Santa Monica holiday homes

Why visit Santa Monica

• Iconic Pier Experience: Enjoy the vibrant Santa Monica Pier, filled with entertainment, dining, and family fun by the ocean.
• Sun-Kissed Beaches: Relax on the beautiful, sandy beaches perfect for a splash and sunbathing.
• Urban Promenade: Stroll through the bustling Third Street Promenade for shopping, dining, and lively street performances.
• Coastal Parks: Unwind in scenic urban parks that offer a blend of nature and culture.
• Outdoor Adventures: Embrace the coastal energy with opportunities for biking, walking, and beachside activities.

Top attractions in Santa Monica

Santa Monica, California, is a vibrant city perfect for family and outdoor adventures. Enjoy the stunning beach, explore bustling streets, and relax in urban parks. With diverse attractions that blend culture and city life, Santa Monica offers a delightful experience for all travellers. Whether you’re seeking entertainment or a laid-back atmosphere, this coastal gem has something for everyone to enjoy.

• Santa Monica Beach: Enjoy the sun, surf, and sand at this iconic beach, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and beach volleyball. The vibrant atmosphere and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean create a relaxing escape.
• Santa Monica Pier: Experience the lively charm of this historic pier, featuring an amusement park, restaurants, and stunning ocean views. It's a great place to stroll, enjoy street performances, and take in the friendly vibe.
• Third Street Promenade: This bustling outdoor shopping precinct offers a mix of shops, restaurants, and entertainment. With its family-friendly atmosphere, it's perfect for leisurely strolls, dining, and people-watching.

Things to do recommended for couples

Enjoy a romantic Santa Monica escape. Stroll along the beach, explore local markets, and savour gourmet meals overlooking the Pacific. Discover hidden gems together on a classic coastal drive, and unwind amidst the city's vibrant, relaxed atmosphere.

Things to do recommended for families

Families visiting Santa Monica can enjoy the sandy shores of the beach, explore the iconic Santa Monica Pier with its amusement park rides, and visit the interactive exhibits at the California Science Center for a fun-filled learning experience suitable for all ages.

Things to do recommended for groups

Groups visiting Santa Monica can embark on an adrenaline-filled motorRacing experience at the Porsche Experience Center, located 27km away, where they can enjoy sports and adventure vibes in true Kiwi style.

What do I need to keep in mind when booking a vacation in Santa Monica

Whether you're journeying with friends, as a family, with your pets, or seeking extended stays, be sure to use the appropriate filters. Here are some helpful Vrbo booking tips for you.

• Traveling to Santa Monica with a group: Think about how many bedrooms you’ll require, as well as features like a fully-equipped kitchen or outdoor areas for group get-togethers. Luckily, you can easily filter for all these options and more on Vrbo.
• Traveling to Santa Monica with young kids: Travelling with young children can present its own set of challenges. It's important to prioritise their comfort and safety, as well as to look for age-appropriate facilities, like a private swimming pool. Additionally, considering your closeness to family-friendly attractions can enhance your experience.
• Taking your pets with you to Santa Monica: For many, a family holiday wouldn’t feel complete without their furry companion. If this resonates with you, take a look at Vrbo properties that welcome pets. Most pet-friendly accommodations offer feeding bowls and beds, ensuring that everyone feels comfortable and at home.
• Planning for a long term stay visiting Santa Monica: If you’re after holiday rentals that offer discounts for monthly stays, you’ve come to the right place. With the appropriate filter, you can quickly locate and save on extended rentals. You might also want to include options like a parking spot, a well-equipped kitchen, or a private pool in your search.

Where to stay in and around Santa Monica

Santa Monica, California, is a vibrant coastal city that offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and entertainment for the whole family. Stroll along the iconic Santa Monica Pier, bask in the sun at Santa Monica Beach, or explore the lively Third Street Promenade filled with shops and eateries. Nearby, the eclectic atmosphere of Venice Beach awaits, making Santa Monica a perfect base for unforgettable experiences and relaxation by the ocean.

• Venice: Located 5km from Santa Monica, Venice is a vibrant city known for its eclectic atmosphere and stunning beachfront. The famous Venice Boardwalk is a must-visit, offering a lively mix of street performers, local vendors, and unique shops. Families can enjoy the sandy beaches and picturesque canals that provide a charming backdrop for leisurely strolls. With attractions like the Venice Beach Skate Park and the historic Muscle Beach, there's plenty of outdoor fun. Whether you're looking to shop, relax on the beach, or explore the artistic vibe, Venice has something for everyone.
• Marina del Rey: Situated 6km from Santa Monica, Marina del Rey is a picturesque waterfront community that offers a delightful blend of outdoor activities and family-friendly experiences. The marina is home to numerous boats and yachts, creating a scenic backdrop for leisurely walks along the waterfront. Visitors can enjoy a variety of attractions, including beaches perfect for sunbathing and water sports, as well as various shopping areas and dining options. The nearby educational venues and scenic parks enhance the family-friendly atmosphere, making Marina del Rey a great spot for relaxation and recreation.
• Downtown Santa Monica: Nestled within Santa Monica, Downtown Santa Monica is a bustling hub of activity and entertainment. This vibrant neighbourhood features an array of shops, restaurants, and attractions, all within easy walking distance. Families can enjoy the iconic Santa Monica Pier, complete with amusement rides and games, while the nearby Third Street Promenade offers a pedestrian-friendly shopping experience. With its blend of outdoor spaces and lively atmosphere, Downtown Santa Monica is perfect for those seeking a mix of fun and relaxation.

Best time to go to Santa Monica

If you're planning a trip to Santa Monica, it's a good idea to check both the weather and property rates. The warmest month is August.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	56.7°F (13.7°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Average
February	57.0°F (13.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average
March	59.0°F (15.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average
April	62.4°F (16.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High
May	64.9°F (18.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average
June	69.1°F (20.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High
July	73.6°F (23.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High
August	75.0°F (23.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average
September	74.5°F (23.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average
October	69.4°F (20.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly Low
November	62.6°F (17.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly Low
December	56.5°F (13.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low

Booking with Vrbo is a breeze

Looking to save on your next break? Consider being flexible with your travel dates – prices can differ. Also, opting for a longer stay might help you secure better savings. To find the ideal Vrbo property that fits your budget, simply use our filters to search by price, location, and type of holiday rental.

Vrbo Trips: Effortless planning

Vrbo’s Trip Board offers a handy space where you can start new journeys, pick up from where you left off, or review and organise your plans. Your saved or booked properties are neatly grouped into Potential, Upcoming, or Current Trips. To begin using Trip Boards, visit: https://www.bookabach.co.nz/trips.

**Based on Vrbo properties bookings.

The beachside setting of Santa Monica is ready to explore

The area's art galleries and live music are just some of the reasons to come on holiday to Santa Monica. Well known for its beaches, seaside and shopping, this walkable city won't disappoint. Take in top local attractions such as Santa Monica Beach and Santa Monica Pier. Many rental homes come with outdoor spaces, separate dining areas and full kitchens, perfect if you want to enjoy some home-cooked meals.

Sightseeing in and around Santa Monica

Are you hoping to discover top things to see and do in the city? Although it can be tempting to stay in your comfortable holiday rental, you'll want to check out everything that makes Santa Monica a fun spot to go on holiday. These are some of the most popular attractions to see, all within 30 miles (48.2 km) of the city centre:

• Universal Studios Hollywood (11.7 mi / 18.9 km)
• Ocean Avenue (0.1 mi / 0.1 km)
• Pacific Park (0.5 mi / 0.9 km)
• Annenberg Community Beach House (1.1 mi / 1.8 km)
• Riviera Country Club (2.4 mi / 3.8 km)
• CBS Television City (8.8 mi / 14.2 km)

Exploring the beaches and other natural features in Santa Monica

Travellers appreciate the beautiful ocean views and breathtaking sunsets, which is just a taste of what Santa Monica has to offer. Whether you're looking for exciting outdoor activities or just want to spend some time taking in the scenery, Santa Monica is a great place to get out in nature. These are some of the area's most stunning sights, all within 30 miles (48.2 km) of the city centre:

• Santa Monica Beach (0.4 mi / 0.7 km)
• Venice Beach (2.4 mi / 3.9 km)
• Palisades Park (0.5 mi / 0.8 km)
• Palisades Recreation Center (2.4 mi / 3.9 km)
• Will Rogers State Beach (2.7 mi / 4.3 km)
• Venice Beach Boardwalk (2.9 mi / 4.7 km)

Seasonal weather in Santa Monica

If you're hoping to enjoy some warm-weather activities on your holiday, August, September, July and October are the hottest months to visit, when temperatures average 23°C.

Travelling to and around Santa Monica

Fly into Los Angeles Intl. (LAX), the closest airport, located 7.3 mi (11.7 km) from the city centre. If you can't find a flight that's convenient for your trip, you might consider flying into Hawthorne, CA (HHR-Hawthorne Municipal), which is 11.1 mi (17.9 km) away.

You can see more of Santa Monica by catching a ride on the metro at Downtown Santa Monica Station, 17th Street/SMC Station or 26th Street/Bergamot Station.