on
List
- Get link
- X
- Other Apps
Where to Stay in Santa Monica & What to Eat There (2026 Guide) | Best Hotels, Restaurants & Beachfront Dining in Los Angeles
Planning a trip to Santa Monica and wondering where to stay—and more importantly, what to eat?
Santa Monica is one of the most desirable beach destinations in California, known for its iconic pier, oceanfront hotels, walkable shopping streets, palm-lined beaches, and vibrant dining scene. For travelers searching for best hotels in Santa Monica, where to stay near Santa Monica Pier, best restaurants in Santa Monica, or Los Angeles beachfront dining, this guide covers everything you need for an unforgettable California coastal getaway.
Whether you're visiting for a romantic weekend, a family vacation, or a luxury coastal road trip through Los Angeles, here’s where to stay in Santa Monica—and exactly what to eat while you’re there.
Best Areas to Stay in Santa Monica
For first-time visitors, the best neighborhoods to stay in are:
✅ Ocean Avenue – luxury beachfront hotels + sunset views
✅ Downtown / Third Street Promenade – shopping, nightlife, walkability
✅ Mid-City Santa Monica – quieter boutique stays + local cafés
✅ Near the Pier – ideal for tourists wanting iconic California vibes
Staying close to Ocean Avenue gives you easy access to the beach, restaurants, shopping, and the famous Santa Monica Pier—all within walking distance.
1) Luxury Stay: Hotel Casa del Mar
Hotel Casa del Mar
Address: 1910 Ocean Way, Santa Monica, CA 90405
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours (Hotel)
If you're searching for luxury hotels in Santa Monica, Hotel Casa del Mar is one of the finest beachfront stays in Los Angeles County. This Mediterranean-style landmark hotel sits directly facing the Pacific Ocean, offering elegant suites, sweeping sea views, a lavish pool deck, and upscale coastal luxury that feels distinctly Californian.
The hotel is particularly popular among honeymooners, luxury travelers, and visitors seeking a true beachfront hotel in Los Angeles. Staying here also places you moments away from the beach bike path, Santa Monica Pier, and some of the city’s best restaurants.
Best for: Luxury vacations, couples, premium coastal stays
2) Boutique Stay: The Georgian Hotel
The Georgian Hotel
Address: 1415 Ocean Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90401
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours (Hotel)
One of the most iconic boutique hotels in Santa Monica, The Georgian combines vintage glamour with modern sophistication. The striking Art Deco exterior is instantly recognizable, while inside you'll find stylish rooms, curated interiors, and a location that puts you steps from the beach, Third Street Promenade, and Ocean Avenue dining.
For travelers searching best boutique hotels in Santa Monica, this is one of the strongest options—especially if you want walkability paired with classic California charm.
Best for: Stylish travelers, couples, boutique stays
3) Budget-Friendly Stay: HI Los Angeles Santa Monica Hostel
HI Los Angeles Santa Monica Hostel
Address: 1436 2nd St, Santa Monica, CA 90401
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours (Hostel)
Santa Monica is famously expensive, but this centrally located hostel offers a more affordable base without sacrificing convenience. Clean, social, and located just minutes from the beach and promenade, it’s perfect for backpackers, digital nomads, and budget-conscious travelers.
For searches like cheap places to stay in Santa Monica or budget hotels near Santa Monica Pier, this is a practical choice.
Best for: Solo travelers, backpackers, affordable California trips
What to Eat in Santa Monica
Santa Monica’s food scene is one of the strongest on the West Coast—mixing fresh California produce, coastal seafood, rooftop dining, stylish cafés, and excellent brunch culture.
Here are some of the best places to eat:
1) Élephante – Rooftop Coastal Italian Dining
Elephante
Address: 1332 2nd St Rooftop, Santa Monica, CA 90401
Opening Hours: Daily (typically brunch through late evening)
If you’re searching for best rooftop restaurants in Santa Monica, Élephante is one of the hottest reservations in Los Angeles. Perched above the city, it offers sweeping ocean views, breezy interiors, stylish cocktails, and Mediterranean-inspired dishes including wood-fired pizzas, whipped eggplant dip, fresh seafood, and handmade pasta.
This is peak California coastal dining—equal parts chic and relaxed.
Must try: Truffle pizza, whipped eggplant, sunset cocktails
2) Tar & Roses – One of the Best Restaurants in Santa Monica
Tar & Roses
Address: 602 Santa Monica Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90401
Opening Hours: Dinner service (typically evenings)
For serious food lovers, Tar & Roses is a standout. Known for wood-fired cooking, bold seasonal ingredients, and beautifully layered flavors, it’s frequently ranked among the best restaurants in Santa Monica.
The menu feels inventive yet comforting—California cuisine at its finest.
Must try: Wood-roasted meats, seasonal vegetables, share plates
3) Water Grill – Premium Seafood Dining
Water Grill Santa Monica
Address: 1401 Ocean Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90401
Opening Hours: Lunch & Dinner Daily
For seafood lovers, Water Grill is one of the city’s premier dining destinations. Expect oysters, wild-caught fish, shellfish platters, lobster, and polished service in a sophisticated setting near the ocean.
For best seafood restaurant in Santa Monica searches, this is a top contender.
Must try: Oyster platter, grilled fish, lobster dishes
4) 1212 Santa Monica – Brunch, Cocktails & Vacation Energy
1212 Santa Monica
Address: 1212 3rd Street Promenade, Santa Monica, CA 90401
Opening Hours: Daily (brunch, lunch & dinner)
If you want fun energy, cocktails, and a lively dining scene, 1212 Santa Monica delivers. Located on the famous promenade, it’s ideal for brunch, social dinners, and vacation-style people watching.
Must try: Brunch plates, cocktails, shareable bites
5) Bay Cities Italian Deli & Bakery – Legendary Local Sandwiches
Bay Cities Italian Deli & Bakery
Address: 1517 Lincoln Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90401
Opening Hours: Daily (hours vary)
For iconic local eats, Bay Cities is legendary. Their famous Godmother sandwich is one of Los Angeles’ most beloved sandwiches—stacked high with meats, cheese, and house dressing inside fresh bread.
It’s one of the best cheap eats in Santa Monica and worth every bite.
Final Thoughts: Is Santa Monica Worth Staying In?
Absolutely.
Santa Monica offers:
✔ Beachfront hotels
✔ Walkable neighborhoods
✔ Luxury shopping
✔ Great cafés & restaurants
✔ Easy access to Venice Beach
✔ Classic California sunsets
For travelers planning a Los Angeles itinerary, Santa Monica is one of the best places to stay—combining coastal beauty, convenience, and some of the best dining in Southern California.
Comments
Post a Comment