Santa Monica Official Visitors Guide 2020/21

OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE

OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE

Your stay at your pace

Welcome to an intoxicating blend of sun, sand and surf. Enjoy the quintessential California getaway near the Santa Monica Pier here at Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel. loewshotels.com/santamonica

GET READY

to explore

ALLSAINTS B LO O M I N G DA L E ’ S COAC H HUGO BOSS INDOCHINO LO U I S V U I T TO N NIKE NORDSTROM PA I G E ROLEX S PA N X TED BAKER T I F FA N Y & C O. TO RY B U R C H

ARCLIGHT CINEMAS C AY TO N C H I L D R E N ’ S M U S E U M THE GOURMANDISE SCHOOL O F SW E E T S & S AVO R I E S MODELLAND

+ MORE R e c e i ve F R E E V i s i t o r S av i n g s f ro m p a r t i c i p a t i n g re t a i l e r s by v i s i t i n g S a n t a M o n i c a P l a c e .c o m /s av i n g s a n d u s i n g t h e p a s s wo rd t h a n k yo u f o r s h o p p i n g

Q U E S T I O N S ? T E X T U S AT 3 1 0 . 4 9 9 . 2 9 2 8

WHAT’S INSIDE S A N TA M O N I C A O F F I C I A L V I S I TO R S G U I D E

WELCOME 6 S A N TA

M O N I CA , L O S A N G E L E S ’

P R E M I E R B E AC H C I T Y

With its pristine oceanfront setting, world-class dining, open-air neighborhoods made for walking, health-conscious vibe, lively cultural scene and friendly locals, Santa Monica combines the laid-back appeal of a classic California beach town with the vibrant sheen of big-city sophistication.

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ICONIC VIEWS

12 AU S P I C I O U S O C CA S I O N S

LIVING WELL

Join us in celebrating business milestone anniversaries between 2019 and 2021.

B Y J O A N TA P P E R

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H O S P I TA L I T Y W I T H

HELPING HANDS

Santa Monica Travel & Tourism’s Santa MoniCARES coalition rallies tourism-industry support to further the valiant efforts of the city’s many nonprofits.

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THE ARTS 16

C U LT U R E C L U B

Catch a children’s show or an innovative dance performance at one of Santa Monica’s creative spaces.

B Y J O A N TA P P E R

GETTING AROUND 20

O N T H E M OV E

Go from one place to another simply, safely and car-free in pedestrian-friendly Santa Monica.

BY N A N CY R A N S O H O F F

Be sure to snap a shot of your visit to these famous sights.

LIVING WELL

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C O U R S E S O F AC T I O N

Take advantage of the local wellness culture to nurture mind and body.

BY M A RY J A N E H O R TO N

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FA R M E R S M A R K E T S

Santa Monica’s healthy lifestyle is fueled by its four varied weekly farm-to-shopper marketplaces.

B Y J O A N TA P P E R

NEIGHBORHOODS 34

E AT, S H O P, P L AY

Explore Santa Monica’s eight unique neighborhoods, each infused with a different personality, a host of visitor attractions and local favorites.

NEIGHBORHOODS 2

BY L I N DA KO S S O F F

WHAT’S INSIDE SANTA MONICA OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE

STAY 55

G RI LLED STEAK AT SO CALO

SHOPPING 72

HOTELS

E A R T H - F R I E N D LY B U Y S

Santa Monica’s extraordinary selection of hotels provides a welcome home for any Southern California stay.

Feel good about purchases from local purveyors who take a responsible stance toward the environment. B Y L E S L I E D I N A B E R G

PLAY

DINE

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NIGHT MOODS

After a sunny day in Santa Monica, take part in the city’s nightlife. From spirited to lively to elegant, there’s a place for every after-dark inclination.

BY S H E L L E Y L E V I T T

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OCEAN OF FUN

Santa Monica is an easy-breezy place to ride the tide.

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FAMILY

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LEARNING

In Santa Monica, activities for children and adults offer intellectual and physical enrichment as well as plenty of fun. B Y M A R Y J A N E H O R T O N

EXCURSIONS 68

LO CA L F L AVO R

Santa Monica is the perfect home base for visiting other Southern California hot spots.

BY B E K A H W R I G H T

MICHELIN COMES

T O S A N TA M O N I CA

BY S H E L L E Y L E V I T T

Santa Monica’s entertainment calendar offers extraordinary experiences year-round (many of which are free or nearly free to enjoy).

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C U L I N A R Y C O L L A B O R AT I O N S

At this trio of restaurants, extraordinary teamwork is the recipe for excellence.

BY S H E L L E Y L E V I T T

DAY T R I P S

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Acclaimed chef Jessica Koslow recently helped launch Onda, the Santa Monica Proper Hotel’s highly anticipated signature restaurant.

Here, she shares some of her favorite culinary spots nearby.

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S AT I AT E E A R LY O R L AT E

Whether the sun is rising or it’s the wee hours of the night, there’s a restaurant in Santa Monica that’s ready to satisfy your hunger.

BY S H E L L E Y L E V I T T

Enjoy award-winning food at these acclaimed spots.

CALENDAR 88

EVENTS

RESOURCES 92

IN THE KNOW

This handy guide to services is packed with tips to enhance your stay.

THEN & NOW 96

PLEASURE PIER

Charles I. D. Looff, amusement park pioneer and builder of the first carousel at Coney Island in 1876, imagined and developed Santa Monica’s now-famous Pier.

S A NTA M O N I C A P R O P E R H OTE L

ON THE COVER: Santa Monica is an arts and culture hub, home to 130 (and

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growing daily) street art murals all within its 8.3 square miles. The murals are brought to life by a combination of different entities from the City of Santa Monica (santamonica.gov/arts), local business improvement districts, private groups/people as well as Beautify Earth, a nonprofit whose mission is to transform every wall into a beautiful piece of art. Responsible for a majority of the murals in Santa Monica, Beautify Earth started on Lincoln Boulevard in Santa Monica and has since grown to an international movement. The cover includes just a small selection of murals reflecting the creative expression of our community throughout poignant moments in time, including the social justice movement and COVID-19. Access the entire guide to Santa Monica street art at santamonica.com/streetart or pick up a printed map at any of Santa Monica’s Visitor Centers.

(TO P) AN N E F I S H B E I N

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YOU’VE ARRIVED

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA, AS YOU IMAGINED IT ENJOY PACIFIC PANORAMAS, PERSONALIZED SERVICES, AND FINE DINING IN A VIBRANT SETTING

From the moment you arrive at Huntley Santa Monica Beach hotel, you are immersed in a luxury seaside experience that perfectly reflects California’s relaxed yet refined glamour. Located in a residential pocket just two blocks from the beach and a short drive from Malibu, our Santa Monica beach hotel features 204 sophisticated rooms and 16 spacious suites designed by the innovative Thomas Schoos. Coveted amenities include rooftop dining at The Penthouse Restaurant, 24-hour concierge service, and a modern fitness center. We are also a preferred meeting and intimate wedding destination with venues overlooking the brilliant oceanfront.

Designed under the creative vision of Thomas Schoos, our luxury rooms and suites feature chic furnishings and amenities like 60” HDTVs, pillow top beds, Bvlgari bath products, and complimentary WiFi. One of the finest Santa Monica family hotels, the Huntley offers room options to accommodate larger groups as well.

On the 18th floor boasting 360-degree views of the Pacific Ocean, Malibu mountains, Los Angeles cityscape, and even the iconic Hollywood Sign, The Penthouse Restaurant is The Huntley Hotel’s rooftop fine dining destination serving California contemporary cuisine.

Enjoy your stay with us at The Huntley Santa Monica Beach – your home away from home.

1111 2nd Street Santa Monica, CA 90403

310-394-5454 | 888-532-5155 thehuntleyhotel.com

Welcome to

SANTA MONICA LOS ANGELES’ PREMIER BEACH CITY

With its pristine oceanfront setting, world-class dining, open-air neighborhoods made for walking, health-conscious vibe, lively cultural scene and friendly locals, Santa Monica combines the laid-back appeal of a classic California beach town with the vibrant sheen of big-city sophistication.

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ET ALONG A GLEAMING 3.5-MILE STRETCH OF COASTLINE JUST SOUTH OF MALIBU

LISA CORSON

and north of Venice, Santa Monica sparkles and shines, blending the vibes of an unmistakable California beach town with touches of romance and Hollywood glamour to create a destination that is truly like none other in the world. Santa Monica is where the city meets the sea. And whether you’re an urban sophisticate or a surfer (or, like many locals, a combination of the two), Santa Monica is an endlessly dazzling (not to mention award-winning) city: welcoming, diverse, clean, beautiful, creative, stylish, safe and a haven for outdoor recreation.

Spend time here and you’ll quickly discover just how much Santa Monica packs into its compact, easily explored (no car needed) area. Along the oceanfront, you’ll find world-class hotels, celebrated restaurants and neighborhoods loaded with character. You can comfortably walk or bike for miles, learn to surf or simply take time to rejuvenate your body, mind and soul.

The city has also been an artistic center for Southern California for generations, with a remarkable number of local residents working in creative businesses. Thanks to year-round live entertainment, more than 150 galleries, a treasure trove of public art installations, and historic theaters and museums, culture is at your fingertips throughout the city.

While it has been a longtime playground for the entertainment industry (and a popular residence for creative minds, leading actors, musicians and athletes), the city has also seen a wave of tech and Internet startups and esports brands—so many, in fact, that Santa Monica is the origin of what is now known as “Silicon Beach.”

The city’s celebrity clientele has encouraged clothing and interior designers to set up shop in retail areas such as Downtown Santa Monica (honored as one of America’s best downtowns by Forbes), Santa Monica Place, Montana Avenue, Main Street and Pico Boulevard.

No matter what you do in this glowing city—where art, nature and urban excitement all converge—you’ll quickly discover that Santa Monica is as inspirational as it is irresistible. ਆ

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F I N E W I N E S & G O U R M E T F O O D S S I N C E 19 6 8

WE SPECIALIZE IN FINE DINING & COCKTAILS FINE & COLLECTIBLE WINE RARE SPIRITS FUTURES CATERING WINE BASKETS WINE CONSIGNMENT ARTISANAL CHEESE & CAVIAR WORLDWIDE SHIPPING

WALLY’S SANTA MONICA | 214 WILSHIRE BOULEVARD, SANTA MONICA, 90401 WALLY’S BEVERLY HILLS |447 N. CANON DRIVE, BEVERLY HILLS, 90210

WWW.WALLYWINE.COM FOLLOW US ON:

TRAVEL & TOURISM

Green Business Certified SANTA MONICA TRAVEL & TOURISM IS PROUD TO BE A CERTIFIED

Green Business. The Santa Monica Green Business Certification Program is a voluntary program that encourages businesses to implement proactive steps that are good for their bottom line and the environment. The Santa Monica Green Business Certification Program is a collaboration between Santa Monica Travel & Tourism, the City of Santa Monica, the Santa Monica Chamber of Commerce and Sustainable Works to certify, recognize and celebrate green businesses in Santa Monica. For a complete list of Santa Monica Certified Green Businesses, visit smgbc.org.

Current Certified Businesses Hotel/Motel Ocean View Hotel Santa Monica Motel Shore Hotel Office Arthur Murray Dance Center Bausch Law Group Bird Rides Inc. Blackman & Forsyth Campos Creative Works, Inc. Capital Intelligence Associates Case Stack CBS Global Distribution Community Corporation of Santa Monica Cyclehop Edmunds.com Hallmark Labs, LLC Hang-Ups Unlimited Heal the Bay Aquarium Kaiser Permanente Santa Monica Medical Offices Morley Builders Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) Physical Therapyworks Redcar Properties Santa Monica Chamber of Commerce Santa Monica Travel & Tourism St. Monica Catholic Community SweisKloss The Tennis Channel Three Squares Inc. Tradesy, Inc. William Warren Group

Restaurant Back on the Beach Cafe Bar Chloe Bru’s Wiffle Café Demitasse Caffe Bella Capital One Cafe Kafe K Kye’s Love Coffee Bar Perry’s Café & Beach Rentals TCBY/Starbucks/The Coffee Spot (Santa Monica College) Tiato Kitchen Yogurtland Santa Monica Promenade Retail Aura Shop Avocado Mattress Classic Pilates Body Co+opportunity Laemmle’s Monica Film Center Le Macaron French Pastries NWLA Bridal Paws & Effect Pet Spa Radiance Wellness Spa Reformation Santa Monica Bike Center Simples Starline Tours Texture; a Sweater Store and More School PS1 Pluralistic School Untitled No. 1 School

Keep an eye out for the green asterisk denoting Certified Green Businesses throughout this guide.

2427 Main St. Santa Monica, CA 90405 310-319-6263 Fax: 310-319-6273 Consumer: 800-544-5319 Sales: 800-771-2322 FOR G E N E RAL I N FOR MATION: santamonica.com or info@santamonica.com FOR M E ETI NG AN D CON FE R E NCE BOOKI NG S: meet@santamonica.com FOR TRAVE L TRAD E I NQU I R I E S: trade@santamonica.com FOR VI S ITOR I N FOR MATION, CONTACT: Santa Monica Main Visitor Information Center 2427 Main St. 310-393-7593; 800-544-5319 Santa Monica Visitor Information Kiosk 1400 Ocean Ave. (Palisades Park) Santa Monica Pier Shop & Visitor Center 200 Santa Monica Pier (Carousel Building) See all Visitor Center hours on page 95.

@VisitSantaMonica

@SeeSantaMonica

@GoSantaMonica

SantaMonicaTravel&Tourism

C U S TO M P U B L I C AT I O N S

5900 Wilshire Blvd., 10th Floor Los Angeles, CA 90036 323-801-0100 President & Publisher Josef Vann Vice President, Custom Content Mitch Getz Editor-in-Chief Kathy Nenneker Integrated Account Directors Brittany Brombach, Samantha Greenfield, Mat Jongsma, Jennifer Kirkley Production Director Denise Philibert To advertise, contact: Mitch Getz 323-801-0014, mgetz@lamag.com

Copyright © 2020 by Santa Monica Travel & Tourism. Not for resale.

Santa Monica Travel & Tourism is not responsible for the business practices of the facilities mentioned. Neither Santa Monica Travel & Tourism nor Los Angeles magazine is responsible for changes or variances that occur following publication.

© 2021 United Airlines, Inc. All rights reserved.

Flight schedule subject to change.

The daydreaming never stops.

Visit Santa Monica with flights to Los Angeles & Orange County.

SO SANTA MONICA

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Iconic Views

Be sure to snap a shot of your visit to these famous sights.

1 I MARVIN BRAUDE BIKE TRAIL ( THE STRAND )

4 I PACIFIC PARK/FERRIS WHEEL AT THE PIER

Jessica Sample

Instagram: @anthonymichaelphoto

2 I R OUTE 66 SIGN AT THE PIER Instagram: @azyzoffgram

5 I PALISADES PARK Instagram: @daniella.brown_

3 I THE ORIGINAL MUSCLE BEACH Instagram: @philyn777

6 I DINOSAURS ON THIRD STREET PR OMENADE Instagram: @bwelshphotography

7 I “LOVE WINS” BY GINO BURMAN-LOFFREDO (“GINO FLO”), 2209 MAIN STREET 1 0 S A N TA MON I CA OF F I C I A L V I S I TOR S GU I DE

Instagram: @usapefit

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S A N TA MON I CA OF F I C I A L V I S I TOR S GU I DE 1 1

SO SANTA MONICA

TH I R D STR E ET P R O M E N A D E

A E R O TH E ATR E, 1942

Auspicious Occasions Join us in celebrating business milestone anniversaries between 2019 and 2021.

CAM E RA OB SCU RA

santamonica.com/what-to-do/camera-obscura

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CH E Z JAY chezjays.com

SANTA MON ICA PLAYHOUS E santamonicaplayhouse.com

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SANTA MON ICA PI E R

santamonicapier.org

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OCEAN PAR K LI B RARY

smpl.org/oceanparkbranch

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G I LB E RT’S E L I N D IO

M I LE S M E MOR IAL PLAYHOUS E smgov.net/departments/ccs/milesplayhouse

U N U R BAN COFFE E HOUS E unurban.com

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TH E AE RO TH EATR E

JW MAR R IOTT LE M E R IGOT HOTE L marriott.com/laxlm

TH E LOB STE R thelobster.com

E NTE R PR I S E FI S H COM PANY restaurant; enterprisefishcosantamonica.com

M ICHAE L’S restaurant michaelssantamonica.com

SANTA MON ICA COLLEG E smc.edu

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PACI FIC PAR K amusement park; pacpark.com

restaurant; gilbertselindio.com

at Santa Monica location; adammsgallery.com

santamonica.com/santa-monica-architecture

B E RGAMOT STATION

arts center and B E RGAMOT CAFE bergamotstation.com, bergamotcafe.com

FIT BY FAB IAN PR IVATE FITN E SS STU D IO fitbyfabian.com

ADAM M’S STAI N E D G LASS STU D IO & ART GALLE RY

CLOCK TOWE R B U I LD I NG

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AQUA SU R F SCHOOL aquasurf.com

TH E B I KE S HOP SANTA MON ICA

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bicycle sales and rentals; bikeshopsantamonica.com

18TH STR E ET ARTS CE NTE R

B U B BA G U M P S H R I M P CO.

18thstreetart.org

at Santa Monica location; bubbagumpshrimp.com

americancinematheque.com

MOON DANCE J EWE LRY GALLE RY

S EGWAY LOS ANG E LE S

HOTE L S HANG R I-LA shangrila-hotel.com

moondancejewelry.com

SANTA MON ICA S EAFOOD

TH I R D STR E ET PROM E NAD E

two-wheeled standing transporter tours, sales and rentals; segway.la

santamonicaseafood.com

downtownsm.com

F O R A F U L L L I ST O F S A N TA M O N I CA B U S I N E S S E S C E L E B R AT I N G A N N I V E R S A R I E S , V I S I T S A N TA M O N I CA . C O M /A N N I V E R S A R I E S .

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R I G H T A N D M I D D L E : E M E R S O N G A Z E , L E F T : S A N TA M O N I C A H I S T O R Y M U S E U M . O P P O S I T E : S T E P H A N I E P L O M A R I T Y.

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C L O C K TO W E R, S A NTA M O N I C A, 1947

As far back as I can remember, Hotel Shangri-La has been a part of my life. The hotel was built in 1939, and she is a timeless Art Deco beauty, a reminder of Hollywood glamour and allure. The rooftop offers a spectacular view of the Pacific Ocean; the swimming pool and courtyard area is beautiful during the day and magical at night. Hotel Shangri-La is special to so many people, as they have generations of family members who all have memories here— from graduation parties to weddings, anniversaries and engagements.

—ADR I E N N E F RANCI N E M I LEY (below), raised in Santa Monica, chief concierge, Hotel Shangri-La (shangrila-hotel.com), celebrating 80 years

We have more than 20 people on staff who were here from day one.

We go above and beyond and give customers something that’s authentic Santa Monica, and they get the view and breathtaking sunsets. This city is magical.

We want to be part of the city and give back to it.

—LYN N E THOMAS, first employee hired, once manager and now director of sales and marketing, The Lobster (thelobster.com), celebrating 20 years under current ownership

It’s been a lot of fun.

A lot of things have changed in Santa Monica, but we haven’t. We’ve kept it the way it was. The most popular dishes have stayed the same: fresh swordfish, New York Angus butter steak, and sand dabs. I like the swordfish! We recently opened our outdoor patio, The Backyard.

It’s like the quote: ‘If you build it, they will come.’

—M I K E AN DE R SON, once manager and now owner, Chez Jay restaurant (chezjays.com), an official Santa Monica landmark since 2012, celebrating 60 years S A N TA MON I CA OF F I C I A L V I S I TOR S GU I DE 1 3

SO SANTA MONICA

Santa Monica Travel & Tourism’s Santa MoniCARES coalition rallies tourismindustry support to further the valiant efforts of the city’s many nonprofits.

Hospitality With Helping Hands

BY NAN CY RAN S OH OFF

SANTA M O N I CA I S W E LL K N OWN FO R ITS B EAC HY B EAUTY,

but look closer and you’ll see that it’s a community that embraces inclusion and giving back. Behind the scenes, the city boasts a diverse array of local nonprofit agencies that work hard to make the community a better place for both residents and visitors.

To help further these worthy causes, Santa Monica Travel & Tourism (SMTT) launched Santa MoniCARES, a coalition of SMTT representatives and community partners whose mission is to harness the hospitable character, generosity and energy of Santa Monica’s tourism industry to help provide support to these agencies.

Santa MoniCARES engages employees of hotels, restaurants, attractions, retailers and locals to provide volunteer hours, funding and support to the numerous organizations that are tackling such important issues as homelessness, environmental protection, hunger, workforce development, cultural programming, at-risk youth, elderly assistance and more.

“Members of our hospitality and tourism industry have long been generous supporters of the Santa Monica community contributing to the well-being of our residents in a variety of ways,” says Misti Kerns, president/CEO of SMTT. “Santa MoniCARES allows our industry to come together with greater strength and

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give back to those in need with a unified presence.”

Recently the coalition has backed initiatives including raising money through the Totally Awesome ’80s Prom fundraiser, collecting socks during SOCKtober 2019 to support West Coast Cares, gathering clothes for the Gently Loved Business Clothing Drive in partnership with the Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows to assist those transitioning from homelessness to the workforce, and donating supplies to the homeless task force hygiene kit assembly activity.

“Sea the Good,” launched by the coalition in April 2020, highlights the good deeds of individuals, visitors and businesses in the Santa Monica community. (Share stories at seathegood@ santamonica.com.) The Santa MoniCARES online auction site, launched in April 2020, raises money for its causes and to give back.

Visitors can also take a hands-on approach to supporting Santa Monica causes during their stays. Many local organizations such as Heal the Bay (healthebay.org) and Westside Food Bank (westsidefoodbankca.org) welcome drop-in help. To learn how you can get involved and/or participate in volunteer opportunities, visit santamonicares.com or email cares@santamonica.com. =

TIPS FOR RESPONSIBLE TRAVELING • Walk, bike or use public transportation.

• Bring a reusable water bottle and/or

• Use natural resources with measure,

shopping bag to reduce the use of plastics and recycle when possible.

Try to minimize the generation of waste.

• Always leave a place better than the way you arrived; this includes packing and picking-up practices and not littering.

• When you leave your hotel room, turn off the lights and all electronics.

• Follow your hotel’s suggestions

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including electricity and water. with linens. suppliers who offer guarantees of quality and respect for the environment.

• Shop, eat and play local in Santa Monica—it strengthens our community.

N ATA S H A L E E

• When planning your trip, choose

BE EXPOSED TO THE UNCOMMON, ENCOUNTER THE UNEXPECTED, AND IGNITE INSPIRATION. Discover Santa Monica with authentic and thought-proving experiences at every turn. Le Méridien Delfina Santa is an elevated retreat located a casual 10-minute walk from the Santa Monica shoreline. Boasting unrivaled panoramic views of Santa Monica, Malibu and the surrounding area, our 4-Diamond luxury property offers a superior access point to downtown Santa Monica’s engaging collection of shops, entertainment and restaurants.

LE MÉRIDIEN DIEN DELFINA SANTA MONICA 530 Pico Boulevard Santa Monica, i CA 90405 T 310 399 9344 lemeridiendelfina.com ©2020 Marriott International, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

THE ARTS

S A NTA M O N I C A H I STO RY M U S E U M

W E STS I D E B A L L ET’S S P R I N G P E R F O R M A N C E AT TH E E L I A N D E DY TH E B R O A D STA G E

Culture Club

Catch a children’s show or an innovative dance performance at one of the city’s many creative venues. B Y J O A N T A P P E R

MUSEUMS The movement to save a historic house was the impetus behind the CALIFORNIA HERITAGE MUSEUM, located in the Roy Jones home, built in 1894. The ornate Queen Anne Revival home was moved to its present location in 1977, and the story of the family and the move to Main Street make up the museum’s permanent exhibits. Changing shows have ranged from photos of rock-and-roll legends to an exploration of surfboard design. Tuesdays are Gourmet Food Truck Nights. ³ 2612 Main St., 310-3928537, californiaheritagemuseum.org Fostering creativity, imagination and collaboration among children—that’s the mission of the CAYTON CHILDREN’S MUSEUM BY SHAREWELL (formerly the

Zimmer Children’s Museum), which relocated to Santa Monica in early 2019.

The 21,000-square-foot space houses interactive exhibits that kindle a child’s curiosity and teach community social responsibility. The innovative design allows children to discover the museum in their own way. The goal? To play their way to a better world. ³ 395 Santa Monica Place, 3rd Fl., 424-416-8320, sharewell.org

galleries focus on Santa Monica’s founding, the beach, the arts, small businesses and the local newspaper, all complemented by three special exhibits a year and monthly hands-on workshops for kids as well as adult programs. ³ 1350 Seventh St., 310-395-2290, santamonicahistory.org

Santa Monica is rich in aviation and aerospace history, and the MUSEUM OF FLYING, founded by Donald Douglas Jr., is filled with displays and interactive exhibits that pay homage to the industry.

Highlights include a replica of the Wright Flyer in an early-aviation hangar bay as well as two dozen more recent aircraft and the California Aviation Hall of Fame. ³ 3100 Airport Ave., 310-3982500, museumofflying.org

Located at Bergamot Station since 2011, CITY GARAGE THEATRE has been staging innovative productions of contemporary and classic works for more than three decades. Executive director Frédérique Michel and producing director Charles Duncombe have won multiple awards for plays that range from madcap comedies to serious pieces that explore social and political issues in a distinctive visual, multidisciplinary style. ³ 2525 Michigan Ave., Building T1, 310-453-9939, citygarage.org

With artifacts, memorabilia and more than 600,000 rare photographs, the SANTA MONICA HISTORY MUSEUM brings to life the city’s past and its distinctive lifestyle and culture. Five lively themed

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PERFORMANCE THEATERS

A rehearsal and performance space, EDGEMAR CENTER FOR THE ARTS is located in a Frank Gehry–designed building with

T H E B R O A D S TA G E : T O D D L E C H T I C K

F OR A LAID -BACK BEACHFRONT

town, Santa Monica plays host to an amazing cornucopia of cultural riches for young and old. Museums? Check.

Art galleries? Check. Theaters? Check.

Public art? Check. Here are a few places not to miss.

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2020/21 SEASON

The Westside’s home for live arts

Visit thebroadstage.org today to learn more!

THE ARTS two state-ofthe-art theaters and an art gallery. It provides a home to the Michelle Danner Acting School, which offers classes for adults and children, beginners and experienced actors. As part of the center’s mission to provide a physical environment that nurtures the creative process and collaboration, the place is a frequent venue for film festivals, theater events and private parties. ³ 2437 Main St., 310-399-3666, edgemarcenter.org

back to 1946 and got its start in the historic Miles Playhouse. It now has its home in the Morgan-Wixson Theatre, where it presents five musical and nonmusical plays each season that are chosen to reflect dramatic and cultural diversity. The theater also hosts the award-winning Youth Education/ Entertainment Studios (Y.E.S.) for participants ages 8 to 18, which presents five plays annually. ³ 2627 Pico Blvd., 310-828-7519, morgan-wixson.org

For more than 10 years, the ELI AND EDYTHE BROAD STAGE at the Santa Monica College Performing Arts Center has been bringing audiences cultural offerings that range from theater to jazz, from classical music to dance, from children’s programming to a thought-provoking lecture series. With just 537 seats, the space is intimate and welcoming, offering a fantastic view from every seat. In addition, there’s The Edye, a 120-seat black-box theater for new and innovative works or pieces by emerging artists. ³ 1310 11th St., 310-434-3200, thebroadstage.org

Renowned guest artists frequently join the award-winning professional resident actors’ company, which also presents family theater musicals, workshops and educational programs. Community outreach includes a two-week Binge Free Festival of Theatre every October that fills the complex with some 50 offerings. ³ 1211 Fourth St., 310-394-9779, santamonicaplayhouse.com

ART SPACES AND PUBLIC ART

Founded by John Ruskin, actor and owner of the On the site of a former eponymous school of railroad station, acting, the nonprofit BERGAMOT STATION became RUSKIN GROUP THEATRE an arts center in 1994 and CO. has hosted artists today is a complex housing from veterans to new roughly 20 art galleries and talent in thought-provoking other creative businesses. productions since 2003. The M U S E U M O F F LYI N G There are contemporary intimate theater inside a works, fine photographs and paintings converted airplane hangar lets members

by Latin American masters, as well of the audience feel like they’re part as design and floral studios, a theater of the performances, which have and a café. Special events might range included fresh incarnations of classics from artists’ talks to a children’s holiday like Lorraine Hansberry’s A Raisin in ornament workshop. ³ 2525 Michigan the Sun as well as premieres of new Ave., bergamotstation.com A historic and atmospheric venue works, such as the comedy Rainbow for music, theater and dance, Bridge by Ron Nelson. Monthly L.A. Santa Monica is full of PUBLIC ART that the Spanish Colonial–style MILES Café Plays are popular one-act shows vitalizes the streetscape. Throughout MEMORIAL PLAYHOUSE, built in 1929 created by writers, directors Santa Monica’s 8.3 square miles in Lincoln Park (now called and actors in 10 hours, from nearly 150 street murals appear. For Reed Park), boasts wooden conception to staging. a digital guide to where to find them, beams, ironwork details, As part of its Healing visit santamonica.com/streetart. A gleaming hardwood floors Through the Arts program, printed map is available at Santa and an imposing fireplace. the company arranges Monica Visitor Information Centers.

It plays host to youth for groups of actors A recent outdoor work by Brendan programs and a teen film to teach and entertain Fernandes along the E Line Metro festival as well as the hospitalized children. ³ 3000 corridor was commissioned by the winter Fireside at the Airport Ave., 310-397-3244, CALIFORNIA H E R ITA G E M U S E U M ruskingrouptheatre.com 18TH STREET ARTS CENTER. Throughout Miles performance series. the year, the center holds gallery ³ 1130 Lincoln Blvd., exhibitions that change every two to 310-458-8634, santamonica.gov/arts/ Since its founding in 1960, the SANTA four months, depending on its artistsmiles-memorial-playhouse MONICA PLAYHOUSE has mounted in-residence schedule, at its 1639 18th productions year-round in its three Street location and its second campus The MORGAN-WIXSON THEATRE, the allperforming spaces, from classic works at the Santa Monica Airport. ³ 1639 volunteer community theater of the

by Molière and Shakespeare to new 18th St., 310-453-3711, 18thstreet.org = Santa Monica Theatre Guild, dates plays by contemporary playwrights.

1 8 S A N TA MON I CA OF F I C I A L V I S I TOR S GU I DE

An Enriching Oceanfront Stay.

Seamlessly Crafted.

Enjoy a replenishing stay with the sand between your toes and the gentle Pacific breeze on your face at the JW Marriott Santa Monica Le Merigot hotel on Ocean Avenue. Steps from the beach, Santa Monica Pier and the Third Street Promenade, treat yourself to a luxurious experience with stylish accommodations, artfully realized California fare at Cézanne restaurant or hand-poured cocktails outside at Le Troquet. From rejuvenating spa treatments to 10,000 square feet of inspiring oceanfront event spaces, enjoy a Santa Monica escape that will leave you feeling enriched and refreshed.

JW Marriott® Santa Monica Le Merigot lemerigothotel.com | 1740 Ocean Avenue, Santa Monica, California 90401 USA

GETTING AROUND

ON THE MOVE Go from one place to another simply, safely and car-free in pedestrian-friendly Santa Monica.

A S T R O LL AROU N D S AN TA MO N ICA E N GAG E S T H E

senses. Salt-tinged ocean breezes and clear blue skies, strains of music from street performers and taste tests offered at four weekly farmers markets all make walking the best way to experience this seaside city. However, there are many other ways to make the responsible choice and get around car-free in Santa Monica and to get to attractions all across the Greater Los Angeles area.

Whether you hop on the Metro E Line light rail to get from the western edge of the city to its eastern edge, or travel the streets in between on the Circuit shuttle (formerly The Free Ride), a rented bike or scooter, or your own two feet, there are plenty of ways to make your way safely around town without the use of a car. Read on to learn more or visit santamonica.com/carfree.

WALKI NG Most hotels, attractions, and primary shopping and dining spots are within easy walking distance of one another. The city is easily 2 0 S A N TA MON I CA OF F I C I A L V I S I TOR S GU I DE

and safely explored on foot, but visitors are urged to be alert and watch the road.

Be Safe ³ 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. ³ Texting or wearing headphones or earbuds and listening to music while walking impedes your hearing and can be distracting. ³ 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

approaches to prevent them from getting too close to the tracks. ³ Don’t skate or ride your bicycle on the platform, stairs or escalators. ³ When boarding, be careful while crossing the gap between the platform and train. ³ Stand clear of the train doors; touching them or leaning on them could obstruct their movement. ³ Never climb railroad vehicles or walk on the tracks. ³ 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. ³ As a pedestrian, look and listen for trains in all directions.

For more pedestrian safety tips, visit smgov.net/portals/ pedsafety. And for a walkingdistance radius, refer to the map on page 36.

LIG HT RAI L Serving the sprawling L.A. metropolis with 93 stations that cover nearly 100 miles, the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority

(Metro; 323-466-3876, metro. net) provides light rail access to Santa Monica via three stations on the Metro E Line: Downtown Santa Monica; 17th Street/Santa Monica College; and 26th Street/Bergamot Station.

From Santa Monica, users can head to Downtown Los Angeles and transfer to other Metro rail and bus lines to reach the San Fernando Valley, Pasadena, Norwalk, the South Bay, Universal Studios Hollywood and Long Beach (and when the Crenshaw Line opens this year, visitors will be able to get to Los Angeles International Airport as well).

A bonus for visitors commuting to and from Downtown L.A.: Trains run approximately every six minutes during peak hours and every 12 minutes during midday hours.

Cyclists are welcome to carry their bikes onto Metro trains.

2 2 S A N TA MON I CA OF F I C I A L V I S I TOR S GU I DE

INSIDER TIP To ride the Metro rail and bus system, you must load funds (as stored value) to the TAP card. You can load the TAP card with a Metro Day Pass ($7 regular fare; $2.50 seniors/ disabled/Medicare) at any of the Metro E Line station TAP vending machines (323-4663876, taptogo.net). You can purchase pre-loaded TAP cards at the Main Street Visitor Information Center at 2427 Main Street.

®

Be Safe ³ 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. ³ Hold onto your children and be alert when a train

Santa Monica’s award-winning Big Blue Bus serves Santa Monica, West Los Angeles, Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and 10 neighboring communities with more than 900 bus stops and 20 service lines, including a weekday express line that connects Downtown Santa Monica to Downtown Los Angeles. The eco-friendly buses run on alternative fuels, including renewable natural gas and battery electric, and have front-mounted bike racks to accommodate cyclists.

Route information, day passes and transit passes are available at Blue: The Transit Store (1444 Fourth St., 310-4515444, bigbluebus.com).

Metro Rapid bus lines provide limited-stop bus service to Downtown Los Angeles and Hollywood from Santa Monica (323-4663876, metro.net).

J ESSICA SAM PLE

BUS and bikes to cross in every direction, including diagonally, at the same time. ³ 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. ³ Don’t assert the right of way with a fast-moving vehicle.

Allow vehicles enough time to stop. ³ Hold your children’s hands at all times when walking near busy streets and intersections.

KNOWN CLASSIC. NEW EDGE. VICEROY SANTA MONICA RELAUNCHING SUMMER 2020

1819 Ocean Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90401 • Phone: (310) 260-7500 VICEROYSANTAMONICA.COM • @VICEROYSM

GETTING AROUND

INSIDER TIP You can buy a TAP card and load it with a Santa Monica Big Blue Bus Day Pass at Blue: The Transit Store.

To ride the Metro bus and rail system, you must load funds (as stored value) to the TAP card.

BI KI NG Santa Monica’s many miles of bikeways make two-wheel travel manageable and safe, not to mention economical and fun. Throughout the city are 110 miles of Green Lanes.

These protected bike lanes provide a highly visible contrast on the street, increasing motorists’ awareness of cyclists.

Bike rentals are conveniently available at many hotels and along the beach bike path to ride and enjoy ocean and coastline views.

Santa Monica Bike Center (smbikecenter.com) operates a bike valet program that’s free for the first two hours; after that, the cost is $1 per hour with a $5/day max.

It’s open year-round during business hours.

Bicycles, electric bikes, mopeds and motorized scooters are legal on Santa Monica streets.

*

Bike Rentals In addition to these businesses, many Santa Monica hotels provide complimentary bikes or bikes for rent. Check with your hotel’s front desk.

The Bike Shop Santa Monica 310-581-8014 bikeshopsantamonica.com Blazing Saddles Beach Rentals and Tours 310-393-9778 Helen’s Cycles 310-829-1836 helenscycles.com

Legends Beach Bike Tour 310-939-0000 perryscafe.com/tours Pedal… or Not 310-917-1111 pedalornot.net

Be Safe Pay attention and stay alert.

Always wear a helmet.

(Riders under 18 must wear a helmet by law.) ³ Riding against traffic 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. ³ Obey all traffic laws and signals. Stop at stop signs, red lights and pedestrian crossings. ³ Use hand signals and eye contact to communicate with motorists, other bicyclists and pedestrians. ³ Texting or wearing headphones or earbuds and listening to music while biking impedes your hearing and can be distracting. ³

Perry’s Café and Beach Rentals 310-939-0000 perryscafe.com/rentals

*

Sea Mist 310-395-7076 seamistrentals.com

Bike Tours The Bike Center Santa Monica 310-656-8500 thebikecenter.com Bikes and Hikes LA 323-796-8555 bikesandhikesla.com

Bike Attack 424-744-8148 bikeattack.com

2 4 S A N TA MON I CA OF F I C I A L V I S I TOR S GU I DE

³

For information on local hospitals, please see page 94. ³ Make yourself visible to drivers, especially at night.

Use lights and reflectors and wear bright clothing. ³ At pedestrian scramble crossings, ride across when the bicycle-specific traffic signal lights up with a green bike symbol.

For more bicycle safety tips, visit smgov.net/departments/ pcd/transportation/bicyclists.

MOTORIZE D SCOOTE RI NG Electric scooters have cruised to popularity in cities around the world. The City of Santa Monica currently has permitted Bird and Lyft to provide app-driven electric scooter and electric bike share services through the city’s Shared Mobility Pilot Program.

For the most updated list of scooter companies that operate in Santa Monica, visit santamonica.com/scooters.

*

CANNABIS USE

GETTING AROUND

How to Use Electric Scooters

Be Safe ³ Motorized scooter riders must be at least 16 years old and have a valid driver’s license or instruction permit. ³ Helmets are required for riders under age 18, and it’s wise for riders of all ages to wear one. Riding with a passenger is prohibited. ³ Motorized scooters must be driven on the road, never on the sidewalk. Follow traffic rules and watch for obstructions and potholes. ³ 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 specifically for scooter and bike parking.

Cannabis is legal in California when used responsibly.

Be Safe C I R C U IT S H UTTL E ³ Motorized scooters may not be driven on beach bike paths, Santa Monica Pier, Third Street Promenade or in municipal parks, including Palisades Park. ³ Night use of motorized scooters lacking proper lighting equipment, which includes reflectors and a front light source visible from the front and sides, is illegal.

CI RCU IT SH UTTLE Yes, there is such a thing as a free ride at some Santa Monica hotels! DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Hotel Santa Monica, Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel and Shutters on the Beach offer their guests an electric-vehicle shuttle service that operates in Santa Monica and extends to Venice and Marina del Rey. Passengers can summon Circuit (formerly The Free Ride; ridecircuit.com) via their hotel concierge or a mobile app. The on-demand rides are offered daily from 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Some local hotels also offer car service around town. Nonhotel guests can use Circuit, too. Simply hail them for a ride to/from anywhere in their operating area.

2 6 S A N TA MON I CA OF F I C I A L V I S I TOR S GU I DE

RIDESHARE On-demand ridesharing companies Lyft and Uber are available for transportation to and within Santa Monica and can drop off and pick up at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). Fare estimates from LAX to Santa Monica start at approximately $20.

TA X I S E R V I C E S Bell Cab 888-481-2345 labellcab.com Independent Cab Co. 800-521-8294 taxi4u.com Metro Cab Santa Monica 310-444-7777 mc.metrocabsm.com Taxi! Taxi!

310-444-4444 santamonicataxi.com Yellow Cab Co. 424-222-2222 layellowcab.com

DRIVING If you opt to drive, be aware that Santa Monica is an active and busy city. Stay focused on the road at all times.

³ Consumption of marijuana in public, driving under the influence of marijuana, and the purchase or consumption of cannabis by people under age 21 are all illegal in the state of California. ³ Driving under the influence of cannabis is illegal and increases your risk of getting into a traffic accident. If you smoke or vape cannabis, you may feel the effects right away, but it can take between 30 minutes and two hours to feel the effects of edibles.

If you eat too much too fast, you are at higher risk for poisoning. ³ Cannabis affects children more strongly than adults.

Children are at higher risk for poisoning from cannabis, especially with edibles.

Protect your children and pets. Store all cannabis products in a locked area.

Make sure children cannot see or reach the locked area. If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, or plan to become pregnant soon, you should not use cannabis.

For more information, visit cdph.ca.gov/programs/do/ letstalkcannabis/pages/ responsibleuse.aspx.

SOURCE: CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH

S T E P H A N I E P LO M A R I T Y

Each company’s app varies, but in general, here’s how it works: Download the app. Locate and unlock a scooter following prompts in the app. Push off with your foot to get going, then keep your feet on the footboard.

For most scooters, control the throttle button with your right thumb and squeeze the brake with your left hand to slow down or stop. End your ride by parking safely and locking the scooter within the app. Average price to scoot is $1 to unlock, $0.23 to $0.30 per minute used.

VISITING THE U.S.?

Stay connected with talk, text & data

3rd Street Promenade

See Terms and Conditions (including arbitration provision) at www.T-Mobile.com for additional information. T-Mobile and the magenta color are registered trademarks of Deutsche Telekom AG. © 2020 T-Mobile USA, Inc.

driving—it’s against the law and research shows it increases the likelihood of a collision 23.2 times that of driving when unimpaired.

GETTING AROUND

BUYI NG FROM STRE ET VE N DORS

Be Safe ³ Drivers

bringing the vehicle to a stop as long as foot, bicycle and auto traffic are clear. When making right turns, and left turns against traffic, STOP and look for pedestrians before making your turn. ³ 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. ³ 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. ³ Don’t text or otherwise handle your phone while ³

PE DESTRIAN SCRAM BLES The Three Stages of Pedestrian Scrambles and How to Use Them:

1

2

3

Green lights for northbound and southbound drivers.

Green lights for eastbound and westbound drivers.

Pedestrians wait to cross, making right-hand turns for drivers safer.

Pedestrians continue to wait while vehicles flow through the intersection.

Do not start crossing if red hand is flashing or solid.

Drivers stop in all directions.

Pedestrians and bicyclists can safely cross the intersection in any direction.

Start crossing when the walking person is lit.

Bike Signal/Green: Cyclists ride across when the bicycle-specific traffic light lights up with a green bike symbol.

2 8 S A N TA MON I CA OF F I C I A L V I S I TOR S GU I DE

In compliance with California’s new Safe Sidewalk Vending Act, Santa Monica city laws now allow sidewalk vending in public spaces where it was formerly restricted. While the new program puts public health and safety at the forefront, it is important to follow the advice below when purchasing from sidewalk vendors.

Be Safe ³ Only buy from vendors with a decal affixed to their cart or worn on a badge indicating that they have a vending permit issued by the City of Santa Monica. ³ Only buy food from a vendor who also has a valid Los Angeles County–issued public health permit and displays a colored sticker with the county seal on it as proof, similar to restaurants. Look for a sign with an “A” rating.

Vendors who do not have such a permit may be preparing food in unsanitary conditions, not have clean water on site to wash their hands or utensils, have obtained food from an unapproved source, be storing food at unsafe temperatures or not be protecting food from contamination in other ways. ³ Don’t buy from vendors in high-traffic areas in Downtown, at the Pier and on the beach, where sidewalk vending is prohibited for safety reasons. =

J ESSICA SAM PLE

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. ³ 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. ³ 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

Seaside GRILL & rooftop bar You’ll find something to please everyone at Seaside Grill & Rooftop Bar. Enjoy classic burgers, fresh seafood, pizza and spectacular sunsets. And, of course, your favorite beach beverages too.

TM

Chill at our rooftop bar with a view of the Pier while enjoying a hand-crafted cocktail or indulge in dessert with our soft-serve ice cream offering 8 flavor-burst swirls.

Located on the Santa Monica Pier • Open for lunch & dinner daily 310.883.7437 • seasideonthepier.com • 250 Santa Monica Pier • #seasideonthepier

LIVING WELL

B E A C H YO G A S O C A L

COURSES OF Take advantage of the local culture to nurture mind and body. B Y M A R Y J A N E H O R T O N

REJUVENATE BEACH YOGA SOCAL and minds healthy is a way of life. Here are just a few of the local businesses that help visitors and residents share mind, body and soul.

REVIVE AND RESTORE BE CRYSTAL CLEAR becrystalclear.com This studio features sound baths (sound-based meditation) as well as other wellness and fitness classes, including yoga, which are available to walk-in participants and can

be booked online. “We are all born crystal clear and filled with love, joy and pure energy,” says founder and owner Sugar Panbehchi, who believes the studio’s classes are a way to get back in touch with that energy.

Also on-site is a Wish Room filled with crystals, stones and jewelry for purchase.

3 0 S A N TA MON I CA OF F I C I A L V I S I TOR S GU I DE

beachyogasocal.com What could be better than yoga on the beach? During sessions that are appropriate for all levels (from firsttimers to yoga experts) and tailored to each individual, participants perform hatha yoga–based poses designed for the sand. “This is an activity that attracts people from all over the world,” says owner Vee Desai Gomez.

“Doing yoga in the sand is really safe and effective.” Saturday and Sunday walk-in classes take place at Lifeguard Tower 26 from 10:30 to noon; for all other classes, book online.

JEREMY BISHOP

FOR SANTA MONICA RESIDENTS, STRIVING TO KEEP THEIR BODIES

BOXUNION

program, which includes high-intensity cardio, muscle-sculpting strength training and lots of punches. Online booking is available for the fast-paced 45-minute workouts, and the BoxUnion experience is also available online at digital.boxunion.com.

ACTION PUMP UP ENERGY DASH RUN STUDIO dashrunstudio.com New on the scene in April 2019 and totally revamped in January, this studio offers group running classes for all levels, regardless of ability.

Fast-paced, fun and motivating, classes run between 35 and 45 minutes and offer a full-body workout. “DASH is for the athlete in all of us,” says CEO Brad Swett, “and we believe that everyone is an athlete regardless of their current condition.” Five different class formats are offered in a nurturing, noncompetitive atmosphere: Vigor builds lean muscle, burns fat

and strengthens; Evolve helps improve running form and technique; Endure is for packing in the miles; Revive is a multidimensional recovery class with meditation, running and mobility techniques to ready participants for their next workout; and Bolt focuses on maximum results in minimum time.

LET OFF STEAM BOXUNION boxunion.com The boxing workout at this studio isn’t just fitness, it’s fun. The lights are low and great music motivates participants throughout the

MIX IT UP YOGAHOP yogahop.com/sm This isn’t your mother’s yoga studio.

These classes offer a jubilant twist by featuring hip-hop, rock and pop music, with headset-microphoned teachers and all the liveliness of a dance party.

The East-meets-West flavor leads to an energetic yet spiritual atmosphere.

Athletically challenging classes are easy to follow, and instructors make sure that participants of all levels can join in.

For more wellness activities, see “Neighborhoods,” page 34.

SANTA MONICA OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE 31

LIVING WELL

TO NY AYA L A O F F R I E N D’S R A N C H E S I N OJ A I, C A L I F O R N I A, I S A L O N GTI M E V E N D O R AT S A NTA M O N I C A’S FA R M E R S M A R K ETS.

FARMERS MARKETS Santa Monica’s healthy lifestyle is fueled by its four varied weekly farm-to-shopper marketplaces. B Y J O A N T A P P E R and famous chefs who come from all around to the four Santa Monica farmers markets to buy their bounty of California produce, dairy products, and even meat and seafood, three days a week. Be prepared for sensory overload from the colors, aromas and overwhelming choices, whether you’re strolling the four blocks of the Downtown market on Wednesdays and Saturdays, listening to music and sampling the prepared foods at the Main Street Sunday market, or enjoying the park setting of the Pico Boulevard Saturday venue. “With the microclimates we have within a 200-mile radius, there is almost everything one could want— year-round,” says Barbara Spencer of Windrose Farm near Paso Robles, where she and her husband, Bill—longtime vendors at the Wednesday Downtown market— grow apples, plums, greens, garlic and more.

Thanks to this variety and superiority, the offerings frequently appear on the menus of the finest eateries in the area. “The restaurant scene in Santa Monica is amazing!” says Olive Cadwell, who sometimes accompanies her family’s heirloom tomatoes and scores of other vegetables to the Wednesday Downtown market from Tutti Frutti Farms in Santa Barbara County. “We love getting to meet so many creative chefs shopping at the farmers market who are as passionate about the quality and

flavor of produce as we are.”

Perhaps best of all is the market vibe. “There is a wonderful relationship between the customers and farmers that we have created over decades,” says Emily Ayala of Friend’s Ranches in Ojai, who, with her husband, Tony, has been selling 50 varieties of citrus plus avocados in Santa Monica for many years. “The customers come to have a real sense of ownership with the market and a great understanding of the farms they are purchasing from. It’s a community.”

3 2 S A N TA MON I CA OF F I C I A L V I S I TOR S GU I DE

DOWNTOWN S A N TA M O N I C A M A R K E T This market has the largest percentage of certified organic growers.

Wednesday and Saturday, 8 a.m.–1 p.m.

Wednesday: Arizona Ave. between Third Ct. and Ocean Ave., and on Second St. from parking structure 2 to parking structure 4; Saturday: Arizona Ave. between Third Ct. and Second St.

MAI N STRE ET MARKET A favorite for local families, this market hosts entertainment and face painting.

Sunday, 8:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m.

2640 Main St. at Heritage Square

PICO BOU LEVARD MARKET This small but plentiful, family-friendly market is located in a tranquil park.

Saturday, 8 a.m.–1 p.m.

2200 Virginia Ave. at Pico Blvd. and Cloverfield Blvd. (Virginia Avenue Park) Visit santamonica.com/farmersmarkets to see a video of each market.

S T E P H A N I E P LO M A R I T Y

“FRESH, SEASONAL AND LOCAL” HAS BECOME A MANTRA FOR FOODIES

A L L D AY | AT N I G H T

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Visitor Information Center City of Santa Monica Public Parking Post Office Library Hospital Police Station Metro E Line Station Metro E Line Bike Lane Park Hotel Ride App Zone

Explore Santa Monica’s eight unique neighborhoods, each infused with personality, a host of visitor attractions and local favorites.

BY LI N DA KOS S OFF

N ATA S H A L E E

NEIGHBORHOODS

MAP KEY

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B E V E R LY H I L L S

405

TA K E A V I D E O T O U R through S ant a Monica’s neighborhoods at santamonica.com/ neighborhoods.

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SANTA MONICA San Diego

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WILSHIRE BLVD.

CALIFORNIA AVE.

WASHINGTON AVE.

IDAHO AVE.

PALISADES AVE.

ALTA AVE.

MARGUERITA AVE.

DR.

GEORGINA AVE.

MONTANA AVE.

SAN VICENTE BLVD.

ADELAIDE

2ND ST.

27

Inspiration Point

7

1

28

6TH ST.

10 MINUTE W A LK

MARKER

4TH ST.

3RD ST.

SIT

.

DOWNTOWN

5TH ST.

13

SANTA MONICA HIGH SCHOOL

OLYM

10

6TH ST.

31

PICO BLVD.

Goose Egg Park

9TH ST.

PACIFIC ST.

33

7TH ST.

7TH ST.

OFFICIAL END

BAY ST .

Reed Park

TE WALK 15 MINU

ST.

66

GR ANT

2

BICKNELL AVE.

9TH ST.

LINCOLN BLVD.

MICHIGAN AVE.

9TH ST.

10TH ST.

10

PIC DR

SAN VICENTE BLVD.

OLY

COLORADO AVE.

VE .

AA

.

LVD

GIN

EB NT

OR GE

CE

BROADWAY

2

14

11TH ST.

20 MINUTE WALK

10TH ST.

LINCOLN BLVD.

29

EUCLID ST.

12TH ST.

4 10TH ST.

PICO

.

11TH ST.

Euclid Park

SANTA MONICA C (MAIN CAMP

Woodlawn Cemetery

BICKNELL AVE

11TH ST.

17TH ST.

16TH ST.

25 MINUTE WALK

13

4TH ST.

MICHIGAN AVE.

12TH ST.

4TH ST.

OLYMPIC BLVD.

EUCLID ST.

21ST ST .

14TH ST.

BROADWAY

VI

MARGUERITA AVE.

N

7TH S T .

Memorial Park

10

14TH ST.

12TH ST.

ALTA AVE.

SA

9TH ST.

18TH ST.

30 MINUTE WALK

SANTA MONICA BLVD.

10TH ST.

ARIZONA AVE.

15TH ST.

EUCLID ST.

11TH ST.

WILSHIRE BLVD.

CALIFORNIA AVE.

E.

WASHINGTON AVE.

16TH ST.

14TH ST.

MONTANA AVE.

19TH ST.

7

17TH ST.

15TH ST.

14TH ST.

11

23RD S

20TH ST .

BAY ST.

18TH ST.

11

24T

CLOV

20TH ST.

BLVD.

18TH ST.

IDAHO AVE.

16TH ST.

19TH ST.

MONTANA AVE.

RITA AV

ALTA AVE .

MARGU E

GEORGINA AVE.

SAN VICENTE BLVD.

V E. CARLYLE A

17TH ST.

19TH ST.

25

22ND ST

DELAWARE AVE.

GEORGINA AVE.

19TH ST.

21ST ST.

1 BROADWAY

20TH ST.

20TH ST.

STEWART ST.

Virginia Avenue Park

PICO

20TH ST.

PICO BLVD.

20TH ST.

A

.

CLOVERFIELD BLVD.

VICENTE TERR.

21ST ST.

COLORADO AVE.

21ST ST. 21ST ST.

AV E

10

DELAWARE AVE.

21ST PL.

3

MICHIGAN AVE.

WILSHIRE

22ND ST.

LA

Gandara Park

CLOVERFIELD BLVD.

SANTA MONICA BLVD.

23RD ST.

22ND ST.

ER

.

ST

Schader Park

T.

TH 26

4

21ST ST.

17TH ST.

Park Drive Park

23RD ST.

21ST PL.

18TH ST.

PARK DR.

24TH ST.

23RD ST.

ST

KANSAS AVE.

Douglas Park

CHELSEA AVE.

HE

VIRGINIA AVE.

25TH ST.

25TH ST.

24TH ST.

22ND ST.

19TH ST.

Colorado Center Park

BROADWAY

ALTA AVE.

22ND PL.

25TH ST.

.

L A M E S A D R.

23RD ST.

GEORGINA AVE

24TH ST.

MARGUERITE AVE.

CARLYLE AVE.

25TH ST. 24TH ST.

26TH ST.

TS

MP

.

26TH ST.

COLORADO AVE.

26TH ST.

INE

PICO

PRINCETON ST.

Ishihara Park

WA R

PO

STE

BAY ST.

PRINCETON ST.

OL YM

BL VD .

N IO

HARVARD ST.

EX

STEWART ST.

5

D.

LV D. EB NT CE

VI N

YALE ST.

PENNSYLVANIA AVE

SA

BROADWAY

ARIZONA AVE.

CALIFORNIA AVE.

HARVARD ST.

WASHINGTON AVE.

YALE ST.

RC

STANFORD ST.

MARKER

E NT

WARWICK AVE.

DO

STANFORD ST.

BLV

8

BERKELEY ST.

IC

NA

TA

N

BERKELEY ST.

STANFORD ST.

FRANKLIN ST.

S. C

CENTINELA AVE. NEBRASKA AVE.

FRANKLIN ST.

O

COLORADO AVE.

LIPTON AVE.

M

CENTINELA AVE. ARIZONA AVE.

CENTINELA AVE.

SANTA MONICA BLVD.

APPROX. 5-MINUTE WALK

WILSHIRE BLVD.

AVE.

¼ MILE=1,320 FEET

HOTELS 6.6 mi/10.6 km to Beverly Hills 11.7 mi/18.8 km to West Hollywood 15.6 mi/25.1 km to Downtown Los Angeles

PARK BL VD.

31ST ST.

24

S A N TA M O N I CA AIRPORT

31ST ST.

VERFIEL

Clover Park

25TH S

T.

30

T.

23RD

American Motel

32

Santa Monica Motel

3

Bayside Hotel

33

Santa Monica Proper Hotel

4

Cal Mar Hotel Suites

34

Sea Blue Hotel

5

Comfort Inn Santa Monica– West Los Angeles

35

Sea Shore Motel

36

Seaview Hotel

37

Shore Hotel

38

Shutters on the Beach

39

SureStay by Best Western – Santa Monica

40

Viceroy Santa Monica

41

Wyndham Santa Monica– At The Pier

6

The Cottage Santa Monica

7

Courtyard By Marriott Santa Monica

8

Days Inn by Wyndham Santa Monica/Los Angeles

9

DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Hotel Santa Monica (will be known as Hilton Santa Monica as of August 2020)

10

Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows

11

Gateway Hotel Santa Monica The Georgian Hotel

13

Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Santa Monica

ST.

14

Holiday Motel

15

Hostelling International LA/ Santa Monica

ST.

18TH ST .

DEWEY

ROSE

Ashland Park

BLVD. D AVE.

E. WARREN

AVE. ROSE AVE.

3RD ST. HAMPTON DR

.

FRASER AVE.

HART AVE.

PIER AVE.

PACIF IC

Dorothy Green Park

The Broad Stage

5

California Heritage Museum

6

Cayton Children’s Museum 18th Street Arts Center

Hotel Shangri-La Huntley Santa Monica Beach

8

Heal the Bay Aquarium

20

JW Marriott Santa Monica Le Merigot

9

Museum of Flying

10

Original Muscle Beach

11

Pacific Park

12

Santa Monica City Hall

13

Santa Monica History Museum

Le Méridien Delfina Santa Monica

22

Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel

23

Ocean Lodge Hotel Santa Monica Beach

24

Ocean Park Hotel

25

Ocean Park Inn

*

*

14

Santa Monica Pier

15

Santa Monica Pier Carousel

16

Santa Monica Place

17

Third Street Promenade

Ocean View Hotel Oceana

Palihouse Santa Monica

MAP KEY

4TH ST.

NEILSON WAY

BARNARD

4

RENNIE AVE.

5TH ST.

5

Barnard Way Linear Park

Bergamot Station

19

28

AVE.

Ocean View Park

WAY

Circuit Shuttle Pickup Hotel

Police Station

Visitor Information Center

Pedestrian Access to Beach

24-Hour Taxi Stand Metro E Line Station Metro E Line

South Beach Park

1.5 mi/2.4 km to Venice 3.3 mi/5.3 km to Marina del Rey 8.1 mi/13 km to LAX

Library Hospital

NEWHOUSE DESIGN

35 MAIN ST.

Barker Hangar

3

7

AVE.

LTH AV ONWEA

E ST.

NAVY ST .

E.

OZONE ST.

MARIN

PIER AV

D AVE. ASHL AN

2ND ST.

2

DIMMICK AVE.

6TH ST.

.

HILL ST.

ASHLAND AVE

OCEAN PARK

BLVD.

HOLLISTER AVE.

3

3RD ST.

Annenberg Community Beach House

Hotel Casa del Mar

27

6TH AVE.

.

1

17

26

RUTH AVE.

AIN STREET 4TH ST.

7TH AVE.

BERNARD AVE.

.

HIGHLAND AVE

6TH ST.

Los Amigos Park

E ST.

MARIN

HIGHLAND AVE

Ozone Park

ROS E

BEVERLY AVE.

7TH ST.

RAYMOND AVE.

PINE ST .

25

7TH ST.

AVE.

COMM

HILL ST.

PARK BL VD.

HILL ST .

ST.

CEDAR

TON RD .

LINCOLN BLVD.

WADSWORTH AVE.

GLENN

OCEAN

10TH ST.

K ST.

*

18

21

Marine Park

FREDERIC

ASHL AN

OAK ST .

ST. MAPLE

PINE ST .

ST.

ST.

PEARL

CEDAR

SUNSET

14TH ST.

11TH ST.

Hotel Carmel

AVE.

16TH ST.

EUCLID ST.

AVE.

ST.

PEARL

17TH ST.

16

*

ATTRACTIONS

12

21ST ST .

COLLEGE PUS)

Rest Haven Motel

The Ambrose Hotel

2

E.

OCEAN PARK BLVD.

D BLVD .

ST.

Pavilions Motel

31

ST. DEWEY

OCEAN

5TH ST.

TH ST.

AVE.

PARK BL VD.

26TH S T.

AIRPORT

T.

2

DONALD

PEARL

O BLVD .

T. ST.

28TH S

R.

9

DOUGLA

29TH ST .

27TH S

Santa Monica Airport Park

S LOOP N

.

30TH ST .

ND YD

RT AV

OCEAN

32ND ST .

39

BU GLAS LOOP S.

PEARL

33RD ST .

Palm Motel

1

AVE.

ST.

34TH ST .

10

INEL A

AIRPO

S. CENT

DONALD DOU

.

AVE

29 30

City of Santa Monica Public Parking Currency Exchange Post Office

Disabled Access to Beach Restrooms Bike Lane Park Ride App Zone S A N TA MON I CA OF F I C I A L V I S I TOR S GU I DE 3 7

PA C I F I C PA R K

NEIGHBORHOODS

PAC

S E E MAP KE Y ON PAGE 3 4 IFIC

G EORGINA AVE.

C OA S T H W Y.

PALISADES PARK

MARGUER ITA AVE.

ALTA AVE.

PALISADES AVE.

1 MONTANA AVE. 3RD ST.

2ND ST.

15

IDAHO AVE.

OCEAN AVE.

WASHINGTON

CALIFORNIA 2 N D S T.

4

2 10

WILSHIRE

Santa Monica Pier Area/ Ocean Avenue The landmark Santa Monica Pier, sandy beaches, miles of bike path, Ocean Front Walk and the sunlightbathed eateries and hotels of Ocean Avenue add up to a quintessentially California scene.

ARIZONA AVE.

9 THIRD ST PROMENADE

SANTA MONICA

5 14 OCEAN FRONT WALK

SANTA MONICA PLACE

18

21COLORADO

19

11 17

10 KEN GENSER SQUARE

1. Bayside Hotel

M A I N S T.

2. Cal Mar Hotel Suites BAY S T.

3. The Cottage Santa Monica

PACIFIC STREET PARK

3 N E I L S O N WA Y

OC E AN AVE .

1

PACIFIC ST.

4. Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows

S TRAND ST.

5. The Georgian Hotel

HOTCHKISS PARK

HOLLISTER AVE

BARNARD WAY LINEAR PARK OCEAN DOROTHY GREEN PARK

A

historic hotels, palm-lined Palisades Park and the distinctive Tongva Park provide enviable beachfront hangouts. Ocean Front Walk, home of the Original Muscle Beach, still flexes its charm with a collection of rings, parallel bars and balance bars plied by bodybuilders, yogis and other assorted sun worshippers. Bikes and skateboards drift down the Marvin Braude Bike Trail in an aimless procession of fun. Perched over the Pacific, the 110-year-old Pier, featuring the world’s only solar-powered Ferris wheel, the 103-year-old Looff Hippodrome and the aquarium, attracts families, couples and friends, each reveling in a delectable slice of West Coast nostalgia.

Q HOTELS

20

8

D W AY

13

P I C O B L V D.

CRESCENT BAY PARK

BARNAR

TONGVA PARK

M A I N S T.

APPIAN WAY

OCEAN FRONT WALK

16 12

O C E A N AV E .

SANTA MONICA PIER

SOUTH BEACH PARK

6 7 BROADWAY

LONG OCEAN AVENUE, ALFRESCO DINING SPOTS, PASTEL-HUED

PA R K B LV D.

OCEAN VIEW PARK

.

12. Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel 13. Ocean Lodge Hotel Santa Monica Beach

*

14. Ocean View Hotel 15. Oceana 16. Sea Blue Hotel

7. Hotel Carmel

17. Seaview Hotel

8. Hotel Casa del Mar

18. Shore Hotel

9. Hotel Shangri-La

19. Shutters on the Beach

10. Huntley Santa Monica Beach

HILL ST.

AS HLAN D AVE

6. Hostelling International LA/Santa Monica

11. JW Marriott Santa Monica Le Merigot

*

20. Viceroy Santa Monica 21. Wyndham Santa Monica– At The Pier

Eat BOA STEAKHOUSE 101 Santa Monica Blvd.

310-899-4466 boasteak.com ³ This recently renovated establishment elevates the classic American steakhouse with inventive culinary twists, pairing premium turf, surf and vegan selections with a choice of unique rubs, crusts, sauces and sides.

Indulge in a signature 40-day dry-aged New York strip or whole roasted branzino while surveying the serene ocean view.

THE LOBSTER 1602 Ocean Dr. 310-458-9294 thelobster.com ³ Consistently cited in lists of must-try restaurants, The Lobster has endured since 1923 to become a Santa Monica institution. Whether visitors go traditional with a whole steamed Maine lobster or dig into the seared rare yellowfin tuna, they’ll understand how this waterfront eatery maintains its loyal fan base.

MARIASOL COCINA MEXICANA 401 Santa Monica Pier 310-917-5050 mariasol.com ³ Echoing coastal Mexico’s fresh cuisine and vibrant atmosphere, this cantina-style restaurant provides an expansive view of the Pacific and a distinctly flavorful experience. Try the succulent Puerto Nuevo whole lobster or perfectly spiced crab enchiladas, and cap off the meal with a creamy and authentic flan for dessert.

PIER BURGER 330 Santa Monica Pier 310-587-2747 pierburger.com

TO P R I G HT: CAVAN I MAG ES/ALAMY STO C K P H OTO

³ This popular Pier staple for beach-friendly fare quenches “sun-day” cravings with 100 percent certified Angus burgers, Nathan’s Famous hot dogs, sandwiches and fries. Treat your sweet tooth to a Pier Burger shake, sundae, float or cone featuring frozen custard made with Wisconsin dairy products.

RED O 1541 Ocean Ave. 310-458-1600 redorestaurant.com ³ Led by culinary director Rick Bayless, Red O thrives on the creation of flavorful and authentic contemporary Mexican dishes served amid a southof-the-border coastal resort vibe. Peruse the extensive tequila list at the impressive bar and lounge, and check out the weekend a la carte brunch.

TH E L O B STE R

Shop 66 TO CALI 200 Santa Monica Pier Trolley kiosk 66tocali.com ³ Dedicated to the famous U.S. highway that runs from Chicago to L.A., 66 to Cali invites you to bring a little bit of Route 66 home in the form of themed vintage signs, photos, books and clothing.

All merchandise is made in America, so you can sport the emblem proudly.

MARLENE’S BEACH COMBER 350 Santa Monica Pier 310-395-9621 ³ No beach mat? No problem!

You’ll find everything you need for your day at the Pier—and probably a lot more—at this beach-themed stop that has welcomed visitors since 1970. Stop by to stock up on hats, bags, towels, mats, sunscreens and other essentials.

H E A L TH E B AY AQUARIUM

SANTA MONICA PIER SHOP & VISITOR CENTER 200 Santa Monica Pier 310-804-7457 santamonica.com

BLAZING SADDLES BEACH RENTALS & TOURS 320 Santa Monica Pier 310-393-9778 perryscafe.com

³ Start your day at the Visitors Center, by far your most reliable source for guides, maps and information about all things Santa Monica, provided with a smile by knowledgeable Visitor Experience Specialists. While there, stop at the Pier Shop to score some only-inSanta-Monica gifts and souvenirs.

³ Operated by Perry’s Café & Beach Rentals, Blazing Saddles’ Legends Beach Bike Tour includes a two-hour/five-mile guided ride honoring Santa Monica’s multifaceted beach culture, from the coastal homes of top Hollywood stars to famous sites such as Muscle Beach and the Venice Canals.

Play ANNENBERG COMMUNITY BEACH HOUSE 415 Pacific Coast Hwy. 310-458-4904 annenbergbeachhouse.com ³ There’s something for everyone at this 1920s-era, five-acre private estate-turned-recreational hub.

Open to the public, the Beach House is the site for many community events, classes, tours and exhibits. For pure play, check out the beach courts and fields, game room and vintage, marble-decked swimming pool.

Reservations recommended.

*

*

HEAL THE BAY AQUARIUM 1600 Ocean Front Walk 310-393-6149 healthebay.org ³ Explore marine life and learn about efforts to conserve and protect Santa Monica Bay at this home to more than 100 local species. Special exhibits highlight fascinating creatures such as the red octopus, while touch tanks enable up-close and personal encounters with hermit crabs, sea urchins and more.

PACIFIC PARK 380 Santa Monica Pier 310-260-8744 pacpark.com ³ Renowned for its iconic, much-photographed Pacific (Ferris) Wheel, Pacific Park is the epitome of a beachside amusement park, complete with 12 classic rides, 12 midway games and treats galore (funnel cake, anyone?).

The only admission-free venue of its kind in L.A., the park is open every day, weather permitting.

39

ÉL E P H A NTE B E A C H H O U S E

NEIGHBORHOODS

Downtown Santa Monica/ Third Street Promenade Downtown is an entertainment hub and a creative culinary scene for Santa Monica, thanks to the farmers markets, restaurants, boutiques, bars and movie theaters that line the streets.

WA S H I N GTO N AV E .

REED PARK

11

W I L S H I R E B LV D .

9 T H S T.

7 T H S T.

C A L I F O R N I A AV E .

L I N C O L N B LV D.

5

6T H S T.

2

5 T H S T.

4 T H S T.

3 R D S T.

2 N D S T.

O C E A N AV E .

15

16 1 A R I Z O N A AV E .

10 THIRD STREET PROMENADE

D

OWNTOWN SANTA MONICA IS EQUAL PARTS SHOPPING HAVEN AND

street-performer stage. Just east of the Pier, the Third Street Promenade consists of three open-air, car-free blocks that are anchored by upscale Santa Monica Place, home to more than 80 retailers. With everything from fresh farmers-market produce to designer fashions, it’s a shopper’s nirvana.

Likewise, foodies rejoice in the numerous restaurants featuring locally sourced ingredients and craft cocktails. Life pulses around each corner with locals, hotel guests, shoppers, office workers, diners, barflies and moviegoers. Additionally, it’s the terminus of the Metro E Line, which ferries riders by light rail between Santa Monica and Downtown Los Angeles.

6 14 8 9

Q H O T E L S B R OA D WAY

SANTA MONICA PLACE

17

3

KEN GENSER SQUARE

SANTA MONICA HIGH SCHOOL

18 P I C O B LV D .

12 S E E MAP KE Y ON PAGE 3 4

10

4

10 L I N C O L N B LV D .

4 T H S T.

M A I N S T.

O C E A N AV E .

13

10. Hotel Shangri-La

2. Cal Mar Hotel Suites

11. Huntley Santa Monica Beach

3. Courtyard by Marriott Santa Monica

C O L O R A D O AV E .

19 TONGVA PARK

7

9. Hotel Carmel

1. American Motel

4. DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Hotel Santa Monica (Will be known as Hilton Santa Monica as of August 2020) 5. Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows

12. Le Méridien Delfina Santa Monica 13. Ocean Lodge Hotel Santa Monica Beach

*

14. Ocean View Hotel

15. Palihouse Santa Monica 16. Santa Monica Proper Hotel

*

6. The Georgian Hotel

17. Shore Hotel

7. Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Santa Monica

18. Viceroy Santa Monica

8. Hostelling International LA/Santa Monica

4 0 S A N TA MON I CA OF F I C I A L V I S I TOR S GU I DE

19. Wyndham Santa Monica– At The Pier

Eat ÉLEPHANTE BEACH HOUSE 1332 Second St. 424-320-2384 elephantela.com ³ This rooftop bar and restaurant is an homage to southern Mediterranean style and cuisine.

Start with some big-eye tuna tartare with Calabrian aioli, move on to lobster spaghetti with saffron and finish with a mango and pineapple sorbet. Stay late for tunes from the nighttime DJ.

TO P LE FT: C O N N I E AN D STUART; B OTTO M: J ES S I CA SAM P LE

S A N TA M O N I CA B LV D .

own chops in one of Westside’s professionally taught classes.

Come showtime, don’t be surprised to see a well-known comic or two hit the stage to test some new material.

GALLERY FOOD HALL AT THIRD STREET PROMENADE 1315 Third Street Promenade 310-584-7836 galleryfoodhall.com, thesocialeats.com ³ This two-level food complex located in the heart of Third Street Promenade invites guests to choose their own culinary adventure, from the organic beach tacos at Azulé Taqueria to the elevated, market-driven menu at Dialogue. The newest addition: SocialEats, a high-concept food hall featuring tempting fare such as fried chicken from Fuku, noodles from Street Noods and tapas from Cada Vez, to name a few.

MASSILIA 1445 Fourth St. 310-319-1995 massilia.com ³ Inspired by the cuisine embraced in the south of France, Massilia harnesses the best of French, Italian and Moroccan ingredients and cooking techniques to present flavorful creations, such as a couscous royal made with merguez sausage, lamb and seven vegetables, and a pappardelle featuring grass-fed beef.

THE MISFIT RESTAURANT + BAR 225 Santa Monica Blvd.

310-656-9800 themisfitbar.com ³ The Misfit is a perfect match for Santa Monica’s rich history and modern allegiance to farm-to-table dining. Located in downtown’s 1929 clock tower, this casual restaurant and bar serves brunch, lunch and all-day bites prepared with fresh local ingredients and a decidedly adventuresome cocktail menu.

TH I R D STR E ET P R O M E N A D E

TH E V O I D

YE OLDE KING’S HEAD 116 Santa Monica Blvd.

310-451-1402 yeoldekingshead.com

SANTA MONICA PLACE 395 Santa Monica Place 310-260-8333 santamonicaplace.com

³ Visitors will think they’ve crossed the pond when they venture into this popular combination pub, patio and gift shop established in 1974. A generous menu features classic fare such as fish and chips, steak and kidney pie and Irish beef stew, and a traditional afternoon tea comes complete with scones and Devonshire cream.

³ An eclectic, open-air gathering of 80-plus stores and boutiques keeps company with quality eateries at this three-level destination. Shop at style-forward Free People or browse the classic lines featured at Bloomingdale’s.

Top off your day with a refined film-watching experience at the luxurious ArcLight Cinemas.

Luggage storage is available. santamonicaplace.com/services, see page 94 for details.

Shop THE ACORN STORE 1220 Fifth St. 310-451-5845 theacornstore.com

THIRD STREET PROMENADE 1351 Third St. 310-393-8355 downtownsm.com, 3rdstreetpromenade.com

³ The items at this one-of-a-kind wonderland of children’s toys, books and art supplies are all nontoxic and made solely from wood and other natural materials.

From dollhouses and train sets to finger paints and dress-up accessories, the vibrant and whimsical inventory will make you feel like a kid again.

³ This expansive outdoor retail nirvana is the perfect place to stroll, people-watch, savor a meal or light bite, or just soak up the sun.

Explore three blocks’ worth of shops—Anthropologie, adidas and Guess, to name a few—and tweak your look at one of the Promenade’s top-notch salons and spas.

MERCENARY GENERAL STORE 120 Broadway 310-260-2238 mercenarygeneral.com

Play

³ Like the general stores of yesteryear, this place probably has what you need and a whole lot more: apparel for everyone, jewelry, home décor, gifts, books, pet toys, bath and body products, greeting cards and a vast array of novelties you never realized you wanted—but now must have.

SANTA MONICA DOWNTOWN WALKING TOURS 1436 Second St. 310-595-4526 smconservancy.org ³ Offered every Saturday at 10 a.m., these two-hour walking tours hosted by the Santa Monica Conservancy explore the city’s 130-year civic and architectural journey from wild frontier to modern metropolis.

THE VOID 1220 Third St. 424-645-3285 thevoid.com/locations/ santamonica ³ The thrill of a lifetime awaits at The VOID, a virtual reality destination that invites you into an immersive film fantasy in which you are one of the characters from blockbusters like Star Wars, Marvel Studios’ Avengers, Jumanji or Ghostbusters. Just slip on the special gear and prepare to travel through time, space and mysterious alternative dimensions in an experience you won’t soon forget.

S U P E RTO R O B E NTO B O X AT G A L L E RY F O O D H A L L

M.I.’S WESTSIDE COMEDY THEATRE 1323-A Third St. 310-451-0850 westsidecomedy.com ³ This stand-up/improv club and comedy training center is for anyone who appreciates the comedic arts—and perhaps wouldn’t mind developing their S A N TA MON I CA OF F I C I A L V I S I TOR S GU I DE 4 1

NEIGHBORHOODS

M A I N STR E ET

P A C I F I C S T.

GRAN

PAC I F

JOSLYN PARK

OCEA

N PA R K

D S T.

3

B LV D .

HIGHLAND

3 R D S T.

ASHLA

N D AV E.

AV E .

4 T H S T.

3 R D S T.

H A M P TO N

MARIN

S E E MAP KE Y ON PAGE 3 4

Q HOTELS

2. Ocean Park Inn

42

IKE 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 of 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 cafés and indie boutiques. In the evening, trendy restaurants and watering holes glow with a lively mix of options for nightlife lovers.

Eat

E S T.

OZONE PARK

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1. Le Méridien Delfina Santa Monica

Cafés, shops, public parklets and sandy beaches add to a welcoming neighborhood vibe.

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3. Rest Haven Motel

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4. Santa Monica Motel 5. Sea Shore Motel

Insiders know to look for the weeknight specials on popular dishes such as Maine lobster, king crab and oysters.

ENTERPRISE FISH CO. 174 Kinney St. 310-392-8366 enterprisefishco santamonica.com

THE GALLEY 2442 Main St. 310-452-1934 thegalleyrestaurant.net

³ This fresh seafood restaurant opened its doors 40 years ago in a renovated historic 1917 building and it’s still going strong, thanks to the consistent high quality of its sustainably sourced fare.

³ Founded in 1934, The Galley is rightfully proud of its standing as the oldest restaurant and bar in Santa Monica. The cozy, nautically themed establishment serves

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steak, chicken, seafood, pasta and vegetarian dishes—and salad tossed in a dressing made from a cherished, decades-old secret recipe.

PASJOLI 2732 Main St. 424-330-0020 pasjoli.com ³ Reminiscent of a tasteful French bistro in décor and ambience, Pasjoli is the essence of casual yet exclusive dining.

Renowned chef Dave Beran opened the establishment in late 2019 with an inspired menu of French favorites such as whole pressed duck and chocolate soufflé, and some creative twists on the classics.

THE PLACE TO BE 2510 Main St., Ste. B 310-399-0743 theplacetobesm.com ³ This quaint, self-described “neighborhood French bakery” provides a refreshing respite from the bustle of Main Street. Using traditional French bakery techniques, the husband-andwife owners serve sandwiches, salads, pastries and desserts, including gluten-free and vegan items, and premium French coffee—plus wine and sandwich platters every Friday night.

Shop BERRY LEE SHOES 2525 Main St., Ste. 101 310-392-8853 berryleeshoes.com

HOORSENBUHS

³ This Main Street staple has been providing great-looking comfort footwear plus bags, hosiery and hats to Santa Monica shoppers since 1986. The store prides itself on its wide and impressively curated inventory, which includes Birkenstock, Teva, Dansko and much more.

HOORSENBUHS 2217 Main St. 888-692-2997 hoorsenbuhs.com ³ The Hoorsenbuhs line of unisex jewelry is showcased in upscale stores throughout the U.S., but this flagship store truly brings the luxury brand center stage. The line’s signature chain motif has been seen on such trend-forward celebrities as Rihanna, Gwen Stefani, Pharrell Williams and David Beckham.

PA SJ O L I

LOST & FOUND 2000 Main St. 310-450-9782 (Lost & Found Home) and 2230 Main St. 310-450-9565 (Lost & Found), lostandfoundshop.com ³ High-quality clothing, home goods, gifts and apothecary items are among the unique treasures you’ll unearth at this two-location establishment that makes an ideal gift registry for folks with eclectic tastes. Check out the ongoing deep-discount sales for fabulous deals.

MUJI 2936 Main St. 310-566-8345 muji.com ³ This international retail chain founded in Japan draws loyal shoppers for its minimalist and environmentally friendly inventory of high-quality furniture, apparel, home goods, stationery and more. (It’s so popular in the area that there’s another Santa Monica location on Third Street Promenade.)

Play CALIFORNIA HERITAGE MUSEUM 2612 Main St. 310-391-8537 californiaheritagemuseum.org

EDGEMAR CENTER FOR THE ARTS 2437 Main St., #B 310-392-0815 edgemarcenter.org ³ Catch a live theatrical performance, film or special event, or stroll the art gallery complex at this experiential center for the creative arts. The center is home to one of L.A.’s top acting studios, whose director has worked with the likes of Gerard Butler, Pénelope Cruz and Seth McFarlane.

MAIN VISITOR INFORMATION CENTER 2427 Main St. 800-544-5319, 310-393-7593 santamonica.com ³ Ensure an exceptional Santa Monica experience with a stop at the Main Visitor Information Center, where a friendly and knowledgeable Visitor Experience Specialist will share up-to-date information on the area’s best hotels, dining, culture, attractions and entertainment. Grab a map or guide, and don’t forget to check out the gift shop’s rotating selection of merchandise.

You can also shop online at santamonica.com/store.

M A I N V I S ITO R I N F O R M ATI O N C E NTE R

³ Located inside a historic 19th-century house built for a Santa Monica senator’s son, this charming museum displays an engaging variety of rotating art and cultural exhibits, and is also host to two community mainstays: Tuesday night food trucks and Sunday farmers markets.

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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.

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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, it feels removed from the hustle and bustle of the Promenade and Pier. Late-night options may be limited, but from sunrise to sunset, a steady stream of shoppers browse the surrounding storefronts amid a relaxed crowd of A-list celebrities, out-oftowners and parents pushing strollers, none of whom seem in a hurry to leave the wealth of juice bars, latte vendors, outdoor cafés and unique shops.

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BEAMING 1426 Montana Ave. 310-299-7622 livebeaming.com ³ Based on the belief that the right foods have the power to heal and transform, Beaming specializes in cold-pressed juices, smoothies, elixirs and power shots; organic soups and açai bowls; snacks, baked goods and desserts; and pantry staples such as nut butters, powders and supplements.

FORMA RESTAURANT & CHEESE BAR 1610 Montana Ave. 424-231-2868 formarestaurant.com ³ Named for its star ingredient— formaggio (cheese)—Forma features a cheese bar with a stunning assortment of 70 different varietals, and some of the pastas its chefs prepare for lunch, brunch and dinner are served dalla forma (in cheese wheels).

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PRIMA COCINA 1405 Montana Ave. 424-581-6511 primacocina.com ³ The colorful cuisine of this recently opened cantina combines the culinary heritage of mainland Mexico with the coastal influence of the Baja peninsula, perhaps best exemplified in its Sea of Cortez, a cioppini dish of clams, shrimp, scallops, mussels and fish in a homemade seafood broth.

Shop KREATION ORGANIC KAFE (AND JUICERY) 1023 Montana Ave. 310-458-4880 kreationjuice.com ³ Treat your body to an infusion of vitamins, minerals and enzymes at this mecca for the healthconscious. All cold-pressed juices, smoothies, tonics and foods at Kreation are lovingly concocted from scratch using locally purchased, 100 percent USDA certified organic fruits and vegetables.

MARGO’S 1534 Montana Ave. 310-829-3990 margossantamonica.com ³ Dine, sip and socialize at this cozy neighborhood spot with a bar, lounge, outdoor patio and full-service dining room. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, Margo’s specializes in creative New American dishes, such as the 10-ounce bone-in pork chop with crispy Brussels sprouts, apples, hazelnuts and a sweet onion ring.

K R E ATI O N O R G A N I C K A F E

store’s unique inventory of antique furniture and home décor includes European-style tables, desks, seating, cabinets and more.

FEMELLE 1627 Montana Ave., #B 424-268-7260 shopfemelle.com

Play

³ This unique, independently owned shop features a carefully curated collection of everyday women’s wear that represents the work of about 15 different local and international designers.

The common thread across the inventory, say the owners, is functionality, femininity and a sense of timelessness.

AERO THEATRE 1328 Montana Ave. 310-260-1528 americancinematheque calendar.com

PINK CHICKEN 1524 Montana Ave. 310-395-6048 pinkchicken.com ³ Describing its style sensibility as part vintage and part bohemian, Pink Chicken specializes in spirited, no-fuss clothing for women, children and babies. Smile-evoking prints distinguish this infectious fashion line, from the bibs and onesies in the Pink Chicken layette collection to the irresistible, matching mother-daughter ensembles.

³ Fans of culturally iconic, classic, documentary and contemporary independent films find their personal meccas at the Aero, opened in 1940 and restored by American Cinematheque to include a 188-foot-high, 38-foot-wide screen. Keep an eye out for themed double features and special live events.

OLIVE & JUNE 1426 Montana Ave. 310-899-1029 olivejune.com ³ Whether you opt for a professional mani/pedi, DIY nail care or a combination of both, this cool and unique nail salon-store has a tantalizing luxury service menu and a yummy line of lacquers and nail care products that’s designed to up your beauty game.

TEN WOMEN GALLERY 1128 Montana Ave. 310-393-6254 tenwomen.org ³ Featuring pieces by selected local women artists, this cooperative gallery supports and promotes its members with exhibits and events that showcase their exceptional talent.

Highlighted mediums include painting, illustration, photography, sculpture, ceramics, mixed media, jewelry making, and works in glass, leather, metal and paper.

PINK CHICKEN

ROSEMARIE MCCAFFREY ANTIQUES & INTERIORS 1203 Montana Ave. 310-395-7711 rmcantiques.com ³ Named for its Irish-born owner/ designer, Rosemarie McCaffrey Antiques & Interiors was founded in 1987 and has since developed a long-standing clientele, many of whom are interior designers. The 45

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TRETCHES OF PICO BOULEVARD, A MAIN ARTERY

connecting Santa Monica to Downtown Los Angeles, look more like an art exhibition as of late: The local business improvement district, paired with the awardwinning nonprofit Beautify Earth, has adorned buildings here with a variety of striking murals. The people bustling through the area are equally diverse, drawn to a mix of small galleries, live music venues, shops and a variety of popular restaurants offering temptations for almost any palate.

Accessible from the three Metro E Line stations in town, Pico ends at the beach and links Santa Monica High School, Santa Monica College and Virginia Avenue Park, where a beloved farmers market takes place each Saturday.

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CAMPOS FAMOUS BURRITOS 2008 Pico Blvd.

310-450-4477 camposfamousburritos.com

THE BRIXTON 2827 Pico Blvd.

310-449-4567 thebrixtonsm.com

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³ This quintessential neighborhood gastropub pairs an inspired selection of craft brews and wines with an all-day menu of sharable, New American plates of flatbreads, lettuce wraps, short ribs and much more. Take in the modern rustic atmosphere as you view sports games on eight different TV screens.

³ Campos has been creating its authentic Mexican dishes since 1971, a fact that speaks volumes about the casual spot’s ability to inspire customer loyalty. The menu’s affordable offerings are made to satisfy, from the crisp nachos and oozing quesadillas to the fresh tostadas and hearty burritos.

Q HOTELS 1. Holiday Motel

4. Ocean Park Inn

2. Le Méridien Delfina Santa Monica

5. Palm Motel

3. Ocean Park Hotel

8. Shutters on the Beach

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9. SureStay by Best Western – Santa Monica

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LO/CAL COFFEE AND MARKET 2214 Pico Blvd.

424-322-2710 local-coffee.com ³ Coffee aficionados should not miss this unusual coffee bar featuring renowned Stumptown beans roasted in L.A. Try the signature Honey Lavender Latte or Nitro Cold brew on tap. Pair it with avocado toast or a fresh pastry and peruse the selection of java-making gear available for purchase.

MILO SRO 826 Pico Blvd.

310-392-0706 milosro.com ³ This delivery or takeout alternative to the full-service Milo & Olive restaurant on Wilshire Boulevard prepares its pizzas and calzones with 100 percent organic flour (dough is fermented for 48 hours to ensure optimal flavor). Organic veggies, artisan meats and non-GMO mozzarella are obtained from suppliers that use sustainable practices.

TANDOOR-INDIA 2622 Pico Blvd.

310-581-9964 tandoorla.com ³ Whether you grew up on Indian cuisine or have never heard of basmati rice, Tandoor-India will entice you with its traditionally prepared chicken, lamb, fish and vegetable pakoras, tandooris, curries, kormas, biryanis and vindalus. Complement your entrée with a basket of Indian naan (bread) and a generous dollop of freshly made mango chutney.

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Shop CALIFORNIA REDISCOVERED 2116 Pico Blvd.

424-252-9806 californiarediscovered.com ³ The imaginative owners of California Rediscovered who curate, repurpose and recycle artifacts that are sold at this location as well as on Etsy.com have amassed a following of loyal buyers. Interested in a 1930s-era toy crane converted into a sidetable lamp? This is the place!

MY PET NATURALLY 3240 Pico Blvd.

310-477-3030 mypetnaturally.com ³ My Pet Naturally is a favored source for natural and holistic pet

food, special baked treats and supplies that are chosen with pet and environmental health in mind.

The shop carries 200-plus brands and the in-store salon staff can tend to all of your furry baby’s grooming needs.

Monica venue since it opened 50-plus years ago. The shop up front features a dazzling inventory of new and vintage stringed instruments while music students file in and out for group or private lessons.

Play

SPEAK EASY 1326 Pico Blvd.

310-450-4989 speakeasypico.com

BLUE RIBBON SPORTS 3107 Pico Blvd.

424-433-8091

³ Sip, snack and socialize at this friendly and unpretentious neighborhood pub. Share a plate of chili fries with some cold beer on Comedy Night, shoot a friendly game of pool before dinner or drop your inhibitions for Saturday evening karaoke. It’s all in good, informal fun.

³ Years before the 1970s runners’ boom took hold, Blue Ribbon Sports opened its first store right here. It closed in 1969 and the company changed its name to Nike. Now Nike has reopened the space under its original moniker as a community gathering spot where runners flock to chat and share tips. They also plan to host community runs for local high schools and run clubs; sign up at nike.com/la and keep an eye out for special events at @nikelosangeles.

MCCABE’S GUITAR SHOP 3101 Pico Blvd.

310-828-4497 mccabes.com ³ Literally thousands of artists have performed in the “back room” of this beloved Santa

TRIBE PILATES 911 Pico Blvd.

310-405-6394 tribepilatesstudio.com ³ This couple-owned and operated Pilates studio focuses on spring-based reformer machines in its variety of group classes for students of all experience levels. There are sessions geared toward overall fitness, particular areas of the body, and prenatal and postnatal routines. Private instruction is also available.

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Mid-City This centrally located enclave is home to a thriving arts scene.

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ORDERED BY TWO MAJOR THOROUGHFARES,

Wilshire and Olympic boulevards, and two Metro E Line stations, this easily accessible neighborhood gets plenty of attention for its arts and entertainment offerings, particularly 18th Street Arts Center, Bergamot Station’s galleries and The Broad Stage’s shows, as well as top-notch eateries.

No wonder it’s home to a growing crop of interesting restaurants and shops.

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³ Award-winning chef Jeremy Fox is at the helm of this supperclub-like spot serving twists on American dishes. Think: a relish tray with fresh and pickled farmers market vegetables and five-onion dip or an entrée of steak frites featuring different cuts of beef from California ranchers.

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BIRDIE G’S 2421 Michigan Ave. 310-310-3616 birdiegsla.com

4. Days Inn by Wyndham Santa Monica/Los Angeles 5. Gateway Hotel Santa Monica 6. Holiday Motel 7. Palm Motel

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SANTA MONICA BREW WORKS 1920 Colorado Ave. 310-828-7629 santamonicabrewworks.com ³ From flights (four five-ounce pours) to pints of seasonal releases and perennial favorites like Buffalo Ninja, there are brews to please all kinds of beer lovers. Check Facebook and Instagram for the latest news and look for the brewery’s beers at local restaurants.

TRUXTON’S 1329 Santa Monica Blvd.

310-393-8789 truxtonsamericanbistro.com

BUSBY’S WEST 3110 Santa Monica Blvd.

310-828-4567 busbyswest.com ³ Whether you come to watch a game and chow down on great pub food, test your skill at air hockey or Skee-Ball, or just dance the night away, this multi-room sports bar has you covered. Look for wallet-friendly specials like $2 tacos on Tuesdays and $1 chicken wings on Wednesdays.

THE ROOSTER 2301 Santa Monica Blvd.

310-264-0999 theroostersantamonica.com ³ Recently launched by chef/ restaurateur Bruce Marder, The Rooster is an all-day, farm-to-table restaurant and bakery that specializes in New American cuisine. Wax poetic over your dinner of New York State rack of lamb with blackberry crumble gratin for dessert or the handcrafted breads and pastries from the in-house Rooster Bakery.

³ Like a trip around the world without the jet lag, Truxton’s dishes take your taste buds to exciting places with regional dishes from Central and South America, the Caribbean, Europe, Africa and Asia. Seasonal dishes include miso roasted salad, Tunisian grilled chicken, a Jamaican pork plate and ancient-grain vegan street tacos.

Shop BAY STREET BOARDS 3216 Santa Monica Blvd.

310-310-2485 baystreetboards.com ³ Amped to catch a clean wave or bomb a hill? This surf and skate shop run by two brothers is favored by lifelong riders (many of whom have signed on as “ambassadors”), so it’s a solid choice for finding the right gear to buy or rent, getting information and safety advice, or just hearing some really gnarly stories.

CO+OPPORTUNITY MARKET & DELI 1525 Broadway 310-451-8902 coopportunity.com

*

³ This community-owned and -operated market and deli has been selling natural and organic food to the public for 40-plus years. Although no foods are banned outright, Co+opportunity’s

B AY STR E ET BOARDS strong preference for locally sourced, non-GMO and certified organic items is evident in its produce, grocery, dairy, deli, wellness and bulk food items.

RIP CITY SKATES 2709 Santa Monica Blvd.

310-828-0388 ripcity.net ³ Launched just as modern-age skateboarding was born in the late ’70s, this family-owned shop has seen—and carried—it all. Peruse the vintage boards that adorn the walls as you check out the latest in decks, longboards and cruisers, trucks, wheels and hard-good accessories.

SANTA MONICA MUSIC CENTER 1901 Santa Monica Blvd.

310-453-1928 santamonicamusic.com ³ Since 1972, this family-owned music store and studio has kept its community humming with its wide selection of brass, wind and string instruments for rent or sale.

The center also provides repair services, studio rentals, and private and group lessons, and regularly donates instruments and lessons for school fundraising events.

Play AMP ASSOCIATION 1708 19th St. 424-402-7091 ampassociation.com ³ This fitness outfit provides strength and conditioning classes and personal training sessions that use functional movements to build strong minds and bodies.

The gym’s community culture supports personal progress.

BERGAMOT STATION 2525 Michigan Ave. 310-363-4244 bergamotstation.com ³ Occupying a former trolley depot, this walkable arts complex allows visitors to see dozens of art galleries in one trip. Be sure to make time for a meal or snack at the Bergamot Cafe and, on select days, a special on-site event or live performance at the City Garage Theatre.

18TH STREET ARTS CENTER 1639 18th St. 310-453-3711 18thstreet.org ³ This center supports artists’ efforts to develop powerful and influential contemporary works to provoke public dialogue and instigate social change.

Exhibitions, open studio events and public programs take place at this location and at the center’s second campus at the Santa Monica Airport.

WILLOW SPA 3127 Santa Monica Blvd.

310-453-9004 willowspa.com ³ Bliss out at the Asianinfluenced Willow Spa, where you’ll be enveloped in an ambience of fragrant flowers amid lantern-lit walkways. Need a quick pick-me-up? Check out the spa’s Zen Express menu.

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This bustling corridor is lined with restaurants, a variety of shopping opportunities and a trio of parks.

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Avenue in Santa Monica, Wilshire Boulevard is a kaleidoscope of California culture. You’ll find several chef-driven dining hot spots near mom-and-pop bakeries and generations-old Mexican eateries. A smattering of vintage and designer consignment stores make the whole strip a favorite for deal hunters.

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FIA 2454 Wilshire Blvd.

310-586-1707 fiarestaurant.com

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³ Inspired by the coastal regions of both California and Italy, Fia is a recently launched indoor/outdoor restaurant boasting enchanting vintage décor, garden-style ambience and a menu that emphasizes fresh regional seafood complemented by homemade pastas, premium cheeses and seasonal vegetables.

4. Comfort Inn Santa Monica

6. Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows

5. Days Inn by Wyndham Santa Monica/ Los Angeles

8. Huntley Santa Monica Beach

7. Hotel Shangri-La

9. Palihouse Santa Monica 10. Santa Monica Proper Hotel

T O P L E F T : FA I T H P H O T O G R A P H Y ; T O P R I G H T : M I C H A E L G R E C C O ; B O T T O M R I G H T : M I K E F I N K E L S T E I N

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INGO’S TASTY DINER 1213 Wilshire Blvd.

310-395-4646 ingostastydiner.com

Shop

³ This tastefully appointed diner serves flavored-up modern American supper-club fare (think: beef carpaccio arugula salad and steak au poivre in cognac pepper sauce). Drop in on Saturday between 10 p.m. and 1 a.m. for Ingo’s Live Lounge, when some of L.A.’s finest studio musicians evoke the cool neighborhood hangouts of yesteryear.

BELCAMPO MEAT CO. 1026 Wilshire Blvd.

424-744-8008 belcampo.com

IZZY’S DELI 1433 Wilshire Blvd.

310-394-1131 izzysdelimenu.com ³ Deli-loving locals and homesick New Yorkers flock to Izzy’s to kibbitz and nosh on a menu of traditional Jewish dishes flanked by diner-style favorites and a touch of California cuisine.

Launched in 1973 by owner Izzy Freeman, who’s still at the helm, the award-winning celebrity-spotting eatery is open 24/7.

MÉLISSE/CITRIN 1104 Wilshire Blvd.

310-395-0881 citrinandmelisse.com ³ This iconic 20-year-old establishment underwent design and conceptual changes before reopening in late 2019 as two spaces: Mélisse, an intimate room offering a tasting menu only, and Citrin, a larger dining room serving a seasonally driven, a la carte menu focused on California cuisine, plus a separate bar area.

SUPERFOOD CAFÉ 530 Wilshire Blvd.

310-319-9100 superfoodcafe.org ³ Serving all-organic bowls, breakfasts, sandwiches, soups, salads, smoothies and baked goods since 1990, this Santa Monica mainstay enjoys a loyal following of health-conscious locals. Most of the items on the menu are or can be made gluten-free—even the peanut butter chocolate chunk cookies.

³ This farm-to-table restaurant and butcher shop uses only organic, grass-fed meat in its delicious dishes emphasizing California cuisine. Dine in for brunch or a luxurious dinner (filet mignon with potatoes and asparagus, anyone?), then return the next day to peruse the on-site butcher shop stocked with cuts from Belcampo’s own local farm.

GREAT LABELS LUXURY CONSIGNMENT BOUTIQUE 1126 Wilshire Blvd.

310-451-2277 greatlabels.com ³ When your designer taste doesn’t quite match your budget, Great Labels steps in to bridge the gap with priced-to-sell clothes, shoes, bags and accessories from Prada, Chanel, Gucci, Alexander Wang and more. If you’re ready to part with your own still-in-style designer items, bring them in for possible consignment.

JOHNNIE-O LOVE SHACK 2712 Wilshire Blvd.

310-453-6450 johnnie-o.com ³ Men’s casualwear options have expanded well past “Hawaiian shirt plus flip-flops” and nowhere is that more evident than at this cool boutique, where celebs such as Ashton Kutcher and Bradley Cooper have availed themselves of the style-forward yet classically understated collections.

FIA

LARRY’S SHAVER SHOP 821 Wilshire Blvd.

310-393-3291 facebook.com/larrys-shavershoppe-738004366251075 ³ The grooming world has experienced a few changes over the years, yet the demand for quality shaving supplies stays the same. Likewise, this mom-andpop operation that has been serving the Santa Monica area since 1953 has held onto its reputation for carrying the finest cutleries, shaving supplies and gifts in the business.

Play BOARD & BRUSH CREATIVE STUDIO 2924 Wilshire Blvd.

424-354-5254 boardandbrush.com/ santamonica ³ What started as the founder’s “girls’ night out” wine and crafts activity is now a national franchise

D O U G L A S PA R K

of popular DIY woodworking centers (with wine included for the 21-plus set). Sign up for a workshop and you’ll receive instruction and materials to distress, sand, stain, paint and customize your own wooden sign.

DOUGLAS PARK 2439 Wilshire Blvd.

310-458-8300 smgov.net ³ This serene urban oasis is perfect for playing, picnicking or just being pensive. The park offers plenty of lounging space with tables and benches, three reflective pools, a children’s playground, a lawn bowling green, two tennis courts and a 40-person capacity clubhouse that can be reserved for special occasions.

PHOENIX CLASSICAL PILATES 2412 Wilshire Blvd.

424-835-2810 phoenixclassicalpilates.com ³ The owners of this recently opened studio teach classical Pilates with fidelity to the original equipment design and specific exercise regimens developed by Joseph Pilates in the 1920s. The modern and airy space makes an ideal setting for relaxed and focused training sessions, offered in small groups, as duets or one-on-one.

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NEIGHBORHOODS

Ocean Park Boulevard/ Santa Monica Airport Area

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The city’s southeastern-most enclave is an up-and-coming destination for diners and shoppers in the know.

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BLOSSOM VIETNAMESE 2821 Ocean Park Blvd.

424-268-4425 blossomrestaurant.com

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vibe, a crop of talked-about restaurants and “Where did you get that?!” boutiques and shops. Accentuated by spacious Clover Park, the neighborhood is also 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 and Ruskin Group Theatre Co.; and the Museum of Flying as well as the neighboring Spitfire Grill.

The airport’s observation decks, eco-friendly gardens and twice-monthly antiques market are also big draws.

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³ Devotees will insist that you order the pho (rice noodle soup) at Blossom, a neighborhoodstyle Vietnamese restaurant whose intimate size encourages a communal eating experience.

Highlights on the menu include Vietnamese “crepes,” cold rice noodle dishes and, of course, the pho.

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Q HOTELS 1. Ocean Park Hotel 2. Ocean Park Inn 3. Pavilions Motel

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4. Sea Shore Motel

IL FORNO 2901 Ocean Park Blvd.

310-450-1241 ilfornocaffe.com ³ For 30-plus years, Il Forno has served delicious Southern Italian cuisine for lunch and dinner in a relaxed and casual setting. The restaurant has built a favorable reputation among locals for its reliance on produce from local farmers and the use of only wild and responsibly sourced fish, delivered daily.

*

LOVE COFFEE BAR 1732 Ocean Park Blvd.

310-392-3604 lovecoffeebar.com

³ The owners of this homey and dog-friendly spot have come up with a winning formula: a bright and modern indoor/outdoor setting, talented and welcoming

TO P A N D B OT TO M R I G H T : S T E P H A N I E P LO M A R I T Y

BU N

³ On the first and fourth Sunday of every month from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., this sprawling outdoor market that features a mind-boggling collection of vintage home furnishings and goods, clothing, jewelry, art, posters and more draws an enthusiastic throng of casual browsers, bargain seekers and hardcore antique hunters.

Play B L O S S O M V I ETN A M E S E

baristas, inventive coffee and tea beverages sourced from California-based roasters and artisans, and an open-door policy for four-legged friends.

SHAKA SHACK BURGERS 1701 Ocean Park Blvd.

310-450-5551 shaka-burger.com ³ Open seven days a week until 9 p.m., this happening tiki- and surfer-themed hangout is revered for whipping up generously sized, grass-fed and Kobe-style beef burgers, homemade veggie burgers and fries, and addictively crunchy handmade onion rings.

Will there be a line? Probably, but it’s worth the wait.

Shop BARK WILLIAMS 2901 Ocean Park Blvd.

310-664-7009 barkwilliams.com ³ Founded in 2004, Bark Williams prides itself on edibles, products, supplies and toys that are meticulously researched by the owners to ensure the highest quality. Bring Buster in for a full-service grooming or, if you opt to self-wash, pay only $10 during “yappy” hour, Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

SANTA MONICA YOGA 1640 Ocean Park Blvd.

310-396-4040 santamonicayoga.com ³ At this studio dedicated to thriving through movement, experienced and accomplished instructors in yoga, Pilates, Feldenkrais® and Nia guide all levels of students on the practice of these disciplines with the goal of improved mental, emotional, physical and spiritual health. The studio also provides workshops and special events.

MUSEUM OF FLYING 3100 Airport Ave. 310-398-2500 museumofflying.org

VR HOUR VIRTUAL REALITY ESCAPE ROOM 2901 Ocean Park Blvd.

424-334-4003 vr-hour.com

³ Occupying a 22,000-squarefoot space at the Santa Monica Airport, the Museum of Flying takes guests around the world of aviation. Visit the early days of flight at the Early Aviation Hangar Bay, view real vintage aircraft in the Display Gallery and experience the thrill of flight inside the MaxFlight flight simulator.

³ Virtual-reality technology meets escape-room fun at this recently opened haven for adventure seekers. At VR HOUR, players and their teammates collaborate via joined virtual worlds for a full hour as they travel through different worlds in an attempt to save humanity. =

M I N N I E T'S

MINNIE T’S 1624 Ocean Park Blvd.

310-664-3600 minniets.com VR HOUR

³ The eclectic collection of natural-fiber dresses, separates, shoes, bags and accessories for women on offer at Minnie T’s has been meticulously curated from international designer lines.

Consider the chic mixed material knits created by Alessandra Marchi and the contemporary ankle booties from Marco Delli.

Fashionista nirvana!

SANTA MONICA AIRPORT OUTDOOR ANTIQUE & COLLECTIBLE MARKET 3223 Donald Douglas Loop 323-933-2511 santamonicaairportantique market.com S A N TA MON I CA OF F I C I A L V I S I TOR S GU I DE 5 3

STAY L O E W S S A NTA M O N I C A B E A C H H OTE L

HOT E L S

STAY

Santa Monica’s extraordinary selection of hotels provides a welcome home for any Southern California stay.

SANTA MONICA PIER AREA/ OCEAN AVENUE BAYSIDE HOTEL

1415 Ocean Ave. 310-395-9945 georgianhotel.com ³ Perched atop the Palisades

³ The beach bike rentals at this welcoming ocean-view hotel allow guests to cruise along the Southern California coast and explore the famous Santa Monica Pier’s arcade, aquarium and carousel. $$ THE COT TAGE SANTA MONICA 2219 Ocean Ave. 310-593-0093 thecottagesantamonica.com ³ Boasting four bright,

spacious bedrooms and stylish nautical-themed décor, this historic beachside cottage accommodates up to eight guests. Daily housekeeping and breakfast service make for stress-free family getaways along the sunny Southern California shoreline. $$$ B AYS I D E H OTE L

Park bluff with magnificent views of the coastline, this historic hotel is famous for its 1933 Art Deco architecture, Old Hollywood glamour and popular eatery Veranda Restaurant. $$$

S H O R E H OTE L

HOTEL CASA DEL MAR 1910 Ocean Way 310-581-5533 hotelcasadelmar.com

JW MARRIOT T SANTA MONICA LE MERIGOT

³ Inspired by grand Mediterranean villas and Santa Monica’s effortless glamour, this beachfront hotel offers coveted accommodations. Enjoy ocean views and farmers market–driven fare at Catch Restaurant and Terrazza Lounge, and visit the Sea Wellness Spa. $$$ HOTEL SHANGRI-L A 1301 Ocean Ave. 310-394-2791 shangrila-hotel.com

³ Styled after the Golden Age of Hollywood, this architectural gem is renowned for its Streamline Moderne look, Art Deco guest rooms and sustainable renovations. ONYX features an indoor/outdoor rooftop bar with a 360-degree view that includes the Pacific Ocean. $$$

$ $100–$199 $$ $200–$299 $$$ $300+

5 6 S A N TA MON I CA OF F I C I A L V I S I TOR S GU I DE

PET FRIENDLY

1740 Ocean Ave. 310-395-9700 marriott.com/laxlm

³ Blending European elegance with the vibrant Southern California lifestyle, this hotel is just steps from the beach, the Santa Monica Pier and Third Street Promenade. Enjoy genuine luxury in one of 175 modern, ultra-comfortable guest rooms and suites. $$$ LOEWS SANTA MONICA BE ACH HOTEL 1700 Ocean Ave. 310-458-6700 loewshotels.com/santa-monica

this fall will introduce a new meeting space, oceanfront terrace and poolside taco bar and update the lobby and fitness center. Circuit shuttle service. $$$ OCE AN LODGE HOTEL SANTA MONICA BE ACH 1667 Ocean Ave. 310-451-4146 oceanlodgehotel.com

³ Known for its historic 1950s architecture, this family-owned hotel situated next to Tongva Park features comfortable rooms, surfboard rentals and lessons, and classic surf-and-turf dinners at neighboring Chez Jay restaurant. $

³ Enjoy quintessential Santa Monica style at this luxury beachfront hotel, offering coastal-inspired guest rooms, stunning ocean views, an awardwinning pool and a variety of local food and beverage options.

Renovations due for completion

For a complete list of Santa Monica hotels, visit santamonica.com/hotels.

H OTE L S H A N G R I-L A

B OTTO M LE FT: S M CVB

2001 Ocean Ave. 310-396-6000 baysidehotel.com

PRICE RANGE

THE GEORGIAN HOTEL

SUITES AND SUNSHINE BY THE SANTA MONICA PIER EXPERIENCE OUR MULTI-MILLION DOLLAR TRANSFORMATION Introducing the soon to come 4 Diamond Hilton Santa Monica, a boutique feel suite hotel Book directly on our hotel website Hilton.com or call us at (310) 395-3332.

OPENING

FALL OF 2020 1707 4th Street Santa Monica, CA 90401

STAY

*

OCE AN VIEW HOTEL

1447 Ocean Ave. 310-458-4888 oceanviewsantamonica.com

³ Newly renovated, wellappointed, sustainable beachglam guest rooms feature a list of modern amenities such as Keurig coffee makers, plush bathrobes and rain showerheads.

Enjoy a peaceful Pacific Ocean or sunset view with a private balcony. $$ OCE ANA 849 Ocean Ave. 310-393-0486 hoteloceanasantamonica.com

SEA BLUE HOTEL

OCEANA

*

SHORE HOTEL

1515 Ocean Ave. 310-458-1515 shorehotel.com

³ Unwind at this laid-back hideaway along the Pacific. Bask in the sun and carefree lifestyle of Southern California, and relax in the private courtyard with beach access. $$

³ The LEED Gold-certified Shore Hotel invites guests to relax by its solar-heated pool, enjoy poolside dining, take in unobstructed ocean views from private patios and learn how to minimize their carbon footprint from the Green Concierge team. $$$

SE AVIEW HOTEL

VICEROY SANTA MONICA

1670 Ocean Ave. 310-393-2363 seabluehotel.com

1760 Ocean Ave. 310-393-6711 seaviewhotel.com

1819 Ocean Ave. 310-260-7500 viceroysantamonica.com

³ This colorful hotel features tropical palm trees, a spacious sundeck and retro Art Deco vibes, as well as easy access to some of Santa Monica’s top shopping, dining and affordable beachside fun. $

³ Named one of the top hotels in Los Angeles by Condé Nast Traveler’s Readers Choice Awards and recommended

by Forbes Travel Guide, this ultrachic getaway with its poolside bungalows has been featured in numerous fashion spreads, movies, music videos and guides to top L.A. dining. $$$

O C E A N V I E W H OTE L

PRICE RANGE

DOWNTOWN SANTA MONICA/ THIRD STREET PROMENADE CAL MAR HOTEL SUITES 220 California Ave. 310-395-5555 calmarhotel.com

³ Arranged around a lush garden patio and heated pool, spacious suites feature a fully equipped kitchen and are just a 10-minute stroll from can’t-miss destinations like Santa Monica State Beach and Third Street Promenade. $$ COURT YARD BY MARRIOT T SANTA MONICA 425 Colorado Ave. 310-394-1700 marriott.com/laxmo

³ This beautiful 136-room hotel is just three blocks from the Pier and adjacent to the Metro E Line. Meeting rooms for up to 25. Outdoor pool and deck, complimentary Wi-Fi. Waterman’s Cafe with light fare and Starbucks drinks. $$

$ $100–$199 $$ $200–$299 $$$ $300+

PET FRIENDLY

DOUBLE TREE SUITES BY HILTON HOTEL SANTA MONICA (WILL BE KNOWN AS HILTON SANTA MONICA AS OF AUGUST 2020) 1707 Fourth St. 310-395-3332 santamonicasuites.doubletree.com

³ Welcoming hotel staff offers guests warm cookies and fruitinfused water at these modern two-room suites, located only three blocks away from the iconic Santa Monica Pier Ferris wheel. Circuit shuttle service. $$$ HAMPTON INN & SUITES

BY HILTON SANTA MONICA 501 Colorado Ave. 310-260-1100 hamptoninn3.hilton.com

³ This hotel is just five blocks from the Santa Monica Pier and the beach and is within walking distance of entertainment, dining and shopping. Upgraded rooms with ocean views are available, along with an on-site 24-hour fitness center and a loft-style pool and deck. $$–$$$

For a complete list of Santa Monica hotels, visit santamonica.com/hotels.

TO P: LI SA R O M E R E I N

³ This all-suite luxury hotel offers a range of 70 customdesigned suites, an ocean-view dining room, a fitness studio and treatment room, morning yoga on the beach, complimentary use of beach cruiser bicycles, and a house car service for local excursions. $$$

bespoke luxury by the sea hello, california dreaming Inspired by the relaxed allure of a private beach home, the newly transformed Oceana welcomes guests to experience a whole new take on luxury. With residential-style suites, exclusive guest-only dining and curated seaside activities, Oceana invites you to explore the best of Santa Monica and beyond.

849 Ocean Avenue, Santa Monica, CA 90403 | 310.393.0486 | hoteloceanasantamonica.com

STAY

H U NTL EY S A NTA M O N I C A B E A C H

201 Broadway 310-451-2469 hotelcarmel.com

³ Located in the heart of Santa Monica, the Hotel Carmel is steps away from the Third Street Promenade, fine dining and the historic Santa Monica Pier. The Hotel Carmel has been a favorite with Santa Monica visitors since 1924. $$ HUNTLE Y SANTA MONICA BE ACH 1111 Second St. 310-394-5454 thehuntleyhotel.com

³ From the moment you arrive at Huntley Santa Monica Beach hotel, you are immersed in a luxury seaside experience that perfectly reflects California’s relaxed yet refined glamour.

Located in a residential pocket just two blocks from the beach, this hotel features 204 sophisticated rooms and 16 spacious suites designed by the innovative Thomas Schoos.

SEA SHORE M OTE L

Coveted amenities include rooftop dining at The Penthouse, 24-hour concierge service and a modern fitness center. $$$

MAIN STREET

PALIHOUSE SANTA MONICA

³ Located on historic Main Street only two blocks from the beach, this family-owned and -operated motel has terra cotta tiles, European shuttered triplepane soundproof windows, a rooftop sundeck, an on-site café and laundry services, and beach gear offered for loan. $

1001 Third St. 310-394-1279 palihousesantamonica.com

³ Meticulously maintained since 1927, Palihouse is a one-of-a-kind urban lodge with Moorishinfluenced Mediterranean Revival architecture. Oversize guest rooms are loaded with grand touches like Egyptian cotton linens, luxurious robes and mini-bars stocked with gourmet goods. $$$ W YNDHAM SANTA MONICA– AT THE PIER 120 Colorado Ave. 310-451-0676 wyndhamsantamonicapier.com

³ Beautifully decorated guest rooms with modern amenities, an open-concept restaurant offering fresh California cuisine, a heated outdoor pool and a bike rental program highlight this Wyndham location found just steps away from Santa Monica Beach and Pier. $$

For a complete list of Santa Monica hotels, visit santamonica.com/hotels.

SE A SHORE MOTEL 2637 Main St. 310-392-2787 seashoremotel.com

PICO BOULEVARD LE MÉRIDIEN DELFINA SANTA MONICA 530 Pico Blvd.

310-399-9344 lemeridiendelfina.com

³ Perfect for business and pleasure, Le Méridien Delfina’s sophisticated coastal vibe is pure Santa Monica. Most rooms offer private balconies with ocean or skyline views.

Experiencing this alluring Marriott-branded, Four Diamond property is an unmatched value. Free valet parking included. $$

PRICE RANGE

OCE AN PARK INN 2452 Lincoln Blvd.

310-392-3966 oceanparkinn.net

³ The garden terrace and sunny courtyard at this homespun independent hotel bloom with greenery. $ PALM MOTEL 2020 14th St. 310-452-3861 thepalmmotel.com

³ Tall palm trees, beautiful flowers and Greek-style bungalows contribute to the exquisite ambiance at this motel, which is located a short walking distance from the world-famous Santa Monica Pier and worldclass beaches. Amenities include free cookies and coffee each morning, free Wi-Fi, pet-friendly accommodations, free parking, and a TV and a refrigerator in every room. $ REST HAVEN MOTEL 815 Grant St. 310-452-3977 resthavenmotel.net

³ Built in 1938, this motel offers affordable accommodations with convenient access to Pico Boulevard’s excellent restaurants, art galleries, farmers market and John Drescher Planetarium at Santa Monica College. $

$ $100–$199 $$ $200–$299 $$$ $300+

PET FRIENDLY

B OT TO M : S T E P H A N I E P LO M A R I T Y

HOTEL CARMEL

Cal Mar Hotel Suites Unique to Santa Monica, this apartment suite boutique hotel boasts an open-air design with a lush courtyard garden and heated pool. Each spacious apartment suite features a separate bedroom, living room, dining room, and fully equipped kitchen. Ideal for all travelers, Cal Mar Hotel Suites provides the “home away from home” experience for its guests.

220 California Avenue Santa Monica, CA 90403 (310) 395-5555 calmarhotel.com

STAY

*

SANTA MONICA MOTEL

2102 Lincoln Blvd.

310-392-6806 santamonicamotel.com

³ Located just seven blocks from the beach and the world-famous Pier, Santa Monica Motel offers some of the most affordable lodging options in the city. This economy motel is only minutes from the city’s most desirable attractions. $ SHUT TERS ON THE BE ACH

³ This iconic luxury hotel recalls Cape Cod cottages with a residential feel and breezy balconies. Coast, the hotel’s cafe, has an alfresco patio and, along with its 1 Pico restaurant, serves California cuisine with sweeping views of the Pacific. Pamper yourself further at ONE Spa. Circuit shuttle service. $$$ SURESTAY BY BEST WESTERN SANTA MONICA 3102 Pico Blvd.

310-450-5766 surestaysantamonica.com

³ Vacationers appreciate this newly renovated solar-powered

S H UTTE R S O N TH E B E A C H

hotel for its outstanding service awards, four hot tub rooms, spacious courtyard, free parking, electronic vehicle charging, deluxe continental breakfast and free Wi-Fi. $

MID-CITY THE AMBROSE HOTEL 1255 20th St. 310-315-1555 ambrosehotel.com

³ A recent multimillion-dollar renovation revitalized this eco-friendly 77-room California Craftsman–style hotel, giving it the feel of a large private home. Guests enjoy luxury linens

and bath products, free in-room Wi-Fi, continental breakfast, fitness center access and house car service. $$ COMFORT INN SANTA MONICA– WEST LOS ANGELES 2815 Santa Monica Blvd.

310-828-5517 comfortinnsantamonica.com

³ Conveniently located two miles from the beach and Downtown Santa Monica.

Guests are treated to hot breakfast, complimentary parking, free Wi-Fi, access to an outdoor heated pool and great in-room amenities. $ DAYS INN BY W YNDHAM SANTA MONICA / LOS ANGELES 3007 Santa Monica Blvd.

310-829-6333 wyndhamhotels.com/days-inn

³ This pleasant, familymanaged Mid-City hotel is a Santa Monica Boulevard icon, thanks to its cheerful pink exterior with green and white trim. $ GATEWAY HOTEL SANTA MONICA

WILSHIRE BOULEVARD FAIRMONT MIR AMAR HOTEL & BUNGALOWS 101 Wilshire Blvd.

310-576-7777 fairmont.com/santa-monica

³ Lauded by U.S. News & World Report and Condé Nast Traveler for its attentive staff and deluxe amenities, this beachside hotel atop a scenic bluff has unparalleled ocean views, 31 recently renovated bungalows, a fitness center, FIG Restaurant and the awardwinning Exhale Spa. $$$ SANTA MONICA PROPER HOTEL 710 Wilshire Blvd. properhotel.com/hotels/ santa-monica

³ The 271-room Santa Monica Proper Hotel features a rooftop pool and lounge, a cutting-edge fitness center, three restaurants and 24,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor event space.

Kelly Wearstler’s interior design breathes life into the building with bold color and a blend of = simplicity and polish. $$$

1920 Santa Monica Blvd.

310-829-9100 gatewayhotel.com

FA I R M O NT M I R A M A R H OTE L & B U N G A L O W S

PRICE RANGE

$ $100–$199 $$ $200–$299 $$$ $300+

6 2 S A N TA MON I CA OF F I C I A L V I S I TOR S GU I DE

PET FRIENDLY

³ This hotel features 123 bright, contemporary rooms with pillow-top mattresses, 42-inch flat-panel TVs and cable channels, complimentary coffee and tea, and more. $$

For a complete list of Santa Monica hotels, visit santamonica.com/hotels.

B OTTO M: C H R I STIAN H O R AN

1 Pico Blvd.

310-458-0030 shuttersonthebeach.com

Welcome to Santa Monica!

Located in the heart of Santa Monica This European-style boutique hotel has been a favorite with visitors ZPUJL ^OLYL `V\ ^PSS ÄUK Southern California hospitality, Z[YPRPUN HYJOP[LJ[\YL HUK H WYLTP\T SVJH[PVU VUL ISVJR MYVT [OL VJLHU ,UQV` MYLL >P-P JVTWSPTLU[HY` TVYUPUN JVMMLL ZLY]PJL HUK ZH[LSSP[L ;= ^P[O WYLTP\T JOHUULSZ

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P R I VA C Y B Y T H E S E A

Our meticulously cleaned, luxurious and historic four-bedroom home includes complimentary breakfast, housekeeping as requested, private concierge, hot tub and infrared sauna. The location is easy walking distance to all that Santa Monica has to offer. Come make The Cottage your home away from home.

SANTA MONICA

2219 Ocean Avenue

|

Santa Monica, CA 90405 | (310) 593-0093 john@thecottagesantamonica.com

| thecottagesantamonica.com

PLAY

AN OCEAN OF FUN

JEREMY BISHOP

Santa Monica is an easy-breezy place to ride the tide. B Y N A N C Y R A N S O H O F F

6 4 S A N TA MON I CA OF F I C I A L V I S I TOR S GU I DE

GET ON BOARD These local businesses provide gear rental and instruction.

AQUA SURF aquasurf.com/surf-lessons Private surf and paddleboard lessons

GO SURF LA gosurfla.com/los-angelessurfing-lessons Private and group surf and paddleboard lessons

LEARN TO SURF LA learntosurfla.com/ surf-lessons Private and group surf and paddleboard lessons

POSEIDON PADDLE & SURF

V

poseidonstandup.com

ISITORS TO SANTA MONICA OFTEN HEAR THE SPARKLING PACIFIC

S T E P H A N I E P LO M A R I T Y F O R S M T T

calling to them once they take in the stunning ocean views. Two popular aquatic sports that get them out on the water year-round are surfing and stand-up paddleboarding. Named the official state sport in 2018, surfing has long been an iconic part of the California lifestyle, and stand-up paddleboarding has made waves of its own in recent years.

Santa Monica’s 3.5-mile stretch of beach is uniquely situated just steps from many of the city’s hotels, making it an easy and accessible place to try either sport.

Newbies and advanced enthusiasts will find convenient, professionally run surf schools with expert instructors to further their skills.

“Surfing is different from other sports in that there are no written rules,” says Eric Gross, surfer and stand-up paddleboarder and shop manager at POSEIDON PADDLE & SURF (310-694-8428, poseidonstandup.com). “You definitely want to get an instructor for your first time to learn not only how to surf, but also the dos and don’ts of surf etiquette.” He offers these tips for riding the Santa Monica surf.

Surf, paddleboard and body board rentals

SANTA MONICA SURF SCHOOL santamonicasurfschool. com/surf-lessons Private surf lessons

• Hit the ocean in the morning when winds are likely to be calm. Check the

surf report and weather forecast at santamonica.com/surf ԝbefore heading out.

• To help maintain your balance on either type of board, keep your head up.

“Look up, stay up,” Gross says. “Look down, fall down.”

• On a paddleboard, “speed is your friend,” says Gross. “Like when you’re on a bicycle, the slower you go, the less stability you have.” =

POSEIDON PA D D L E & SURF

S A N TA MON I CA OF F I C I A L V I S I TOR S GU I DE 6 5

FAMILY

C AY TO N C H I L D R E N’S M U S E U M

ACTIVE LEARNING In Santa Monica, activities for children and adults offer intellectual and physical enrichment as well as plenty of fun. B Y M A R Y J A N E H O R T O N KIDS OF ALL AGES LOVE SANTA

Monica for its wealth of fun activities, and parents will appreciate that many pursuits, including the ones that follow, deliver intellectual and physical stimulation.

BABIES AND TODDLE RS The motto of the CAYTON CHILDREN’S MUSEUM (caytonmuseum.org) is “playing our way to a better world,” and each of five bright and engaging exhibits in the 21,000-square-foot space is designed for learning and exploring.

For toddlers, the Launch Your exhibit is padded so they can crawl, walk and

wiggle their way over hills. Kids can also don a pilot costume and pretend to be on a rescue mission at the Help-a-Copter. Parents can sit at the Cafe and be served by their kids.

And everyone will enjoy the butterflies at In Tune with Nature.

area for ages 2 to 5 that is fully accessible and offers sensory play activities such as touching, feeling and hearing along with swings, slides and climbing equipment.

SANTA MONICA STATE BEACH (santamonica.com/things-to-do/santamonica-beach) offers three and a half miles of wide-open space where babies can loll on a blanket and toddlers can run free. It’s a great place for the whole family to run along the waves, build sandcastles, or throw a ball or a Frisbee. North Beach Playground, which opened in 2018, has a special

Children make up approximately half of visitors to HEAL THE BAY AQUARIUM (healthebay.org). It’s a way to dive into the local coastal waters without getting your feet wet. Kids get to learn how a sea star eats, see each stage of a moon jelly life cycle, discover what happens to trash when it gets into the environment and feel a velvety sea hare. Just debuted is the new Pacific

6 6 S A N TA MON I CA OF F I C I A L V I S I TOR S GU I DE

G RADE-SCHOOLE RS

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PA C I F I C PA R K

TH E G O U R M A N D I S E S C H O O L

seahorses and bay pipefish exhibit.

Coming soon: a remodeled Sharks & Rays exhibit that will allow kids to gently interact with and touch sharks and round stingrays.

Located on the legendary Santa Monica Pier, PACIFIC PARK (pacpark.com) is the Los Angeles area’s only admission-free amusement park. It encompasses 12 rides, 14 midway games, a food plaza and shopping venues. In addition to the iconic Pacific Wheel, its solar-powered Ferris wheel, Pacific Park’s signature rides include the new Route 66 West Coaster roller coaster, open this summer, which marks the end point of the nation's historic thoroughfare with

a thrill ride in cars styled like classic automobiles that pass by vintage-style billboards, gas pumps, license plates, and memorabilia.

on classic techniques and using locally sourced ingredients when possible.

Sessions are offered in the basics as well as specialized skills, such as chocolate making.

TWEENS AN D TE E NS Young gourmets—or anyone who likes to eat—can garner some culinary prowess in classes at THE GOURMANDISE SCHOOL (thegourmandiseschool.com), a full recreational cooking school in the Santa Monica Place shopping center.

A wide variety of cooking and baking classes are available at skill levels from beginner to professional (and can be booked online). The focus is

THE VOID (thevoid.com) is the place to go for cutting-edge 3-D virtual-reality (VR) experiences that combine state-ofthe art technology, physical stages and multisensory effects (including touch and smell) with Hollywood characters and storylines. Experiences such as Star Wars™ Secrets of the Empire, Ghostbusters: Dimension, Nicodemus: Demon of Evanishment, Jumanji, Avengers: Damage Control and Ralph Breaks VR can be booked online. =

S A N TA MON I CA OF F I C I A L V I S I TOR S GU I DE 6 7

EXCURSIONS

Day Trips

Santa Monica is the perfect home base for visiting other Southern California hot spots.

C

BY B E KAH WR I G HT

Beverly Hills G E T T H E R E : Take the Starline Hop-On Hop-Off Tour of Hollywood and Beverly Hills (starlinetours.com).

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AMONG THE MOST ICONIC OF BEVERLY HILLS’ sights is the famous Rodeo Drive, where visitors will find showrooms for such internationally renowned brands as Burberry, Cartier, Chanel, Dior, Harry Winston, Prada and Versace. Delve into entertainment industry history at the nearby Paley Center for Media, where exhibitions and speaking panels explore the evolution of broadcast technologies.

Wander the grounds of Greystone Mansion & Gardens (beverlyhills.org), a Tudor Revival estate built in 1930 as a residence for the family of oil magnate Edward Doheny. Now on the National Register of Historic Places,

the mansion and its 18.3 acres serve as a park where visitors can roam, tour or attend scheduled events, including music performances.

Downtown L.A. G ET TH E RE:

Take the Metro E Line light rail

(metro.net).

JUST ABOUT 16 MILES AND A METRO E LINE ride away, Downtown Los Angeles is rich in art and culture. Start at The Broad (thebroad.org) museum to peruse its acclaimed contemporary art collection.

See more outstanding works at the two DTLA locations of The Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA): MOCA Grand and MOCA Geffen (moca.org).

In Pershing Square, go for a ride on

6 8 S A N TA MON I CA OF F I C I A L V I S I TOR S GU I DE

Angels Flight (angelsflight.org), DTLA’s 1901-established funicular, where Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone kissed in La La Land. Enjoy world-class theater, dance, music and opera productions at The Music Center (musiccenter.org), a performing arts complex that encompasses the Ahmanson Theatre, Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, Mark Taper Forum and a Frank Gehry–designed structure that’s a work of art itself, Walt Disney Concert Hall, home of the Los Angeles Philharmonic. Plan ahead and see a concert or sporting event at the new SoFi Stadium in Inglewood or the L.A. LIVE (lalive.com) entertainment complex’s Microsoft Theater or STAPLES Center. Or just stop in for a meal or to experience the club scene. Visit the GRAMMY Museum® (grammymuseum.org) to get immersed in the history of American music.

L E F T : T I M S T R E E T- P O R T E R ; R I G H T : R A H U L B H O G A L / U N S P L A S H

DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES

BEVERLY HILLS

Hollywood

Malibu

G E T T H E R E : Take the Starline Hop-On Hop-Off Tour of Hollywood and Beverly Hills (starlinetours.com).

G E T TH E R E:

HOLLYWOOD IS ALL ABOUT STARS, FROM those embedded on the Walk of Fame to the red-carpet-ready luminaries making their entrance to the Academy Awards®.

It all revolves around Hollywood Boulevard. Located at the intersection for which it is named, Hollywood & Highland is a buzzing entertainment and shopping hub. Immediately recognizable is its elegant staircase leading to the Dolby Theatre®, where the Oscars® are held each year.

Next door is the TCL Chinese Theatres complex. Famous for the celebrity hand and foot imprints at its entrance, the theater has been a Hollywood fixture since 1927.

ABOUT FOUR MILES NORTH ON THE PACIFIC Coast Highway (PCH) is the turnoff to the Getty Villa (getty.edu), the J. Paul Getty Museum’s sister location, where a replica of the Villa dei Papiri, a Roman country house buried in the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius in 79 A.D., houses more than 44,000 Etruscan, Greek and Roman antiquities from 6,000 B.C. to 600 A.D. Set in a canyon with a view of the Pacific, the tranquil villa grounds include four authentic gardens with fountains, arbors and reflecting pools.

A renovation completed in spring 2018 restored the villa, expanded and redesigned galleries, and reorganized antiquities chronologically for a more global perspective of the ancient world.

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Ride the Big Blue Bus (bigbluebus.com).

(Get a free ticket in advance at getty. edu.) Next, visit the historic Adamson House & Malibu Lagoon Museum (adamsonhouse.org) to examine a 1929 Spanish Revival–style waterfront estate built on a site once inhabited by the Native American Chumash tribe.

Marina del Rey G ET TH E RE:

Bike along the scenic beach bike path.

HEAD SOUTH OF SANTA MONICA TO SEE North America’s largest man-made marina, Marina del Rey, and participate in water activities from workouts to romantic cruises. The UCLA Marina Aquatic Center (recreation.ucla.edu) is a one-stop shop for kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), surfing, sailing,

S A N TA MON I CA OF F I C I A L V I S I TOR S GU I DE 6 9

EXCURSIONS DISNEY CALIFORNIA ADVENTURE PARK

rowing and more; rentals and classes are available. For a novel workout challenge, try YOGAqua’s (yogaqua. com) 90-minute classes that combine SUP and yoga, giving new meaning to the word “balance.” Post-workout, savor a cocktail or dinner aboard a Hornblower Cruise (hornblower.com).

Venice G ET TH E RE:

Bike along the scenic beach bike path or take the Santa Monica Circuit shuttle (ridecircuit.com).

West Hollywood G ET TH E RE:

Take the Metro Rapid Bus (metro.net).

MAKE YOUR WAY EAST (ON HISTORIC ROUTE 66—aka Santa Monica Boulevard) through West Los Angeles and Beverly Hills until you arrive in West Hollywood.

The home of the famous Sunset Strip offers revelry at exclusive clubs and concerts at the legendary Troubadour (troubadour.com) and The Roxy Theatre (theroxy.com). Shop in the stylish Design District, anchored by the 1.6 millionsquare-foot Pacific Design Center (pacificdesigncenter.com). Explore Santa Monica Boulevard restaurants and nightlife with a stop at The Abbey (theabbeyweho.com), one of the most popular gay bars in the United States. ਆ 7 0 S A N TA MON I CA OF F I C I A L V I S I TOR S GU I DE

WHERE MAGIC RESIDES SANTA MONICA HAS ITS OWN WORLD-FAMOUS HUB OF AMUSEMENT RIGHT

on the Pier: Pacific Park, home of the Pacific Wheel Ferris wheel, the West Coaster ride, midway attractions and more. But it’s also a great location from which to see outlying Los Angeles–area theme parks. Consult with your hotel staff to arrange for a visit to these local wonderlands.

Ever since a certain mouse set up house in Anaheim back in 1955, fans have flocked to D I S N E Y L A N D . Today, the Magic Kingdom complex encompasses the original park as well as Disney California Adventure Park.

The magic continues at U N I V E R S A L S T U D I O S H O L LY W O O D T M , where today’s blockbuster films are still made on the studio back lot. Topping the lists of recently added rides and attractions are Jurassic World: The Ride® and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

At S I X F L A G S M A G I C M O U N TA I N , more than a dozen roller coasters carry on the magical theme as they speed along in seeming defiance of physics. Among the thrill rides at the ready is X2, a 5-D roller coaster that spins the cars carrying riders independently on their own axis in a 360-degree arc as they careen around the track.

On the site where the eponymous preserves originated, K N O T T ’ S B E R R Y F A R M puts a magical spin on the history of the American Northwest with attractions like its Wild West Stunt Show and Native American– inspired, special effects–enhanced Mystery Lodge experience. The latest of its 13 roller coasters is The Hang Time, featuring a 150-foot-high midair suspension, five inversions and a 96-degree beyond-vertical drop.

TYLE R N IX/ U NSPLASH (DISN EYLAN D)

THIS BOHEMIAN CALIFORNIA neighborhood to the south of Santa Monica is famous for its boardwalk, which comes alive daily with a colorful array of fortune tellers, beach volleyball players, tattoo artists and street performers. Keep an eye out for the historic murals. Travel inland to Abbot Kinney Boulevard to visit art galleries, boutiques and upscale restaurants.

Team Building Events | Excursions Paddle Cruises | Board Sales

Stand Up Paddleboard & Kayak Lessons & Rentals

Discover the beauty of Marina del Rey from the water Our calm, flat waters are the best place in Los Angeles to go for a paddle, whether you’re trying your hand at Stand Up Paddleboarding for the first time or looking to have a leisurely kayak cruise, Pro SUP Shop has you covered prosupshop |

prosupshop |

prosups

Pro SUP Shop is located at the Southwest end of the Jamaica Bay Inn parking lot 4175 Admiralty Wy. Marina del Rey, CA | prosupshop.com | 310.989.4350 | info@prosupshop.com

CARO BAMBINO

SHOPPING

EARTHFRIENDLY BUYS Feel good about purchases from local purveyors who take a responsible stance toward the environment. B Y L E S L I E D I N A B E R G

IN SANTA MONICA, ECO-CONSCIOUS record for using natural or (drskinhealth.com) offers R E F O R M ATI O N visitors can love the planet and still recycled fibers and making skincare products that enjoy retail therapy. Here are several about two to five percent contain only natural shops that have earned props for of their products out biodegradable responsible practices. of vintage clothing, ingredients and are The family-owned CARO BAMBINO which may save more packaged in glass, says (carobambino.com) baby boutique on than 13,000 pounds spa director Kristina Main Street features a wide range of CO2 emissions a Vystartaite. All of of products to nurture children during year. Plus, its stylish the treatments and their early years. The selection of line of fashions, from products sold at this organic mattresses, Egyptian-cotton jeans and dresses to bridal mother-daughter–run baby blankets, high-end strollers, gowns, is every bit as chic as it is business—including the spa’s own buggies, car seats, baby good for the planet. Find the store Diana Ralys Skin Health line— fedoras, furniture, books at Santa Monica’s Main Street location. are free from parabens, dyes, and toys includes many Style meets sustainability at GMOs and synthetics, organic and sustainably THREADS ON 17TH (310-625-4650), a and are cruelty-free and made items. high-end designer consignment shop safe for children and At GOODS (goodsla. specializing in new and gently worn expectant mothers. com), a gift shop high-fashion clothing and accessories With the motto on Ocean Park from top brands like Prada, Lanvin, “Being naked is the Boulevard, the Louis Vuitton, Hermes, Gucci, Manolo No. 1 most sustainable inventory demonstrates Blahnik, Chanel and Valentino. The option. We’re No. 2,” a deliberate emphasis store gets new shipments of treasures the women’s clothing GOODS on small companies. Look for daily, so eco-chic fashionistas company handcrafted, organic, fair-trade know to stop by regularly.

REFORMATION items such as geometric earrings by Buying these often (thereformation.com) Boxwood; candles, perfume oils and hard-to-find favorites has a lot to live up to. sprays from G26; natural deodorants at a fraction of Working with factories and soaps by Fleurtopia; their original prices in Los Angeles as well and delicate jewelry by Danielle is not only easier as environmentally Moosbrugger. on shoppers’ conscious partners As the only Green Business pocketbooks, but around the world, the RADIANCE Certified Spa in Santa Monica, also easier on Green Business Certified W E L L N E S S S PA Downtown’s RADIANCE WELLNESS SPA Mother Earth. = company has an impressive

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S A N TA MON I CA OF F I C I A L V I S I TOR S GU I DE 7 3

DINE IN S T Y L E

Receive a complimentary coastal hummus to share with any dinner purchase.

POS CODE SMTTAPP. DINE-IN ONLY. NOT VALID WITH ANY OTHER OTHER OR PROMOTION. LIMIT ONE PER GUEST, PER CHECK.

Sea Shore Motel has been family owned and operated for over 40 years. Located just two short blocks from the beach. We offer free wifi, free parking, on site café and laundry. All of our well-appointed rooms offer terra cotta tile, European Shutters, and in room fridges. We also offer deluxe full kitchen suites each with a private balcony. All at affordable prices.

GEORGIANHOTEL.COM

2637 Main Street | Santa Monica, CA 90405 P. 310.392.2787 | F. 310.392.5167 | www.seashoremotel.com

JESSICA KOSLOW

DINE

Local Flavor Acclaimed chef Jessica Koslow recently helped launch Onda, the Santa Monica Proper Hotel’s highly anticipated signature restaurant. Here, she shares some of her favorite culinary spots nearby. B Y S H E L L E Y L E V I T T

WITH HER HOMEMADE JAMS AND

a mastery of fermentation techniques, Jessica Koslow opened her tiny Silver Lake café, Sqirl, to raves and ever-present lines eight years ago. Now, she’s bringing those skills to Onda, the new restaurant she’s heading with Mexico City chef Gabriela Cámara at the Santa Monica Proper hotel. For Koslow, that means some of her favorite local flavors are just a quick walk away.

B A Y C I T I E S I TA L I A N D E L I “You cannot talk about food in Santa Monica without discussing Bay Cities and the Godmother,” Koslow says of this deli counter and its popular sandwich featuring Genoa salami, prosciutto, mortadella, capicola, ham and provolone cheese, all thinly layered inside a crusty length of Italian bread. “What they’ve created is deli gold. I think it’s the pickled giardiniera that they lather on in excess that takes that multi-meat sandwich to the next level.” ³ 1517 Lincoln Blvd., 310-395-8279, baycitiesitaliandeli.com

S A N TA M O N I C A FA R M E R S M A R KE T

CASSIA/ RUSTIC CANYON / BI RDI E G’S “I’m such a sucker for specific dishes that I really just need to say I love the fried cauliflower at Cassia, the pozole at Rustic Canyon and the pickle plate at Birdie G’s,” says Koslow.

“Santa Monica is lucky to have some really exquisite chefs highlighting how dishes we might find ordinary are made extraordinary.” ³ Cassia, 1314 Seventh St., 310-393-6699, cassiala.com Rustic Canyon, 1119 Wilshire Blvd., 310-393-7050, rusticcanyonrestaurant.com Birdie G’s, 2421 Michigan Ave., 310-310-3616, birdiesla.com

M ETRO CAFE “Pastor Steve Snook operates this donation-based coffee shop that’s just two blocks away from Onda,” Koslow says. “The staff is always kind, the coffee is always good and the pricing system is truly unique and welcoming to all walks of life.” ³ 603 Arizona Ave., 424-272-8774, metropolissm.com

“The Wednesday Santa Monica farmers market is my most favorite thing about this city,” says Koslow. “Sqirl has been shopping the market since we opened in 2011. It’s a worthy trek to pick up beautiful produce from some of our favorite farmers. Now, with Onda just a few blocks away, I feel so spoiled to have both the Wednesday and Saturday markets at our fingertips.” ³ Wednesday and Saturday Downtown Santa Monica farmers markets, Arizona Ave. between Third Ct. and Ocean Ave.

TE H RAN MARKET “This grocery store specializing in Persian and Middle Eastern goods is a wonderfully delicious place,” says Koslow. “They carry a sangak bread that I’ve not seen anywhere else in L.A.; a clear bag holds the almost four-foot-long spongy bread that’s covered in za’atar seasoning. Last time I was in there, every customer had one in their basket, and for good reason!” ³ 1417 Wilshire Blvd., 310-393-6719 For the most up-to-date restaurant information, visit santamonica.com.

S A N TA MON I CA OF F I C I A L V I S I TOR S GU I DE 7 5

SOCALO

DINE

V I ETN A M E S E “S U N B ATH I N G” P R AW N S AT C A S S I A

Culinary Collaborations At this trio of restaurants, extraordinary teamwork is the recipe for excellence.

BY S H E LLEY LEVITT

NEVER MIND THE ADAGE ABOUT TOO MANY COOKS IN THE KITCHEN .

Some of Santa Monica’s most dazzling dining experiences are created with an abundance of talent. These are joint efforts among restaurateurs, hoteliers and chefs with different culinary traditions.

TO P R I G HT: R I C K PO O N

CASSIA A pair of husband-and-wife duos are behind this boisterous five-year-old restaurant that merges the flavors of Southeast Asia and California.

Chef Bryant Ng and his wife and business partner, Kim, partnered with Josh Loeb and Zoe Nathan of the Rustic Canyon Family restaurant group. Santa Monica natives Loeb, a restaurateur, and Nathan, a celebrated pastry chef, have helped launch local chef-driven destinations including Rustic Canyon, Huckleberry Bakery and Cafe, Milo + Olive, Esters Wine Shop & Bar and Birdie G’s. Highlights of Cassia’s vibrant menu include Vietnamese “sunbathing” prawns, kaya toast, grilled lobster and a heritage pork charcuterie platter. ³ 1314 Seventh St., 310-393-6699, cassiala.com

SOCALO

TH E DINING ROOM AT O C E A N A With only 70 rooms—all suites—the Oceana hotel strives to offer guests the bespoke experience of a stay in a private beach home. That extends to dining experiences there. Oceana has partnered with Raphael Lunetta, the famed chef-owner of Santa Monica’s side-by-side restaurants Lunetta All Day and Lunetta, to direct an exclusive restaurant open only to hotel guests. The Dining Room offers breakfast, lunch and dinner, featuring ingredients sourced from the Santa Monica Farmers Market. Overnight guests might begin their day with avocado toast, move on to a midday grilled chopped salad and enjoy a burger for dinner with blueberry bread pudding as the culinary finale. ³ 849 Ocean Ave., 800-777-0758, hoteloceanasantamonica.com

When it comes to successful culinary partnerships, Susan Feniger and Mary Sue Milliken take the cake.

In a collaboration spanning 35 years, they introduced modern Mexican cuisine to Angelenos with the opening of their first Border Grill restaurant in 1985. Over the decades, this expanded into a mini empire of eateries and food trucks, cookbooks and nearly 400 episodes of the Food Network series Too Hot Tamales. In 2016, the Santa Monica location of Border Grill closed after 26 years. Now, the pair has opened Socalo, an all-day Mexican canteen featuring seasonal SoCal Mexican fare at the Gateway Hotel.

The eatery will offer counter service and grab-and-go burritos, empanadas and more for breakfast and lunch, and full-service dining at night, including cocktails made with small-batch spirits, craft beers and Mexican wines. ³ 1920 Santa Monica Blvd., socalo.com For the most up-to-date restaurant information, visit santamonica.com.

S A N TA MON I CA OF F I C I A L V I S I TOR S GU I DE 7 7

DINE

C O R A’S C O F F E E S H O P P E

Satiate Early or Late EARLY BIRD EATS C O R A’ S C O F F E E S H O P P E From Cora’s patio, where trellises are covered in bougainvillea, you could toss your burrata cream cheese bagel or buckwheat blueberry pancakes and hit the sandy beach. But with fresh ingredients sourced from the nearby Santa Monica Farmers Market, you won’t want to miss a single bite of the breakfast offerings, which are served starting at 7 a.m. seven days a week. Locals rave about the huevos rancheros and the baby artichoke

and tarragon omelet. Check the chalkboard for specials like corned beef hash and Greek eggs with spinach and spicy yogurt. The juices and lemonade are all organic and freshly squeezed. ³ 1802 Ocean Ave., 310-451-9562, corascoffee.com

DOGTOWN COFFE E You could buy a surfboard or skateboard along with your avocado toast, granola (a gluten-free option is available), steel-cut oatmeal or eggs with bacon and feta at this Main Street spot. After all, Dogtown is located in the landmark building that once housed Jeff Ho

7 8 S A N TA MON I CA OF F I C I A L V I S I TOR S GU I DE

Surfboards and Zephyr Productions, a legendary surf shop. Dogtown doesn’t just offer a nod to surfers—it also feeds them, opening at 5:30 a.m. on weekdays and 6:30 a.m. on weekends, in plenty of time to grab some grub and a shot of espresso or a 96-ounce carafe of Joe-to-Go before riding the first wave. ³ 2003 Main St., 310-310-3665, dogtowncoffee.com

U RTH CAFFÉ Early risers can beat the ever-present, though fast-moving, line at the Santa Monica location of this popular heirloom coffee company that began

TO P R I G HT: B I LL DAVI S / ALAMY STO C K P H OTO

Whether the sun is rising or it’s the wee hours of the night, there’s a restaurant in Santa Monica that’s ready to satisfy your hunger. B Y S H E L L E Y L E V I T T

M E L’S D R I V E-I N

D O GTO W N C O F F E E

some 30 years ago. Beginning at 6 a.m. every day, the Main Street outpost, which opened in 2004, offers breakfast on the outdoor patio or in the cozy interior that’s decked out with marble counters and Italian fixtures. Choose from a specialty coffee and tea menu that includes Rude Awakening (their proprietary Manhattan Mudd coffee topped with espresso) and a Thai Red Tea Latte.

The food menu, built around sustainable, seasonal and local ingredients, is extensive, with breakfast bowls, parfaits, panini and a score of egg dishes. ³ 2327 Main St., 310-314-7040, urthcaffe.com

NIGHT-OWL FARE C H EZ JAY A 60-year-old iconic spot that has been declared a historical landmark and that proudly embraces the description of “dive bar,” Chez Jay welcomes locals, celebrities and visitors until 2 a.m. every night.

Located just a half block south of the Santa Monica Pier and a quick stroll

from the Third Street Promenade, the classic joint, complete with peanut shells on the floor and a jukebox, serves a timeless steak-and-seafood dinner menu, including steamed clams, an iceberg wedge salad, surf and turf, steak au poivre, shrimp scampi and chicken marsala. A trio of $7 offerings provides for dessert: cheesecake Chez Jay, sticky toffee pudding and chocolate chip cake. ³ 1657 Ocean Ave., 310-395-1741, chezjays.com

M E L’ S D R I V E - I N The neighborhood rejoiced when Mel’s Drive-In took over the 1959 Penguin Coffee Shop space, preserving its Space Age–inspired, born-in-L.A. Googie architecture.

Located on Lincoln Boulevard at the end of the famous Route 66, the newest of Mel’s seven locations is open 24 hours on weekends and until 2 a.m. on weekdays. Drop in for a dragonfruit-based Pink Panther smoothie, Hangover Helper juice (orange, apple, turmeric, ginger and lemon), The Penguin milkshake

featuring marshmallow and chocolate syrup, a Melburger, a Cobb salad, spaghetti and meatballs, a BLT or a bowl of chili. In classic diner style, the menu is wide ranging, and somehow everything is done pretty much to perfection. ³ 1670 Lincoln Blvd., 310-392-0139, melsdrive-in.com

ROCK’N PI ES It’s 2 a.m. and a craving hits for Buffalo chicken wings, eggplant parmigiana, pasta drowned in red sauce or pizza topped with artichokes, anchovies and salami.

You’re in luck. Rock’n Pies offers all these must-have-it-now dishes, plus cookie pizza, cannoli and cheesecake for dessert until 3 a.m. every day of the week. For earlier hankerings, the weekday happy hour menu includes a meatball sandwich or a bowl of rigatoni Bolognese for just $6 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. ³ 1120 Wilshire Blvd., 424-268-4380, rocknpiespizza.com

For the most up-to-date restaurant information, visit santamonica.com.

S A N TA MON I CA OF F I C I A L V I S I TOR S GU I DE 7 9

DINE

BAR CHLOE

B A R N EY’S B E A N E RY

Night Moods ROMANTIC LOUNGE BAR CHLOE

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An exception to most Santa Monica venues, Bar Chloe has a dress code: “Casual chic attire preferred. No flip-flops, shorts or beach attire.”

That means guests at this intimate bar are the perfect complement to their elegant surroundings, where the lighting is low, the conversation is hushed, the banquettes are plush and the décor is timeless and gleaming. Enjoy a charcuterie platter, a burger or a classic grilled

cheese sandwich accompanied by wine, beer or a seasonal cocktail made in house with ingredients from the farmers market. During the weekday happy hour from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., drinks are $5 to $7 and two mini burgers are $7. ³ 1449 Second St., barchloe.com

ACTION-PACKED SPORTS BAR BARN EY’S BEAN E RY Sports fans can always catch the game at this lively spot with more than 200

8 0 S A N TA MON I CA OF F I C I A L V I S I TOR S GU I DE

feet of television screens. Located on the Third Street Promenade, the Santa Monica staple is open until 2 a.m. seven days a week, so patrons can celebrate their team’s victory or console themselves over its loss long after the final buzzer. Those who want to take part in the action can join in pool and trivia games and karaoke.

The extensive menu caters to favorites like huevos rancheros, macaroni and cheese, chili, pizza, wings, burgers, barbecued ribs and banana splits. ³ 1351 Third Street Promenade, 310-656-5777, barneysbeanery.com

BAR N EY’S: CAVAN / ALAMY STO C K P H OTO

After a sunny day in Santa Monica, take part in the city’s thriving nightlife. From spirited to lively to elegant, there’s a place for every after-dark inclination. B Y S H E L L E Y L E V I T T

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Bayside Hotel

stay a while. play a while.

THE INSIDER’S HOTEL CHOICE FOR SANTA MONICA

BOUTIQUE COMFORT, PRICED INTELLIGENTLY

Imagine a stylish little gem of a hotel, located just steps from the world’s favorite sand, and offering sleek comfort, classic affordability, no attitude and a dream

2001 Ocean Avenue, Santa Monica, California 90405 RESERVATIONS (800) 525-4447 B AY S I D E H O T E L . C O M

coastal setting.

DINE

Fresh & Healthy Cooked Just for You! Authentic Tacos, Burritos, Salads & Rotisserie Chicken, Handmade Corn & Flour Tortillas At Benny’s Taco and Chicken Rotisserie each of our dishes are cooked just for you, while making sure they are consistent and individualized to your order.

Benny’s Tacos is more than just tacos: From our fresh salads, rotisserie chicken, beef, and pork, to our breakfast dishes and, of course, our taco plates.

Using only fresh ingredients to include our hormone free meats, fresh seafood and farm fresh vegetables. Organic Rice and Beans.

Benny’s Taco and Chicken Rotisserie 915 Wilshire Boulevard Santa Monica, CA 90401 Restaurant (310) 451-0200

Private Catering (818) 612-3875

bennystacos.com

INTIMATE NIGHTCLUB CIRCLE BAR The Circle Bar’s motto is “curating vibes since 1949.” Attracting a clientele of notables that once included Jim Morrison and Truman Capote, it’s also the site where countless couples first met, a role it continues to play even in the age of Tinder. Live or

DJ-provided tunes fuel dancing every night of the week, so come ready to enjoy a boisterous good time and to get jostled on the cozy, crowded dance floor.

But don’t come early: Circle Bar opens at 9 p.m. and closes at 2 a.m. And don’t come hungry: No food is served. ³ 2926 Main St., 310-450-0508, circle-bar.com

JOVIAL PUB YE OLDE KI NGS H EAD There’s no friendlier place to lift a pint and enjoy shepherd’s pie, bangers and mash, fish and chips, a tuna melt or a Cobb salad than this all-day English pub that has been welcoming Brits and those who enjoy hearing them cheer on their favorite team

Ye Olde King’s Head British Pub, Restaurant, Gift Shoppe & Bakery

Open Daily for Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Happy Hour Mon – Fri Afternoon Tea served Mon – Sat 11.30am-4pm Live Sports

TO P: M I C HAE L G R EC C O; B OTTO M: WO N H O F R AN K LE E

116 Santa Monica Boulevard

(Ye Olde Kings Head opens early for soccer games) for 45 years.

The main restaurant closes at 10 p.m. weekdays and 11 p.m. on weekends, but the bar stays open until 2 a.m. for pub grub like chicken wings, cod sliders, Scotch eggs and steak turnovers. ³ 116 Santa Monica Blvd., 310-451-1402, yeoldekingshead.com

BREEZY BAR TH E BU NGALOW This cocktail lounge on the grounds of the Fairmont Miramar Hotel is a sexy mashup of everything you’ve ever wanted in a Southern California bar: sea breezes, a Baja vibe, fire pits and twinkling lanterns on the oceanfacing front deck, a ping-pong table outside, a pool table indoors, a

private lounge for throwing parties and a cozy garden for quiet conversations.

Enjoy a Topanga Canyon cocktail (rum, raspberries, mint and soda) and a flatbread topped with burrata or piled with sausage, salami and prosciutto. Or go for classic beach fare with a margarita, fish tacos, guacamole and chips. ³ 101 Wilshire Blvd., 310-899-8530, thebungalow.com ਆ

Santa Monica, CA 90401 (310) 451-1402 yeoldekingshead.com

STOCK UP ON YOUR BRITISH ITEMS IN OUR

GIFT SHOPPE & BAKERY S A N TA MON I CA OF F I C I A L V I S I TOR S GU I DE 8 3

DINE CASSIA

MICHELIN COMES TO SANTA MONICA

8 4 S A N TA MON I CA OF F I C I A L V I S I TOR S GU I DE

RECIPIENTS OF

RECIPIENTS OF

A S TA R

T H E P L AT E

DIALOGUE

CHINOIS ON MAIN

dialoguerestaurant.com

wolfgangpuck.com/dining/ chinois-santa-monica

RUSTIC CAN YON rusticcanyonrestaurant.com

T H E L O B S T ER thelobster.com

RECIPIENT OF

L U N E T TA

BIB GOURMAND

lunettasm.com

CA S S I A

michaelssantamonica.com

M I C H A EL’S cassiala.com RICK POON

In 2019, the inaugural Michelin Guide California (guide.michelin.com), the first statewide version of the guide in the country, was released. For the first time in a decade, Michelin returned to California cities, including Santa Monica, to rate the culinary offerings.

Rankings from one to three stars take into account the use of high-quality products, a mastery of flavor and cooking techniques, the personality of the chef behind the menu, consistency of the food and the creation of a memorable dining experience. The Plate rating designates dining venues that offer a good dining experience, and Bib Gourmand is awarded to eateries that dish out exceptionally good food at moderate prices. The following Santa Monica restaurants were recognized.

AMERICAN LOBSTER . FINE SEAFOOD . OCEAN VIEWS

1602 Ocean Ave. Santa Monica, CA 90401 (310) 458-9294

@thelobstersm

w w w . t h e l o b s t e r. c o m

SERVING THE FRESHEST SEAFOOD IN SM

Award-Winning Happy Hour 4pm-7pm Everyday Late night 9pm-11pm Friday and Saturday 174 Kinney Street 310-392-8366 enterprisefishco.com

Paired to Perfection Drink and dine like a local with these top picks of dishes and sips from a Santa Monica wine expert.

BY S H E L L EY L EVIT T CHRISTIAN NAVARRO HAS GROWN ACCUSTOMED

W I N E : 2018 Turley

to being asked for recommendations of where to eat and what to drink. After all, he’s the president and principal of Wally’s, the luxury wine retailer and restaurant operation, which has locations in Beverly Hills and Santa Monica.

Navarro favors spots that offer comfort and fresh ingredients, and wines that have a long family tradition. In his own words, he shares his top sips and bites in Santa Monica.

Zinfandel Juvenile

Belcampo 1026 Wilshire Blvd., 424-744-8008, belcampo.com

A local farm-to-table restaurant and butcher shop that offers one of the best dining experiences in Santa Monica. The restaurant serves elegant, rustic California cuisine using organic, grass-fed meat sourced exclusively from their farm.

D I S H : Steak Frites W I N E : 2017 Justin Cabernet Sauvignon

This pretty, aromatic cabernet displays flavors of

ripe black cherries, currant, baking spice, tobacco, licorice and mocha.

It’s rich and full-bodied with fine, balanced tannins.

HiHo Cheeseburger 1320 Second St., 310-469-7250, hiho.la

After opening in 2017, this quickly became one of my y favorite burger spots in L.A. I can’t get enough of their New Zealand Wagyu, yu, great fries and terrific milkshakes.

D I S H : Double Cheeseburger

C H R I STI A N N AVA R R O

For decades, Turley has been recognized as making some of the best zinfandel in California. The 2018 Juvenile Zin greets you with luscious ripe berry aromas and delivers flavors of spice, white pepper, plum and red fruit.

La Vecchia Cucina 2654 Main St., 310-399-7979, lavecchiacucina.com

For over 20 years, this Italian neighborhood restaurant has been a perfect, cozy y where guests can hideaway enjoy a true taste of Italy. Combining family recipes from Sicily with fresh lo local ingredients, the chef creates an ind indulgent menu of aut authentic favorites.

D I S H : Rigatoni Bol Bolognese W I N E : 2017 Vol Volpaia Chianti Classico Cla

STE A K F R ITE S, BELCAMPO

8 6 S A N TA MON I CA OF F I C I A L V I S I TOR S GU I DE

Pur and Pure focused, foc displaying dis aromas of black aro fruit, tobacco, fru leather, leather earth ea and soft wild herbs, this Chianti from a Tuscan superstar is elegant yet powerful.

G R I L L E D M A I N E L O B STE R, TH E L O B STE R

The Lobster 1602 Ocean Ave., 310-458-9294, thelobster.com

An absolute icon in the Santa Monica dining scene.

With its picturesque view overlooking the Pacific Ocean and incredible selection of seafood, it’s hard not to fall in love.

D I S H : Grilled Maine Lobster W I N E : 2018 The Hilt Chardonnay Cuvée Fleur

Coming from the family behind Screaming Eagle, The Hilt produces some of the finest wines in Santa Barbara County.

Their stunning Cuvée Fl Fleur chardonnay is an ex exclusive bottling for W Wally’s and is named aft after my beloved French bulldog, Fleur.

F IIt’s full of bright citrus a and floral flavors with a soft, supple texture.

A CULINARY ADVENTURE IS ON THE HORIZON. Pasta al fresco beachside, coastal California fare by the fire, Spanish tapas overlooking the pier, awe inspiring sushi, sashimi and sunsets, craft cocktails, nightly live music and so much more.

A journey to the end of Pico is only the beginning.

C O A S T | 1 P I C O | L I V I N G R O O M | C AT C H | T E R R A Z Z A L O U N G E

shuttersonthebeach.com

hotelcasadelmar.com

ROOTED IN HERITAGE HARVESTED IN SANTA MONICA

Celebrating 11 Years in the Community To-Go Available

101 Wilshire Boulevard 310.319.3111 ÀJVDQWDPRQLFD FRP

CALENDAR

For the latest information on local happenings, check: SANTAMON ICA.COM / EVE NTS

EVENTS 8 8 S A N TA MON I CA OF F I C I A L V I S I TOR S GU I DE

Santa Monica’s entertainment calendar offers extraordinary experiences year-round (many of which are free or nearly free to enjoy).

All Trails Lead to SureStay Santa Monica Minutes to Beaches, Westwood, Beverly Hills, Century City & Hollywood 3102 Pico Blvd.

Santa Monica, CA 90405

Solar Powered Hotel In-Room Coffee Free Hi-Speed Internet Free Continental Breakfast 49” HDTV with movie Channels Courtyard with BBQ & Picnic Tables 4 Electric Car Chargers Business Center Some Rooms Pet Friendly (Contact Hotel Directly for information)

STAY SANTA MONICA

DAYS INN SANTA MONICA

OCEAN LODGE

OCEAN PARK INN

Experience the new management team at Days Inn Santa Monica! Our hospitality outshines the sun!

Steps to the beach & pier in Tongva Park on Ocean Avenue Strip

\UP[ OV[LS M\SS` HPY JVUKP[PVUPUN ISVJRZ MYVT 7HJPMPJ 6JLHU ^HSRPUN distance to restaurants, supermarket coffee shops,bike rental, barbershop

For an unforgettable vacation in sunny California, book your room at our Days Inn Santa Monica. With fast access to I-405 and I-10, our hotel is the perfect home base for experiencing everything Santa Monica has to offer, whether you are looking for fun in the sun or exploring the local sites.

6JLHU 3VKNL /V[LS VMMLYZ `V\ HU iconic retro blast from the past with warp-speed wifi and everything LSZL \WNYHKLK MVY H M\U ]PZP[ 6\Y uncompromised service includes Kings, Doubles & Suites, all with A/C and refrigerators. Chez Jay restaurant and lounge on-site. Big on service, and luxury for less!

3007 Santa Monica Boulevard Santa Monica, CA 90404

1667 Ocean Avenue Santa Monica, CA 90401

310.829.6333

310.451.4146 | 800.393.6310

wyndhamhotels.com/days-inn/santa-monicacalifornia/days-inn-santa-monica-los-angeles/ overview

OceanLodgeHotel.com

REST HAVEN MOTEL

SANTA MONICA MOTEL

SEA BLUE HOTEL

\UP[ TV[LS ^P[O H ILKYVVT cottage and a beautiful garden and patio

Beautifully renovated property which offers affordable accommodations.

We are located just 9 blocks from the beach, the world-famous Santa Monica 7PLY HUK YK :[YLL[ 7YVTLUHKL

1\Z[ TPU\[LZ MYVT 3(? =LUPJL )LHJO and Malibu, our modern, surf-inspired accommodations will leave you rested and relaxed.

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2102 Lincoln Boulevard Santa Monica CA, 90405 310.392.6806 info@santamonicamotel.com santamonicamotel.com

TPU\[LZ ^HSR [V [OL ILHJO TPU\[LZ ^HSR [V :HU[H 4VUPJH 7PLY -YLL WHYRPUN 2452 Lincoln Boulevard Santa Monica, CA 90405 310.392.3966 oceanparkinn.net

Get your much-needed dose of vitamin ZLH OLYL H[ [OL :LH )S\L /V[LS PU Santa Monica. Now is the perfect time to book a romantic staycation or family getaway.

-YLL WHYRPUN

Book online today at SeaBlueHotel.com for special offers and the best rates guaranteed!

815 Grant Street Santa Monica, CA 90405

1670 Ocean Avenue Santa Monica, CA 90401

TPU\[LZ ^HSR [V :HU[H 4VUPJH 7PLY

310.452.3977 resthavenmotel.net

310.393.2363 SeaBlueHotel.com

Courtyard Courtyard by

by Marriott Marriott Santa Santa Monica Monica 425 425 Colorado Colorado Ave. Ave. Santa Santa Monica, Monica, California California 90401 90401

Hampton Inn & Suites Santa Monica 501 Colorado Ave. Santa Monica, California 90401

310.394.1700 310.394.1700

310.260.1100

BOOK DIRECT & SAVE PALISOCIETY.COM

RELAX. THERE’S A WYNDHAM WAITING.

Santa Monica’s First and Only Luxury Lifes le Hotel

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310.451.0676 | wyndhamsantamonicapier.com :\QGKDP 6DQWD 0RQLFD DW WKH 1JFS

The Palm Motel

classic & economical california comfort

retro retro Greek Greek bungalows bungalows walk to the walk to thepier pier Santa santa monica monica beaches beaches 2020 14th Street, Santa Monica 310.452.3861 info@thepalmmotel.com thepalmmotel.com

PROPERHOTEL.COM

Getting to and from Santa Monica

BY AI R LOS ANGELES INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (LAX)

Only about 9 non-freeway miles (14 kilometers) from Santa Monica, LAX is the closest airport, with bus service and shuttles. flylax.com

IN THE KNOW This handy guide to services is packed with tips to enhance your stay.

Santa Monica offers more than its beach and phenomenal weather. Its proximity to the Greater Los Angeles Area makes it the perfect base for vacationers and business travelers alike.

On its own, Santa Monica is a walkable 8.3 square miles (21.5 square kilometers)—a pedestrian- and bike-friendly beach city. Each of its eight neighborhoods offers a diverse mix of shopping, dining, entertainment, outdoor recreation and, thanks to the unmatched public transportation system, metropolitan convenience.

Transportation options to and from LAX include: Shuttle Rates for vans between LAX and Santa Monica start at approximately $23 per person one-way or from $20 per person round-trip ($9–$10 for each additional person), not including tip. Shuttles are located on the lower (Arrivals) level. Among the available shuttle service companies is Prime Time Shuttle (800-7338267, primetimeshuttle.com).

Taxi and Rideshare Service For taxi service from LAX to Santa Monica, the charge ranges from about $45–$60, depending on location, plus tip (15 to 20 percent of fare).

A $4 surcharge is levied on trips originating from LAX. Uber and Lyft drivers can drop off and pick up LAX passengers.

Rates to or from Santa Monica start around $25, but

vary by time and number of passengers; there is a $4 surcharge for rides to or from LAX. Take the LAX-it shuttle to get to and from the level 1 baggage claim area and a new ride service-pickup lot for taxis and online ride-hailing services.

Big Blue Bus Need a ride to or from LAX? Take Big Blue Bus Route 3 or Rapid 3 seven days a week from Downtown Santa Monica to LAX for only $1.25 each way. The Route 3 (local service with frequent stops) and Rapid 3 (limited stop service) run between the Metro Green Line Aviation Station and Downtown Santa Monica, with additional stops within the city. (Note: Rapid 3 service has been suspended until October 1, 2020.) From the transportation islands at the airport near the LAX Shuttles signs, travelers can board shuttles that run to and from the Green Line Station (Route G) and to the LAX City Bus Center transit station (board the Lot South/City Bus Center shuttle), which is the best place to catch the Route 3 or Rapid 3 at Bay 13. Allow about 20 to 30 minutes for shuttle connection and travel.

For fare, TAP cards can be purchased and loaded with Stored Value (which works like cash) at ticket vending machines conveniently located at the LAX City Bus Center.

310-451-5444 bigbluebus.com Rental Car All major car rental agencies operate at LAX and other nearby airports.

TO P LE FT: LP ETTET/ I STO C K

RESOURCES

LOS ANGELES INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (LAX)

BIG BLUE BUS

METRO

HOLLYWOOD BURBANK

BY TRAI N AN D BUS

AIRPORT (BUR)

Approximately 25 mi/38 km northeast of Santa Monica in Burbank 818-840-8840 hollywoodburbankairport.com

AMTRAK

The national rail passenger service operates out of Union Station in Downtown Los Angeles.

800-872-7245, amtrak.com

While You’re Here BAN KI NG & CURRENCY

CURRENCY EXCHANGE INTERNATIONAL

395 Santa Monica Place Level 2, 310-393-7444 Monday–Saturday 10 a.m.–9 p.m., Sunday: 11 a.m.–8 p.m.

JOHN WAYNE AIRPORT (SNA)

METRO

Approximately 50 mi/80 km southeast of Santa Monica 949-252-5200, ocair.com

The Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) operates light rail via three stations and bus service that connect to Santa Monica.

323-466-3876, metro.net

LONG BEACH AIRPORT (LGB)

Approximately 30 mi/49 km southeast of Santa Monica 562-570-2600, lgb.org LOS ANGELES INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (LAX)

Approximately 8 mi/13 km south of Santa Monica 855-463-5252, flylax.com For info on the current LAX projects, visit lawa.org/ connectinglax.

ONTARIO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (ONT)

Approximately 56 mi/91 km east of Santa Monica 909-544-5300, flyontario.com

BIG BLUE BUS

The Rapid 10 express bus connects Santa Monica to Downtown Los Angeles.

310-451-5444, bigbluebus.com

BY AUTO Pacific Coast Highway (California 1), Santa Monica Freeway (Interstate 10), Santa Monica Boulevard (Historic Route 66) and Wilshire, Olympic and Pico boulevards run through the City of Santa Monica.

Most banks are open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday; some open at 9 a.m. on Saturdays and close by early to mid-afternoon. Automated teller machines (ATMs) are located at banks and inside many stores, restaurants, clubs and other businesses (service charges and other fees may apply).

Some banks in Santa Monica will exchange foreign currency; some restrictions (including limits) apply and fees are charged. Currency exchange is also available in Downtown Santa Monica at: A PLUS CURRENCY EXCHANGE – WESTERN UNION

1424 Fourth St., Ste. 403 310-394-7211 Monday–Friday 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m.–2 p.m.; closed Sunday

TRAVELEX CURRENCY SERVICES

(inside U.S. Bank) 201 Santa Monica Blvd.

Ste. 101, 310-260-9219 Monday–Thursday 9 a.m.–5 p.m., Friday 9 a.m.–6 p.m.; closed Saturday and Sunday

LOCKE RS/ LUGGAGE STORAG E SANTA MONICA BIKE CENTER

*

1555 Second St. 310-656-8500 thebikecenter.com/ luggage-valet Check website for hours. $10 per item. All bags must be collected by closing.

S A N TA MON I CA OF F I C I A L V I S I TOR S GU I DE 9 3

SANTA MONICA PLACE

395 Santa Monica Place 310-260-8333 santamonicaplace.com/services Monday–Saturday 10 a.m.–9 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m.–8 p.m.

Bags from the shopping center free; small luggage $5; large luggage $7. All bags must be collected by closing.

(Exception: Each customer of the ArcLight Cinemas may store up to 3 items for $5 and can present a ticket to a later showtime to collect stored items later.)

EMERGENCIES For crimes in progress, fires and medical emergencies, dial 911. For non-emergency police dispatch, dial 310-4588491. For non-emergency fire dispatch, dial 310-458-8660.

COM PUTE R & E LECTRICAL S TA N D A R D S U.S. electrical current is 110/120 volts AC. Most hotels offer high-speed Internet access, wireless service and multipleline phones in guest rooms.

Carry a legal photo ID at all times. This is required for airline travel, admission to some attractions, proof of legal drinking age (21 in California) and other situations.

TI PPI NG Tipping for many services is customary. Gratuities are rarely included in your bill.

RESTAURANT, BAR, TAXI AND LIMO SERVICE

18 percent–20 percent of the bill HOTEL DOORMEN AND

H O S P I TA L S

OTHER SERVICE PERSONNEL

$1–$2 per transaction JOHN WAYNE CANCER INSTITUTE AT

HOTEL BELLHOP

PROVIDENCE SAINT

$1–$3 per bag

JOHN’S HEALTH CENTER

2121 Santa Monica Blvd.

310-315-6125 saintjohnscancer.org PROVIDENCE SAINT JOHN’S HEALTH CENTER

2121 Santa Monica Blvd.

310-829-5511 newstjohns.org

PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY

I D E N T I F I C AT I O N

HOUSEKEEPING STAFF

$2–$3 per night and $1 more for special services HOTEL CONCIERGE

$5–$20 for special service, depending on the service VALET PARKING ATTENDANTS

$2, when car is returned to you UCLA MEDICAL CENTER, SANTA MONICA

AIRPORT SKYCAP

1250 16th St., 424-259-6000 uclahealth.org

$1–$2 per bag

9 4 S A N TA MON I CA OF F I C I A L V I S I TOR S GU I DE

TI M E ZON E

SMOKI NG

Santa Monica is on Pacific Standard Time, which is eight hours behind Coordinated Universal Time (-8 UTC).

Daylight Saving Time (-7 UTC), known locally as Pacific Daylight Time, is observed from the second Sunday in March until the first Sunday in November.

In California, it is illegal to smoke tobacco, marijuana or e-cigarettes in restaurants, bars, theaters, auditoriums, museums, public buildings and within 20 feet of the entryways, operable windows and air ventilation intakes of city, county and state buildings. Santa Monica further prohibits smoking in public-service waiting areas (e.g., bus stops, ATM queues), parks and outdoor dining areas; at the Third Street Promenade, libraries and farmers markets; and on beaches and the Santa Monica Pier. For information on cannabis, see page 26.

BEACH & SURF CON DITIONS Heal the Bay, a Santa Monica– based organization dedicated to the environment of Santa Monica Bay, offers weekly updates to its Beach Report Card (beachreportcard. org), including water-quality forecasting. Surf conditions are available at surfline.com and at santamonica.com/ santa-monica-weather.

Flags mark the designated swimming and body-boarding area. No surfing is allowed between two of these flags.

Lifeguards place the flags to designate the safest area in which to swim. Depending on the season and activity, two flags may be crossed at one point to designate the dividing line between swimming and surfing areas.

DRIVING For freeway updates, visit sigalert.com.

SEAT BELTS

Drivers and passengers must wear seat belts at all times.

Children under 8 years old and shorter than 4 feet 9 inches tall must use a child safety seat.

CELL PHONE HANDS-FREE DRIVING

California law prohibits drivers from holding mobile devices while driving. To use a device, it must be mounted to the

LE FT: PG IAM / I STO C K

RESOURCES

windshield, dashboard or center console so as not to hinder the driver’s view, and allow for hands-free/voiceactivated features and apps.

DRUGS AND ALCOHOL

Driving under the influence of alcohol, marijuana or drugs (DUI) is a serious offense in California. A person is legally drunk with a blood alcohol level of 0.08 percent or higher. Alcohol consumption is illegal for anyone under 21.

TRAFFIC RULES

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 traffic are clear. Cars are not permitted in bus lanes, except to make right turns, which are restricted during peak periods by posted signs.

Drivers are required to pull over to the side of the road for law-enforcement and other emergency vehicles with lights and sirens on.

MAIN VISITOR INFORMATION CENTER

Santa Monica Visitor Centers

SHOW YOUR SANTA MONICA SPIRIT Get mementos of your trip even after you’ve returned home. Visit Shop Santa Monica at santamonica.com/store.

THE SANTA MONICA VISITOR INFORMATION CENTERS ARE YOUR SOURCE for all things Santa Monica. All of our Visitor Centers provide friendly and knowledgeable staff; Visitor Guides and Maps; and information on attractions, hotels, dining, museums, galleries and entertainment. At our visitor information locations, you will find a full display of free visitor information; Santa Monica gifts and souvenirs; tickets to area attractions; and pre-loaded TAP cards for purchase. Stop in! We would love to meet you.

PARKING

Carefully read and obey signs and parking meters for hours of operation and day and time restrictions. Keep valuables out of sight in the trunk. When booking hotels, ask about parking availability and fees. For a comprehensive parking map and realtime parking availability at Downtown and beach lots, visit smgov.net/parking.

Also, get real-time parking availability via the SM Parking and ParkMe apps.

ਆ

V I S I T O R C E N T E R L O C AT I O N S A N D H O U R S MAIN VISITOR INFORMATION CENTER 2427 Main St. Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–5:30 p.m.; Saturday–Sunday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.

PIER SHOP & VISITOR CENTER 200 Santa Monica Pier (located in the Carousel Building)

Monday to Thursday, 11 a.m.–5 p.m.; Friday– Sunday, 11 a.m.–7 p.m.

Hours of operation may be extended or shortened due to special events or staffing needs.

VISITOR INFORMATION KIOSK 1400 Ocean Ave. (located in Palisades Park) Open daily, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.

MOBILE VISITOR CENTER

SHOP SANTA MONICA santamonica.com/store

Locations vary

C O N TA C T U S FOR MORE I N F O R M AT I O N 310-393-7593 800-544-5319 SANTAMONICA.COM

info@santamonica.com

S A N TA MON I CA OF F I C I A L V I S I TOR S GU I DE 9 5

TH E N & NOW

Pleasure Pier Charles I. D. Looff, amusement park pioneer and builder of the first carousel at Coney Island in 1876, imagined and developed Santa Monica’s now-famous Pier.

The first phase of the Santa Monica Pier’s transformation from municipal utility to pleasure pier was complete by 1917 (above) and included the erection of the Looff Hippodrome carousel building, which remains an attraction today (inset).

The historical photo from the Stephen Raul Anaya Collection is one of a series of rare images, plans and drawings of proposed structures that chronicle the Pier’s development. Images from the collection can be seen merged with current comparison images in Michael Murphy and Jens Lucking’s award-winning book, Santa Monica Pleasure Pier: A Look Back to 1917 From Today (Immaginare Press, 2019).

9 6 S A N TA MON I CA OF F I C I A L V I S I TOR S GU I DE

Reminiscent of Hollywood’s Golden Age with its curving ocean liner-inspired architecture and whimsical Art Deco design, the historical Hotel Shangri-La has been welcoming guests to the beach since 1939. Every experience is as singular as the grand, stateroom-style king rooms and apartment style suites with full kitchens, featuring HTWSL HPY` SP]PUN ZWHJLZ HUK \UPU[LYY\W[LK ]PL^Z VM [OL 7HJPÄJ 6JLHU VY :HU[H 4VUPJH JP[`ZJHWL Relax poolside, indulge in a hot tub soak, or slip into a private cabana. Stir your evening to life with 180-degree VJLHU Z\UZL[ ]PL^Z H[ 65@? [OL JP[`»Z VUS` PUKVVY V\[KVVY /V[LS YVVM[VW IHY VY ZH]VY ZLHZVUHS 0U[LYUH[PVUHS cuisine in our oceanfront restaurant, The Dining Room.

1301 OCEAN AVENUE, SANTA MONICA, CA 90401 310.394.2791 | www.shangrila-hotel.com

Five Acres of Open Space