Santa Monica Holidays

With 340 days of sunshine a year (on average), fabulous beaches, cultural spots and plenty of shops, Santa Monica is often a great choice for those looking to stay away from the busier areas of Los Angeles but still close enough (13 miles) to enjoy the city and surrounding areas.

There are many reasons to visit Santa Monica. Spend lazy days on Santa Monica Beach swimming, surfing, fishing and biking, visit a couple of the 75 museums and art galleries such as the Santa Monica Museum of Art, walk along Santa Monica Pier with its iconic wheel and amusement parks and shop on Third Street Promenade.

A perfect destination at the beginning or end of a self-drive holiday through California, Santa Monica is also accessible on foot and using the Big Blue Bus, transporting you within the city and to surrounding districts such as Venice Beach. Just because you’re staying outside of Los Angeles does not mean evenings end early; Santa Monica has bars, nightclubs and plenty of fun happy hours. 

Where to stay

As you would expect from the Inspiring Travel company, our portfolio of hotels in Santa Monica offers only the very best in terms of luxury and style. Our highlights include:

Shutters on the Beach – right on the oceanfront and a stone’s throw from the famous pier, this coastal chic retreat is inspired by Cape Cod design… think seaside details, white wood and ocean views.

Hotel Casa del Mar – just down the beach, this 1926 hotel is something of a Santa Monica icon, with flawless views of the beach and home to the legendary Catch restaurant. Book one of the two-storey penthouses for an experience bar none.

Viceroy Santa Monica – sophisticated and elegant, this celebrity favourite has been inspired by the ocean in its design. For added luxury, we recommend asking your Travel Specialist to pre-book one of the coveted poolside cabanas.