Dream City Santa Monica

Wide sandy beaches that take on a magical appearance in the light of the setting sun, the gentle sound of guitar music mixed with the sound of waves and the sweet smell of cotton candy... Where am I? At the Santa Monica Pier in California, just a few miles from Los Angeles!

You've definitely heard of Santa Monica, the city in the western part of Los Angeles County in sunny California. At the latest, after the legendary TV show 'Baywatch,' we Germans became aware of this small coastal town near LA. This piece of earth has always offered a special flair, as where else does laid-back California coastal vibe meet the glamorous world of Hollywood? Santa Monica is somehow everything at once: a hip surfers' paradise, an elegant meeting place for stars, and a cozy spot for hippies and creatives! This blend is truly special because anyone who has wandered through the streets of Santa Monica will surely return!

Perfect Location near LA | Shopping in Santa Monica | Santa Monica Pier | The Beach

Stay Like the Stars | Culinary Highlights

Take a Vacation on the West Coast!

Just about twenty minutes from here to Downtown Los Angeles, and the world-famous Venice Beach is practically right next door. The perfect location, if you ask me. However, you really don't have to leave this enchanting place, because Santa Monica offers a lot with the Santa Monica Pier, the approximately 5-kilometer long beach, and its vast array of trendy restaurants and shops!

What's the best way to get around Santa Monica? On foot! The little town on the Pacific coast is so popular because you can really reach everything on foot here. If you enjoy shopping, you'll only need to remember the so-called 3rd Street, where all the important stores line up one after the other. What seems totally normal to us is an absolute rarity in the USA: The street is designed as a pedestrian zone where no cars are allowed. Did the Americans perhaps take a page out of our European book?! Either way, this beautiful shopping street is ideal for shopping, and you will definitely find every trendy store here! As you stroll past frozen yogurt shops and boutiques, you will repeatedly hear the pleasant sounds of guitar music from street performers, who are truly top-notch here. Especially in the evenings, the 3rd Street is a real highlight as the trees are wonderfully romantically lit, and people enjoy the music and linger for a few minutes.

Without a doubt, this pier is the reason many tourists make a stop in this beautiful coastal town. But who can blame them, as the long pier with all its food stalls and the solar-powered Ferris wheel amid the breathtaking beach scenery of Santa Monica Pier is simply unique! Let the gentle sea breeze blow through your hair and inhale the smell of cotton candy and other delicacies while you listen to the sound of the waves and enjoy the stunning panorama.

I can't say how it will be for you, but this view is etched in my memory forever. California is once again showcasing what its 'street musicians' can do. However, it would be unfair to call them that, because right at Santa Monica Pier, performances often include sound systems, and it's not uncommon for the streets of Santa Monica to serve as a stepping stone to the recording studios of LA. So, you can look forward to a bit of live music in a relaxed atmosphere and don't forget to grab a snack or at least take a spin on the famous Ferris Wheel. By the way: Did you know that this is where the famous Route 66 ends? Be sure to look out for the big white sign where many tourists try to get a photo!

Just like the pier, the miles-long beach also contributes greatly to the special feeling of the city. Here, you will find surfers, beach bums, and sun worshipers, all wanting to enjoy the good California weather. The wide beach section is rarely overcrowded; only the walk from the promenade to the water requires a good trek - so much fine, golden sand lies at your feet. Workout on the beach? No problem here in Santa Monica. You won't be surprised to see a group of people attempting complicated yoga poses or the Santa Monica high-society working on their perfect summer figure.

As previously mentioned, the crème de la crème from Hollywood also frequents this beautiful Santa Monica. If the hustle and bustle in LA becomes too much, some prefer to stay in the somewhat quieter Santa Monica, which does not lack charm compared to the big city and is also just a stone's throw away. And now see where the stars sometimes spend a night:

The Casa del Mar - Celebrity Favorite Stars like Julia Roberts come and go at the Casa del Mar in Santa Monica! No wonder, given the wonderful view of the Santa Monica Pier. Especially in the evenings, it's a paradise on earth...

Right on the promenade: The Shore Hotel Super modern and in the best location, the Shore Hotel in Santa Monica is a popular spot for everyone who doesn't want to miss out on the sea view. The impressive building with its stylish glass façade immediately caught my eye as I walked by.

Campfire Romance at the Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel Exclusive suites and again the wonderful view over the city streets and the sunset-glimmering waves of the ocean lure many wealthy guests to the Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel.

Affordable Accommodation in Santa Monica So, so that you don't think that a stay in Santa Monica is beyond your budget, I've found an affordable alternative for you. The HI-Los Angeles Santa Monica Hostel, for example, is just two blocks from the beach and perfect for those on a budget. Of course, you might also try your luck with Airbnb, maybe there's something nice for you!

As trend-conscious and up to date as the residents of California are, so is the food on their plates. Here, it always has to be the latest, from organic burgers to vegan cafés, you'll find everything your heart desires in the streets of Santa Monica. Whether you opt for American fast food or prefer to dine in a chic restaurant above the rooftops of the city - this city is the right place for it. I found the restaurant Pono Burger interesting, where you get gourmet fast food of a special kind. Or stop by Huckleberry Café & Bakery, which is also currently very trendy and offers not only the tastiest baked goods but also vegan dishes.

The so-called 'Golden Hour' in the evening is definitely my favorite time of day to be out on the streets of Santa Monica. Whether strolling along the beach, biking along the promenade, or relaxing by the water and soaking in the positive energy around you - there's no better place to do it than at Santa Monica Pier!

I'm sure after reading this article you've already retrieved the dusty suitcase from the attic. I can hardly wait for my next trip to Santa Monica. Of course, the west of the USA has other beautiful spots that you must discover too! What are your favorite places, and where do you love to bask in the California sun? Below I've summarized a few tips for your Cali vacation!

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Featured Image: iStock.com/stellavi