Santa Monica

Santa Monica offers a vibrant tapestry unlike any other California beach city. It balances the classic California beach culture with a surprising depth of artistic influence and a commitment to environmental responsibility. Santa Monica Pier, a national landmark, pulsates with energy, offering amusement rides, street performers, and iconic Pacific sunsets. Just steps away, however, lies a haven for art lovers. Bergamot Station, boasting the second-highest concentration of galleries per square foot in the US (after NYC!), caters to all artistic tastes. Sustainability is woven into the city's identity, with its clean beaches, commitment to green spaces, and ever-expanding bike infrastructure making it a haven for eco conscious residents and visitors alike. This unique blend of beachside fun, artistic expression, and environmental awareness makes Santa Monica a truly special place.

 

Santa Monica's history boasts a fascinating blend of indigenous presence, entrepreneurial spirit, and transformation into a beachside haven. For millennia, the Tongva people thrived here, leaving their mark on the land. Spanish explorers arrived in the 16th century, and later Mexico claimed the territory. In 1875, Colonel Robert Baker and Senator John P. Jones envisioned Santa Monica as a bustling port city. Their dream didn't quite materialize, but the seeds for a different kind of prosperity were sown. The construction of the railroad and the Santa Monica Pier in the early 20th century paved the way for Santa Monica's rise as a popular seaside destination, luring tourists with amusement parks, beautiful beaches, and a sunny climate. This legacy of transformation continues today, as Santa Monica evolves into a dynamic city that embraces its rich past while fostering innovation and a thriving arts scene.

 

Here are the top things to know about Santa Monica:

• Santa Monica Pier: This iconic landmark is a must-visit for any Santa Monica trip. The pier features Pacific Park, a traditional amusement park with a Ferris wheel, roller coaster, and arcade games. There's also the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium, which is a great place to learn about the local marine life.
• Santa Monica Beach: This beautiful beach is a great place to relax, sunbathe, swim, or surf. There are also beach volleyball courts, concession stands, and bike rentals available.
• Third Street Promenade: This pedestrian-only mall is lined with shops, restaurants, and street performers. It's a great place to people-watch, have a bite to eat, or do some shopping.
• Santa Monica State Beach: This beach is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. There are also fire pits, picnic areas, and a lifeguard station.
• 26-Mile Bike Path: This scenic bike path runs along the coast from Santa Monica to Torrance. It's a great way to see the sights and get some exercise.
• Santa Monica Farmers Market: This award-winning farmers market is a great place to find fresh produce, flowers, and locally-made crafts. It's held every Wednesday and Saturday morning at the Civic Center Parking Lot.
• Annenberg Community Beach House: This public beach house features a swimming pool, tennis courts, and an oceanfront lawn. It's a great place to relax and enjoy the views.
• Getty Center: This world-renowned museum is located in Brentwood, just a short drive from Santa Monica. It houses a collection of art spanning centuries, from ancient Greece to the 20th century.
• Santa Monica Mountains: The Santa Monica Mountains offer a variety of hiking and biking trails, as well as stunning views of the city and the ocean.
• Mild weather: Santa Monica enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild temperatures year-round. This makes it a great destination to visit any time of year.