Santa Monica Official Visitors Guide 2017-18 by The Lifestyle Magazines of SoCal

HOME-GROWN FITNESS TRENDS From Spinning to paddleboarding, sample the trends that started here

OF F I C I AL VI SI T ORS GUIDE 2 017/18

The Dining Scene

Just the spots for brunch at the beach, vegetarian fare with verve, farm-fresh eatsâ&#x20AC;¦and more

BEACH FUN! Pro tips for enjoying the surf HOTELS +Stay, eat, play

Visit Us | loewshotels.com/santa-monica | 310.458.6700

Santa Monicaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Exhilarating Escape Experience SoCal style and spirit at our iconic luxury beachfront hotel. Offering redesigned guest rooms and suites, an award-winning pool, spectacular ocean views, locally inspired dining and easy access to the areas best attractions, Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel is the perfect place to escape and recharge.

Barneys New York Bloomingdale’s Chan Luu Coach DVF Hugo Boss Kate Spade New York Karen Millen Louis Vuitton Nike Nordstrom Spanx The Kooples Tiffany & Co. Tory Burch & many more

Receive FREE Visitors Savings from participating retailers by visiting SantaMonicaPlace.com/Savings and using the password ‘ThankYouForShopping’.

QUESTIONS? TEXT CONCIERGE 310.499.2928 SantaMonicaPlace.com

WHAT’S INSIDE LO/ CAL COFFEE & M A R K ET

S A N TA M O N I C A O F F I C I A L V I S I T O R S G U I D E 2 0 1 7 – 2 0 1 8

WELCOME S A N TA M O N I CA ,

L O S A N G E L E S ’ B E AC H C I T Y:

With its incomparable oceanfront setting, world-class dining, lively cultural scene, and friendly locals, Santa Monica combines the laid-back appeal of a classic California beach town with a vibrant big-city sophistication.

SO SANTA MONICA 11

ROUTE 66

P E DA L E R ’ S PA R A D I S E

FA R M E R S M A R K E T B O U N T Y

I N N OVA T I V E C O N S E R VA T I O N

THE PIER EXPERIENCE

Take part in Santa Monica’s wellness-powered culture.

H O T E L S : From world-famous beachfront luxury to vintage gems and budget-friendly options, Santa Monica’s extraordinary selection of hotels provides a welcome home for any Southern California stay.

LIVING WELL FEEL GOOD:

BY E LI ZAB ETH TU R N E R

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

E A T, S H O P, P L AY :

BY G R A C E J I D O U N

STAY

THE ARTS Take in a wide array of sculptures, murals, and installations on this walking tour of the town’s creative highlights.

PUBLIC AR T:

B Y J O A N TA P P E R

AN D LI N DA KOS S O F F

BY N A N CY W O N G B R YA N , E LI ZAB ETH T U R N E R , AND BEKAH WRIGHT

GETTING AROUND O N T H E M OV E : Going from one place to another is simple in pedestrian-friendly Santa Monica with the advents of light rail, shuttle, and bus services, and a bike-sharing program. BY B E KAH WR I G HT

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

LE MERIDIEN DELFINA SANTA MONICA T +1 888 627 8532 lemeridiendelfina.com

IGNITE INSPIRATION Be exposed to the uncommon, encounter the unexpected and ignite inspiration with authentic and thought-provoking experiences at every turn at Starwood’s newest Le Méridien, Le Méridien Delﬁna Santa Monica. For more information or to make a reservation, visit lemeridiendelﬁna.com or call +1 888 627 8532 N 34° 1’ 19” W 73° 29’ 25” DESTINATION UNLOCKED

WHAT’S 66 INSIDE 52 SANTA MONICA OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE 2017–2018

DINE

BY S H E LLEY LEVITT

L O C A L F L AVO R : Acclaimed chef and Santa Monica resident Yousef Ghalaini of FIG Restaurant shares his favorite neighborhood spots.

TE R R A ZZ A L O U N G E

T A B L E S W I T H A V I E W : Head to these locations for a great outlook on dining.

Toast the town with a hip sip from the cool and creative bar scene.

PLAY Make the most of the surf with these water sports tips from the pros. B E AC H F U N :

BY E LI ZAB ETH TU R N E R

FAMILY Q U A L I T Y T I M E : Santa Monica has plenty of activities and attractions for your clan. Here are some options to please just about everybody. BY LI N DA KOS S O F F

CALENDAR

Try these top spots for the most leisurely meal of the week.

RESOURCES

GOOD BETS FOR BRUNCH:

H E A LT H Y B I T E S : These cafés serve up clean eats that pack a ﬂavor punch.

A FA R M - T O - T A B L E F O C U S :

EVENTS:

84 I N

T H E K N O W : Use this handy guide to services and tips to enhance your stay.

Sure, you might spot a celebrity or two, but locally sourced seasonal ingredients are the true stars of these Santa Monica eateries.

93 M A P S

THEN AND NOW

Since the 1930s, ﬁtness enthusiasts have been attracted to the Original Muscle Beach just south of the Pier.

B I R T H O F B R AW N :

Sample the delicious creations of Santa Monica’s dynamic restaurant community. DINING GUIDE:

SHOP Must-visit shops you’ll only ﬁnd in Santa Monica.

UNIQUE GOODS:

BY E LI ZAB ETH TU R N E R

EXCURSIONS DAY T R I P S : Santa Monica provides the perfect home base for visiting other Southern California hot spots. BY B E KAH WR I G HT

COVER P h o t o gr a ph by J essica Sa mpl e

Heralding free movies, athletic races, holiday events, shopping, festivities, and more, Santa Monica’s entertainment calendar shines in every season.

GOOD LIBATIONS:

TH E N O W

THE YACHT-MASTER The emblematic nautical watch embodies a yachting heritage that stretches back to the 1950s. It doesn’t just tell time. It tells history.

OYSTER PERPETUAL YACHT-MASTER 40

rolex

oyster perpetual and yacht-master are ® trademarks.

Welcome to

SANTA MONICA

LOS ANGELES’ BEACH CITY

ET ALONG A BEAUTIFUL 3.5-MILE STRETCH OF

coastline just south of Malibu and north of Venice, Santa Monica blends an unmistakable California beach-town vibe with touches of Riviera-style 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 compelling (not to mention award-winning) city: beautiful, creative, stylish, 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 real neighborhoods loaded with character. You can bike for hours, 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. Forty-three percent of Santa Monica adults make all or part of their living in arts-related fields. Thanks to more than 120 galleries, public art installations, theaters, and museums, culture is at your fingertips wherever you are 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 seen a recent wave of tech and Internet startups—so many, in fact, that Santa Monica has earned the nickname “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, and Main Street. No matter what you do in this city—where art, nature, and urban excitement all converge—you’ll quickly discover that Santa Monica is as inspirational as it is irresistible. =

6 SANTA MONICA OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE

YOU’VE ARRIVED

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA, AS YOU IMAGINED IT ENJOY PACIFIC PANORAMAS, PERSONALIZED SERVICES, AND FINE DINING IN A VIBRANT SETTING Surrounded by vibrant city and ocean vistas, Huntley Santa Monica Beach hotel is an icon. With a calm residential vibe, our Santa Monica luxury hotel blends breezy Southern California surroundings with modern décor and playful style. The Huntley Hotel offers easy access to Santa Monica’s acclaimed beaches, the Santa Monica Pier, and the Third Street Promenade. The Huntley Hotel’s 204 luxurious guest rooms, along with 12 suites and a Presidential suite, overlook the ocean in one of the nation’s most beautiful cities. On the 18th ﬂoor, famed designer Thomas Schoos has teamed up with executive chef Alex Manos to create a dramatic rooftop dining experience at The Penthouse restaurant and lounge. Panoramic ocean views, beach cabanas, open skies, and signature craft cocktails along with California contemporary cuisine, create a one-of-a-kind dining experience.

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

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 and recognize green businesses in Santa Monica. For a complete list of Santa Monica Certified Green Businesses, visit smgbc.org.

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 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), 424-443-9250 Santa Monica Pier Shop & Visitor Center 200 Santa Monica Pier (Carousel Building), 310-804-7457 Santa Monica Visitor Information Cart Third Street Promenade (1300 block), 310-309-9139 See all Visitor Center hours on page 90.

Published in conjunction with

Current Certiﬁed Businesses The Albright (Restaurant)

Le Méridien Delﬁna Santa Monica (Hotel/Motel)

The Ambrose Hotel (Hotel/Motel)

The Lobster (Restaurant)

Apogee Electronics Corporation (Ofﬁce)

Locanda del Lago (Restaurant)

Arthur Murray Dance Center (Ofﬁce)

Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel (Hotel/Motel)

Aura Shop (Retail)

Morley Builders (Ofﬁce)

Back on the Beach Café (Restaurant)

Natural Resources Defence Council (NRDC) (Ofﬁce)

Bru’s Wifﬂe (Restaurant)

Ocean View Hotel (Hotel/Motel)

Bryan Cave LLP (Ofﬁce)

O2 Chiropractic & Wellness (Ofﬁce)

Caffe Bellagio (Restaurant)

Perry’s Café & Beach Rentals (Restaurant)

Capital Intelligence Associates (Ofﬁce)

Physical Therapyworks (Ofﬁce)

Case Stack (Ofﬁce)

Pono Burger (Restaurant)

Community Corporation of SM (Ofﬁce)

Red Bull North America (Ofﬁce)

Co-Opportunity (Grocer)

Santa Monica Bike Center (Ofﬁce)

Global Green USA (Ofﬁce)

Santa Monica Chamber of Commerce (Ofﬁce)

Hang Ups Unlimited (Ofﬁce)

Santa Monica Seafood (Restaurant)

Heal the Bay Santa Monica Pier Aquarium

Santa Monica Travel and Tourism (Ofﬁce)

Healthy Spot (Retail)

Shore Hotel (Hotel/Motel)

HGA Architects and Engineers (Ofﬁce)

SP Plus Parking (Ofﬁce)

Hostelling International Los Angeles/ Santa Monica (Hotel/Motel)

TCBY/Starbucks (Santa Monica College) (Restaurant)

Inspire Energy (Ofﬁce)

Three Squares Inc. (Ofﬁce)

Interactive Data (Ofﬁce)

Tiato (Restaurant)

Kafe K (Restaurant)

UBM Canon (Ofﬁce)

Kin Community (Ofﬁce)

UCLA - SM Medical Center (Ofﬁce)

Keep an eye out for the green asterisk denoting Certiﬁed Green Businesses throughout this guide. 8 S A N TA MON I CA OF F I C I A L V I S I TOR S GU I DE

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 Associate Publisher, Advertising Sales Michael Petruncola Content Solutions Director Mitch Getz Sales Manager Kristy Day To advertise, contact: Kristy Day 323-801-0018 kday@lamag.com

Visit Santa Monica

@SeeSantaMonica

@GoSantaMonica

@LoveSantaMonica

Copyright © 2017 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 of variances that occur following publication.

ONE BEACH, TWO WAYS Experience Santa Monica Beach in Luxury Featuring four world-class restaurants, two wellness facilities with daily ﬁtness classes, premium wi-ﬁ, bicycles, beach concierge and signing privileges between the two hotels.

#OneBeachTwoWays

SO SANTA MONICA

Route 66

M I S S S A NTA M O N I C A, S H O V E L I N H A N D, A N D F E L L O W B E A UT Y C O NTE ST PA RTI C I PA NTS P R O M OTE W I L L R O G E R S H I G H WAY (L ATE R R E N A M E D R O UTE 6 6) I N 19 5 8.

Santa Monica gets its kicks as the end point of America’s most famous highway. B Y N A N C Y W O N G B R YA N

S A N TA M O N I C A H I S T O R Y M U S E U M , B I L L B E E B E C O L L E C T I O N

B E FOR E TH E R E WE R E

interstate freeways, there was Route 66—the historic passage westward for American dreamers in search of sunny days and endless possibilities. Such meaningful journeys left their mark on 20th-century culture, inspiring books, music, and the birth of the cross-country road trip. Gettin’ your kicks in classic cars is still the quintessential way to celebrate Route 66 nostalgia. The feel-good destination at the end, a pot of gold enticing travelers across this colorful 2,448-mile trek, is Santa Monica.

Formalized in the 1920s as mass-produced automobiles became more widely adopted, the popular highway rambled through eight states. The exact terminus of Route 66, however, has been the subject of debate. It originally ended at Broadway and 7th Street in Downtown Los Angeles, until in 1936 lawmakers extended it to Lincoln and Olympic boulevards in Santa Monica, where it intersected with what is now known as State Route 1, Paciﬁc Coast Highway. Some say the route ends at the intersection of

Santa Monica Boulevard and Ocean Avenue, where a bronze plaque in Palisades Park commemorates the route as the Will Rogers Highway. Unfortunately, the actual end of Route 66 is no longer accessible, but visitors can see all the historic signs along the route and most would agree that the bustle of the Santa Monica Pier makes a ﬁtting conclusion to the adventure, amid the sand, the surf, and the colorfully LED-lit Ferris wheel. Several preservation groups, along with Santa Monica Travel & Tourism* (then known as the

Santa Monica Convention & Visitors Bureau), ofﬁcially declared this the “End of the Trail” in 2009. Today, taking a photograph with the prominent sign has become a custom. Visitors can commemorate their Route 66 experience by stopping by any Santa Monica Travel & Tourism Visitor Information Center to receive a personalized certiﬁcate signed by the mayor of Santa Monica and browse popular Route 66 memorabilia for purchase, including magnets, pins, key chains, metal signs, hats, bags, and shirts.

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

PEDALER’S PARADISE Cycling the Marvin Braude Bike Trail.

BI KE TOU RS

BY B E KAH WR I G HT

South Bay area up to Will Rogers State Park in Pacific Palisades. As sensory input goes, the bike path has it all: panoramic Pacific Ocean views, cool sea breezes, redolent beachfront cafés, and plenty of souvenir kiosks. Taking advantage of the ambience are people walking and jogging, in-line skaters, paddle-tennis players, volleyball teams, and, of course, cyclists. Plenty of options are available for cycling the bike path, including bike tours and rentals. Tandems, choppers, Budnitz cruisers, electric-powered bikes— whatever style you choose, the bike path awaits for beach cruisin’ and fun people-watching.

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Legends Historic Bike Tour 310-939-0000 perryscafe.com/ legends-historicbike-tours.html

Pedal or Not 310-917-1111 pedalornot.net Santa Monica Bike Center* 310-656-8500 smbikecenter.com

B I K E R E N TA L S In addition to these businesses, many Santa Monica hotels provide bike rentals. Check with your hotel staff. Bike Attack 310-581-8014 bikeattack.com The Bike Shop Santa Monica 310-581-8014 bikeshopsanta monica.com Helen’s Cycles 310-829-1836 helenscycles.com

Perry’s Café and Beach Rentals* 310-939-0000 perryscafe.com/ santa-monicarentals.html Sea Mist 310-395-7076 seamistrentals.com

L E F T : J O A K I M L LOY D R A B O F F

T S E E M S T H AT E V E RY W H E R E

you turn in Santa Monica, there are locals in various yoga poses, power-walking, jogging, and biking. Many engage in their fitness pursuits on the Marvin Braude Bike Trail, aka The Strand, or more commonly, the bike path. Most of the bike path’s calorieburning action takes place along a 4.8-mile stretch of sand from Temescal Canyon to the south, through Santa Monica State Beach—where it flows beneath the famous Santa Monica Pier— down to Venice Beach. Endurance athletes can tackle the whole 22-mile paved path, which extends from Torrance in Los Angeles’

Bikes and Hikes LA 323-796-8555 bikesandhikesla.com

SO SANTA MONICA

F R E S H E AT S

Seasonal Picks Santa Monica’s farmers markets generally offer local specialties like beets, some varieties of citrus, and green leafy vegetables year-round, but to ﬁnd the best produce at its seasonal peak, follow this list.

Farmers Market Bounty Sample one of the city’s most delicious weekly rituals. BY E LI ZAB ETH TU R N E R LOS ANG E LES IS J USTLY CE LE B RATE D FOR

SUMMER cherries, corn, nectarines, plums, tomatoes

its spectacular farmers markets, and Downtown Santa Monica’s Wednesday market is the most famous of them all. Top chefs arrive early every Wednesday to scoop up the best seasonal offerings from local farmers, fishmongers, cheesemakers, and more. Expect a convivial vibe and a feast for the senses—bright colors, fresh flavors and scents, and great people-watching. This is just one of four weekly farmers markets locals flock to in three different Santa Monica neighborhoods, year-round, rain or shine. Here’s a weekly breakdown.

DOWNTOWN S A N TA M O N I C A Wednesday 8:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. Saturday 8 a.m.–1 p.m.

PICO BOU LEVARD’S VIRGINIA AV E N U E PA R K

MAI N STRE ET’S H E R I TA G E S Q U A R E Sunday 8:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m.

Saturday 8 a.m.–1 p.m. 2640 Main St.

FA L L apples, ﬁgs, grapes, pears, persimmons, pomegranates, pumpkins

WI N T E R blood oranges, cauliﬂower, kale, tangerines

Arizona Ave. between Third Court and Ocean Ave., and on Second St. from parking structure 2 to parking structure 4 ³ Conveniently intersecting the Third Street Promenade shopping district, the Wednesday market caters to local chefs with the largest selection of farmer stalls; the Saturday market is a bit smaller. (Tip: Free 90-minute parking is available in the parking structures on Second and Fourth streets; enter from Wilshire Boulevard or Santa Monica Boulevard.)

2200 Virginia Ave. at Pico Blvd. and Cloverﬁeld Blvd.

³ Situated in a small square in Santa Monica’s Main Street shopping district, this market features live music and kid-friendly activities like face painting.

³ For those who like to shop and feast at the same time, this family-oriented market has plenty of tables and chairs, plus it’s adjacent to a park with a playground where kids can S A N TA M O N I C A run around. R E S TA U R A N T W E E K

I N J A N U A RY, PA R T I C I PAT I N G S A N TA M O N I C A R E S TA U R A N T S S H O W C A S E T H E A R E A’ S ABUNDANT FRESH PRODUCE BY C RAFTI N G D I S H E S C E NTE R E D A R O U N D T H E Y E A R ’ S F E AT U R E D

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I N G R E D I E N T. S A N TA M O N I C A . C O M / R E STA U R A N T W E E K

FA R L E F T, F R O M T O P T O B O T T O M : E G A L / I S T O C K ; A N N A 1 3 1 1 / I S T O C K ; P H O T O M A R U / I S T O C K ; M A R G O U I L L AT P H O T O S / I S T O C K

S PR I NG artichokes, asparagus, fava beans

SO SANTA MONICA

INNOVATIVE CONSERVATION Recognized as a global leader in sustainability, Santa Monica makes it easy to live green. BY E LI ZAB ETH TU R N E R

B O T T O M : M A R K S I LV E R S T E I N

“SANTA MONICA KNOWS THAT PROTECTING

the natural environment is good for everyone. Whether you come from overseas or from just down the road, we offer the best amenities while protecting what makes Santa Monica so special,” says Dean Kubani, chief sustainability officer of the City of Santa Monica. “Our sustainability policies have had striking results over the last two decades: We have proven that we can grow our vibrant economy while also dramatically reducing our carbon footprint, community-wide, by 20 percent.” In 2016, the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (metro. net) completed its Expo Line light rail expansion to Santa Monica, connecting the beach to Downtown Los Angeles, Pasadena, the San Fernando Valley, and more. Two new hotels that opened in 2017 near the Expo Line will join the SHORE HOTEL* (shorehotel. com), the ANNENBERG COMMUNITY BEACH HOUSE (annenbergbeachhouse. com), and the shopping mecca SANTA MONICA PLACE (santamonicaplace.com) in satisfying the requirements for the coveted Gold LEED certiﬁcation from the U.S. Green Business Council.

E C O-M I N D E D (F R O M TO P): L O E W S S A NTA M O N I C A B E A C H H OTE L, M ETR O, S A NTA M O N I C A P L A C E

THE HAMPTON INN & SUITES BY HILTON LOS ANGELES, SANTA MONICA (hamptoninn3. hilton.com) and the COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT SANTA MONICA (marriott. com) have guest rooms equipped with energy-efficient thermostats and lighting and comprehensive recycling programs that divert waste from landfills. In addition, the Hampton Inn & Suites has partnered with Clean the World (cleantheworld.org) to recycle hotel soaps and plastic bottles into new hygiene products for impoverished people around the world. Meanwhile, the LOEWS SANTA MONICA BEACH HOTEL* has become the first Santa Monica business to install a water-saving closed-loop AquaRecycle system, and THE AMBROSE HOTEL*, Santa Monica’s first Green Certified Hotel and a member of the Green Hotels Association, diverts more than 70 percent of its waste from landfills through reduce and reuse practices, co-mingled recycling, and off-site composting of food waste. In addition, the SANTA MONICA PIER is home to the Pacific Wheel, the world’s first windpowered Ferris wheel. These are just a few of the ways that local businesses and city services are moving the needle on green innovation.

S A N TA MON I CA OF F I C I A L V I S I TOR S GU I DE 1 5

EXPERIENCE THE PIER IN VR at santamonica.com/vr.

SO SANTA MONICA

A S EAS I D E I CO N

The Pier Experience

While away the hours at Santa Monica’s favorite landmark. B Y E L I Z A B E T H T U R N E R

complete without a stroll along the world-famous Santa Monica Pier. Opened in 1909, this iconic landmark is home to a number of local attractions, including an amusement park, shops, restaurants, an aquarium, and a fully functioning vintage carousel. The first thing you’ll spot, even from a distance, is a nine-story, solar-powered Ferris wheel perched on the Pier. The Pacific Wheel is the star attraction at Pacific Park, an amusement park situated on the Pier’s southern edge. The admission-free park offers carnival games, food stands, and a dozen rides that include the Ferris wheel and a roller coaster. (Visitors can purchase tickets for individual attractions or buy a wristband for a day of unlimited rides.) Take a stroll to the end of the Pier, a longtime popular fishing spot (no license needed). Rent a fishing pole and drop a line off the Pier’s edge, or simply gaze out over the Pacific Ocean. Look to the north to behold the Santa Monica Mountains and the Pacific Coast Highway winding northward toward Malibu; turn to the south to see Venice Beach and seaside cities beyond. Strolling back the way you came, consider getting a bite or a drink at Rusty’s Surf Ranch, a fun spot for live music and dancing. As you come back to the Pier’s entrance, don’t overlook Looff Hippodrome, a 1916 carousel building (now a National Historic 16

Landmark) by master carousel builder Charles I. D. Looff. The original carousel is long gone, but in its place is a fully restored early 20th-century carousel with hand-carved wooden horses and 1,100 electric lights. Take a ride and enjoy the Wurlitzer musical accompaniment.

Finally, just down the stairs from Looff Hippodrome is the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium . Run by the local nonproﬁt Heal the Bay, the aquarium is home to more than 100 local species and offers educational exhibits and kid-friendly, hands-on activities.

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

N O V I S I T TO S A N TA M O N I C A I S

PLAN AN OCEANFRONT ESCAPE UNLIKE ANY OTHER Situated on vibrant Ocean Avenue, steps away from the beach and Santa Monica’s most popular destinations, such as the Santa Monica Pier and the Third Street Promenade. Treat yourself to genuine luxury in your strikingly decorated hotel room. Satisfy your culinary cravings with ﬁnely crafted California fare at Cezanne restaurant or sip a hand-poured cocktail outdoors at Le Troquet. Enjoy a day of luxury pampering at our signature Le Merigot Spa. If you’re looking to host an extraordinary event, we feature over 10,000 square feet of wellappointed oceanfront venue space.

It’s all waiting for you at the JW Marriott - Le Merigot.

SANTA MONICA LE M ERIGOT

JW Marriott Santa Monica Le Merigot 1740 Ocean Avenue | Santa Monica, CA 90401 (310) 395-9700 marriott.com/laxlm

GETTING AROUND

TH E M ETR O E X P O L I N E. R I G HT: A P E D E STR I A N PATH A N D B I K E WAY A L O N G TH E C A L I F O R N I A I N C L I N E.

ON THE MOVE A S T R O LL AROU N D S AN TA M O N ICA E N GAG E S TH E

senses. Salt-tinged ocean breezes, strains of music from street performers, taste tests offered at farmers markets…walking is truly the best way to experience this seaside city, but there are so many other ways to get around car free. “Moving around Santa Monica has never been easier,” says Mayor Ted Winterer. “With the additions of the Expo light rail, new Big Blue Bus services, bikeways, and Breeze Bike Share, our residents and visitors can get to where they’re going and enjoy the journey—free from parking and trafﬁc hassles.”

M ETRO EXPO LI N E SERVING THE SPRAWLING L.A.

metropolis with 93 stations that cover more than 105 miles, the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) provides light rail access to

Santa Monica via three Expo Line stations: Downtown Santa Monica; Colorado/17th Street/ Santa Monica College; and 26th Street/Bergamot. From Santa Monica, users can head to Downtown Los Angeles

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

and connect to other lines to reach the San Fernando Valley, Pasadena, Norwalk, the South Bay, and Long Beach. 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.

BIG BLUE BUS WORKING IN SYNC WITH THE

Metro system, this ﬂeet of 200 blue vehicles covers a 58-square-mile service area within Santa Monica and out

to Paciﬁc Palisades, UCLA/ Westwood, Marina del Rey, Venice, and beyond. The entire eco-friendly ﬂeet runs on alternative fuels, including renewable natural gas, and each bus has a front-mounted bike rack to accommodate cyclists.

BI KI NG SANTA MONICA’S MANY MILES

of bikeways make two-wheel travel manageable and safe. Throughout the city are Green Lanes. These protected bike lanes provide a highly visible contrast on the street, increasing motorists’ awareness of cyclists.

M E T R O © 2 0 1 7 L A C M TA ; M A P B Y N E W H O U S E D E S I G N

Going from one place to another is simple in pedestrian-friendly Santa Monica with the advents of light rail, shuttle, and bus services, and a bike-sharing program. B Y B E K A H W R I G H T

BREEZE BIKE SHARE

B R E E Z E B I KE S HAR E LOCATION S

To Veteran's Admin., Westwood and UCLA WEST L.A.

To Mar Vista, Palms & Culver City E BLVD .

Expo Line Bike Path to Los Angeles

25TH ST .

26TH ST .

ST.

17TH ST.

16TH ST.

LINCOLN BLVD.

AVE.

D AVE.

E ST.

MAIN 4TH ST. STREET3RD ST.

Another hallmark of this bicycle-friendly city is its long-established bike valet program. The service, which has been providing secure bicycle parking since 2006, is located at Santa Monica Bike Center (1555 Second Street, Unit A, 310-656-8500, smbikecenter. com) and is free for the ﬁrst two hours. It is also available during large City events.

TH E FRE E RI DE SH UTTLE YES, THERE IS SUCH A THING

as a free ride at some Santa Monica hotels. Hotel Casa del

Mar, Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel, Doubletree Suites by Hilton Hotel Santa Monica, Le Méridien Delﬁna Santa Monica, and Shutters on the Beach offer their guests an electric-vehicle shuttle service that operates in Santa Monica. Free Ride shuttle service has also been extended to Venice and Marina Del Rey. Passengers can summon The Free Ride via their hotel concierge or through a mobile app. The on-demand rides are offered daily from 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. within a service area that includes Third Street Promenade, Santa Monica Pier, and Main Street. =

PACIF

IC AV

SPEEDWAY VENICE BEACH

SANTA MONICA PIER

Bike rentals are conveniently available along the beach bike path to rent, ride, and enjoy ocean and coastline views. Visitors can also rent smart bikes through Breeze Bike Share, which has more than 80 rental hubs and 500 bicycles stationed within Santa Monica and Venice. Come summer 2017, Breeze will link to other bike-share systems within Los Angeles, including those in Westwood, Beverly Hills, and West Hollywood. Short-term visitors can take part through the $7-per-hour, pay-as-you-go system.

K OT

B AB

NEILSON WA Y

OCEA

2ND ST. MAIN ST.

PARK AV

PACIFIC ST. STRAND ST.

SANTA MONICA BEACH

BICKNELL AVE .

CIVIC CENTER

PROMENADE

BAY ST.

DOWNTOWN 3RD ST.

3RD ST. 2ND ST.

HIGHLAND AVE

6TH ST.

AVE.

4TH ST.

SANTA MONICA HIGH SCHOOL

OCEAN AVE. PACIFIC COAST HWY. To Paciﬁc Palisades via Bike Path

OAK

RNIA

5TH ST.

WOO

LINCOLN BLVD.

CALIFO

ANNENBERG BEACH HOUSE

6TH ST.

BLVD

OLN

LINC

7TH

SANTA MONICA PLACE

VENICE

ROSE

OCEAN

BLVD .

11TH ST.

7TH ST. MONTANA AVENUE

ADELAIDE DR.

SAN VICENTE BLVD.

9TH ST.

MARIN

10TH ST.

MICHIGAN AVE.

OLYMPIC BLVD.

11TH ST.

PARK

14TH ST.

EUCLID ST.

ASHLAN

14TH ST.

12TH ST.

PICO

14TH ST.

PEARL ST.

15TH ST.

BLVD.

16TH ST.

E BLVD .

DELAWARE AVE.

21ST ST . 20TH ST .

SANTA MONICA COLLEGE

17TH ST.

13TH ST.

To Mar Vista, Palms & Culver City

DEWEY

VD .

PIC

COLORADO AVE.

VIRGINIA AVE.

CLOVERFIELD BLVD.

AIRPORT AV E.

BERGAMOT STATION

SANTA MONICA BLVD.

WILSHIRE BLVD.

18TH ST.

CALIFORNIA AVE.

PACIFIC PALISADES

IDAHO AVE.

19TH ST.

WASHINGTON AVE.

ALTA AVE.

MONTANA AVE.

MARGUERITA AVE.

CARLYLE AVE.

GEORGINA AVE.

LA MESA DR.

20TH ST.

MAR VISTA SANTA MONICA AIRPORT

28TH ST .

KANSAS AVE.

26TH ST.

24TH ST.

BROADWAY

ARIZONA AVE.

PRINCETON ST.

VENIC

STEWART ST.

HARVARD ST.

TON BLVD.

YALE ST.

AVE.

STANFORD ST. To Brentwood & Westwood

33RD ST .

AVE.

WASHING

BERKELEY ST.

EX PO SIT DE IO LA N WA BL RE VD AV . E.

FRANKLIN ST. BRENTWOOD

NEBRASKA

PENNSYLVANIA AVE.

CENTINELA AVE.

VENIC

SYSTEM AREA BOUNDARY

To Marina del Rey via Bike Path

Using Breeze Bikes Go to socialbicycles.com and create an account under the pay-as-you-go plan. Enter your account number on the bicycle keypad. To ﬁnd and reserve a bike, you can download the socialbicycles mobile app. To release the bike for riding, pull out the yellow lock bar and place it in the holster. Adjust the saddle height and check the brakes before riding. Start your ride. For quick stops, use the “hold” button by the keypad and secure the bike to any bike rack. To unlock the bike again, enter your four-digit pin code. At the end of your ride, return and lock the bike to a Breeze Bike station or a rack within 100 feet if the station you choose is full.

SANTA MONICA OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE 19

LIVING WELL

“It is our feeling that Santa Monica will continue to be a city where people worldwide will come to be inspired and retur n home to strengthen their own communities.” — A LY S S A G A U S TA D , TEACHER TRAINER, NAAM YOGA L.A.

B E A M I N G: O R G A N I C C O L D-P R E S S E D J U I C E, S U P E R F O O D S M O OTH I E S, A N D H E A LTH F U L TA K E-O UT M E A LS

FEEL GOOD Take part in the wellness-powered culture. B Y

ITH ITS INTERSECTION OF NEAR-PERFECT

weather, outdoor activities, and abundant locally grown food, it’s no wonder Santa Monica is a hub of healthy living. Here are ﬁve health and wellness trends that got their start right here. Get ready for a feel-good boost.

DAV I D YO U N G - W O LF F / L A YO G A

S O U L CYC L E

ELIZABETH TURNER

TA K E A S P I N Fitness guru “Johnny G” Goldberg put Spinning on the map when he opened the ﬁrst Spin Centre in Santa Monica in 1990. In subsequent decades, indoor cycling classes have proliferated around the globe, with cool new variations on the theme popping up every year. Two of the freshest incarnations in Santa Monica include SOULCYCLE (120 Wilshire Blvd., 310-622-7685, soul-cycle.com), where you’ll get a full-body workout on a candlelit ride accompanied by highenergy tunes, and CYCLEPATHIC FITNESS (720 Wilshire Blvd., 310-917-1116, cyclepathicfitness.com), which oﬀers a more urban vibe and also welcomes those with spinal cord injuries. S A N TA MON I CA OF F I C I A L V I S I TOR S GU I DE 2 1

LIVING WELL

G E T A H E A LT H Y TA N It feels great to rock a sun-kissed glow, but it feels downright magical to do it without risking skin damage. Enter the spray tan, L.A.’s favorite healthy shortcut. Chocolate Sun, established in 2003 by Susie Hatton, holds the distinction of being the original organic sunless tanning treatment and a longtime favorite of celebrities and beauty editors. You can visit the CHOCOLATE SUN STUDIO (2429 Main St., 310-450-3075, chocolatesun. com), conveniently located near Santa

ancient practice, including BEACH YOGA (bradkeimach.com), HOT YOGA (hot8yoga. com), HIPHOP YOGA (yogahop.com), and the acrobatic partner workout known as ACROYOGA (acromaps.com). One of the fastest-growing yoga styles in the world, Naam Yoga is a blend of breath, sound, movement, and mudra therapy developed by Joseph Michael Levry, Ph.D., after decades of travel and research in the yogic arts and mystical sciences. “Service, kindness, and uplifting others lie at the core of Naam Yoga,” says global Naam Yoga teacher trainer

GET JUICED Way back in 1983, Naked Juice, that pioneer of premium juices and smoothies, was originally marketed towel-to-towel on Santa Monica’s beaches. American juice and smoothie bars now earn $2 billion a year, according to a 2015 report by market research firm IBISWorld. There are dozens of places to grab a smoothie or juice in Santa Monica. A few providing for local juice fiends these days are JUICE CRAFTERS (2811 Ocean Park, 310-399-5500, juicecrafters. com), REJUICE (3238 Pico Blvd., 310-399-0001, rejuicela.com), and BEAMING (1426 Montana Ave., 310-299-7622, livebeaming.com) for their fix of cold-pressed green juices and smoothies.

A N A A M YO G A L.A. C L A S S P E R F O R M S TH E S U N S A L UTATI O N S E Q U E N C E.

Monica Travel & Tourism’s Walk-In Visitor Information Center, for the customized 30-minute treatment, or do like the celebs do and book an appointment for a technician to bring the tan to you. Alternatively, head to the luxurious ONE SPA at Shutters on the Beach hotel (1 Pico Blvd., shuttersonthebeach.com), where the spa menu bills their Chocolate Sun treatment as “The One Tan.”

TRY A N EW KI N D OF YOGA Yoga-friendly Santa Monica oﬀers an array of fresh twists on the

Alyssa Gaustad. “Naam Yoga has held ﬁve annual Global Meditations for Peace, the most recent one uniting an estimated 100,000 people in person and via Livestream.” Santa Monica’s 7,000-square-foot NAAM YOGA L.A. (1231 Fourth St., 310-7517550, naamyoga.com) oﬀers more than 60 weekly classes, teacher trainings, and an array of healing treatments. “It is our feeling that Santa Monica will continue to be a city where people worldwide will come to be inspired and return home to strengthen their own communities,” says Gaustad.

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

In the 1920s, Santa Monica lifeguards adopted paddleboards as part of the lifesaving toolkit. The boards caught on with local beachgoers, and paddleboard races became a common sight in the waters near Santa Monica Pier. The surfing craze of the 1950s pushed paddleboarding aside until the early 2000s, when pro surfer Laird Hamilton popularized stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). “SUP is a really amazing workout,” says Christian Shubin, founder of POSEIDON PADDLE & SURF (1654 Ocean Ave., 310-694-8428, poseidonstandup. com), which offers surfing and SUP lessons in Santa Monica and Malibu. “It’s challenging, but almost anyone can do it. For beginners, we’ll get them out on really wide, stable, easy boards. They might fall in a couple times, but once they get it, they’re up,” says Shubin. “It’s really serene and meditative, like yoga on the water. =

LO R I S T E E D S O R T I N O

G O PA D D LI N G

DISCOVER

Downtown Santa Monica and Third Street Promenade is a vibrant beachside playground brimming with LAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s freshest restaurants, fabulous shopping, weekly farmersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; markets and an eclectic mix of entertaining street performers and entertainment venues, giving you hundreds of reasons to explore this pedestrian paradise. Find your place under the sun.

www.DowntownSM.com

DowntownSantaMonica

DTSantaMonica

Explore Santa

Monica’s eight unique neighborhoods, each infused with

IGH

personality, a host of visitor attractions, and

local favorites. Here are some highlights.

RHO GR

O ID E J

LIN

S OF

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

NEIGHBORHOODS

PAC

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.

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

IDAHO AVE.

OCEAN AVE.

WASHINGTON

CALIFORNIA

11 2 N D S T.

MAP KEY

WILSHIRE

Visitor Information Center 24-Hour Taxi Stand

ARIZONA AVE.

10 THIRD ST. PROMENADE

City of Santa Monica Public Parking

SANTA MONICA

Post Ofﬁce

5 15 OCEAN FRONT WALK

BROADWAY

Hospital

SANTA MONICA PLACE

21COLORADO

APPIAN WAY

OCEAN FRONT WALK

Metro Expo Line Station Metro Expo Line

Bike Lane Park

P I C O B LV D. M A I N S T.

OC E AN AVE .

BAY S T.

PACIFIC STREET PARK

Q HOTE LS

PACIFIC ST.

3 N E I L S O N WA Y

CRESCENT BAY PARK

S TRAND ST. HOTCHKISS PARK

HO LLIS TER AVE

BARNARD WAY LINEAR PARK OCEAN DOROTHY GREEN PARK

D W AY

Police Station

Hotels

BARNAR

TONGVA PARK

M A I N S T.

7 13

O C E A N AV E .

SANTA MONICA PIER

SOUTH BEACH PARK

Library

6 8

LONG OCEAN AVENUE, ALFRESCO

dining spots, pastel-hued 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, skateboards, and even hoverboards drift down the Marvin Braude Bike Trail in an aimless procession of fun. Perched over the Pacific, the 108-year-old Pier, featuring the world’s only solar-powered Ferris wheel and the century-old Looff Hippodrome, attracts more than seven million visitors a year, each reveling in a delectable slice of West Coast nostalgia.

PA R K B LV D.

HILL ST.

OCEAN VIEW PARK

AS HLAND AVE

1. Bayside Hotel

8. Hotel Carmel

15. Ocean View Hotel

2. Cal Mar Hotel Suites

9. Hotel Casa del Mar

16. Oceana Beach Club Hotel

3. The Cottage Santa Monica

10. Hotel Shangri-La

4. Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows

11. Huntley Santa Monica Beach

5. The Georgian Hotel

12. JW Marriott Santa Monica Le Merigot

6. Hostelling International LA/Santa Monica

13. Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel

7. The Hotel California

14. Ocean Lodge Hotel Santa Monica Beach

17. Seaview Hotel 18. Shore Hotel 19. Shutters on the Beach 20. Viceroy Santa Monica 21. Wyndham Santa Monica—At the Pier

POSEIDON PA D D L E & S U R F

Eat

M A P S BY N E W H O U S E D E S I G N ; TO P L E F T : J O A K I M L LOY D R A B O F F ; B OT TO M R I G H T : S T E P H A N I E P E R R Y

THE ALBRIGHT 258 Santa Monica Pier, 310-394-9683, thealbright.com ³ Serving fresh and fabulous seafood since its founding by a Korean immigrant couple in 1977, this family-owned jewel pairs a relaxed seaside setting with a selection of dishes ranging from classic to trendy and made from locally sourced ingredients. Reproductions of Popeye appear throughout the restaurant in tribute to 1920s Santa Monica resident Oli Olsen, who some believe was the inspiration for the nationally syndicated comic strip character.

THE LOBSTER 1602 Ocean Ave., 310-458-9294, thelobster.com ³ Established in 1923, this historic hot spot is inevitably cited by locals as a favorite. With casual elegance, The Lobster serves up traditional American seafood featuring whole live Maine and spiny lobsters, as well as ahhh-inspiring, 180-degree views of the Santa Monica coastline. RUSTY’S SURF RANCH 256 Santa Monica Pier, 310-393-7437, rustyssurfranch.com ³ Play all afternoon, then wrap up the day at Rusty’s Surf Ranch, a beloved beachfront institution known for its lively atmosphere and hearty American fare, including signature dishes like the Sweet Coconut Shrimp and

the Big Kahuna Burger, a one-third-pounder loaded with bacon, avocado, and cheese, and the best seller, house-made beer-battered ﬁsh ’n’ chips. VERANDA RESTAURANT 1415 Ocean Ave., 800-538-8147, georgianhotel.com ³ Dine on international cuisine and absorb the ocean view at this stylish spot in The Georgian Hotel. Curated by Raphael Lunetta, the menu includes a creatively luscious breakfast selection. Sample The Georgini, the signature martini, with some small bites, offered every day from 3 to 4 p.m.

Shop OATMAN ROCK SHOP 321 Santa Monica Pier, 310-434-0066, oatmanrockshop.com ³ Founded in 1965 and rebuilt after suffering storm damage in 1983, the Oatman Rock Shop is the second oldest business on the pier. Colorful merchandise includes shells, jewelry, collectibles, and, of course, rocks. PIER SHOP & VISITOR CENTER 200 Santa Monica Pier, santamonica.com ³ Get the lay of the land, then pick up some treasures for loved ones at this beautiful center housed in Santa Monica Pier’s historical Carousel Building.

POSEIDON PADDLE & SURF 1654 Ocean Ave., 310-694-8428, poseidonstandup.com ³ Even landlubbers will get stoked about surfer culture in this gnarly equipment and apparel wonderland. The founders say it was inspired by their mother, who was a rad surfer girl in the 1950s and ’60s.

PACIFIC PARK 380 Santa Monica Pier, 310-260-8744, pacpark.com ³ When rides, games, and treats meet the seaside, magic happens, and we all turn into kids again at Paciﬁc Park. Be sure to take a spin on the Paciﬁc Wheel Ferris wheel, which becomes a multicolored light show at night.

Play

SEGWAY LOS ANGELES 1431 Ocean Ave., 310-395-1395, segway.la ³ Tour scenic Santa Monica while sparing yourself trafﬁc and tired feet by renting a Segway. Once your two-wheeler is charged up, you’re good to go about 24 miles over pavement, grass, or dirt.

BLAZING SADDLES BEACH RENTALS & TOURS 320 Santa Monica Pier, 310-393-9778, santamonica.com/ what-to-do/blazing-saddles or perryscafe.com 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 sites such as Muscle Beach and the Venice Canals. TH E A L B R I G HT

TRAPEZE SCHOOL NEW YORK 370 Santa Monica Pier, losangeles.trapezeschool.com ³ Take a beginner-friendly ﬂying trapeze lesson or an aerial silks class at Trapeze School New York on the Santa Monica Pier.

NEIGHBORHOODS

7 T H S T.

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

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

L I N C O L N B LV D.

6T H S T.

4 T H S T.

A R I Z O N A AV E .

9 THIRD STREET PROMENADE

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

5 7 8 14 12 16

B R OA D WAY SANTA MONICA PLACE

C O L O R A D O AV E .

SANTA MONICA HIGH SCHOOL

15 P I C O B LV D . M A I N S T. N E I L S O N WA Y

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 .

TONGVA PARK

TR U E F O O D K ITC H E N C R U D ITÉS A N D (R I G HT) D E S S E RT.

WA S H I N GTO N AV E . 5 T H S T.

3 R D S T.

2 N D S T.

O C E A N AV E .

1 13

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

OWNTOWN SANTA MONICA IS EQUAL PARTS SHOPPING HAVEN

and street-performer stage. Near the Pier, the Third Street Promenade consists of three open-air, car-free blocks that are anchored by upscale Santa Monica Place. 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 hotel guests, street performers, shoppers, oﬃce workers, diners, barﬂies, and moviegoers. New to the mix: The terminus of the Metro Expo Line, opened in 2016, ferries riders by light rail between Santa Monica and Downtown Los Angeles.

MAP KEY Q HOTE LS

Visitor Information Center 24-Hour Taxi Stand City of Santa Monica Public Parking Post Ofﬁce Library

1. Cal Mar Hotel Suites 2. Courtyard by Marriott Santa Monica 3. DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Hotel Santa Monica

4. Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows

7. Hostelling International LA/ Santa Monica

5. The Georgian Hotel

8. Hotel Carmel

13. Palihouse Santa Monica

9. Hotel Shangri-La

14. Shore Hotel

6. Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Los Angeles, Santa Monica

12. Ocean View Hotel

10. Huntley Santa Monica Beach

15. Viceroy Santa Monica

11. Ocean Lodge Hotel Santa Monica Beach

16. Wyndham Santa Monica— At the Pier

Hospital Metro Expo Line Station Metro Expo Line Bike Lane Park Hotels

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

TH I R D STR E ET PROMENADE B OT TO M : B E N R OT H ST E I N

Police Station

Eat

CASSIA

LAEMMLE MONICA FILM CENTER 1332 Second St., 310-394-9744 or 310-478-3836, laemmle.com ³ The Laemmle theater chain is lauded for its screenings of independent and art ﬁlms, and this Downtown Santa Monica location is no exception. Check out the special rates for students and seniors.

CASSIA 1314 Seventh St., 310-393-6699, cassiala.com ³ What happens when four foodies of different heritages open a restaurant? You get this divine, indoor-outdoor gem whose menu fuses Asian and French cuisines with California sensibilities, featuring the best locally grown ingredients. Among its many accolades, Cassia was ranked number seven in Jonathan Gold’s “101 Best Restaurants in Los Angeles” list in 2016. FRITTO MISTO 601 Colorado Ave., 310-458-2829, frittomistoitaliancafe.com ³ Owned, operated, and run with pride by a long-employed, proﬁt-sharing staff, Fritto Misto serves up generous portions of delectable Italian dishes. An abundance of vegetarian options ensures that no one goes away hungry.

TO P : R I C K P O O N

MICHAEL’S 1147 Third St., 310-451-0843 michaelssantamonica.com ³ A pioneer of California cuisine, Michael’s is renowned for its top chefs, its celebrity clientele, its art collection, and its elegant dishes showcasing local ingredients. In Fall 2016, the Santa Monica mainstay welcomed new executive chef Miles Thompson, who was recently named a semiﬁnalist for Rising Star Chef of the Year by the James Beard Foundation. TRUE FOOD KITCHEN 395 Santa Monica Place, Ste. 172, 310-593-8300, truefoodkitchen.com ³ You don’t have to be a clean food devotee to dine at True Food Kitchen, but you just might become one afterward. From the quinoa burger to the chicken sausage pizza, this eatery’s cuisine attracts vegans and carnivores alike for a kumbaya-like experience.

Play

Shop MERCENARY GENERAL STORE 120 Broadway, Ste. 108, 310-260-2238, mercenarygeneral.com ³ If you can’t find it here, then maybe you should look again. Peruse the aisles for an eclectic, pop culture–inspired mélange of gifts, books, home goods, and clothes and accessories for all ages and walks of life. RON ROBINSON 1327 Fifth St. 310-458-1160 ronrobinson.com/ santa-monica-flagship-store For a true shopping experience, stop in to this flagship store. Housed in a former art gallery, the airy, modern space is a showcase for Robinson’s unique lifestyle concept, featuring yoga classes, charity shopping events, and art receptions alongside carefully curated apparel, beauty, and gift lines.

SANTA MONICA PLACE 395 Santa Monica Place, 310-260-8333, santamonicaplace.com ³ This three-level outdoor mall at the south end of the Third Street Promenade is home to about 100 restaurants and retail outlets. Avoid toting parcels by taking advantage of the mall’s same-day package delivery service. When you finish shopping, get physical with a free Zumba class in the mall’s Center Plaza, marvel at the latest modern art installation, pick up some new cooking skills at The Gourmandise School of Sweets & Savories, or view a classic film or newly released movie at the 14-screen ArcLight Cinemas. THIRD STREET PROMENADE 1351 Third Street Promenade, 310-393-8355, downtownsm.com ³ This L.A. hub of more than 200 shopping, dining, and entertainment outlets occupies nearly a half-million square feet of space in which to frolic— and take in the versatile street performances up and down Third Street. Check out the twice-weekly certified organic farmers markets.

SANTA MONICA 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. TIKKUN HOLISTIC SPA 1460 Fourth St., 310-319-1111, tikkunspa.com ³ Whether it’s a cut and color or a full-body massage you crave, this premier day spa and salon has it all. Visit the therapeutic salt room, then soak in one of Tikkun’s hand-carved stone tubs. Spa-mazing. WESTSIDE COMEDY THEATER 1323-A Third St., 310-451-0850, westsidecomedy.com ³ Cited as one of the best comedy venues in Los Angeles, Westside Comedy Theater provides plenty of laughs via standup and improv performances most every night, plus a beer and wine bar and no drink minimum. M E R C E N A RY G E N E R A L STO R E

NEIGHBORHOODS

MAP KEY Visitor Information Center 24-Hour Taxi Stand City of Santa Monica Public Parking Post Ofﬁce Library Hospital Police Station Metro Expo Line Station Metro Expo Line Bike Lane Park Hotels

4 T H S T.

P I C O B LV D . B AY S T .

6 T H S T.

B ICKNELL AVE.

PACIFIC STREET PARK

PA C I F I C S T .

JOSLYN PARK

D S T.

7 T H S T.

N PA R K B LV D.

HIGHLAND

ASHLA

D. L I N C O L N B LV

6TH S T.

4T H S T.

AV E .

4 T H S T.

3 R D S T.

H A M P TO N

E AV E.

3 R D S T.

2 N D S T.

M AI N S T.

D W AY

N E I L S O N WA Y

BARNAR

ROS

OCEA

B E V E R L Y AV E.

LOS AMIGOS PARK

T S T.

I C S T.

STRAN

HO LLISTER AVE.

H I L L S T.

GRAN

PAC I F

S T R AN D S T.

B AY S T .

L I N C O L N B LV D.

HOTCHKISS PARK

OCEAN VIEW PARK

Main Street

SANTA MONICA HIGH SCHOOL

5 T H S T.

M A I N S T.

O C E A N AV E .

N E I L S O N WA Y

OCEAN FRONT WALK

N D AV E.

Cafés, shops, sandy beaches, and ocean breezes add to a welcoming neighborhood vibe.

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. Laid-back patio-lined cafés and indie boutiques can easily ﬁll an afternoon for almost any visitor. In the evening, trendy restaurants and watering holes glow with a lively mix of options for nightlife lovers.

Q HOTE LS 1. Le Méridien Delﬁna Santa Monica 2. Ocean Park Inn

MARIN OZONE PARK

E S T.

3. Rest Haven Motel 4. Santa Monica Motel 5. Sea Shore Motel

Eat

Shop

AUSSIE PIE KITCHEN 2510 Main St., #B, 310-399-0743, aussiepiekitchen.com ³ Chopped champion chef Joe Youkhan has reimagined the classic Australian meat pie as part of an elevated stack of savory sides. Inside the ﬂaky crusted pie may be Classic Aussie ground beef, Thai curry chicken, or barbecued pulled pork, each marinated for 24 to 48 hours. Stackable sides include Minty Mushy Peas, Edamame and Sweetcorn, and Creamy Thyme Gravy. Dig in with a fork through the layers to experience comfort food with a gourmet twist.

ANGEL CITY BOOKS & RECORDS 218 Pier Ave., 310-399-8767, angelcitybooks.com ³ This mecca of collectibles is a handy antidote to the generic superstore, featuring a carefully curated selection of classic literature and vintage music. Come to buy, sell, or both, and don’t forget to visit the in-store gallery of local artists’ work.

ENTERPRISE FISH CO. 174 Kinney St., 310-392-8366, enterpriseﬁshcosantamonica.com ³ Savor daily catches at this 37-year-old Santa Monica institution housed in a renovated 1917 building. Opt for the atmosphere-rich dining room or dine under a starlit summer sky on the spacious heated bar patio. Either way, you’ll relish the fresh seafood offerings.

TO P : A N JA LI P I N TO

STELLA BARRA PIZZERIA 2000 Main St., 310-396-9250, stellabarra.com ³ Locals are hooked on this eatery’s artisanal pizza. Maybe it’s the handcrafted dough that ferments for 18 hours or the fresh mozzarella in the classic red margherita, or the candied bacon on the butternut squash white pie. You decide. THREE TWINS ICE CREAM 2726 Main St., 310-399-8946, threetwinsicecream.com ³ Boasting the widest selection of organic ice cream in the country, Three Twins sweetens your palate and enriches the environment: A portion of all proceeds is donated to save rain forest land and other sensitive habitats.

BUFFALO EXCHANGE 2449 Main St., 310-314-7300, buffaloexchange.com ³ Vintage, one-of-a-kind looks can be had for shockingly low prices at this popular store featuring racks of expertly curated fashions. Buy, sell, trade, or do all three, but be quick about it: Buffalo Exchange is known for its fast inventory turnover. CARO BAMBINO 2710 Main St., 310-399-7971, carobambino.com ³ From harem pants to humidiﬁers, everything a baby, toddler, tyke—or parent—could want can be discovered at this child-focused emporium. Pamper your own precious cargo with a purchase or select a gift via the store’s baby registry.

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Play EDGEMAR CENTER FOR THE ARTS 2437 Main St., #B, 310-392-0815, edgemarcenter.org ³ This performing arts center and acting school is a creative, educational, and experiential hub for the community, housing two state-of-the-art theaters plus rehearsal and performance space. Check out the place where a number of celebrities were trained and future stars are being made, and peruse the art gallery complex. Plan ahead to get tickets to a theatrical performance or a ﬁlm screening. MAIN VISITOR INFORMATION CENTER 2427 Main St., 800-544-5319 (toll-free), 310-393-7593 (local), santamonica.com ³ Knowledgeable staffers are ready and waiting to provide you with information, tips, maps, and guides to help you organize and ensure a great visit. While you’re there, peruse the center’s unique selection of Santa Monica clothing and gifts.

THE NOW 2407 Main St., 310-310-2914, thenowmassage.com ³ Experience the ambience and quality service of a spa without the high prices at this bohemian-chic locale dedicated to providing a muscle-melting, soul-restoring massage. Bond with other relaxation-seekers at one of The Now’s educational and healing events. THE VICTORIAN 2640 Main St., 310-392-4956, thevictorian.com ³ This historic, 19th-century Victorian home is located in Heritage Square, site of the California Heritage Museum featuring art and culture from the 31st state and a farmers market every Sunday. TH E N O W

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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-of-towners, and parents pushing strollers, none of whom seem in a hurry to leave the wealth of juice bars, latte vendors, and outdoor cafés.

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ART’S TABLE 1002 Montana Ave., 310-395-2500, artstablesm.com ³ Named for a beloved local educator and historian who was revered for his sense of hospitality and love of life, Art’s Table dishes out New American cuisine.

Hotels

FATHER’S OFFICE 1018 Montana Ave., 310-736-2224, fathersofﬁce.com ³ Founded by chef Sang Yoon of TV’s Top Chef Masters fame, this 21-and-over gastropub serves up tapas, salads, desserts, a mind-boggling variety of malty, hoppy, and yeasty potables, and one of the most famous burgers in all of Los Angeles.

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ROSIE POPE MATERNITY AND BABY 1528 Montana Ave., 424-238-5902, rosiepope.com ³ Pregnant and chic? No problem, says Rosie Pope, mother of four and founder of this eponymous store that offers esteem-bolstering maternity fashions and irresistible baby wear.

T O P L E F T : M I C H A E L S I M O N / S TA R T R A K S P H O T O . C O M ; T O P R I G H T : G O L D W O N G P H O T O G R A P H Y

ROSIE POPE

R+D KITCHEN 1323 Montana Ave., 310-395-3314, rd-kitchen.com ³ Sophisticated, fresh cuisine meets California’s indoor/ outdoor lifestyle at this local favorite where there’s rarely a lull. Regulars swear by the Crispy Chicken Sandwich, but full-on entrees are in ample supply as well. SWEET LADY JANE 1631 Montana Ave., 310-254-9499, sweetladyjane.com ³ Indulge your wildest dessert fantasies at this café and bakery that made the 2015 and 2016 “Oprah’s Favorite Things” list for its creative use of the ﬁnest baking ingredients available anywhere.

Shop JOHN KELLY CHOCOLATES 1111 Montana Ave., 310-899-0900, johnkellychocolates ³ When a review describes an edible as “exquisite,” you know the chocolate must be special. Artisan chocolatiers John and Kelly opened a small factory in 2004, and today, the pair run this award-winning boutique that’s sure to give you sweet dreams. LIMONAIA 1325 Montana Ave., 310-458-1858, shoplimonaia.com ³ In Italian, a limonaia is a warm, sunny room where lemon trees are kept in winter. For Limonaia’s well-traveled owner, it was the inspiration for her bright and cozy boutique ﬁlled with handcrafted home goods, jewelry, and more from around the world.

SHOPAHOLIC SAMPLE SALES 1613 Montana Ave., 310-260-0100, shopaholicsamplesales.com ³ When a style-conscious Angeleno doesn’t have the budget to ﬁt her fabulous taste, she can always go to Shopaholic Sample Sales, whose ultimate purpose is to carry on-trend designer clothing for women— at discounts of 50 percent to 80 percent. Score!

Play AERO THEATRE 1328 Montana Ave., 310-260-1528, americancinematheque.com ³ This independent movie theater opened in 1940 and is still going strong, playing classic ﬁlms and 70mm favorites. Film buffs, be sure to check Aero’s list of special screenings and events.

BENEFIT COSMETICS BOUTIQUE AND BROW BAR 1210 Montana Ave., 310-458-6800, montana.benefitboutiques.com ³ This flagship location for the Benefit Cosmetics brand specializes in personal attention. Book online for a signature facial, waxing or tanning service, or makeup application, then shop the retail department to take the look home with you. MIGHTY PILATES 625 Montana Ave., Ste. M, 310-458-2896, mightypilates.com ³ Whether you practice advanced Pilates or are just learning how to pronounce the word, this beautiful state-of-the-art studio will lure you in with its dynamic instructors and top-of-the-line equipment. Choose from more than 75 classes offered weekly. YOGAWORKS 1426 Montana Ave., 310-393-5150, yogaworks.com ³ Take an Iyengar yoga or vinyasa flow class at this popular studio—the location where YogaWorks was founded in 1987—that has been home to some of the most influential yoga teachers in America.

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Culture abounds on this lively strip—in the form of street art, international cuisine, a weekly farmers market, and the sands of Santa Monica State Beach.

connecting Santa Monica to Downtown Los Angeles, have begun to look more like an art exhibition as of late: The local business improvement district, paired with the award-winning 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 restaurants oﬀering temptations for almost any palate. Accessible from the three Metro Expo Line stations in town, Pico ends at the beach and links Santa Monica High School, Santa Monica College, and Virginia Avenue Park—home to a beloved MAP KEY Saturday farmers market.

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Hotels

THE BRIXTON 2827 Pico Blvd., 310-449-4567, thebrixtonsm.com ³ An essential stop for any beer lover, this modern gastropub features shareable plates of American comfort food to complement the craft brews and wine on tap. Settle into a cool black banquette while nibbling on impressive ﬂatbreads and short rib melts.

Q HOTE LS 1. Holiday Motel

4. Ocean Park Inn

7. Santa Monica Motel

2. Le Méridien Delﬁna Santa Monica

5. Palm Motel

8. Shutters on the Beach

3. Ocean Park Hotel

3 4 S A N TA MON I CA OF F I C I A L V I S I TOR S GU I DE

Eat

6. Rest Haven Motel

9. Travelodge Santa Monica

C H U R C H O F T YP E

C H R I S + M A RY

TO P LE F T : C O R T N E E B R OW N ; B OT TO M : A LI C I A C H O P H OTO G R A P H Y

LO/CAL COFFEE & MARKET 2214 Pico Blvd., 424-322-2710, local-coffee.com ³ Honey lattes and cold-brewed coffee are the name of the game, but you can satisfy cravings, too, with pastries and other goodies to go. The modern, high-ceilinged space is the perfect spot for refueling after a day at Virginia Avenue Park across the street. SWEET ROSE CREAMERY 826 Pico Blvd., 310-260-2663, sweetrosecreamery.com ³ Join the line for some of the city’s best ice cream, made by hand in small batches daily. Husband-and-wife owners Josh Loeb and Zoe Nathan, of the Rustic Canyon family of restaurants, source fresh fruit and veggies from local farmers markets for their seasonal scoops. VALENTINO 3115 Pico Blvd., 310-829-4313, valentinosantamonica.com ³ One of the most critically acclaimed Italian restaurants in the U.S., Piero Selvaggio’s Valentino reinterprets classic Italian dishes with farm-to-table cuisine that is simultaneously natural and complex. Host a special event in one of the establishment’s ﬁve elegant private dining rooms.

Shop BRAT 1938 14th St., 310-452-2480, bratstore.com ³ Leave the mall crowds behind and shop with the locals. At this eclectic store, Westsiders buy edgy leather jackets, vintageinspired dresses, and novelty gifts. Owner Nancy Kaufman will help you ﬁnd that perfect voodoo doll keychain—and wrap it for free, too. CHRIS + MARY 2204½ Pico Blvd., 310-923-4673, shopchrisandmary.com ³ This laid-back gift shop is owned by a couple who love their Santa Monica community—and it shows. The cheery store is stocked with high-quality home goods, accessories, and clothing made by local artisans. JACK’S SURFBOARDS 2012 Lincoln Blvd., 310-450-6569, jackssurfboards.com ³ Founded in Huntington Beach in 1957, this SoCal institution is where locals stock up before hitting the surf. Find an epic selection of surfboards, skateboards, cool threads for men and women, and other essential gear.

SATURDAY FARMERS MARKET AT VIRGINIA PARK 2200 Virginia Ave., smgov.net/ portals/farmersmarket ³ Be a part of the neighborhood scene at this buzzing outdoor market, where families, foodies, and famous chefs converge on Saturdays between 8 a.m. and 1 p.m. Though smaller than the other farmers markets in the city, the parking is easy (there’s also a bike valet), and there is live music most weekends.

Play ART GALLERIES AT PICO AND 32ND buckshotgallery.com, blue7gallery.com, churchoftype.com ³ With an art scene as prominent as Santa Monica’s, it’s no surprise there’s a treasure trove of small galleries to discover. Don’t miss the intersection of Pico and 32nd. Check out the work of local artists at Blue 7 Gallery and browse fascinating letterpress art at Church of Type. MCCABE’S GUITAR SHOP 3101 Pico Blvd., 310-828-4497, mccabes.com ³ Both a guitar shop and concert venue, this musician’s wonderland draws people from far and wide. Home to one of the largest selections of stringed instruments for sale in California, the adjacent stage has hosted world-famous artists like Beck, Bruce Springsteen, and R.E.M.

MORGAN-WIXSON THEATRE 2627 Pico Blvd., 310-828-7519, morgan-wixson.org ³ Home to the Santa Monica Theatre Guild, this charming playhouse showcases the diversity of the local theatre scene with plays, youth musicals, and more. With just 201 seats, it’s a great opportunity to catch the city’s rising talents at an intimate venue. SANTA MONICA COLLEGE 1900 Pico Blvd., 310-434-4000, smc.edu ³ The 38-acre main campus attracts more than just students, and it’s easy to see why. SMC is home to a planetarium that hosts family-friendly shows on Friday nights. Catch free lectures from leading experts (the Distinguished Scientists series is a highlight), or swim laps in the Olympic-size public pool. Ping-Pong tables, basketball, and badminton courts are also available. TRiP 2101 Lincoln Blvd., 310-396-9010, tripsantamonica.com ³ This quintessential neighborhood bar boasts live bands, dozens of craft beers, and satisfying comfort food, but that’s just the start. Interesting events take place nearly every evening, from trivia night and stand-up comedy to racy burlesque shows.

S W E ET R O S E C R E A M E RY

NEIGHBORHOODS B AY C ITI E S ITA L I A N D E L I & B A K E RY

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

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THE BUFFALO CLUB 1520 Olympic Blvd., 310-450-8600, thebuffaloclub.com ³ Choose the supper-club-style ambience of The Iroquois Room or the lush yet casual elegance of The Garden Courtyard when you visit this ﬁne-dining venue. The menu satisﬁes even the most well-traveled palate (try the boeuf bourguignon, marinated for 48 hours prior to cooking).

City of Santa Monica Public Parking Post Ofﬁce Library Hospital Police Station Metro Expo Line Station

Q HOTE LS 1. The Ambrose Hotel

6. Holiday Motel

2. American Motel

4. Comfort Inn Santa Monica— West Los Angeles

3. Best Western Plus Gateway Hotel Santa Monica

5. Days Inn Santa Monica/ Los Angeles

7. Palm Motel 8. Rest Haven Motel 9. Santa Monica Motel

Metro Expo Line Bike Lane Park Hotels

3 6 S A N TA MON I CA OF F I C I A L V I S I TOR S GU I DE

TO P : I M AG E S - U S A / A L A M Y STO C K P H OTO

ORDERED BY TWO MAJOR THOROUGHFARES, WILSHIRE AND OLYMPIC

boulevards, this easily accessible neighborhood gets plenty of attention for its arts and entertainment oﬀerings, particularly Bergamot Station’s galleries and The Broad Stage’s shows, as well as top-notch eateries. No wonder it’s home to a growing oﬀering of interesting restaurants and shops.

BAY CITIES ITALIAN DELI & BAKERY 1517 Lincoln Blvd., 310-395-8279, baycitiesitaliandeli.com ³ This Italian deli, bakery, and market is a treasure chest for Angelenos, providing imported wines, cheeses, cookies, and other gourmet goodies. But the real draw is the famous Godmother sandwich from the deli counter, which has attracted a cult following. Stacked with ﬁve kinds of Italian meat, it’s worth a wait in line.

TH E BROAD STA G E

BAY STR E E T BOARDS

Shop AERO HOBBIES 2918 Santa Monica Blvd., Ste. 3, 310-828-5264, aerohobbiesgames.com ³ Geekiness is a badge of honor at this longstanding hobby shop, an area institution and community meeting space that’s packed with tabletop games galore. Check out the game nights Wednesday through Sunday, when kids of all ages break out board games, paint airplane models, or play Star Wars X Wing.

TIATO 2700 Colorado Ave., 310-866-5228, tiato.com ³ The sleek, airy Vietnamese restaurant doesn’t shy away from simplicity. The owner, Catherine An (whose mother owns the renowned Crustacean restaurants), specializes in homestyle cooking using the bounty from the café’s garden. It’s open for breakfast and lunch only.

BAY STREET BOARDS 3216 Santa Monica Blvd., 310-310-2485, baystreetboards.com ³ Named after Santa Monica’s popular surﬁng spot at Bay Street, this mom-and-pop store keeps Dogtown spirit alive with personal service by lifelong surfers. Browse the boards (full and half-day rentals are available), or just stop by to chat and chill with the locals.

RIP CITY SKATES 2709 Santa Monica Blvd., 310-828-0388, ripcity.net ³ The Santa Monica skateboarders who famously put the sport on the map in the ’70s are still here in spirit. This skate shop has been going strong since 1978 and is about as authentic as you can get, offering boards, accessories, and clothing that totally rips.

Play B E R G A M OT STATI O N

P ETE R F ETTE R M A N G A L L E RY AT B E R G A M OT STATI O N

BERGAMOT STATION 2525 Michigan Ave., 310-453-7535, bergamotstation.com ³ Occupying a former stop for Santa Monica Air Line streetcars, this sprawling arts complex is impressive in both variety and scale. However, it’s surprisingly easy to navigate, with forty or so art galleries all within steps of each other. The on-site Bergamot Cafe is a perfect place to refuel with coffee and sandwiches after an art-ﬁlled day.

THE BROAD STAGE 1310 11th St, 310-434-3200, thebroadstage.com ³ Founded in 2008, the stunning Broad Stage has grown to become the most prominent theatre in Santa Monica, presenting top-tier drama and musical productions, plus opera, jazz, modern dance, chamber music, and more. Check out The Edye, a smaller, adjacent stage, for spontaneous performances by developing artists.

18TH STREET ARTS CENTER 1639 18th St., 310-453-3711, 18thstreet.org ³ One of Santa Monica’s bestkept secrets, this under-the-radar arts community is home to a vibrant residency program and draws talent from around the world. You can view artwork at two on-site galleries that are open Monday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., or check the website for special events.

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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. Join some locals at Douglas Park for a lawn bowling session and then head to scenic Palisades Park for a bluﬀ-top view of a classic Santa Monica Beach sunset.

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BRU’S WIFFLE 2408 Wilshire Blvd., 310-453-2787, bruswiffle.com ³ Forget cereal and get your Chocolate Waffle Party on instead at this convivial café that reinvents the breakfast classic with unique toppings. With flavors like red velvet and churro— plus eight variations on chicken and waffles— you really can’t go wrong.

Q HOTE LS

Bike Lane

1. The Ambrose Hotel

5. Hotel Shangri-La

Park

2. American Motel

6. Huntley Santa Monica Beach

Hotels

3. Cal Mar Hotel Suites 4. Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows

7. Palihouse Santa Monica

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MÉL I S S E MÉLISSE 1104 Wilshire Blvd., 310-395-0881, melisse.com ³ Mélisse is the place to propose, celebrate, or simply indulge in a night of classic refinement. Overseen by fine-dining powerhouse Josiah Citrin, the Michelin-starred restaurant is renowned for its Frenchinfluenced multi-course prix-fixe dinners and flawless service.

FA R R I G H T : M AT T H E W P R E E C E ; B O T T O M : J E S S I C A S A M P L E

SPINFISH POKE HOUSE 808 Wilshire Blvd., 310-260-1321, spinfishla.com ³ Join the latest L.A. lunch craze and build your own poke bowl at one of the chains that started it all. At Spinfish, the Hawaiian specialty can be customized with a variety of marinated fish, house sauces, and bases ranging from brown rice to mixed greens. Not into DIY? Order one of the signature bowls. TACO TECA 2460 Wilshire Blvd., 310-828-2115, tacotecasm.com ³ Step outside your burrito comfort zone and try this upscale Mexican restaurant that wows locals with innovative, artisanal tacos featuring seasonal ingredients. The centerpiece of the modern, wood-accented dining room is a beautiful bar featuring a killer mescal and tequila selection.

Shop BELCAMPO MEAT CO. 1026 Wilshire Blvd., 424-744-8008, belcampo.com ³ Fill your picnic basket and head to the beach for an alfresco feast. Belcampo Meat Co. is the one of the best spots for sliced meats and gourmet treats from the on-site butcher shop.

J O H N N I E-O LOVE SHACK

HEALTHY SPOT 1110 Wilshire Blvd., 310-458-2004, healthyspot.com ³ Would you forget Fido while you’re on vacation? We didn’t think so. Healthy Spot pet store is stocked with unique treats, hard-to-ﬁnd accessories, and eco-friendly toys for both dogs and cats. Now go fetch that BPA-free organic chew toy! JOHNNIE-O LOVE SHACK 2712 Wilshire Blvd., 310-453-6450, johnnie-o.com ³ This men’s boutique is making waves for its preppymeets-beachwear collection of colorful polo shirts and oxfords. Surfboards and vintage beach photos contribute to the laid-back vibes. Founded by John O’Donnell, actor Chris O’Donnell’s brother, the label counts Ashton Kutcher and Bradley Cooper among its fans. NEW BALANCE 2600 Wilshire Blvd., 310-829-2900, stores.newbalance.com/ losangeles ³ Get sweet new kicks for a run on the beach at this huge New Balance store, offering hundreds of styles under one roof in the historic Home Savings building. Check out the gorgeous mid-century sculpture and mosaic outside.

Play DOUGLAS PARK 2439 Wilshire Blvd., 310-458-8300, smgov.net ³ This shady oasis offers a respite from the hustle and bustle of Wilshire Boulevard with a small brook and a pond that attracts ducks and turtles. Aside from the lawn bowling and tennis courts, there’s a fully fenced-in playground and a lawn dotted with trees. It’s a perfect place to set down a blanket and enjoy a sunny afternoon. THE GASLITE 2030 Wilshire Blvd., 310-829-2382, thegaslite.com ³ If you’re feeling ready to party, this lively nightspot can oblige. Loosen up with a festive libation or two and you just might summon the courage to hit The GasLite’s famed karaoke stage. Don’t have the pipes (or the guts) to wield the mic? There’s always dancing! D O U G L A S PA R K

M ATTH E W P R E E C E S A L O N

MATTHEW PREECE SALON 1122 Wilshire Blvd., 310-907-4022, matthewpreece.com ³ Celebrity hairstylist Matthew Preece ran the Fred Segal Salon, where he worked his magic on in-the-know Angelenos for years (Duran Duran was a client back in the day). Now he has his own ﬂagship studio, offering impeccable hair coloring, fabulous cuts, blowouts, makeup application, and more in a high-ceilinged and beautifully outﬁtted space. PAPER SOURCE 309 Wilshire Blvd., 310-255-7988, papersource.com ³ Crafting connoisseurs converge at this popular stationery store, but many don’t know about its enticing workshops. Choose from a variety of basic card-making classes or learn pro techniques like heat embossing and hand-marbling.

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

Ocean Park Boulevard/ Santa Monica Airport Area

NEIGHBORHOODS

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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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CLECTIC, DIVERSE, FUNKY, HAPPENING—OCEAN PARK IS ALL

of the above, and more. Set at the southeastern edge of the city and linked directly to the beach, Ocean Park Boulevard boasts an authentic local 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 Santa Monica Airport and its dynamic aviation museum, the Museum of Flying. The airport’s observation decks, eco-friendly gardens, and twice-monthly antiques market are also big draws.

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B A R N A R D WA Y

1. Ocean Park Hotel 2. Ocean Park Inn 3. Pavilions Motel 4. Sea Shore Motel

Eat CRIMSON 2901 Ocean Park Blvd., 310-396-2400, crimsonla.com ³ Crimson is the place to go for fresh and inspired Mediterranean fare. With kebab plates, wraps, tabbouleh, and hummus, it’s hard to hold back when ordering. But save room for a treat from the dessert case; the pleasant dining room, with weathered wood and exposed brick, inspires lingering. LOCAL KITCHEN + WINE BAR 1736 Ocean Park Blvd., 310-396-9007, localkitchenandwinebar.com ³ This cozy Italian bistro is committed to high-quality local ingredients. The Neapolitan-style pizzas from the wood-burning oven are the stars of the seasonal menu and pair perfectly with small-batch cocktails.

L O C A L K ITC H E N + W I N E B A R

MUSEUM O F F LYI N G

GOODS

THE OP CAFE 3117 Ocean Park Blvd., 310-452-5720, theopcafe.com ³ Unapologetically hearty breakfasts are dished up in a vintage bungalow at this beloved local institution, owned by lifelong Santa Monica residents who opened the café in late 1996. Go for the ﬂuffy pancakes, breakfast burritos, and spicy scrambles delivered by smiling servers at friendly prices. THYME CAFE & MARKET 1630 Ocean Park Blvd., 310-399-8800, thymecafeandmarket.com ³ From the chef-owner of Local Kitchen + Wine Bar, this deli case of prepared picnic fare entices, while the folks behind the counter take soup, salad, and sandwich orders at this popular wine-and-dine meet-up spot. Bring the family for a casual meal in the modern, airy space—and grab a chocolate sea-salt cookie on the way out.

THYM E C A F E & M A R K ET

Shop

Play

MINNIE T’S 1624 Ocean Park Blvd., 310-664-3600, minniets.com ³ This fashion trailblazer trades in sophisticated separates from international designers. Find of-the-moment pieces like Campomaggi leather handbags and Avant Toi cashmere.

CARDIO BARRE 3009 Lincoln Blvd., 310-450-0720, cardiobarre.com ³ Head over to Cardio Barre for a ballet-inspired workout that will get your body “en pointe.” The friendly studio offers a one-hour class, a 45-minute ﬂoor session, and a 35-minute class for the time-crunched.

OCEAN PARK BOULEVARD SHOPPING brookerodd.com, goodsla.myshopify.com, kimbahills.com/store ³ Find a unique gift (or treat yourself) at the up-and-coming shopping scene at 18th and Ocean Park. Brook Rodd’s lovely boutique is ground zero for Cali-chic women’s clothing, Goods specializes in handmade eco-friendly items from around the world, and Rumba will fulﬁll all your hipster houseware needs. QUINNIE & B 1632 Ocean Park Blvd., 310-398-8814, quinnieb.com ³ This adorable boutique from the owners of Thyme Cafe brings unique children’s items into the Ocean Park Avenue mix. With everything from toys and books to puzzles and PJs, you can ﬁnd charming gifts for kids of all ages.

CLOVER PARK 2600 Ocean Park Blvd., 310-458-8300, smgov.net ³ If you’re in the mood for active play, head to this multi-block park, which offers baseball, softball, and soccer fields; tennis and volleyball courts; a fitness course; and two playgrounds for the kids. Warmer temperatures bring out picnickers; call to reserve a grill in advance. MUSEUM OF FLYING 3100 Airport Ave., 310-398-2500, museumofflying.org ³ Check out vintage aircraft up close and personal at this Santa Monica Airport gem. The nearly 22,000-square-foot warehouse houses about two-dozen aircraft, a flight simulator that rolls and pitches 360 degrees, and an interactive area where kids can climb into a cockpit.

RUSKIN GROUP THEATRE 3000 Airport Ave., 310-397-3244, ruskingrouptheatre.com ³ Every seat in the house is a great one at the intimate Ruskin Theatre at the Santa Monica Airport, regarded as one of the best off-the-beaten-path playhouses in L.A. Bonus: Ticket prices are reasonable and parking is free.

CARDIO BARRE SANTA MONICA AIRPORT OUTDOOR ANTIQUE & COLLECTIBLE MARKET 3050 Airport Ave., 323-933-2511, santamonicaairport antiquemarket.com ³ Westside bargain hunters compete with antique dealers at this bimonthly outdoor market, where you can score vintage treasures at the best prices. Open the ﬁrst and fourth Sunday of every month, it’s always an eclectic scene. =

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

1515 Ocean Avenue | Santa Monica, CA 90401 1.800.599.1515 | shorehotel.com

LEED Gold certified, luxury boutique hotel offering stunning views. Blending inspired modern design with truly eco-conscious practices in a spectacular setting, Shore Hotel offers leisure and business travelers alike a perfect spot to experience everything that makes Santa Monica special.

Breathtaking Pacific Ocean views are what youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find at Ocean View Hotel. Our newly renovated boutique property offers well-appointed guest rooms with modern amenities, sustainability and beach glam. Enjoy a peaceful beachside setting and walk to everything in sunny Santa Monica.

1447 Ocean Avenue | Santa Monica, CA 90401 1.800.452.4888 | oceanviewsantamonica.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

HOTELS

STAY

TH E G E O R G I A N H OTE L

THE COTTAGE SANTA MONICA 2219 Ocean Ave. 310-593-0093 thecottagesantamonica.com ³ Boasting four bright, spacious

bedrooms and stylish nauticalthemed décor, this historic beachside cottage sleeps up to eight guests comfortably and oﬀers daily maid and breakfast service, making for stress-free family getaways along the sunny Santa Monica shoreline.

SANTA MONICA PIER AREA/ OCEAN AVENUE

BAYSIDE HOTEL 2001 Ocean Ave. 310-396-6000 baysidehotel.com 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 GEORGIAN HOTEL 1415 Ocean Ave. 310-395-9945 georgianhotel.com ³ Perched atop the Palisades

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

THE HOTEL CALIFORNIA

H OTE L C A S A D E L M A R

HOTEL CASA DEL MAR 1910 Ocean Way 310-581-5533 hotelcasadelmar.com ³ This former oceanfront

bayside beach club features luxuries like hydrotherapy massage tubs, fine seafood dining, nightly live music, and floor-to-ceiling windows with panoramic views of the Pacific coastline in the lobby. Free Ride shuttle service.

HOTEL SHANGRI-LA 1301 Ocean Ave. 310-394-2791 shangrila-hotel.com ³ With a style emblematic of the

Golden Age of Hollywood, this architectural gem is renowned for its Streamline Moderne look, Art Deco guest rooms, and sustainable renovations. ONYX features the only in/outdoor rooftop bar in Santa Monica with 360-degree views of the Paciﬁc Ocean. The Dining Room oﬀers popular international fare handpicked from the weekly Santa Monica farmers market.

JW MARRIOTT SANTA MONICA LE MERIGOT 1740 Ocean Ave. 310-395-9700 marriott.com ³ Le Merigot oﬀers an

oceanfront escape with spectacular Paciﬁc Ocean views in a European-style boutique hotel with easy access to miles of famous beaches and the Santa Monica Pier. The world-class spa features a range of services, top-of-the-line ﬁtness center, and outdoor pool.

LOEWS SANTA MONICA BEACH HOTEL

1700 Ocean Ave. 310-458-6700 loewshotels.com/santa-monica ³ Experience Santa Monica

style and spirit at this iconic luxury beachfront hotel, which oﬀers redesigned guest rooms, spectacular ocean views, an award-winning pool, and locally inspired food and beverage options. Free Ride shuttle service.

1670 Ocean Ave. 310-393-2363 hotelca.com ³ This surfer’s paradise is

only steps away from the Paciﬁc Ocean and Santa Monica Pier, and promises relaxing beach vibes complete with hardwood ﬂoors and colorful surfboard headboards. B AYS I D E H OTE L

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

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

PA G E 4 3 : C H R I S T I A N H O R A N ; T O P : L I S A R O M E R E I N

From world-famous beachfront luxury to vintage gems and budgetfriendly options, Santa Monica’s extraordinary selection of hotels provides a welcome home for any Southern California stay.

C O U RT YA R D BY M A R R I OT S A NTA M O N I C A

SEAVIEW HOTEL 1760 Ocean Ave. 310-393-6711 seaviewhotel.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.

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

OCEAN LODGE HOTEL SANTA MONICA BEACH 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.

OCEAN VIEW HOTEL

eco-conscious boutique accommodations and state-of-the-art amenities with ocean views. The LEED Gold property invites guests to relax by its solar-heated pool, enjoying unobstructed ocean views from private patios, and minimize their carbon footprint by working with its Green Concierge.

VICEROY SANTA MONICA

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

1819 Ocean Avwwe. 310-260-7500 viceroyhotelsandresorts.com

³ Newly renovated,

³ Named one of the

well-appointed, sustainable beach-glam 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 private balcony. Earth bar coming soon—summer 2017.

continent’s top 100 hotels by Travel + Leisure, this ultra-chic getaway with its poolside bungalows has been featured in numerous fashion spreads, movies, music videos, and guides to top L.A. dining.

OCEANA BEACH CLUB HOTEL 849 Ocean Ave. 310-393-0486 hoteloceanasantamonica.com B OT TO M : S KOT T S N I D E R P H OTO G R A P H Y

³ Shore Hotel combines

³ Accommodations at this chic

boutique with 70 rooms include adventurous activities like yoga practice on Santa Monica Beach, guided hikes in Temescal Canyon, weekend surf lessons, and beach cruiser bicycles.

For more details on Santa Monica hotels, visit santamonica.com/hotels.

DOWNTOWN SANTA MONICA/ THIRD STREET PROMENADE

V I C E R OY S A NTA M O N I C A

COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT SANTA MONICA 425 Colorado Ave. 310-394-1700 marriott.com

³ This beautiful new 136-room

hotel is just three blocks from the Pier and adjacent to the Metro Expo train. Meeting rooms for up to 25. Outdoor pool and deck, complimentary Wi-Fi. Café with Starbucks drinks.

DOUBLETREE SUITES BY HILTON HOTEL SANTA MONICA 1707 Fourth St. 310-395-3332 doubletree3hilton.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. Free Ride shuttle service.

CAL MAR HOTEL SUITES 220 California Ave. 310-395-5555 calmarhotel.com ³ Arranged around a lush

garden patio and heated pool, spacious suites each 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.

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

HAMPTON INN & SUITES BY HILTON LOS ANGELES, SANTA MONICA

501 Colorado Ave. 310-260-1100 hamptoninn3.hilton.com

³ This new hotel is just

four blocks from the Santa Monica Pier and the beach, and within walking distance of entertainment, dining, and shopping. The hotel offers upgraded rooms with ocean views and features an on-site 24-hour fitness center, outdoor pool, and deck. Complimentary hot breakfast buffet daily for all guests!

HOSTELLING INTERNATIONAL LA/ SANTA MONICA 1436 Second St. 310-393-9913 hilosangeles.org

³ Set just two blocks from the

beach, this HI-USA-aﬃliated hostel location oﬀers organized group activities, free Wi-Fi, breakfast, a large kitchen, and common areas to relax and connect with fellow travelers.

S E A S H O R E M OTE L

PA L I H O U S E S A NTA M O N I C A

HOTEL CARMEL 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.

HUNTLEY SANTA MONICA BEACH 1111 Second St. 310-394-5454 thehuntleyhotel.com ³ Urban chic meets beachside

glamour at this hip hotel, where sleek mod furnishings are set oﬀ with nods to nature like a wall of white-lacquered ﬁsh, sea fans, thick alpaca rugs, and animalprint upholstery. Known for its guest room views of the ocean, the cityscape, and the Santa Monica Mountains, the Huntley

also provides 360-degree panoramas from its popular Penthouse restaurant.

PALIHOUSE SANTA MONICA 1001 Third St. 310-394-1279 palihousesantamonica.com ³ Palihouse is a one-of-

a-kind urban lodge with historic Moorish-inﬂuenced Mediterranean Revival Architecture, lush courtyards, a gracious lobby and airy accommodations. Not a boutique hotel and not a luxury residence, Palihouse oﬀers the best of both.

WYNDHAM 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.

MAIN STREET

SEA SHORE MOTEL 2637 Main St. 310-392-2787 seashoremotel.com ³ Located on historic Main

H OTE L C A R M E L

Street only two quick blocks from the beach, the familyowned and -operated Sea Shore

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

Motel features terra cotta tiles, European shuttered triple-pane soundproof windows, a rooftop sundeck, an on-site café, and laundry services, and oﬀers beach gear for loan.

PALM MOTEL 2020 14th St. 310-452-3861 palmmotelsantamonica.com ³ Palm trees, ﬂowers, and

HOLIDAY MOTEL

Greek-style bungalows attract guests to this pet-friendly motel, where a multilingual staﬀ provides free coﬀee and cookies each morning.

1102 Pico Blvd. 310-450-9666 no website

REST HAVEN MOTEL

³ Holiday Motel is an economy

815 Grant St. 310-452-3977 resthavenmotel.net

PICO BOULEVARD

lodging option with easy freeway access.

LE MERIDIEN DELFINA SANTA MONICA

530 Pico Blvd. 310-399-9344 lemeridiendelﬁna.com

³ Designed with relaxed yet

sophisticated décor inspired by Santa Monica, the hotel has many rooms oﬀering private balconies with views of the Paciﬁc Ocean or city skyline. All accommodations are 100 percent nonsmoking and feature amenities including oversize desks, Le Méridien platform beds, complimentary Wi-Fi, and mini refrigerators. Four-hour bike rentals are available. Free Ride shuttle service.

OCEAN 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.

³ Built in 1938, this

family-friendly 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.

SANTA MONICA MOTEL 2102 Lincoln Blvd. 310-392-6806 thesantamonicamotel.com ³ This centrally located

motel oﬀers aﬀordable accommodations only minutes away from many of the city’s most exciting tourist attractions, including Santa Monica Place and Third Street Promenade. W YN D H A M S A NTA M O N I C A– AT TH E P I E R

SHUTTERS ON THE BEACH

S TAY

1 Pico Blvd. 310-458-0030 shuttersonthebeach.com ³ Lauded by Travel + Leisure

for its “laidback, summer-house vibe,” this iconic oceanfront destination offers an on-site spa with organic body treatments, fitness center, Coast Beach Café, and 1 Pico, a celebrated restaurant serving California fresh cuisine. Guest rooms offer a residential feel with amenities that include balconies, hydrothermal massage tubs, Tibetan rugs, and hardwood floors. Free Ride shuttle service.

TRAVELODGE SANTA MONICA

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

distinctive California Craftsman– style hotel has been revitalized to reﬂect the essence of a large private home. Luxury linens, C.O. Bigelow bath products, complimentary in-room Wi-Fi, continental breakfast, ﬁtness center access, and house car service await guests of this ecofriendly property.

3102 Pico Blvd. 310-450-5766 travelodgesantamonica.com

AMERICAN MOTEL

³ Vacationers appreciate

1243 Lincoln Blvd. 310-458-1411 no website

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

MID-CITY

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

³ With a recent multimillion-

dollar renovation of all 77 guest rooms and public spaces, this

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 other great in-room amenities.

³ American Motel is a budget

accommodation near Santa Monica Boulevard.

BEST WESTERN PLUS GATEWAY HOTEL SANTA MONICA 1920 Santa Monica Blvd. 310-829-9100 gatewayhotel.com ³ Flat-screen televisions,

pillow-top mattresses, and other amenities have earned this hotel numerous accolades and a three-diamond rating by AAA.

B E ST W E STE R N P L U S G ATE WAY H OTE L S A NTA M O N I C A

DAYS INN SANTA MONICA/LOS ANGELES 3007 Santa Monica Blvd. 310-829-6333 smdaysinn.com ³ This pleasant Mid-City hotel

is a Santa Monica Boulevard icon, thanks to its cheerful pink exterior with green and white trim.

WILSHIRE BOULEVARD

FAIRMONT MIRAMAR HOTEL & BUNGALOWS 101 Wilshire Blvd. 310-576-7777 fairmont.com/santa-monica

B OT TO M R I G H T : C H R I ST I A N H O R A N

³ Lauded by U.S. News & World

Report and Condé Nast Traveler for its attentive staff and deluxe amenities, this beachside hotel offers 31 newly renovated bungalows, an ocean-view fitness center, seasonal beach club, and the award-winning Exhale Spa with five treatment rooms and poolside services. The

For more details on Santa Monica hotels, visit santamonica.com/hotels.

Mediterranean-inspired bistro FIG Restaurant features dishes from its wood-burning oven and wood-burning grill, and The Bungalow, a Baja-inspired casita, is an ideal place for cocktails.

OCEAN PARK BOULEVARD/ SANTA MONICA AIRPORT AREA

OCEAN PARK HOTEL 2680 32nd St. 310-429-5554 santamonicaoceanparkhotel.com ³ A welcoming staﬀ and basic

rooms with tidy communal bathrooms await visitors to this economy hotel, which is just around the corner from The OP Café, a cherished neighborhood eatery.

PAVILIONS MOTEL 2338 Ocean Park Blvd. 310-450-4044 pavilionsmotelsantamonica.com ³ Pavilions Motel is an

aﬀordable accommodation situated near the Santa Monica Municipal Airport, and close to Santa Monica College, the beach, and the Metro Expo Line. = 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

THE ARTS

PUBLIC ART

Take in a wide array of sculptures, murals, and installations on this walking tour of the town’s creative highlights. B Y J O A N T A P P E R TO BEVERLY HILLS/WEST HOLLYWOOD/ DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES

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APPROX. 5-MINUTE WALK

N PA R K

¼ MILE=1,320 FEET

Art is in the air in Santa Monica, as well as on the walls, in the parks, at the beach, even in parking structures, underpasses, and city streets. A stroll through town, like a personal art walk, reveals creations that range from sculptures and murals to kinetic illuminations. For more public artworks in Santa Monica, check out the Pico Improvement Organization’s Beautify Pico Murals Walking Tour Map at picopassport.com/murals.

PUBLIC ART Cradle, a monumental wall sculpture made of mirror-polished stainless steel balls suspended on cables so that they act like a Newton’s Cradle, by Ball Nogues Studio. On Parking Structure 7, Fourth St. and Broadway.

Wheels, a colorful ceramic mural inspired by a predecessor to the Ferris wheel at the Pier, by Anne Marie Karlsen. On Parking Structure 8, 1571 Second St.

Bells and Books of Knowledge, a realistic bronze and cast polymer tribute to supporters of education by Jacqueline Dreager. Third Street Promenade.

Twilight and Yearning, an installation of three wooden boats secured vertically to pillars beneath the Santa Monica Pier, by Manfred Müller.

Santa Monica Art Tool: Walk on L.A., a huge concrete streetscape-incised roller by Carl Cheng that imprints a map of L.A. on the sand. Santa Monica State Beach, north of the Pier.

Unbridled, a mural depicting carousel horses coming to life and galloping through town after escaping from the Pier, by David S. Gordon. Ocean Park Underpass at Fourth St.

Digital Divide, a nearly block-long vibrant blue kinetic work made of glass and liquid-crystal ﬁlm that displays repeating patterns mimicking the rapid skin-color changes of an indigenous squid by Dan Corson. Sixth St. and Colorado Ave.

Wave and Shell Obelisks, two copper columns covered in mineral accumulations from seawater by Michele Oka Doner. Beach Park One, Ocean Park Blvd. at Barnard Way.

Our Santa Monica Heritage, a mural by Ann Elizabeth Thiermann. Joslyn Hall, Christine Emerson Reed Park, 801 Wilshire Blvd.

Weather Field No.1, a kinetic sculpture of 49 19-, 20-, and 21-foot stainless steel poles topped with spinning weather instruments by Iñigo Manglano-Ovalle. Tongva Park, 1615 Ocean Ave.

Untitled (Homage to Jack Kerouac), a geometric cement and wood sculpture by Mauro Staccioli. Ocean Ave. at Pico Blvd. and Neilson Way.

Veterans 10 Memorial, ﬁve granite blocks that, on Veterans Day, align with the setting sun and cast shadows that align with markers on the ground at 11:11 a.m., by Ted Marcus. Palisades Park, Ocean Ave. at Santa Monica Blvd.

Gestation III, a curvilinear wood sculpture positioned to showcase the seasonal cycle of the sun, by Baile Oakes. Palisades Park, Ocean Ave. at Palisades.

The Big Wave, a plexiglass, stainless steel, and LED-light sculpture by Tony de Lap. Spans Wilshire Blvd. at Franklin St.

(1) AN D (2) WI LLIAM SHORT; (12) SAM U E L G R U B E R

Singing Beach 6 Chairs, oversize aluminum seating by Douglas Hollis that makes musical tones when the wind blows. Santa Monica State Beach, north of Pico Blvd.

Chain Reaction, 11 a steel and copper chain-link peace monument representing a mushroom cloud, by Paul Conrad. Santa Monica Civic Center, 1855 Main St. 18

Santa Monica, a concrete statue of the city’s namesake by Eugene H. Monrahan. Palisades Park, Ocean Ave. at Wilshire Blvd.

History of 15 the Pico Neighborhood, a mural by Ann Elizabeth Thiermann. Stewart St. underpass at Virginia Ave./Santa Monica Fwy.

The Falcon, a soaring avian mural by Marcel “Sel Dog” Blanco. Precision Sound & Service, 823 Pico Blvd.

Eye of the Tiger, an intricate mural depicting a ﬁerce goldand-black feline face by Chris Saunders. Goju Ryu Karate, 2202 Pico Blvd.

THE ARTS

Local Culture Peruse area landmarks, architecture, and art collections. B Y J O A N T A P P E R

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

WITH MORE THAN A MILLION Flight Simulator, recreating rides objects, including 600,000 rare that range from an air battle over the photographs, the SANTA MONICA HISTORY Pacific in a P-38 to a sunny jaunt over MUSEUM is the place to explore local the Los Angeles area in a DC-3. On history, art, and culture. Located display is a collection of actual aircraft, on the campus of the Santa Monica including a Douglas A-4 Skyhawk, Main Library, interactive permanent a Monnett Monerai sailplane, and a exhibits let visitors trace the story of dozen others. 3100 Airport Ave., 310Santa Monica’s inhabitants and insert 398-2500, museumofflying.org themselves into front-page stories, More than 70 dollhouses, along with while shows focus on everything from an abundance of exquisite miniatures, former Santa Monica resident Shirley toys, and antique dolls, fill the ANGELS Temple to the Girl Scouts. ATTIC MUSEUM in a lovingly restored 1895 1350 Seventh St., 310-395-2290, Queen Anne house. The collection santamonicahistory.org predominantly highlights MUSEUM O F F LYI N G On Main Street, pieces from the 18th to the the residence of early 20th century. 516 Santa Monica’s Jones Colorado Ave., 310-394family, built in 1894, 8331, angelsattic.com is now home to the Along with its CALIFORNIA HERITAGE historic swimming MUSEUM. Changing pool, splash pad, exhibits—anything children’s play area, from quirky collections beach sports, and art and Monterey-style décor to gallery, the ANNENBERG awkward family snapshots—showcase COMMUNITY BEACH HOUSE has a treasure the state’s diverse and rich history, in the MARION DAVIES GUEST HOUSE, while permanent offerings include part of the original 1920s oceanside period furniture and photographs. estate designed by architect Julia 2612 Main St., 310-392-8537, Morgan (of Hearst Castle fame) for californiaheritagemuseum.org William Randolph Hearst’s mistress. At the south side of the Santa Monica Docents lead tours of the house, now Airport, the MUSEUM OF FLYING gives decorated with photos of Davies aeronautically inclined visitors the and her glamorous friends, from chance to try the MaxFlight FS3000 Charlie Chaplin and Flo Ziegfeld 5 0 S A N TA MON I CA OF F I C I A L V I S I TOR S GU I DE

to Marlene Dietrich. A year-round series of free art and cultural events including concerts, talks, readings and exhibitions are available. 415 Pacific Coast Hwy., 310-458-4904, annenbergbeachhouse.com Originally built circa 1899 and occupied as a residence until 1996, the SHOTGUN HOUSE is an awardwinning model of adaptive reuse and sustainability. The subject of a remodel project completed in 2016 under the guardianship of the Santa Monica Conservancy, the house qualifies for Gold LEED certification for its limited use of new materials, its energy efficiency, and its drought-resistant garden. Now the Preservation Resource Center, it provides the community with helpful information about Santa Monica’s history and historic resources as well as methods and benefits of preservation. 2520 Second Street, 310496-3146, smconservancy.org A plaque commemorates the history: THE INKWELL was a two-block stretch of sand between Pico and Bicknell—the only beach local African Americans could enjoy from the early 1900s until 1927, and a favored gathering spot even after racial barriers came down. It was here, too, that Nick Gabaldon, the first black/Mexican American surfer, took to the water. Bay Street and Ocean Front Walk. =

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PLAY

R E A DY T O G E T I N T H E WAT E R ?

BEACH FUN Make the most of the surf with these water sports tips from the pros. BY E LI ZAB ETH TU R N E R

SEASHORE SMARTS

FA R R I G H T : T O P, C O M PA S S A N D C A M E R A / I S T O C K ; M I D D L E , F R E D F R O E S E / I S T O C K

Average ocean temperatures in Santa Monica range from 54°F – 61°F in early February to 63°F – 70°F in early September. Check water safety conditions at ph.lacounty.gov/beach.

Skate, bike, and board rentals are available just north and south of the Pier, and at six Perry’s Café and Beach Rentals (perryscafe.com) locations up and down the bike path.

POSEIDON PA D D L E & S U R F

ITH ITS SOFT SAND, SEA BREEZES, AND AWE-INSPIRING OCEAN

views, Santa Monica is a magnet for visitors who crave a bit of beach time. Luckily, the 3.5-mile length of beach is a short stroll from the majority of Santa Monica hotels. So grab a towel and some SPF, and hit the beach for sunbathing, swimming, or something more adventurous. If you’ve ever dreamed of catching a wave, head straight to the end of Bay Street, where operations like AQUA SURF SCHOOL (2701 Barnard Way, 310-902-7737, aquasurfschool.com) oﬀer private and small-group surf lessons. Wave conditions

Fuel up for your water adventures at Back on the Beach Café (backonthebeachcafe.com) or Perry’s Café (perryscafe.com), where you can nosh with your toes in the sand.

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

PLAY

SEASHORE SMARTS

Even on overcast mornings, be sure to liberally apply waterproof sunblock with a minimum SPF of 30 and reapply often.

at Bay Street are good for beginners, says Solo Scott, a Venice-based former pro surfer–turned–real estate executive who learned to surf in this spot. “The surf schools provide you with the surfboard and the wetsuit. I think it’s money well spent if you’re looking to get the surfing experience.” Another cool option is stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), says Christian Shubin, whose company, POSEIDON PADDLE & SURF (1654 Ocean Ave., 310-694-8428, poseidonstandup.com), offers gear rentals and classes in both sports. Shubin notes that kids and young adults often opt for surfing, while other adults tend to enjoy paddleboarding. “SUP is a little bit more of a lifestyle experience. Once you’re out on the water, it gets really quiet. You might see dolphins, whales, fish, and seals.” Shubin notes another important difference: “On a stand-up paddleboard you’re standing on the board 95 percent of the time, and you’re only in the water when you fall, which is 5 percent of the time.” You won’t need a wetsuit for paddleboarding, but you’ll need one for surfing, especially in the winter months, when ocean temperatures dip below 60°F. “The water warms up pretty significantly in the summer—prime time is usually May through September,” says Scott. “You might be able to get away with not wearing a wetsuit.” =

5 4 S A N TA MON I CA OF F I C I A L V I S I TOR S GU I DE

B OT TO M : YO B R O 1 0 / I STO C K

AQUA SURF SCHOOL

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FA M I LY F U N (C L O C K W I S E F R O M TO P L E F T): B O O K S A N D C O O K I E S, A N N E N B E R G C O M M U N IT Y B E A C H H O U S E P O O L, TR E ATS F R OZ E N YO G U RT A N D D E S S E RT B A R, S A NTA M O N I C A STATE B E A C H

FAMILY

QUALITY TIME Santa Monica has plenty of activities and attractions for your clan. Here are some options to please just about everybody. B Y L I N D A K O S S O F F

T H E G R E AT O U T D O O R S Enjoy the waves from a close distance at the ANNENBERG COMMUNITY BEACH HOUSE (415 Pacific Coast Hwy., 310458-4904, annenbergbeachhouse. com), open from 8:30 a.m. to around sundown all year long. The historic pool and guesthouse, beach courts, and playground headline this popular community destination. Prefer some greenery? Head to any of Santa Monica’s 27 public parks (smgov.net), some of which include splash pads and themed playgrounds. ANNENBERG COMMUNITY BEACH HOUSE

TO P LE F T : L AU R I LE V E N F E LD

INDOOR FUN Nature-loving families can view more than 100 marine species at the SANTA MONICA PIER AQUARIUM (1600 Ocean Front Walk, 310-393-6149, healthebay. org), plus learn how to do their part from environmentalists at Heal the Bay. Or satisfy a hunger for fun at BOOKS AND COOKIES (2309 Main St., 310-452-1301, booksandcookiesla.com), a child-centered zone where toddlers

to tweens can check out some mustreads; participate in music, fitness, and craft activities in the enrichment center; climb, build, and splash in the play area; and top it all off with a baked treat. Save some energy to have a ball at BOWLMOR LANES (234 Pico Blvd., 310-399-7731, bowlmor.com), where the bowling alleys, arcade games, and sports bar ensure there’s something for everyone. Or kick back and take in a family flick at one of Santa Monica’s five movie theaters offering showings on a total of 30 screens.

A R T S & C U LT U R E Aspiring artist or devoted doodler, there’s a place for you at PAINT: LAB (1453 14th St., 310-450-9200, paintlab. net), a walk-in studio staﬀed by pros and equipped with art materials to encourage budding Rembrandts of all ages. Rather observe than create? Plan a visit to MAGICOPOLIS (1418 Fourth St., 310-451-2241, magicopolis. com), a live experience where inexplicable phenomena occur four times a week to packed audiences at this 150-seat venue. For more sweeping theatrical options, check out the SANTA MONICA PLAYHOUSE (1211 Fourth St., 310394-9779, santamonicaplayhouse.com), a not-for-proﬁt theatre and educational conservatory that presents a unique variety of classical and contemporary plays while working to connect and uplift the community. =

J A PA D O G

Grab a Bite FAMILY MEMBERS CAN FUEL

up without losing precious fun time at one of Santa Monica’s many quick snack spots offering high-quality food at friendly prices. Spice up the day with a healthful soft or hard taco or taquito, priced from around $2 to $4, at TACOS POR FAVOR (1408 Olympic Blvd., 310-3925768, tacosporfavor.net). Bring hearty appetites to S HAKA S HACK B U RG E R S

(1701 Ocean Park Blvd., 310450-5551, shakashackburgers. com), a local favorite where classic burgers and fries receive a Hawaiian makeover in a surferinspired setting. Direct your coast-hugging crew to the JAPADOG cart on the Santa Monica Pier. You’ll all be blown away by the selection of hot dogs from plain to insane, thanks to this Canadian chain’s Japanese founders. When dessert time arrives, head over to TR EATS FROZ E N YOG U RT AN D D E SS E RT BAR

(1700 Ocean Park Blvd., 310310-3328, treatsfrozenyogurt. com), whose creamy artisanal treats have garnered enthusiastic praise from local reviewers.

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

SHOP

H I Pâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;TI Q U E

5 8 S A N TA MON I CA OF F I C I A L V I S I TOR S GU I DE

Buy Local Santa Monica is a City of Santa Monica and business community campaign dedicated to raising awareness about the economic, environmental, and community beneďŹ ts of buying locally.

UNIQUE GOODS

B8TA

Must-visit shops you’ll find only in Santa Monica.

PLUS:

BY E LI ZAB ETH TU R N E R

LE FT: J ESSICA SAM PLE

HOPPING IN THE MODERN WORLD MEANS SEEING A LOT OF THE

same stores no matter where you go. For a truly local Santa Monica experience, check out these unique spots. If you have young children in your life, make time for THE ACORN STORE (1220 Fifth St., 310-451-5845, theacornstore.com). The awe-inspiring selection of colorful, well-crafted wooden toys is guaranteed to charm kids and adults alike, and the toys will inspire hours of old-fashioned creative play. For a treasure trove of affordable imported goods from Nepal, Tibet, and India, stop by KATHMANDU BOUTIQUE (1844 Lincoln Blvd., 310-396-4036, kathmanduboutique.com). There you’ll find lightweight linen pants and breezy kurtas, scarves, bags, jewelry, home décor, and bohemian gifts galore. ZJ BOARDING HOUSE (2619 Main St., 310-392-5646, jboardinghouse.com) started as a hole-in-the wall surf and skateboard shop in 1988 and remains a favorite of local surfers and skaters today. Staffed by experienced surfers and skaters, ZJ Boarding House offers surfboard rentals and a large selection of boards, wetsuits, gear, and apparel for purchase. Surrender yourself to the boldly curated selection of women’s clothing and accessories, gifts, ZJ B O A R D I N G H O U S E and décor at the appropriately named HIP’TIQUE (2727 Main St., 310-399-6106, hiptique. com). From over-the-top to just plain funky, Hip’tique’s inventory hits every note. This Santa Monica original has recently opened a second Southern California location.

Mall Favorites Santa Monica’s shopping mecca, Santa Monica Place, leaves no stone unturned when it comes to fulfilling guests’ desires. Treasure-seekers should check out unique shops there such as America’s first CHAN LUU boutique (395 Santa Monica Place, #236, chanluu.com), which offers the designer’s cult-favorite cashmere and silk scarves, fashions, and jewelry, and B8TA (395 Santa Monica Place, Level 2, b8ta.com), a showcase for tech products where you can try and buy the latest innovations. In need of a sightseeing recommendation or a dinner reservation? Text the Concierge (310-499-2928) for assistance in English, Spanish, or Mandarin. Or visit the Concierge Lounge on Level 2 to rest your feet. For a nominal fee, the staff can arrange to have your shopping parcels delivered (within a 10-mile radius) to your home, office, or hotel that same day.

S A N TA MON I CA OF F I C I A L V I S I TOR S GU I DE 5 9

Day Trips

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

AVERAGE TRAVEL TIME

BY B E KAH WR I G HT

MAR I NA D E L R EY 21 minutes (bike)

VE N ICE

12 minutes (bike)

D OWNTOWN L.A.

4 6 minutes (Metro Expo)

B E V E R LY H I L L S 3 0 minutes (c ar)

Marina del Rey G ET TH E RE: Bike along the scenic beach bike path.

HEAD SOUTH OF SANTA MONICA, ROUND the street named Admiralty Way and glimpses of Marina del Rey’s boat docks lure you toward the sea, where water activities from workouts to romantic cruises make the most of North America’s largest marina. The UCLA Recreation Marina Aquatic Center is a one-stop shop for taking to the water with kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), surﬁng, sailing, rowing, and more. Rentals and classes are available. For an extra workout challenge, try YOGAqua’s 90-minute SUP/yoga class. It gives new meaning to the word “balance.” Post-workout, luxuriate in the romance of the sea for a while. Savor a cocktail or dinner aboard a Hornblower Cruise. Sail under the constellations on an intimate Gondolas D’Amore excursion, complete with roses, chocolate, and a singing gondolier on tap. 60

Venice

Beverly Hills

HEARING THE NAME OF THIS BOHEMIAN California neighborhood to the south of Santa Monica brings images of Venice Beach Boardwalk to mind. A colorful array of fortune tellers, tattoo parlors, beach volleyball games, and street performers is always in action here. And be sure to keep an eye out for Venice’s historic murals. Travel inland to Abbot Kinney Boulevard for art galleries, boutiques, and upscale restaurants. A great time to visit is on the ﬁrst Friday of any month, when businesses stay open late and live music and a cavalcade of food trucks create a street party.

G ET TH E RE: Take the Starline Hop-On Hop-Off Tour of Hollywood and Beverly Hills (starlinetours.com).

AMONG THE MOST ICONIC OF BEVERLY Hills’ sights is the famous Rodeo Drive. Here you’ll ﬁnd showrooms for such internationally renowned brands as Burberry, Cartier, Chanel, Dior, Harry Winston, Prada, and Versace, just to name a few. Delve into entertainment industry history with a visit to the Paley Center for Media, where exhibitions and speaking panels explore historic and emerging broadcast technologies.

G ET TH E RE: Bike along the scenic beach bike path or take the Santa Monica Free Ride shuttle (thefreeride.com/ santa-monica.php).

A B B OT K I N N EY B O U L E VA R D, V E N I C E

EXCURSIONS

of traveling installations and events showcasing more esoteric artists. Wander farther out to discover more in galleries featuring local artisans. A great time to catch gallery openings is the second Thursday of each month for the late-night street fete known as the Downtown Los Angeles Art Walk. The Music Center, a performing arts complex that encompasses the Ahmanson Theatre, Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, Mark Taper Forum, and Walt Disney Concert Hall, hosts world-class theatre, dance, music, and opera productions. An iconic structure that is art unto itself, Walt Disney Concert Hall was designed by Frank Gehry and is the residence of the Los Angeles Philharmonic. Visit the GRAMMY Museum® for a look at the history of American music, and to experience a live music event, get tickets in advance to a performance at L.A.’s premier concert venue, STAPLES Center. To fuel your excursion, excellent restaurants abound in Downtown Los Angeles. One great way to taste a sampling of the city’s cuisine with a dose of history is to visit Grand Central Market. Grab a cup of gourmet joe, fresh baked goods, and international fare at this beloved landmark, which also sells produce, dried beans, and meat, and has been going strong since 1917.

GRAND C E NTR A L M A R K ET, D O W NTO W N L.A.

G ET TH E RE:

L E F T : C H A D S M I T H ; R I G H T : S T E P H A N I E P LO M A R I T Y

Take the Metro Expo Line (metro.net).

Wander the grounds of a historic Beverly Hills estate at Greystone Mansion and Gardens. Completed in 1928, this opulent property was once the residence of oil magnate Edward Doheny. Today, the Tudor Revival mansion and its 18.3 acres are on the National Register of Historic Places and serve as a park where visitors can roam, tour, or take in a calendar of events, including music performances.

Downtown L.A. JUST A METRO EXPO LINE RIDE AWAY, Downtown Los Angeles is rich in art and culture. Spend an afternoon on a visit to two of the Museum of Contemporary Art’s (MOCA) locations. Nearly 7,000 pieces of modern art are on display within the collections and exhibitions of MOCA Grand. A short walk leads to the MOCA Geﬀen, which houses a series

Hollywood G ET TH E RE: Ride the Big Blue Bus (bigbluebus.com).

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 takes place on Hollywood Boulevard.

S A N TA MON I CA OF F I C I A L V I S I TOR S GU I DE 6 1

WHERE MAGIC RESIDES FOR A DOSE OF MAGIC, plan for a day at one of the Los Angeles area’s theme parks. Ever since a certain mouse set up house in Anaheim back in 1955, fans have flocked to Disneyland. Today, the Magic Kingdom complex encompasses the original park as well as Disney California Adventure Park. The magic continues at Universal Studios HollywoodSM, where the studio back lot continues to serve as the site of today’s blockbuster films. Topping the list of recently added rides and attractions is The Wizarding World of Harry PotterTM. At Six Flags Magic Mountain, 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 circuitous track.

West Hollywood G ET TH E RE: Take the Metro Rapid Bus (metro.net).

MAKE YOUR WAY EAST (ON THE HISTORIC Route 66—now dubbed Santa Monica Boulevard) through West L.A. and Beverly Hills until you arrive in West Hollywood, or WeHo, as it’s known to locals. A tiny city with a big reputation, it’s a destination in its own right. Visitors to the home of the infamous Sunset Strip can partake in nightlife revelry at exclusive clubs or rock out at a concert at the legendary Troubadour (troubadour.com) or The Roxy Theatre (theroxy.com). Feed your creativity, ﬁll

your closet, and furnish your home in the Design District, anchored by the 1.2 million-square-foot Paciﬁc Design Center (pacificdesigncenter.com), at the intersection of Melrose Avenue and Robertson and Beverly boulevards. Explore the L GBTQ restaurant and nightlife scene on Santa Monica Boulevard and be sure to stop at The Abbey (abbeyweho.com), one of the largest and most popular gay bars in the U.S. Sate your appetite at a celeb-favorite restaurant like Craig’s (craigs.la) or Catch (catchrestaurants. com/catchla), or simply relax with a drink beside one of the many rooftop pools featuring unbeatable vistas.

Malibu G E T T H E R E : Ride the Big Blue Bus (bigbluebus.com). IF YOU DREAM OF RUBBING ELBOWS WITH celebrities on their own turf, set a course north to Malibu. Pick up lunch to-go at Santa Monica’s Urth Caffé on Main Street (urthcaffe.com), then head north on Pacific Coast Highway for endless ocean views. On the way, visit the Getty Villa in Pacific Palisades, sister to the J. Paul Getty Museum, to take in Greek, Roman, and Etruscan antiquities and the property’s gorgeous garden and ocean views (get a free ticket in advance at getty.edu). Several state parks chronicle Malibu’s past and offer scenic views. Visit the historic Adamson House and Malibu Lagoon Museum to examine a 1929 Spanish Revival–style waterfront estate built on a site once inhabited by the Native American Chumash tribe. Hike Malibu Creek State Park to see the filming location for the television series M*A*S*H. Conquer Point Dume Nature Preserve to witness breathtaking cliff-top views. Fans of the Iron Man film franchise will recognize the area as the location of Tony Stark’s mansion. =

N AT H A N I E L C H A D W I C K / U N I V E R S A L S T U D I O S H O L LY W O O D

W IZ A R D I N G WORLD OF H A R RY P OTTE R™

Serving as a hub in the area, Hollywood & Highland is a buzzing entertainment and shopping complex located at the iconic intersection. Immediately recognizable within the complex is the elegant staircase leading to the Dolby Theatre®, in which the Oscars® are presented. When the golden statues are not being bestowed, other events, concerts, and performances hold sway at the Dolby. Next door is the TCL Chinese Theatre. This grande dame has been a Hollywood fixture since 1927, as witnessed by the celebrity hand and foot imprints at its entrance. Red carpet events often take place here as well as across the street at the lavish El Capitan Theatre. Catch one of Hollywood’s newest film releases at either of these famous venues. Can’t get enough of L.A.’s film and movie world? Take a Starline Tour, like the two-hour Movie Stars’ Homes Tour. Afterward, head to the Hollywood Roosevelt hotel for cocktails. You’ll find various lounges within the historic hotel that promise an unforgettable night, but its Library Bar is the embodiment of Hollywood romance.

The fresh new Hampton Inn & Suites in Downtown Santa Monica is four blocks from the iconic Santa Monica Pier, where guests can spend a fun-ﬁlled day at the beach. Business travelers love the prime location in the heart of Silicon Beach and the work-friendly facilities, including complimentary wiﬁ to stay connected. Start your morning with a complimentary hot breakfast buffet and go enjoy all the great experiences in Santa Monica!

Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Los Angeles / Santa Monica 501 Colorado Avenue, Santa Monica, CA 90401 (310) 260-1100 | www.hamptoninn3.hilton.com

EXPERIENCE SOMETHING NEW In the heart of Downtown Santa Monica, the exciting new Courtyard® is right where you want to be. World-class shopping, dining and entertainment are steps away at Santa Monica Place and Third Street Promenade. Catch the Expo Light Rail for easy transportation to Los Angeles neighborhoods including downtown L.A. If you’re visiting the city for business, you’ll love our hotel’s work-friendly facilities and meeting spaces. See you soon at the Courtyard Santa Monica.

COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT® Santa Monica 425 Colorado Avenue Santa Monica, CA 90401 310.394.1700 courtyardsantamonica.com Book now at Courtyard.com

See Los Angeles. Dine Differently. 3-HOUR CRUISE. 4-COURSE DINNER. LIVELY DJ.

Reserve a private table for 2 or 20. Any group’s the right size for a yacht celebration when you’re looking to experience that California lifestyle against a fiery sunset. For other occasions relax with friends and family on a Summer Sunset Cocktail Cruise or toast with bottomless bubbly on a decadent brunch cruise. Visit hornblower.com or call 310-301-9900 for reservations. FOLLOW US

NEWPORT BEACH MARINA DEL REY LONG BEACH SAN DIEGO BERKELEY SAN FRANCISCO NEW YORK

DINE

Acclaimed chef and Santa Monica resident Yousef Ghalaini of FIG Restaurant shares his favorite neighborhood spots.

Local Flavor M Y T OW N

GHALAINI’S TOP THREE A trio of the chef’s favorite dishes represent a global culinary tour.

BY S H E LLEY LEVITT

T H E R O O F T O P AT T H E FA I R M O NT M I R A M A R:

L E F T : M AT T M I L L E R ; R I G H T, T O P : R I C K P O O N

YOUSEF GHALAINI WAS BORN

in Lebanon, raised outside Boston, received his culinary education in Napa Valley, and has helmed kitchens in Florida, New York, and Connecticut. Today, he’s thrilled to keep life local. He’s the executive chef at FIG, the signature restaurant at the Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows, and home is a short bike ride away. “I love living in Santa Monica because it’s a city that’s on the ocean,” Ghalaini says. “It combines urban hustle and bustle with the magic of a vacation spot.” Here are some of his top Santa Monica haunts.

T H E S T R A N D B I K E P AT H : “My idea of a perfect Santa Monica day is stopping at Bay Cities Italian Deli for their Godmother subs, and then hitting the bike path with my girlfriend and riding to Will Rogers State Beach for a picnic and a hike. It’s an amazing ride, about seven miles round trip.”

“Once a day I’ll grab a coﬀee and head up to the roof of the hotel for 10 minutes to be by myself. The rooftop isn’t open to the public, but we have a kitchen garden here, so it’s open to me. On a clear day you can see south to Catalina Island and north to Malibu. It’s a reminder of what an incredible destination I work and live in.”

MAI N STRE ET: “It’s like small-town USA here with some great shops and food. I like to just walk around, and then grab a bite at Ashland Hill, which is a really cool new addition to the neighborhood. They’ve elevated counter service with food of amazing quality.”

S U N B AT H I N G P R AW N S AT CA S S I A “Chilled and served in a Vietnamese hot sauce, they’re spicy, tangy, and peel-and-eat. Worth getting your hands dirty!” 1314 Seventh St., 310-393-6699, cassiala.com

THE CLASSIC AT P O N O B U R G E R

“The burgers here are grilled over an oak ﬁre. I get mine topped with a fried egg and crispy onions.” 829 Broadway, 310-584-7005, ponoburger.com

S A N TA M O N I C A P I E R : “Not every town has a pier; it’s one of the things I love about Santa Monica. It’s a nice walk to the Pier from my house and I sometimes come here at the end of a day. You see guys fishing and laying down crab traps. When it comes to eating, The Albright does a fantastic job with seafood. Everything is sustainably caught and locally sourced, but it has the feeling of an East Coast seafood shack.”

B E E F S HAWAR MA AT S U N N I N L E B A N E S E “This is an amazing sandwich that has the ﬂavors of the home cooking I grew up with.” 525 Santa Monica Blvd., 310-395-3602, sunnin.com

M U LT I S E N S O R Y D E L I G H T S

Tables with aView

Head to these locations for a great outlook on dining. B Y

SHELLEY LEVITT

TH E PE NTHOUSE

C AT C H A N D TE RRAZZA LOU NG E

LOCANDA DE L LAGO*

“In a suburb comprising mostly low-level shops and two-story homes, this ultramodern 18th-floor hotel bar is an unexpected gem.”

“Views of the Pacific Ocean, the beach and sunsets make the setting hard to beat.”

Recipient of W I N E S P E CTATO R Award of Excellence since 1999

F O R B E S T R AV E L G U I D E Recommended Restaurant (2017)

T R AV E L + L E I S U R E “Santa Monica Travel Guide”

YOU’RE SO CLOSE TO THE OCEAN GAUZY WHITE CURTAINS FLUTTER

around the indoor cabanas at this 18th-floor rooftop restaurant, where the chandeliers and the upholstery are white, too. Yes, the design is almost as dramatic as the vistas at The Penthouse Restaurant in the Huntley Hotel. Still, watching the sun sink over the Pacific is hard to beat, especially when the lights of the city are only a swivel away. With breakfast, lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch served here, you can sky-gaze while you go from buttermilk pancakes to steak tartare. 1111 Second St., 310-393-8080, thehuntleyhotel.com

at both of the historic Hotel Casa del Mar’s restaurants that you can almost wiggle your toes in the sand. Terrazza, at the beachfront end of the grand lobby lounge, offers small plates inspired by the Italian seaside. Catch reels in modern American seafood, along with a sampling of sushi and sashimi. The gorgeous raw-bar platter, with the Pacific peeking through the background, is Instagram gold. Live music nightly. 1910 Ocean Way, 310-581-5533, hotelcasadelmar.com

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

WHO SAYS YOU CAN’T BE IN TWO

places at once? This lively trattoria offers a first-row seat to the vibrant parade on Third Street Promenade while offering the cuisine of Milan and the lake regions of Lombardy. Seasonal ingredients are sourced from Santa Monica’s Farmers Market and proteins from local, sustainable ranches and fisheries. Take a seat on the sidewalk patio and enjoy Lake Como specialties like roasted, chilled veal in a tuna-caper aioli or polenta with anchovies and a balsamic glaze. 231 Arizona Ave., 310-451-3525, lagosantamonica.com

R IG HT: LISA ROM E R E I N

DINE

TE R R A ZZ A L O U N G E, H OTE L C A S A D E L M A R

D I NE

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

Good Libations CHEERS!

DINE

Toast the town with a hip sip from the cool and creative bar scene. B Y

SHELLEY LEVITT

HETHER YOUR DRINK OF CHOICE IS A NAPA PINOT, a Central Coast chardonnay, a farm-to-glass cocktail, or a locally brewed craft beer, you’ll ﬁnd countless reasons to raise a glass in Santa Monica. Head up to a rooftop bar or chill on a sprawling sunlit patio—the city’s settings for sipping suit every mood, every day of the week.

CRAFT COCKTAILS

T O P L E F T : S T E P H A N I E P L O M A R I T Y ; T O P M I D D L E : J A K O B N . L AY M A N ; B O T T O M : E M I LY H A R T R O T H

TH E CH ESTN UT CLU B With dim lighting, dark woods, and leather; a no-flip-flops-and-baseballcaps policy; and a curated collection of more than 400 spirits, liqueurs, and fortified wines, The Chestnut Club is a modern cocktail bar for the sophisticated set. The drinks are unfussy, strong, and impeccably mixed, like the four-ingredient Cameron’s Kick (whiskey, scotch, lemon, and orgeat). 1348 14th St., 310-393-1348, thechestnutclubsm.com

ONYX

ESTE RS WI N E SHOP & BAR

Moscow Mule, Manhattan, The Big Easy, Saigon Seduction…the cocktail list may pay homage to some of the world’s great cities, but with a view of the Paciﬁc from this rooftop hotel bar, there’s no mistaking you’re in Santa Monica. Stop in for happy hour (4 p.m. to 6 p.m.) on weekdays or for the sounds of the resident DJ on Saturdays from 8 p.m. to midnight. 1301 Ocean Ave., 310-394-2791, shangrila-hotel.com

Shop, sip, and nibble at this local favorite, which is housed in a beautiful 1937 Art Deco building. Compare ﬁrst impressions with the knowledgeable staﬀ and other guests at the three-sided bar, communal table, or patio. Or deepen your knowledge of Esters’ favorite small wine producers at the weekly Sunday tastings. Eats range from snacks and charcuterie to a full menu after 4 p.m. 1314 Seventh St., 310-899-6900, esterswinebar.com

LOCAL WINES

SONOMA WINE GARDEN TH E M ISFIT

BODEGA

Whatever your pleasure, you’ll find it at this bustling bar just off the Third Street Promenade. The vibe is so warm, you’ll want to take a piece of The Misfit home with you. And you can: The vintage cocktail shakers are for sale. 225 Santa Monica Blvd., 310-656-9800, themisfitbar.com

“Have fun” is rule No. 1 on Bodega’s “manifesto.” You’re certain to do that at this cozy, neighborly spot where the wines, including the bubbly, are aﬀordable and the hit-the-spot bites, from bacon-wrapped dates to a brownie sundae, are made to be shared. Happy hour lasts all day on Monday, and on Tuesdays the beers are half price and the tacos are just $2. 814 Broadway, 310-394-3504, bodegawinebar.com

RAISI N G TH E BAR (CLO CKWISE FRO M TO P LEFT): TH E M ISFIT RESTAU RANT + BAR; TH E WESTSI D E COCKTAIL AT THE CHESTNUT CLUB; SANTA MONICA BREW WO RKS; ESTERS WI N E SH O P & BAR.

There’s a little piece of wine country on the rooftop dining deck at Santa Monica Place. The vino is sourced from all over the world, while the Mediterranean-Cali menu spotlights ingredients from local farmers and purveyors. There’s no better place for weekend brunch than here, where the eats are rustic and the champagne cocktails bottomless. 395 Santa Monica Place, #300, 424-214-4560, sonomawinegarden.com

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

DINE

REGIONAL BEERS T H E D A I LY P I N T

The Best Western Plus Gateway Hotel has the best full-service VALUE in Santa Monica! It is centrally located and perfect for leisure and business travel. Guests will experience accommodations with a contemporary beach décor and pillow top mattresses. The Best Western Plus Gateway Hotel offers 123 guest rooms with a variety of complimentary amenities including underground parking, wifi, in-room Wolfgang Puck coffee/tea, 24 hour fitness room, lobby business center and garden sun decks. A restaurant is conveniently located on the premises offering breakfast, lunch and dinner daily.

Gateway Hotel 1920 Santa Monica Boulevard | Santa Monica, CA 90404 | 310.829.9100 | gatewayhotel.com Each Best Western®branded hotel is independently owned and operated.

Where the little things mean everything. At the DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Santa Monica, we provide special comforts and acts of kindness that make the traveler feel human again. Our luxurious guest suites include all the comforts of home and must-have amenities for business and leisure travelers alike. A warm chocolate chip cookie upon arrival offers you a piece of home and a simple pleasure. We are waiting for you, so please call today to make a reservation. ™

1707 Fourth Street, Santa Monica, CA 90401 310.395.3332 | 800.222.TREE | SantaMonicaSuites.DoubleTree.com 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

Unpretentious but not to be underestimated, the quarter-centuryold Daily Pint has a rotating list of 33 beers on tap and the largest and rarest collection of single-malt whisky west of the Mississippi. You can watch the local teams on the 12-foot big screen or challenge your buds to a friendly game of pool, shuﬄeboard, or foosball. 2310 Pico Blvd., 310-450-7631, thedailypint.net

LI BRARY ALE HOUSE This gastropub has been pouring craft beer on Main Street for more than two decades. Locals ﬂock here not just for the two-dozen-plus lagers, ales, stouts, and malts on tap at any given time, but for the acclaimed Hell Burger (topped with a habanero aioli), ﬁsh tacos, beer-braised mussels, and for weekend brunch, huevos rancheros and sourdough French toast. 2911 Main St., 310-314-4855, libraryalehouse.com

S A N TA M O N I C A B R E W W O R K S “Drink really local” is the motto of the ﬁrst and only craft brewery in Santa Monica. Now, with the opening of their long-awaited tasting room, that’s easier than ever to accomplish. Sample the ﬁve core “beach-brewed” beers and up to 10 specialty suds Wednesday to Friday evenings and beginning at noon on Saturday and Sunday. Specialty brews include Blanco Bronco, Breakfast Beer, Cucumber Kolsch, Chile Pepper Pale, Hazy Does It, and Head in the Clouds, a must-have juicy double IPA. Also look for Santa Monica Brew Works beers on many local restaurant and bar menus. 1920 Colorado Ave., 310-828-7629, santamonicabrewworks.com =

1 P I C O, S H UTTE R S O N TH E B E A C H

DINE

Good Bets for Brunch Try these top spots for the most leisurely meal of the week. B Y

SHELLEY LEVITT

AREAL

BREAD AND PORRIDGE

1 PICO & COAST

“One of 10 best happy hours on the Westside.”

“The gourmet breakfast sausages are the stars of the menu.”

“One Pico represents everything that’s wonderful about beachside dining.”

F R O M M E R ’ S “Los Angeles Travel Guide” Recommended

F O R B E S T R AV E L G U I D E , Recommended Restaurant (2017)

L . A . W E E K LY (June 2016)

HERVE GRISON

RECIPE FOR A PERFECT WEEKEND

morning that morphs into afternoon: a sunlit outdoor patio; a bottomless mimosa; a menu that ranges from the healthy-ish (cured tea-smoked salmon with poached eggs and herb ricotta) to the hearty (short rib hash) to the downright decadent (vanilla-dipped French toast with house-made berry syrup and fresh whipped cream); and then a well-fueled stroll along Main Street. That’s Areal. 2820 Main St., 310-392-1661, arealrestaurant.com

THINK WAFFLES TOPPED WITH

WANT TO INSPIRE ENVY IN LONGTIME

Nutella; French toast stuﬀed with cream cheese and strawberry jam; banana pecan pancakes; and seven types of artisanal breakfast sausage. Since 1994, locals have been coming to Bread and Porridge for breakfast, and it’s not for an egg-white omelet. You can diet tomorrow. Today, try the Granny Smith apple pie. 2315 Wilshire Blvd., 310-453-4941, breadandporridge.com

Angelenos? Say you’re having brunch at 1 Pico or Coast, the two beachfront restaurants at Shutters on the Beach hotel. Settle into a table on the bicycle path at Coast for a Bloody Mary with your steak and eggs. Or listen to the lapping waves from an elegant perch at 1 Pico while feasting on lobster Benedict. 1 Pico Blvd., 310-587-1717 (1 Pico), 310-587-1707 (Coast), shuttersonthebeach.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 1

DINE

FLOWER CHILD Owned by Sam Fox, semiﬁnalist for the J A M E S B E A R D AWA R D S Outstanding Restaurateur for the eighth year in a row (2016)

YOU CAN DO IT IN A BOWL. YOU CAN

do it in a wrap. You can do it to go or on the spot. However you choose to take your mix of organic produce and locally sourced, additive-free proteins, this Santa Monica fast-casual café brings bohemian verve to its menu, with flavor bombs like toasted mulberries and horseradish yogurt. 1332 Second St., Ste. B, 310-382-2901, iamaflowerchild.com

» BAREBURGER

Healthy Bites BY S H E LLEY LEVITT

BAREBURGER Winner of the J A M E S B E A R D F O U N DAT I O N Blended Burger Project™ (2016)

SELF-DESCRIBED AS SERVING

“great-tasting grub with no funny business,” this is no fast-food joint. Dishes on the burger-centric menu feature grass-fed, cage-free, and humanely raised proteins, pesticidefree produce, and fair-trade coffee and desserts. 2732 Main St., 310-392-2122, bareburger.com

KYE’S

ERVEN “Chef Nick Erven pulls from ingredients flavors and textures that you didn’t know they had.”

“As if Santa Monica didn’t already have some great healthy restaurants, this new addition on trendy Montana Avenue has taken them over the top.”

One of “The Freshmen 15 L . A . W E E K LY ’ S Best New Restaurants” (March 2017)

One of U S A TO D AY ’ S “10Best” for Los Angeles

CHEF NICK ERVEN HAS CALLED

GO WHEAT-FREE WITHOUT FEELING

his restaurant “coincidentally vegan.” That means when he followed his favorite global flavors, he happened to end up with a plant-based menu. With “ceviche-style” hominy and a shaved squash sandwich for lunch, and dishes like savory sauerkraut doughnut holes and Korean “gnocchi” for dinner, even die-hard carnivores can dine with relish here. 514–516 Santa Monica Blvd., 310-260-2255, ervenrestaurant.com

deprived at this Montana Avenue “sandwich” shop where bread has been given the boot. Instead, fillings like barbecued pork, seared salmon, miso-glazed chicken, marinated tempeh, and avocado and pressed veggies are wrapped in romaine lettuce, collard greens, or nori. House-made beverages include the Ayurvedic One a Day, bobas, and teas. 1518 Montana Ave, 310-395-5937, kyesmontana.com

7 2 S A N TA MON I CA OF F I C I A L V I S I TOR S GU I DE

RIGHT: MARIE BUCK

These cafés serve up clean eats that pack a ﬂavor punch.

DRINKS AND DINING SANTA MONICA

DELFRISCOSGRILLE.COM

DINE

F O R K I N TH E R O A D

A Farm-to-Table Focus

Sure, you might spot a celebrity or two, but locally sourced, seasonal ingredients are the true stars at these Santa Monica eateries. B Y S H E L L E Y L E V I T T F I G R E S TA U R A N T

FORK I N TH E ROAD

For an interview with FIG chef Yousef Ghalaini, see Local Flavor, page 65.

“The 62-seat space is … more beautiful than ever, with a strong Cal-Med menu from chef Marco Manca.”

THIS MARKETPLACE AND CAFÉ

on the rooftop dining deck of Santa Monica Place was started by two best friends, whose fare reflects their commitment to supporting local producers. Pick up the makings for a beach picnic—house-made pickles, cheese and charcuterie, and muffaletta Stromboli. Or dine in on handmade pastas, grass-fed beef burgers, “handhelds” that include an heirloom tomato BLT, and entrées like beer-poached peel-and-eat wild shrimp. 395 Santa Monica Place, 310-395-2901, thecuriouspalate.com

FOR SEASONAL MEDITERRANEAN-

inspired fare, visit this bistro at the Fairmont Miramar Hotel, where dishes like beets, wild sea bass, Brussels sprouts, Jidori chicken, halloumi cheese, and lamb sausage pizza come fresh from the woodfired oven or grill. The Bread Balloon, served with spreads such as hummus, labneh, and warm curried lentils, emerges inflated and charred, drawing oohs from newcomers and knowing nods from regulars. 101 Wilshire Blvd., 310-319-3111, figsantamonica.com

7 4 S A N TA MON I CA OF F I C I A L V I S I TOR S GU I DE

LO S A N G E L E S E AT E R (December 2016)

LOOK FOR THE GINORMOUS FORK

on the façade of this 62-seat Main Street bistro, where old-world finesse meets farm-fresh ingredients in inventive dishes like lavender-tomato tarte tatin, spicy Bloody Mary spaghetti squash, and yellowtail crudo with a tarragon-spiced pesto. The craft cocktails include virgin libations like Grapes of Wrath, a mix of grapefruit juice, ginger beer, and rosemary. 2424 Main St., 310-4502244, forkintheroadsantamonica.com

J E FF CH R ISTE NSE N

TH E CU RIOUS P A L AT E

Find yourself…Swept away by the breathtaking 180-degree views of the Pacific Ocean, while dining on our seasonal menu which features fresh, sustainable and wild seafood, locally-grown produce, whole live Main Lobster, and seasonal local Californian Spiny Lobster. The sunsets are unforgettable. For brunch, lunch, dinner, or Happy Hour. With family, friends, special events, or a romantic dinner for two.

1602 Ocean Avenue, Santa Monica | Reservations 310.458.9294 | www.lobster.com

Mozzarella Bar “Here we have sourced the best products from the best producers in Italy for your enjoyment as ‘Food to share’”. Alessandro Borghese, Obicà Creative Chef.

“CUCINARE È

UN ATTO D’AMORE”

606 Broadway, Santa Monica 90401 310) 393-6633 Obicà is also in West Hollywood and Century City obica.com

DINE

Dining Guide THE ALBRIGHT S EAFOOD

258 Santa Monica Pier 310-394-9683 thealbright.com L D $$

BACK O N T H E B E ACH CAFÉ CA L I F O R N I A N

445 Pacific Coast Hwy. 310-393-8282 backonthebeachcafe.com B L ; D (MAY- O CT.) $ $

C AT C H

D EL FR I S CO’S GRILLE

S EAFOOD

1910 Ocean Way 310-581-5533 hotelcasadelmar.com D $$$

C H E Z J AY STEAK S, S EAF OOD, B R U N CH

1657 Ocean Ave. 310-395-1741 chezjays.com

A M E R I CA N , B R U N C H

1551 Ocean Ave. 310-395-7333 delfriscosgrille.com/ santa-monica

1 PICO

I V Y AT T H E S H O R E

A M E R I CA N , M E D ITE R RAN EAN, B R U NCH

A M E R I CA N

1535 Ocean Ave. 310-393-3113 theivyrestaurants.com

L D $$

COA S T S E A F O O D , CA L I F O R N I A N , B R U NCH

1 Pico Blvd. 310-587-1707 shuttersonthebeach.com B L D $$

B L D $$$

J A PA D O G

( F O O D S TA N D )

H OT D OG S

350 Santa Monica Pier japadog.com/ santa_monica_pier.html L D $

TH E A L B R I G HT

V E R A N D A R E STA U R A NT

L $$ D $$$

A M E R I CA N , B R U N C H

1733 Ocean Ave. 424-292-5222 j-fat.com

RUST Y’S SURF RANCH S E A F O O D , A M E R I CA N

256 Santa Monica Pier 310-393-7437 rustyssurfranch.com

T E R R A Z Z A LO U N G E ITALIAN, S EAF OOD, B R U N CH

1910 Ocean Way 310-581-5533 hotelcasadelmar.com B L $$

L D $$

T H E LO B S T E R

S EAFOOD, B R U NCH

L D $$$

L D $$

J I M M Y ’ S FA M O U S A M E R I C A N TAV E R N

1602 Ocean Ave. 310-458-9294 thelobster.com

1 Pico Blvd. 310-587-1717 shuttersonthebeach.com

V ER A N DA R E S TA U R A N T A M E R I CA N ( N E W ) , M E D ITE R RAN EAN

1415 Ocean Ave. 310-395-9945 georgianhotel.com B L D $$

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

LE FT: KR ISTE N B E I N KE

Santa Monica Pier Area/ Ocean Avenue

Santa Monica has more than 400 restaurants offering a diverse array of cuisines. In this guide, you’ll ﬁnd a sampling of eateries in each of the city’s distinct neighborhoods. For a complete dining list, visit santamonica.com.

BAREBURGER

M I C H A E L’ S CA L I F O R N I A N

1147 Third St. 310-451-0843 michaelssantamonica.com L D $$$

OBICÀ M OZ Z A R EL L A BA R I TA L I A N , B R U N C H

606 Broadway 310-393-6633 obica.com L D $$

THE PENTHOUSE A M E R I CA N ( N E W ) , B R U N C H

1111 Second St. 310-393-8080 thehuntleyhotel.com/penthouse B L D $$$

SUNNIN LEBANESE LE BAN E S E

525 Santa Monica Blvd. Ste. 120 310-395-3602 sunnin.com CASSIA

L D $$

TRUE FOOD K I TC H E N

Downtown Santa Monica/Third Street Promenade

LE FT: R ICK POON; R IG HT: ASH LEY SEARS

A M E R I CA N ( N E W ) , B R U N C H

CAS SIA

ERVEN

F R I T TO M I S TO

AS IAN-FR E NCH

VEGAN

I TA L I A N

1314 Seventh St. 310-393-6699 cassiala.com

514–516 Santa Monica Blvd. 310-260-2255 ervenrestaurant.com

601 Colorado Ave. 310-458-2829 frittomistoitaliancafe.com

D $$$

L D $$

THE CURIOUS PA L AT E

F LOW E R C H I L D

LO CA N DA D E L L AG O

A M E R I CA N ( N E W ) , CRAFT B E E R

395 Santa Monica Place 310-395-2901 thecuriouspalate.com L D $$

V E G E TA R I A N , V E G A N , B R U NCH

1332 Second St. 310-382-2901 iamaflowerchild.com L D $

I TA L I A N

231 Arizona Ave. 310-451-3525 lagosantamonica.com L D $$

395 Santa Monica Place Ste. 172 310-593-8300 truefoodkitchen.com L D $$

$ = U N D E R $1 0 $$ = $1 0 – $3 0 $$$ = $3 1 – $6 0 $$$$ = OV E R $6 0

*Santa Monica Certified Green Businesses

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

$ = U N D E R $ 10 $$= $1 0–$ 3 0 $$$ = $ 31–$ 6 0 $$$$ = OVE R $ 6 0

*SGreen anta Monica Certified Businesses Main Street AREAL

STE L L A B A R R A P IZZ E R I A

A M E R I CA N ( N E W ) , B R U N C H

L D $$

AU S S I E P I E K I TC H E N AU S T R A L I A N

2510 Main St., #B 310-399-0743 aussiepiekitchen.com

ENTER PR I S E FI S H CO.

STELL A BARRA PIZZERIA

174 Kinney St. 310-392-8366 enterprisefishco santamonica.com

2000 Main St. 310-396-9250 stellabarra.com

L D $$

F O R K I N T H E R OA D

THREE T WINS ICE CREAM

CA L I F O R N I A N H E A LT H FOOD

ICE CR EAM

1518 Montana Ave. 310-395-5937 kyesmontana.com

CA L - M E D I T E R R A N E A N , B R U NCH

BAREBURGER

2424 Main St. 310-450-2244 forkintheroad santamonica.com

2732 Main St. 310-392-2122 bareburger.com

I TA L I A N , B R U N C H

A M E R I CA N , C R A F T B E E R

1018 Montana Ave. 310-736-2224 fathersoffice.com D $$

K Y E’ S

L D ; B (W E E K E N D S ) $

A M E R I CA N

FAT H E R ’ S O F F I C E

S EAFOOD

2726 Main St. 310-399-8946 threetwinsicecream.com

R + D K I TC H E N

D $$$

L D $$

F O R K I N TH E R O A D

B L D $$

URTH CAFFÉ

A M E R I CA N

A M E R I CA N , C O F F E E & T E A

1323 Montana Ave. 310-395-3314 rd-kitchen.com

2327 Main St. 310-314-7040 urthcaffe.com

L D $$

B L D $$

S W E E T L A DY J A N E

Montana Avenue A R T ’ S TA B L E A M E R I CA N ( N E W ) , B R U NCH

1002 Montana Ave. 310-395-2500 artstablesm.com L D $$

CA F É , D E S S E R T S

1631 Montana Ave. 310-254-9499 sweetladyjane.com B L D $$

Pico Boulevard T H E B R I X TO N A M E R I CA N , B R U N C H

BEAMING J U I CE BAR & S M OOTH I E S

1426 Montana Ave. 310-299-7622 livebeaming.com B L $$

2827 Pico Blvd. 310-449-4567 thebrixtonsm.com L D $$

TO P : A N JA LI M . P I N TO ; B OT TO M : J E F F C H R I ST E N S E N

2820 Main St. 310-392-1661 arealrestaurant.com

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR MOST LOVED SANTA MONICA BUSINESS WINNERS OF 2017 You voted. We listened. The 4th Annual Most Loved Santa Monica Contest, presented by Buy Local Santa Monica and the Santa Monica Daily Press, invited residents of all ages, local employees, and visitors to participate. From most loved bike shop to favorite happy hour, we put the call out to discover and celebrate the Most Loved Businesses in Santa Monica.

Art Gallery/Gift Shop Featuring LocallyMade Products

2017

Ten Women Gallery Auto-Centric Business

StayJax

Bike Centric Business

Helenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cycles Business with a Mural

ZJ Boarding House/ Artist Kristel Lerman Clothing Boutique Featuring Sustainable/Reused Products

Assistance League of Santa Monica Coffee Shop/Bakery

Groundwork Coffee Fitness Studio

Orange Theory Fitness Happy Hour

Enterprise Fish Company Hotel/Motel for a Staycation

Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows Kid-Centric Business

Swim With Heart

Live Music/ Entertainment Venue

Harvelleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Natural/Organic/ Health Food Store

Co-Opportunity Natural Foods

Pet-Centric Business

Healthy Spot

To learn more about the Most Loved Santa Monica Businesses and Buy Local visit BuyLocalSM.com.

Restaurant Featuring Locally-Sourced Ingredients

Santa Monica Seafood Salon/Spa

Salon Tru

Surf/Skate Shop

ZJ Boarding House SM Farmer

Murray Family Farms SM Farmers Market Prepared Food Vendor

Bezian Bakery

SM Tech Start-Up

Nimble Inc.

Best SM Vibe

Orange Theory Fitness Most Loved Business in Downtown SM

Salon Tru

Most Loved Business on Main Street

Dolcenero Gelato Most Loved Business on Montana Avenue

m0851

Most Loved Business on Pico Boulevard Sewing Arts Center Most Loved Business on SM Pier

The Albright Most Loved LocallyOwned/ Independent Business

Sewing Arts Center

SUPPORT

DINE

LO / CA L CO F F E E & MARKET COFFE E & TEA

2214 Pico Blvd. 424-322-2710 local-coffee.com B L $

REJUICE J U ICE S, S M OOTH I E S, VE GAN

3238 Pico Blvd. 310-399-0001 rejuicela.com B L D $

S AT D H A PL ANT- BAS ED T H A I K I TC H E N THAI, VEGAN

2218 Lincoln Blvd. 310-450-6999 satdhakitchen.com

Westside Family Health Center, founded in 1974, is a UVU WYVÄ[ JVTT\UP[` OLHS[O JLU[LY WYV]PKPUN H ^PKL YHUNL VM SV^ JVZ[ OLHS[O JHYL ZLY]PJLZ HUK LK\JH[PVU [V TVYL [OHU SV^ PUJVTL HUK \UPUZ\YLK ^VTLU TLU HUK JOPSKYLU YLNHYKSLZZ VM [OLPY HIPSP[` [V WH` ;V SLHYU TVYL HIV\[ >-/* WSLHZL ]PZP[ www.wfhcenter.org.

SWEET ROSE CREAMERY ICE CR EAM & FROZ E N YO G U R T

826 Pico Blvd. 310-260-2663 sweetrosecreamery.com L D $

VA L E N T I N O I TA L I A N

3115 Pico Blvd. 310-829-4313 valentinosanta monica.com L D $$$

S W E ET R O S E C R E A M E RY

@V\Y KVUH[PVU ^PSS OLSW [V WYV]PKL JVTWYLOLUZP]L OPNO X\HSP[` HUK HMMVYKHISL OLHS[O JHYL [V [OVZL PU V\Y JVTT\UP[` ^OV ULLK P[ TVZ[ 1711 Ocean Park Boulevard Santa Monica

Mid-City

LIME CAFÉ

BAY CITIES ITALIAN D E L I & BAKERY

1800 Stewart St. 424-280-5463 limesantamonica.com

I TA L I A N

B L $

1517 Lincoln Blvd. 310-395-8279 baycitiesitaliandeli.com

PONO BURGER

CA F É

L $

B U R G E R S , H AWA I I A N

T H E B U F FA LO CLUB

829 Broadway 310-584-7005 ponoburger.com

A M E R I CA N

L D $$

1520 Olympic Blvd. 310-450-8600 thebuffaloclub.com

TA C O S P O R FAV O R

D $$$

M E X I CA N

1408 Olympic Blvd. 310-392-5768 tacosporfavor.net B L D $

$ = U N D E R $1 0 $$= $1 0 – $3 0 $$$ = $3 1 – $6 0 $$$$ = OV E R $6 0

Santa Monica Certified Green Businesses

B O T T O M L E F T : E M I LY H A R T R O T H

L D $$

ERVEN

F I G R E STA U R A NT

T I AT O AS IAN

MÉLISSE FR E NCH

2700 Colorado Ave. 310-866-5228 tiato.com

1104 Wilshire Blvd. 310-395-0881 melisse.com

B L $$

D $$$$

T R U X TO N ’S AMERICAN BISTRO

SPINFISH POKÉ HOUSE

A M E R I CA N , B R U N C H

808 Wilshire Blvd. 310-260-1321 spinfishpoke.com

H AWA I I A N

1329 Santa Monica Blvd. 310-393-8789 truxtonsamerican bistro.com

L D $$

M E X I CA N , B R U N C H

Wilshire Boulevard

2460 Wilshire Blvd. 310-828-2115 tacotecasm.com

BREAD AND PORRIDGE

L D $$

A M E R I CA N

2315 Wilshire Blvd. 310-453-4941 breadandporridge.com B L $$

Ocean Park Boulevard/ Santa Monica Airport Area CRIMSON

BRU’S WIFFLE A M E R I CA N

2408 Wilshire Blvd. 310-453-2787 bruswiffle.com B L $$

CH R ISTIAN HORAN

F I G R E S TA U R A N T M E D ITE R RAN EAN, B R U NCH

101 Wilshire Blvd. 310-319-3111 figsantamonica.com B L D $$ $

I TA L I A N , B R U N C H

1736 Ocean Park Blvd. 310-396-9007 localkitchenand winebar.com L D $$

With Old Hollywood beauty and grace, the historic Georgian Hotel delivers timeless appeal. Discover the crown jewel of Santa Monica where no two sunsets are ever the same. Delight even more with an exclusive 20% Off your next stay.

THE OP CAFE A M E R I CA N

3117 Ocean Park Blvd. 310-452-5720 theopcafe.com

PROMO CODE SMTT. MUST BOOK DIRECT. SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY.

B L $$

TA C O T E C A

L D $$

LO CA L K I TC H E N + WINE BAR

EVER THE LADY

M E D ITE R RAN EAN

2901 Ocean Park Blvd. 310-396-2400 crimsonla.com B L D $$

JUICE CRAFTERS J U I CE S & S M OOTH I E S

2811 Ocean Park Blvd. 310-399-5500 juicecrafters.com B L $

S H A K A S H ACK BURGERS B U R G E R S , H AWA I I A N

1701 Ocean Park Blvd. 310-450-5551 shakashackburgers.com L D $

THYME CAFE & MARKET A M E R I CA N ( N E W ) , M E D ITE R RAN EAN

1630 Ocean Park Blvd. 310-399-8800 thymecafeandmarket.com B L D $$

T R E AT S F R O Z E N YO G U R T A N D DESSERT BAR F R O Z E N YO G U R T, D E SS E RTS

1700 Ocean Park Blvd. 310-310-3328 treatsfrozenyogurt.com L D $

GEORGIANHOTEL.COM

CALENDAR

EVENTS

Heralding free movies, athletic races, holiday events, shopping, festivities, and more, Santa Monica’s entertainment calendar shines in every season.

Summer: June–August EAT | SEE | HEAR M AY– S E PT E M B E R , 2017

This slate of outdoor movies kicks off in May (and runs through September), taking place around L.A., including at Santa Monica High School, and is accompanied by some of the best food trucks in SoCal. Bonus: Leashed pets are welcome! eatseehear.com

SANTA MONICA PIER PADDLEBOARD RACE

SUNSET SWIMS

OPERA AT THE BEACH

FALL FLAVOR

J U LY– S E P T E M B E R, 2 0 1 7

S E PTE M B E R 2 3 , 2 0 1 7

Enjoy summer evenings at Annenberg Community Beach House’s sunset swims. These adult-only pool sessions happen on select dates, so be sure to check their website for details. beachhouse.smgov.net

Pack a picnic and take in the sensual arias of Carmen under the stars as LA Opera presents a live, big-screen broadcast of the performance in high definition on the Pier. santamonica.com/event/ opera-at-the-beach or laopera.org/operaatthebeach

Get holiday ready with autumn-inspired cooking/ baking classes at The Gourmandise School of Sweets & Savories. thegourmandiseschool.com

JAZZ ON THE LAWN AU G UST 2 0 1 7

The 12th anniversary of this free, family-friendly sampling of jazz happens Sunday evenings in Stewart Park. smgov.net/jazz

J U N E 1 0 , 2017

FARMERS MARKETS

Cheer on elite paddlers as they vie for $15,000 in prize money at this history-steeped race just south of the Pier. santamonicapier.org/pier-paddle

Santa Monica’s four farmers markets run year-round, but summer is high season, with great people watching, not to mention an array of sweet seasonal fruits and vegetables. (See page 14 or santamonica. com for details.)

MAIN STREET SUMMER SOULSTICE J U N E 2 5 , 2017

Live music takes over Main Street, with multiple stages and acts performing throughout the day. mainstreetsm.com

Fall: September– November

FOURTH OF JULY PARADE

ROGA RUN+YOGA

J U LY 4 , 2 0 17

SE PTE M B E R 9– O CTO B E R 1 4 , 2 0 1 7

A true slice of local life, this patriotic annual community celebration draws thousands of spectators along Main Street. The parade begins at Main and Pico at 9:30 a.m., and heads as far south as Marine Street. opa-sm.org/parade

S A NTA M O N I C A P I E R PA D D L E B O A R D R A C E

Meet for a brisk two- to five-mile run around the beach, followed by asanas and deep breaths of ocean air at the end of the pier. BYOM (bring your own mat); beginners welcome. santamonicapier.org/roga

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

COAST, CITY OF SANTA MONICA’S OPEN STREETS EVENT O CTO B E R 1 , 2 0 1 7

FRONT PORCH CINEMA Pull up a lawn chair and an extra-warm blanket for these free films on Fridays after dark at the Pier. Expect food vendors, cocktails, and the occasional special guest. santamonicapier.org/ frontporchcinema

Two miles of Santa Monica streets—along Ocean, Colorado, and Main—will be closed to automotive traffic for unfettered bicycle- and pedestrian-friendly exploration. The route will be dotted with performances, class demonstrations, and local vendors. mainstreetsm.com/ coast-open-streets-day

OFF-SEASON BEACH ESCAPES

FARMERS MARKET HALLOWEEN

Fall is the perfect time to enjoy Santa Monica’s sandy beaches and stunning sunsets with typically smaller crowds and sunny, warm weather into November. In October, don’t miss Front Porch Cinema, outdoor movies hosted by Santa Monica Pier. santamonicapier.org/ frontporchcinema

Get your pumpkin and carve it, too—every year, the Wednesday Downtown farmers market hosts an “all-you-can-carry” pumpkin patch, in which you get to keep as many pumpkins as you can hold, all for one price. Don’t miss the kid-favorite no-carve pumpkin decorating event at the Pico market. smgov.net/farmersmarket

S E PTE M B E R 2 9 – O CTO B E R 2 7, 2 0 1 7

S U N S ET S W I M S AT A N N E N B E R G C O M M U N IT Y BEACH HOUSE

GOURMANDISE SCHOOL

WOODLAWN CEMETARY DÍA DE LOS MUERTOS O CTO B E R 29, 2017, 12–4 p.m.

The City of Santa Monica’s sixth annual celebration of life and death features a procession and ceremonial blessing, music, dance, workshops, storytelling, and food. Free admission. smgov.net/dia

THANKSGIVING Skip the cooking and savor Santa Monica’s culinary scene with family and friends— many local restaurants and hotels host special Thanksgiving meals. santamonica.com/thanksgiving

DOWNTOWN SANTA MONICA & SANTA MONICA PLACE HOLIDAY EVENTS

FA R R I G H T : W I L L I A M S H O R T P H O T O G R A P H Y

N OVE M B E R 1, 2017– JA N UARY 2018

Downtown Santa Monica transforms into a winter wonderland complete with ice-skating, tree and menorah lightings, Santa visits, and much more. downtownsm.com/winterlit

Winter: December– February MONTANA AVENUE HOLIDAY WALK DECE M B E R 1, 2017

Find the perfect presents at this event for all ages featuring live music, Santa Claus, and can’t-miss sales. montanaave.com

PICO HOLIDAY HOP DECE M B E R 2017

Indulge in some holiday cheer with the Pico Improvement Organization as they celebrate the season with a special event. picopassport.com

MAIN STREET HOLIDAY EVENT & HOLIDAY PARTIES DECE M B E R 2017

Celebrate the season with a tree lighting at the California Heritage Museum, candlelit walks to the famous Shopping Cart Tree, and festive bashes hosted by Main Street stores. mainstreetsm.com

HOLIDAY SHOPPING Santa Monica’s holiday shopping scene boasts sunny outdoor shopping areas like Main Street, Montana Avenue, Third Street Promenade, and Santa Monica Place. santamonica.com/shopping

SANTA MONICA RESTAURANT WEEK JAN UARY 2 0 1 8

The city’s most renowned chefs create healthy, New Year’s resolution–friendly cuisine. santamonica.com/ restaurantweek

VALENTINE’S DAY F E B R UARY 1 4 , 2 0 1 8

Couples can share a romantic dinner, sip cocktails at sunset, and soak in spectacular ocean views at one of many esteemed dining destinations. Check santamonica.com for special deals.

Spring: March–May WAKE UP WITH THE WAVES SPR I NG 2018

Santa Monica Pier’s free children’s concert series offers fresh air and fun on Saturday mornings for families and friends with kids ages 2 to 12.

SKECHERS PERFORMANCE LOS ANGELES MARATHON MAR C H 1 8 , 2 0 1 8

Gather along Ocean Avenue to cheer on marathon participants as they cross the finish line in Santa Monica. lamarathon.com

EARTH DAY AT SANTA MONICA PIER AQUARIUM

AP R I L 2 2 , 2 0 1 8

Celebrate Earth Day with an exploration of more than 100 amazing species of marine animals and plants, all found in the Santa Monica Bay. healthebay.org

MOTHER’S DAY BRUNCH MAY 2 0 1 8

Toast Mom with a sunny array of local brunch options, from classic bacon and eggs to lobster and Champagne. santamonica.com

AIRPORT ARTWALK MAR C H 2 0 1 8

Explore 60 artist studios and other creative venues filling the airport’s converted airplane hangars, where you can enjoy art and ceramic demonstrations, theater and art workshops, live music, and food-truck fare.

CHECK santamonica.com/events for the latest information on local happenings.

RESOURCES

BY AI R LOS ANGELES INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (LAX):

Only 8 non-freeway miles (13 kilometers) from Santa Monica, LAX is the closest airport, with bus service and shuttles. lawa.org/welcomelax.aspx

IN THE KNOW Use this handy guide to services and tips to enhance your stay.

Santa Monica offers more than its beach and its 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 its unmatched public transportation system, metropolitan convenience.

Transportation options from LAX include: SHUTTLES

Rates for vans between LAX and Santa Monica start at approximately $23 per person one-way, $12–$15 round-trip per person ($9–$10 for each additional person), not including tip. Shuttles are located on the lower (Arrivals) level. Among the available shuttle service companies are SuperShuttle (800-258-3826, supershuttle.com) and Prime Time Shuttle (310-536-7922, primetimeshuttle.com). RIDE SHARE SERVICES

Uber and Lyft drivers can now drop off and pick up LAX passengers. Rates to or from Santa Monica start around $15, but vary by time and number of passengers; there is a $4 surcharge for rides to or from LAX. Look for round Ride Service Pick Up signs on the upper (Departures) level.

TAXIS

From LAX to Santa Monica, the charge ranges from $30–$35, depending on location, plus tip (15 to 20 percent of fare). A $4 surcharge is levied on trips originating from LAX.

BY BUS BIG BLUE BUS: Need a ride to 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 Rapid 3 line runs between the Metro Green Line Aviation Station and Downtown Santa Monica, with additional stops within the city. From the transportation islands at the airport, shuttles run to and from the Green Line Station (Route G) and to the LAX City Bus Center transit station (Route C) at Parking Lot C, which is the best place to catch the Rapid 3. Allow about 20 to 30 minutes for shuttle connection and travel. The local route 3, which makes more stops en route to Santa Monica, also operates from the transit center at Parking Lot C. 310-451-5444, bigbluebus.com

B Y R E N TA L C A R All major car rental agencies operate at the nearby airports. HOLLYWOOD BURBANK AIRPORT (BUR)

Approximately 25 miles northeast of Santa Monica in Burbank 818-840-8840, bobhopeairport.com

K I M B A LL H A LL P H OTO G R A P H Y

Getting to Santa Monica

Bayside Hotel

stay a while. play a while.

THE INSIDERâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S HOTEL CHOICE FOR SANTA MONICA

BOUTIQUE COMFORT, PRICED INTELLIGENTLY

Imagine a stylish little gem of a hotel, located just steps from the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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.

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 Ã&#x201E;UK 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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Approximately 50 miles southeast of Santa Monica 949-252-5200, ocair.com LONG BEACH AIRPORT (LGB)

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

Approximately 8 miles south of Santa Monica 855-463-5252, lawa.org/welcomelax.aspx ONTARIO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (ONT)

Approximately 60 miles east of Santa Monica 909-937-2700, ﬂyontario.com

BY TRAI N AMTRAK operates out of

Union Station in Downtown Los Angeles. Taxis, shuttles, and buses operated by the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro), or the Big Blue Bus (Rapid 10) connect to Santa Monica. 800-872-7245, amtrak.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.

Getting Around Santa Monica With numerous public transit options, it’s easy to go car-free in Santa Monica. Whether you hop on the Metro Expo Line light rail to get from the western to eastern edge of the city or you rent a bike to travel the streets in between, there are plenty of ways to cruise around town. Read on to learn more or visit santamonica.com/ car-free.

ON FOOT Most hotels, attractions, and primary shopping and dining spots are within easy walking distance of one another. The city is easily and safely explored on foot, but visitors are urged to be alert and watch the road. For pedestrian safety tips, visit smgov.net/ portals/pedsafety. • Pedestrians may only cross Santa Monica’s streets in marked crosswalks (crossing outside of a marked crosswalk— jaywalking—is an offense and police will ticket violators). • Although pedestrians have the right-of-way at crosswalks, use caution and try to make eye

contact with drivers to make sure they have seen you and are actually stopping. • Cross only when the walk sign is activated. • Use extra care when walking with children. • Avoid texting or wearing headphones or ear buds while walking through the city to reduce potentially dangerous distractions. • 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 to cross in every direction, including diagonally, at the same time.

BY BICYCLE Santa Monica is a bicyclefriendly city with well-marked routes and green bike lanes. It’s a fun, economical, and green way to explore. Bicycles, electric bikes, mopeds, and motorized scooters are legal on Santa Monica streets. Riders must follow all standard trafﬁc rules, and riders under 18 must wear a helmet. Motorized scooter riders must be at least 16 years old. For bicycle safety tips, visit

smgov.net/departments/pcd/ transportation/bicyclists. Breeze Bike Share is a citywide public bike share program boasting 500 bikes available at 80-plus hubs throughout the city of Santa Monica and additional bonus hubs in neighboring Venice. For locations and more information on how Breeze works, visit santamonicabikeshare.com.

BY RAI L Opened in 2016, the Metro Expo Line light rail connects three stations in Santa Monica to Downtown Los Angeles. Additionally, scores of Metro rail and bus lines link visitors to Long Beach, Pasadena, the San Fernando Valley, the South Bay, and dozens of points in between. 323-466-3876, metro.net INSIDER TIP: You can buy a TAP card and load it with a Metro Day Pass ($7 regular fare; $2.50 seniors/disabled/ Medicare) at any of the Metro Expo Line station TAP vending machines, good for unlimited rides all day on all Metro rail and bus lines. Use the same TAP card for return visits.

JOHN WAYNE AIRPORT (SNA)

Beautifully renovated property which offers affordable accommodations. We are located just 9 blocks from the beach, the world-famous Santa Monica Pier and 3rd Street Promenade. 2102 Lincoln Boulevard, Santa Monica CA, 90405 | 310-392-6806 info@santamonicamotel.com | santamonicamotel.com

All Trails Lead to Travelodge Minutes to Beaches, Westwood Beverly Hills, Century City & Hollywood

In-Room Coffee Free Hi-Speed Internet Free Bear BitesÂŽ Breakfast 39â&#x20AC;? HDTV w/movie Channels 4 Electric Vehicle Chargers Courtyard w/BBQ & Picnic Tables Business Center Some Rooms Pet Friendly (Contact Hotel Directly for Information)

FREE Parking!

3102 Pico Blvd. Santa Monica, CA 90405

RESOURCES

BY BUS

TAXI! TAXI!

310-444-4444, santamonicataxi.com YELLOW CAB CO.

424-222-2222, layellowcab.com

BIG BLUE BUS: Santa

Monica’s Big Blue Bus serves Santa Monica, West Los Angeles, 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. Route information, day passes, and transit passes are available at Blue: The Transit Store (1334 5th St.), 310-451-5444, bigbluebus.com. 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. LOS ANGELES COUNTY METROPOLITAN TRANSIT

Travel Tips

B Y TA X I BELL CAB

888-481-2345, labellcab.com INDEPENDENT CAB CO.

800-521-8294, taxi4u.com METRO CAB SANTA MONICA

310-444-7777, metrocabsm.com

DOWNTOWN S A N TA M O N I C A CURRENCY EXCHANG E A+ CURRENCY EXCHANGE –

TI PPI NG

CURRENCY EXCHANGE

BAN KI NG & CURRENCY 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

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

COM PUTE R & E LECTRICAL S TA N D A R D S

TRAVELEX CURRENCY

Heal the Bay, the 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 smgov.net/portals/beach.

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.

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

395 Santa Monica Place (Santa Monica Place, Level 2), 310-393-7444; open daily

1424 Fourth St., Ste. 403, 310-394-7211

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

UCLA MEDICAL CENTER, SANTA MONICA

For a map of city Wi-Fi locations, visit any of the Santa Monica Visitor Information Centers or check online at smgov.net/ departments/isd. Most hotels offer high-speed Internet access, wireless service, and multiple-line phones in guest rooms. U.S. electrical current is 110/120 volts AC.

WESTERN UNION

BEACH & SURF CON DITIONS

AUTHORITY (METRO): Some

Metro Rapid bus lines provide limited-stop bus service to Downtown Los Angeles and Hollywood from Santa Monica. 323-466-3876, metro.net

currency; some restrictions (including limits) apply and fees are charged.

INTERNATIONAL

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

Tipping for many services is customary. Gratuities are rarely included in your bill. RESTAURANT, BAR, TAXI, AND LIMO SERVICE:

18%–20% of the bill

EMERGENCIES

HOTEL DOORMEN AND OTHER SERVICE

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.

PERSONNEL:

$1–$2 per transaction HOTEL BELLHOP:

$1–$3 per bag HOUSEKEEPING STAFF:

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

H O S P I TA L S

HOTEL CONCIERGE:

JOHN WAYNE

$5–$20 for special service, depending on the service

CANCER INSTITUTE AT

VALET PARKING

PROVIDENCE SAINT JOHN’S

ATTENDANTS:

HEALTH CENTER

$2 (pay when car is received)

2200 Santa Monica Blvd., 310-315-6125, jwci.org

AIRPORT SKYCAP:

$1–$2 per bag

PROVIDENCE SAINT JOHN’S HEALTH CENTER

TI M E ZON E

2121 Santa Monica Blvd., 310-829-5511, newstjohns.org

Santa Monica is on Paciﬁc Standard Time, which is eight

The

best value under the

Sun As our guest, you can expect warm hospitality and clean comfortable rooms to make your stay in Santa Monica the most enjoyable. Complimentary continental breakfast, wireless internet and underground parking are provided. Other amenities include sauna room and exercise area, roof-top garden, satellite TV with movie & sports channels, in-room refrigerators and hair dryers. In-room coffee and microwaves also available.

3007 Santa Monica Blvd., Santa Monica, CA 90404 | 310-829-6333 | 800-591-5995

smdaysinn.com

Wyndham Santa Monica at The Pier

RELAX. THERE’S A WYNDHAM WAITING. Located across from the Santa Monica Pier, our newly renovated hotel is an inviting destination for your Southern California getaway. You will feel at home in beautifully decorated rooms with contemporary décor, ocean views and modern comforts like complimentary WiFi. Soak up the SoCal sunshine with a cocktail by the outdoor, heated pool or savor fresh, California cuisine in our new restaurant and lounge. With a warm coastal vibe, it’s all here at The Pier.

310.451.0676 | wyndhamsantamonicapier.com

Santa Monica Visitor Centers THE SANTA MONICA VISITOR INFORMATION Centers are your source for all things Santa Monica. All of our Visitor Centers provide friendly, trained, and knowledgeable staff; Visitor Guides and Maps; foreign language lines; and information on attractions, hotels, dining, museums, galleries, and entertainment. At our walk-in Visitor Information Center on Main Street, 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.

VISITOR CE NTE 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) Open daily (except Tuesdays) 11 a.m.–7 p.m. Hours of operation may be extended or shortened due to special events or stafﬁng needs

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.

SMOKI NG In California, it is illegal to smoke 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.

Driving & Parking DRIVING

VISITOR INFORMATION KIOSK 1400 Ocean Ave. (located in Palisades Park) Open daily 9 a.m.–5 p.m. (summer hours) Open daily 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. (fall hours)

VISITOR INFORMATION CART Third Street Promenade (1300 block) Sunday–Thursday 11 a.m.–8:45 p.m. Friday–Saturday 11 a.m.–9:45 p.m. Exact cart location and hours subject to change

MOBILE VISITOR CENTER Locations vary

C O N TA C T U S F O R M O R E I N F O R M AT I O N 310-393-7593, 800-544-5319

SANTAMONICA.COM

info@santamonica.com

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 windshield, dashboard, or center console so as not to hinder the driver’s view, and allow for hands-free/voice-activated features and apps. DRUGS & ALCOHOL: Driving under the inﬂuence of alcohol 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.

PA R KI N G 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 real-time parking availability at Downtown and beach lots, visit smgov.net/parking. Get real-time parking availability via SM Parking and ParkMe apps, too. =

Parking | Kitchenettes | WiFi Available 1760 Ocean Avenue Santa Monica, CA 90401

310.393.6711 BOOK DIRECT AND SAVE SeaviewHotel.com Starting from

+ Taxes

ONE BLOCK TO THE BEACH

+ Taxes

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 cafĂŠ 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.

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

Discover relaxation at the Comfort Inn Santa Monica. We provide a variety of accommodations from your standard guest rooms to deluxe rooms with convenient amenities for vacationers and business travelers alike. Indulge yourself to our free breakfast buffet, stay connected with our unlimited Wifi service, parking is free and donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget to take the time to enjoy and bask in the sun in our outdoor heated pool.

2815 Santa Monica Blvd., Santa Monica 888-307-7177 | comfortinnsantamonica.com

STEPS TO THE BEACH & PIER IN TONGVA PARK ON OCEAN AVE STRIP

Welcome to

Ocean Park Inn Spend Less. Enjoy More.

Ocean Lodge Hotel offers you an iconic retro blast from the past with ZDUS VSHHG ZLÀ and everything else upgraded for a fun visit. Our uncompromised service includes Kings, Doubles &

310-392-3966 | 800-605-5005 oceanparkinn.net oceanparkinn@aol.com Non-smoking hotel, 7 blocks from the ocean. Complimentary coffee in the morning, free Wi-Fi, phone and refrigerator in each room

Suites, all with A/C and refrigerators. Chez Jay restaurant and lounge on-site. Big on service, and luxury for less!

I CAN’T STOP HIM FROM JUMPING. BUT I CAN STOP HIM FROM DROWNING.

When you help the American Red Cross, you help America.

www.OceanLodgeHotel.com 1667 Ocean Avenue, Santa Monica 310-451-4146 | 800-393-6310 Visit us and book online

We all have to look out for each other. And with so many children drowning each year, your child needs to learn how to swim today. Contact your local chapter or visit redcross.org

RESOURCES

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Woodlawn Cemetery

11T H S T.

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6T H S T.

17 T H S T.

16T H S T.

E U C L I D S T.

20 MINUTE WALK

9 T H S T.

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21 S T S

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12 T H S T.

B R OA D WAY

9 T H S T.

L I N C O L N B LV D.

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14 T H S T.

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Virginia Avenue Park

25 MINUTE WALK

7 T H S T.

Euclid Park

4 T H S T.

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11T H S T.

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9 T H S T.

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10 T H S T.

12 T H S T.

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19 T H S T.

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15 T H S T.

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18 T H S T.

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O C E A N AV E

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TO BEVERLY HILLS/WEST HOLLYWOOD/ DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES

31 S T S T.

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Shore Hotel

Shutters on the Beach

Travelodge Santa Monica

Viceroy Santa Monica

Wyndham Santa Monica— At the Pier

The Cottage Santa Monica

Courtyard By Marriott Santa Monica

DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Hotel Santa Monica

Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows

The Georgian Hotel

Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Los Angeles, Santa Monica

F R A S E R AV E .

HOLLISTER AVE.

WADSWORTH AVE.

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Barnard Way Linear Park

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S T. N AV Y

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18th Street Arts Complex Museum of Flying

Hotel Casa del Mar 8

Original Muscle Beach

Paciﬁc Park

Hotel Shangri-La

Huntley Santa Monica Beach

JW Marriott Santa Monica Le Merigot

Le Méridien Delﬁna Santa Monica

Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel

Ocean Lodge Hotel Santa Monica Beach

FIC A VE.

Ocean View Park

D WA Y South Beach Park

Santa Monica City Hall

Santa Monica History Museum

Santa Monica International Chess Park

Santa Monica Pier

Santa Monica Pier Aquarium

Santa Monica Pier Carousel Santa Monica Place Third Street Promenade

Ocean View Hotel

Oceana Beach Club Hotel

Post Ofﬁce Library

Visitor Information Center

Hospital

24-Hour Taxi Stand

Police Station

Select Breeze Bike Share Hubs Metro Expo Line Station

TO LOS

MAP KEY

AV E .

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PAC I

Dorothy Green Park

California Heritage Museum

R E N N I E AV E .

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The Broad Stage

5TH S T.

Bergamot Station

Ocean Park Inn

NEWHOUSE DESIGN

The Barker Hangar

Hotel Carmel

3 R D S T.

M A I N S T.

R U T H AV E .

ROSE

2 N D S T.

Annenberg Community Beach House

Ocean Park Hotel

DIM M ICK AVE .

The Hotel California

4 T H S T.

A S H L A N D AV E.

H I LL S T.

4TH ST.

3 R D S T.

Hostelling International LA/ Santa Monica

BER NAR D AVE .

6T H AV E .

6TH S T.

Holiday Motel

AT T R A C T I O N S

7 T H AV E .

AV E .

P I E R AV E .

AIN STREET O C E A N PA R K B LV D.

P I E R AV E.

AV E .

RAY MON D AVE .

6T H S T.

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Los Amigos Park

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Santa Monica Motel

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Comfort Inn Santa Monica– West Los Angeles

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Pedestrian access to beach Disabled access to beach

Metro Expo Line

Restrooms

City of Santa Monica Public Parking

Bike Lane Park 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

NOW TH E N & NOW

Birth of Brawn

Known as the Original Muscle Beach, the gymnastics training area includes parallel bars, rings, slack lines, and a small jungle gym for children.

M A I N : S A N TA M O N I C A H I S T O R Y M U S E U M , B I L L B E E B E C O L L E C T I O N ; I N S E T : J E S S I C A S A M P L E

Since the 1930s, ďŹ tness enthusiasts have been attracted to the Original Muscle Beach just south of the Pier.

THEN Shown here in 1946, the area was a popular showcase and conditioning center for acrobats and bodybuilders who could train all year in the good weather. 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 rooms and suites with full kitchens, which JIEXYVI EQTPI EMV] PMZMRK WTEGIW ERH YRMRXIVVYTXIH ZMI[W SJ XLI 4EGM½G 3GIER SV 7ERXE 1SRMGE GMX]WGETI Relax poolside, indulge in a hot tub soak, or slip into a private cabana. Stir your evening to life with HIKVII SGIER WYRWIX ZMI[W EX 32=< XLI GMX]´W SRP] MRHSSV SYXHSSV VSSJXST FEV SV WEZSV WIEWSREP International cuisine in our oceanfront restaurant, The Dining Room.

1301 OCEAN AVE, SANTA MONICA CA 90401 310.394.791 www.shangrila-hotel.com