events in Santa Monica
From seasonal events and festivals to weekly farmers markets, comedy shows and gallery viewings, Santa Monica is full of action.
PIER 360
Pier 360 is a signature event in Santa Monica celebrating the best of beach life and the vibrant culture and community of this coastal city. Held on the iconic Santa Monica Pier, this event combines live entertainment, local vendors and family-friendly activities like sandcastle building, water sports, competitions and skateboarding for a day of classic SoCal beach vibes. santamonicapier.org/pier-360-schedule
SAMO PRIDE
Santa Monica’s SaMo Pride festival is our annual month-long celebration of the city and region’s LGBTQ+ community filled with live performances, local art and inclusive activities for all ages. This joyous event brings together residents and visitors from all walks of life to honor diversity and pay tribute to love in every color, all set against the backdrop of Santa Monica’s magnificent coastline. smpride.com
HEAL THE BAY COASTAL CLEANUP DAY
The annual Heal the Bay Coastal Cleanup Day gathers volunteers from the Santa Monica community and beyond to help preserve the local maritime environment. Participants clean our beaches, remove debris and raise awareness for ocean conservation while contributing to the ongoing efforts to protect the Pacific coastline. In 2023, more than 7,000 Heal the Bay volunteers removed over 16,000 lbs. of trash and 400 lbs. of recycling from 97 miles of beach, river, underwater
and trail cleanup sites across Santa Monica and LA. healthebay.org
4TH OF JULY
Santa Monica’s annual 4th of July Parade is a longstanding tradition showcasing the city’s red white and blue spirit and community pride. The lively parade is a festive celebration of Independence Day along Main Street, featuring local organizations, colorful floats and marching bands. santamonicaparade.com
150 YEAR ANNIVERSARY
In 2025 Santa Monica kicked off a citywide celebration marking its 150th anniversary, and the entire community is invited to take part. Commemorating the date the original town map was drawn and land first sold on July 14, 1875, the milestone will be honored from July through December 2025 with events that reflect on the city’s rich history and inclusive culture.
AMERICANA IN THE PARK
Each September, Americana in the Park offers a month of free, family-friendly programming held in Santa Monica’s local parks where live music, food trucks and games bring the community together. Previous celebrations have featured a youth mariachi band, a community sing-along and high-energy instrumentals.
ICE AT SANTA MONICA
The corner of Arizona and Fifth Street in Downtown Santa Monica transforms into a winter wonderland each November, inviting attendees to skate on a nearly 8,000-square-foot ice rink (or the 400-square-foot tot rink for children) while enjoying holiday programming and theme nights. iceatsantamonica.com
MONTANA AVE ART WALK
The Montana Avenue Art Walk is a vibrant cultural event celebrating local artists, galleries and creative expression in Santa Monica. Charming Montana Avenue is closed for eight art-filled blocks where visitors can enjoy exhibits, listen to live music, meet artists and engage in free activities for all ages. montanaave.com/events
FRIEZE LOS ANGELES
Launched in 2019, Frieze Los Angeles is a leading international art fair celebrating the dynamic
culture of Los Angeles and its contributions to the world of visual arts. Previous editions have all taken place at the Santa Monica Airport and have featured approximately 100 galleries, expansive programs of ambitious installations, collaborations with nonprofit organizations and pop-ups from some of LA’s most beloved restaurants. frieze.com
DOWNTOWN CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING
The Downtown Santa Monica Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony is a highlight of the city’s holiday season where Santa himself lights the official holiday tree on Third Street Promenade. Festivities feature performances by local choirs, a special performance of The Nutcracker and “snow” gathering candy from participating businesses at this all-ages event. on the Promenade. After the ceremony, guests of all ages are invited to take free photos with Santa, make holiday-themed crafts and enjoy hot cocoa. downtownsm.com/events-calendar
DIA DE LOS MUERTOS CELEBRATION
Día de Los Muertos or The Day of The Dead, is a cultural tradition from Mexio and Central America commemorating loved ones who have passed on. Both our Pier and Third Street Promenade host the annual Día de los Muertos celebrations, honoring Mexican and Latinx heritage with all-ages programming, public art and live entertainment from local stars. santamonicapier.org/diadelosmuertos downtownsm.com/events-calendar
TRICK OR TREAT DOWNTOWN
Residents and visitors are invited to enjoy spooky celebrations in Downtown Santa Monica with a free Halloween block party on Third Street Promenade. On October 31, visitors are encouraged to arrive in their best costumes for a trick-or-treating adventure gathering candy from participating businesses at this all-ages event. downtownsm.com/events-calendar
HOLIDAY CHEER ON THE PIER
The Santa Monica Pier brings the holiday cheer with a month of programming sure to bring a smile to everyone in the family. The historic Looff Hippodrome carousel building windows are all decked out with tinsel and glitter while live music and photo ops with Santa get everyone into the holiday spirit. santamonicapier.org/cheeronthepier
DOWNTOWN MENORAH LIGHTING
Downtown Santa Monica’s Menorah Lighting is a heartwarming celebration of the Jewish holiday of Hanukkah. Celebrate the Festival of Lights during the Hanukkah season with nightly menorah lightings on Third Street Promenade, with each night sponsored by a different group and featuring a unique program. downtownsm.com/events-calendar
MAINOPOLY
MAINopoly is an interactive community event hosted by the Santa Monica Main Street business district (MSBIA). A fun take on the classic board game, MAINopoly gives players access to tastings at over 20 participating restaurants, bars and eateries and features games, giveaways and local shopping deals. All proceeds go toward the MSBIA. mainopolysm.com
MEET ME UNDER THE FIG TREE
Meet Me Under the Fig Tree is a beloved holiday tradition at the Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows where residents and visitors alike enjoy live music from local groups like the Santa Monica High School Orchestra, delicious food and community connection. This event also serves as a food and clothing drive for local charitable organizations. santamonica.com/event/meet-me-under-the-fig-tree
DINE LA RESTAURANT WEEK
Santa Monica regularly participates in Dine LA Restaurant Week, a biannual event that invites food lovers to explore LA’s exceptional culinary scene. With prix-fixe menus and exclusive dining offers, this is a perfect opportunity to savor Santa Monica’s renowned restaurants and vibrant food culture. discoverlosangeles.com/dinela
MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR . CELEBRATION
The annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration in Santa Monica honors the legacy of the civil rights leader through community events, cultural activities and award recognition to those making a difference in the community. The celebration is an important opportunity to engage with community and organizational leaders. mlkjrwestside.org
Scan here for a full list of events
Going Global
Stay in Santa Monica During World-Class Events
With dozens of hotels for every budget to choose from and quick, easy connections to all the regional sporting venues, Santa Monica’s beachfront location makes the perfect place to stay for those who want to be close to the action while still feeling like they’re on vacation. Here’s what’s coming up:
THE
GENESIS INVITATIONAL
Date: February 19–22, 2026
Venue: The Riviera Country Club
NBA ALL-STAR 2026
Date: February 13-15, 2026
Venue: Intuit Dome
U.S. OPEN WOMEN’S CHAMPIONSHIP
Date: June 2-7, 2026
Venue: Riviera Country Club
THE FIFA WORLD CUP 26
Date: June 11 – July 19, 2026
Venue: SoFi Stadium, Inglewood
SUPER BOWL LXI
Date: February 14, 2027
Venue: SoFi Stadium, Inglewood
OLYMPIC & PARALYMPIC GAMES LA28
Date: July – August 2028
Venue: Los Angeles and beyond
US OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP
Date: 2031
Venue: Riviera Country Club
U.S. WOMEN’S OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP
Date: 2032
Venue: Los Angeles Country Club
US OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP
Date: 2039
Venue: Los Angeles Country Club
CELEBRATING 150 YEARS OF SANTA MONICA
In 2025, Santa Monica celebrates its 150th anniversary. Commemorating the date the original town map was drawn and land first sold on July 14, 1875, this milestone will be honored from July through December 2025, with events that refl ect on the city’s rich history and inclusive culture. The festivities begin with State of the City: A Celebration of Resilience and Growth in July, featuring a reception at the newly revived Miles Memorial Playhouse and free performances in Reed Park. A community events calendar highlights special happenings across town led by local artists, residents, nonprofits and neighborhood groups, along with free events in parks citywide.
Driving down the Pacific Coast Highway know you’ve arrived in Santa Monica, California when you see the iconic Ferris Wheel and Santa Monica Pier jutting into the inviting waters of the Pacific Ocean. Set at Santa Monica’s westernmost point, the Santa Monica Pier is a staple of this picturesque seaside community. The pier is one of the many things to do in Santa Monica.
Scan here for more information
