Santa Monica Holidays

  • Plan, book, travel with confidence

  • Better together

    Save up to €900 when you book a flight and hotel together*
  • Find the right fit

    With over 300,000 hotels worldwide, it's easy to create a perfect package
  • Rest easy

    Plan, book, and manage your trip all in one place

Things to do in and around Santa Monica

Santa Monica is a delightful destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts, offering a range of activities and attractions. Visitors can enjoy scenic walking tours, explore top sights, indulge in window shopping, and experience seaside fun. The area features vibrant shopping districts and theme park rides, making it an ideal spot for an entertaining vacation. A trip to Santa Monica promises a perfect blend of leisure and excitement for all ages.

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience in Santa Monica, visit Fisherman's Village, only 6.4km away, offering a charming atmosphere. Westfield Century City, located 8.0km from Santa Monica, features a variety of shops and entertainment. If you're up for a drive, the Beverly Center is 12.9km away, offering more options.

Recreation

SoFi Stadium offers an exhilarating atmosphere, perfect for sports enthusiasts eager to catch an event. For a cinematic experience, visit TCL Chinese Theatre, where family-friendly films and romantic outings come alive. Enjoy live music at Whiskey a Go Go, a vibrant venue that pulsates with entertainment.

Adventure

Explore the Nicholas Flat Trail for a scenic hike amidst lush landscapes, offering an exhilarating outdoor experience. For family fun, visit Sherman Oaks Castle Park, an arcade adventure zone filled with games. Alternatively, challenge yourself at Hangar 18 Climbing Gym Southbay, perfect for outdoor sports enthusiasts.

Nightlife

For a vibrant night out in Santa Monica, consider visiting Raleigh Studio Hollywood, located 17.7km away. Experience the local nightlife with lively bars and restaurants, or enjoy a stroll along the iconic pier, soaking in the lively atmosphere and ocean views.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions in and around Santa Monica

Santa Monica, California, is an ideal destination for family vacations, offering a delightful mix of outdoor activities and entertainment. Visitors can explore popular attractions such as the iconic Santa Monica Pier, the beautiful Santa Monica Beach, and the vibrant Santa Monica Place. With its urban parks and lively streets, Santa Monica caters to those seeking culture, family-friendly experiences, and a taste of city life, making it a perfect getaway for tourists.

  • Santa Monica Beach: Experience the quintessential Californian beach vibe at Santa Monica Beach, where soft sands meet the sparkling Pacific Ocean. Enjoy sunbathing, beach volleyball, or a leisurely walk along the shore, all while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of locals and tourists alike.
  • Rodeo Drive: Just 9.7km away, Rodeo Drive offers a taste of luxury and glamour. Stroll along this iconic street, renowned for high-end boutiques and designer stores, where you might spot a celebrity or two amidst the chic city vibes.
  • Venice Beach Boardwalk: Located 6.4km from Santa Monica, the Venice Beach Boardwalk is a lively hub of outdoor fun and family-friendly activities. From street performers to quirky shops, the eclectic atmosphere is perfect for soaking up California’s laid-back spirit.

Best time to go to Santa Monica

The best time to visit Santa Monica is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain. December is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January56.7°F (13.7°C)Light RainSunnyAverageSlightly Low
February57.0°F (13.9°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
March59.0°F (15.0°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
April62.4°F (16.9°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighAverage
May64.9°F (18.3°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
June69.1°F (20.6°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
July73.6°F (23.1°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August75.0°F (23.9°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
September74.5°F (23.6°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
October69.4°F (20.8°C)No RainSunnySlightly LowAverage
November62.6°F (17.0°C)No RainSunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
December56.5°F (13.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low

Tips to save on your trip to Santa Monica

  • Take advantage of package deals on Expedia and combine flights, hotels, or car rentals for a convenient and cost-effective trip to Santa Monica.
  • Consider traveling to Santa Monica during the low season (November to January) for more affordable options.
  • Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
  • Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.

Top hotels in Santa Monica

Hyatt Centric Delfina Santa Monica

Hyatt Centric Delfina Santa Monica

530 Pico Blvd Santa Monica CA
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
€270
7 Sept - 8 Sept
includes taxes & fees
8.6/10 Excellent! (721 reviews)
"Everything"

Reviewed on 16 Aug 2026

Hyatt Centric Delfina Santa Monica
Fairmont Miramar Hotel

Fairmont Miramar Hotel

101 Wilshire Blvd Santa Monica CA
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
€463
6 Sept - 7 Sept
includes taxes & fees
8.6/10 Excellent! (1,046 reviews)
"Expedia gold membership got us a complimentary room upgrade to premium ocean view. Amenities were great, pool was so nice. Fig restaurant had delicious food and drinks. Piano bar had wonderful drinks and service. A great resort experience."

Reviewed on 18 Aug 2026

Fairmont Miramar Hotel
Gateway Hotel Santa Monica

Gateway Hotel Santa Monica

1920 Santa Monica Blvd Santa Monica CA
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
€245
14 Sept - 15 Sept
includes taxes & fees
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,596 reviews)
"The location was excellent for walking. The hotel itself is simple and clean."

Reviewed on 18 Aug 2026

Gateway Hotel Santa Monica
See all 9,795 properties in Santa Monica
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Stay near popular Santa Monica attractions

A crowded beach with people swimming and sunbathing, a lifeguard tower, and mountains in the background.

Santa Monica Beach

9.0/10 (10,272 reviews)
Santa Monica Beach stretches for 3.5 miles of soft sand along Southern California's iconic coastline. Swim in Pacific waters, play beach volleyball, or stroll to the adjacent pier with its amusement park and aquarium.
See properties
A pier at sunset with a building on it and the ocean in the foreground.

Santa Monica Pier

8.8/10 (17,596 reviews)
The historic Santa Monica Pier marks the western end of Route 66 with its solar-powered Ferris wheel and Pacific Park. Catch street performers at sunset or dine overlooking the ocean for an iconic California experience.
See properties
A city street lined with historic buildings and modern architecture, with a clear blue sky and distant mountains.

Third Street Promenade

8.8/10 (2,727 reviews)
This pedestrian-only paradise in Santa Monica offers a vibrant mix of shopping, dining, and street performances. Enjoy boutiques and musicians while just steps from the iconic pier and Pacific Ocean.
See properties
A beach at sunset with a pier and amusement park in the background.

Santa Monica Place

8.8/10 (1,347 reviews)
This open-air shopping centre blends luxury boutiques with casual retailers just steps from Santa Monica Beach. Explore the rooftop dining deck for exceptional ocean views while enjoying California-inspired cuisine.
See properties
A brightly lit amusement park entrance with neon signs, including "PACIFIC PARK" and "FAST TACO'S."
Photo by Paco Garzón

Pacific Park

8.6/10 (899 reviews)
Pacific Park's solar-powered Ferris wheel offers breathtaking views of the Los Angeles coastline from Santa Monica Pier. Stay until sunset to witness the dazzling light show illuminating the Pacific Ocean.
See properties
An aerial view of a modern urban area with a mix of residential and commercial buildings, green spaces, and palm trees.

Santa Monica College

8.0/10 (604 reviews)
Santa Monica College showcases modern facilities and vibrant campus life in the heart of coastal California. Visitors can enjoy public art exhibitions and performances while exploring this educational cornerstone.
See properties
A sunset view through a wooden pergola with people silhouetted against the sky.
Photo by Sarah Pena

Palisades Park

Enjoy the beautiful sunsets and explore Palisades Park, a lovely green space in Santa Monica. Attend a sporting event or simply enjoy the top-notch restaurants while you're in the area.
See properties

Ocean Avenue

9.0/10 (1,994 reviews)
Palm-lined Ocean Avenue offers stunning Pacific views and access to Santa Monica's iconic pier. Stroll through Palisades Park at sunset for breathtaking coastal vistas and alfresco dining options.
See properties

What to do in Santa Monica

Universal Studios Hollywood Tickets

Universal Studios Hollywood Tickets

€95
per adult
94% of travellers recommend
Universal Studios Hollywood Tickets
Universal Studios Hollywood - Universal Express Ticket

Universal Studios Hollywood Express Tickets

€207
per traveller
90% of travellers recommend
Universal Studios Hollywood Express Tickets
Universal Studios Hollywood VIP Tickets with Priority Pass

Universal Studios Hollywood VIP Tickets with Priority Pass

€363
per traveller
96% of travellers recommend
Universal Studios Hollywood VIP Tickets with Priority Pass
See all activities in Santa Monica

Frequently asked questions

How much does a Santa Monica holiday package cost?
You'll find cheap prices on Expedia for your Santa Monica break. However, factors like your choice of hotel, the season and length of stay will determine how much your holiday to Santa Monica costs.
What are the cheapest months to go to Santa Monica?
You can usually find lower prices and greater availability in January, February and November. Check out our cheap Santa Monica holiday packages and you could get some excellent off-season deals.
How many days is enough for Santa Monica?
With around 3 days, you'll have plenty of time to visit popular neighbourhoods such as Downtown Santa Monica and Pico during your Santa Monica holiday. Be sure to also add Third Street Promenade and Pacific Park to your sightseeing itinerary. Looking for more adventures? Consider exploring outside of Santa Monica on tours and day trips.
Is it worth booking a holiday package to Santa Monica?
Santa Monica has all the ingredients you need for a fantastic getaway — family-friendly attractions, history and culture are just the start. Whether you want to check out attractions like Santa Monica Beach and Santa Monica Pier, or take the road less traveled, you'll have plenty to explore on your Santa Monica holiday.
How to find the best Santa Monica package deals?
Landing a cheap Santa Monica package deal is a cinch with Expedia. Once you've entered your destination and trip dates under our "Packages" tab, set your budget, add some filters and see what's available. You can customise your search by "Popular locations," "Property type," "Guest rating" and more. Order the results by "Price: low to high" to discover the most affordable Santa Monica package deals. Want a simple trick to get the biggest savings? Be flexible with your departure dates and consider going away on a weekday, when prices are typically lower.
Is it cheaper to book a Santa Monica holiday as a package?
Expedia holiday packages are designed to help you keep more cash in your pocket. Bundle your hotel, car rental and flight into one great-value price and you could save hundreds of dollars. You'll usually get a better deal than booking each component separately. And you'll still enjoy the freedom to create a customised Santa Monica holiday by choosing your favourite airline, accommodation type and car class.
When to book a holiday package to Santa Monica?
Enjoy incredible bargains by reserving your flights in advance with Expedia. If being spontaneous is more your thing, grab one of our last-minute deals for an impromptu Santa Monica break.
How to plan a trip to Santa Monica?
  1. Pick the perfect time to travel: Your schedule, preferred season and the type of weather you enjoy can all influence your decision on when to go to Santa Monica.
  2. Figure out your budget: Ensure you have enough money to pay for everything from food and transportation to airfares and activities. Your hotel will probably be the largest expense during your trip to Santa Monica.
  3. Determine how many days away: Start by listing all the attractions you'd like to get to in Santa Monica. Then, estimate how long you'll need for each, as well as any travel time.
  4. Bundle your bookings: With your travel dates in order, you can combine your flights, hotels, car rental and more into a customised Santa Monica holiday package.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia

* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages.