Destination guide

Take in the beachside beauty of Santa Monica

The area's art galleries and live music are just some of the reasons to come on holiday to Santa Monica. Well known for its beaches, seaside and shopping, this walkable city won't disappoint. Take in top local attractions such as Santa Monica Pier and Venice Beach. Whether you're planning a family holiday, romantic stay or trip with friends, holiday rentals offer features like full kitchens and laundry facilities for a more convenient stay.

Activities

Activities and attractions in Santa Monica

Are you hoping to find attractions to visit during your stay? Venture out of your cosy holiday rental and experience everything that makes Santa Monica a one-of-a-kind holiday spot. These are some of the top attractions to see, all within 30 miles (48.2 km) of the city centre:

  • Santa Monica Pier (1.1 mi / 1.8 km)
  • Sony Pictures Studios (4.9 mi / 7.9 km)
  • Universal Studios Hollywood® (10.7 mi / 17.3 km)
  • Warner Brothers Studio (12.2 mi / 19.7 km)
  • NBC Studios (12.6 mi / 20.3 km)
  • Venice Beach Boardwalk (3.1 mi / 4.9 km)
Weather

Seasonal weather in Santa Monica

If warm-weather activities are high on your list, August, September, July and October are the hottest months to visit, when temperatures average 21°F.

Natural highlights

Exploring the beaches and other natural features in Santa Monica

Santa Monica is famous for its beautiful ocean views and breathtaking sunsets. Whether you're an adventurous traveller or just want to appreciate the scenery, Santa Monica is a great spot to appreciate mother nature. Here are a few of the area's most eye-catching sights, all within 30 miles (48.2 km) of the city centre:

  • Venice Beach (2.4 mi / 3.9 km)
  • La Brea Tar Pits (7.9 mi / 12.7 km)
  • Griffith Park (13.9 mi / 22.3 km)
  • International Chess Park (1.1 mi / 1.8 km)
  • Original Muscle Beach (1.2 mi / 1.9 km)
  • Santa Monica Beach (1.3 mi / 2.1 km)
How to get there

Travelling to and around Santa Monica

Fly into Santa Monica, CA (SMO-Santa Monica Municipal), the closest airport, located 1.9 mi (3.1 km) from the city centre. If you're unable to find a flight that fits your schedule, you might consider flying into Los Angeles, CA (LAX-Los Angeles Intl.), which is 7.1 mi (11.5 km) away.

Where to stay near Santa Monica?

Our 2019 accommodation listings offer a large selection of 4,130 holiday rentals near Santa Monica. From 1,866 Houses to 1,468 Condos/Apartments, find unique holiday homes for you to enjoy a memorable holiday or a weekend with your family and friends. The best place to stay near Santa Monica is on HomeAway.

What is the best area to stay when travelling to Santa Monica?

Whether you are travelling solo or with family and friends, here are the areas with the largest selection of holiday rentals for a long holiday or just a weekend break in Santa Monica:

  • Ocean Park: 789 holiday homes
  • Downtown: 126 holiday homes
  • Wilshire Montana: 163 holiday homes
  • Sunset Park: 257 holiday homes
  • Northeast: 58 holiday homes

For other neighbourhoods, please use our search bar to access the selection of holiday homes available.

What are the most popular points of interest and landmarks to stay near when travelling to Santa Monica?

HomeAway offers a large selection of holiday homes near great places in Santa Monica. From HomeAway travellers, the most popular points of interest to stay near are:

  • Santa Monica Pier: 1,741 holiday rentals
  • Santa Monica Beach: 5,911 holiday rentals
  • Original Muscle Beach: 5,914 holiday rentals
  • Santa Monica College: 5,958 holiday rentals
  • The Acting Studio at Edgemar: 5,933 holiday rentals

But there are many other points of interest around Santa Monica listed on HomeAway where you can find your place to stay. Please use our search bar to access the selection of holiday rentals available near the point of interest of your choice.

Can I rent Houses in Santa Monica?

Yes, of course. HomeAway offers 1,866 Houses in Santa Monica. Our other popular types of Santa Monica holiday rentals include:

  • Condos/Apartments: 1,468 holiday houses
  • Villas: 115 holiday houses
  • Cottages: 129 holiday houses

But you can also enjoy a great stay in one of our other holiday rentals including Bungalows and more.

Can I find a holiday accommodation with pool in Santa Monica?

Yes, you can select your preferred holiday accommodation with pool among our 1,160 holiday homes with pool available in Santa Monica. Please use our search bar to access the selection of holiday rentals available.

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