Just 12 miles north of Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), there is a seaside enclave that is a beloved tourist spot attracting all types of visitors: Santa Monica, in Southern California. The city recently surpassed other powerful coastal locations like Maui, Palm Beach, and Cape Cod, and was named the top beach destination in North America by the 2024 World Travel Awards.
With a sandy beach flanked by boardwalks on one side and a lush mountain range on the other, Santa Monica, covering 8.5 square miles, is like the symbol of idyllic vacations in Southern California. The growth and development of a luxury lifestyle—from five-star hotels to Michelin-starred restaurants—over the past two years have only made it more desirable.
When visiting Santa Monica, the 3.5 miles of coastline, the boardwalk, and the sun are foolproof calling cards. The iconic Ferris wheel along the pier and the stunning views from Palisades Park offer a unique sense of place. But there is more to this city of nearly 90,000 residents.
Located on the west side of Greater Los Angeles, Santa Monica certainly benefits from its proximity to places like West Hollywood, Malibu, and Downtown Los Angeles. Like the rest of the region, Santa Monica has great shops, award-winning restaurants, and fantastic art institutions like the Bergamot Station Arts Center.
Staying in Santa Monica has also never been easier, thanks to a wave of new high-end hotel openings. From the Santa Monica Proper Hotel to the Regent Santa Monica Beach, many of the trendiest brands have chosen Santa Monica for new ventures.
So, on your next trip to California, don’t leave Santa Monica off your itinerary.
Source: Travel and Leisure