Welcome to Santa Monica | Pacific Palisades
A neighborhood with the quintessential Los Angeles lifestyle
Dreams of Southern California and nostalgic film depictions of Los Angeles are often rooted in this lively, coastal neighborhood. Spreading out from the signature Santa Monica State Beach, this eight-mile slice of Southern California is a city unto itself. Santa Monica and the adjacent Pacific Palisades have a fantastic array of offerings from entertainment to fitness to natural marvels. Landmarks like the Santa Monica Pier dot the idyllic coast. Unlike much of Los Angeles, Santa Monica is a walkable corner in a sprawling city. One-of-a-kind, independent businesses, like the Moondance Jewelry Gallery, provide unique shopping experiences. Stunning outdoor attractions are found at the famous Palisades Park. Unparalleled dining is in abundance. Urth Caffe has an organic fair, and Sweet Lady Jane Bakery is a craft patisserie. If you seek the laid-back wonderland of Southern California, Santa Monica is the epicenter you are looking for.
What to Love
- Walkable area with entertainment, shops, and activities
- Immediate access to the beaches, with popular Venice Beach and Marina del Rey a short drive away
- Large selection of dining from cafes and bakeries to fine dining establishments
- Santa Monica Airport in the vicinity
- Hub for nightlife and social scene
Local Lifestyle
Residents of the Santa Monica area have the luxury of an active, festive lifestyle. The outdoor recreation alone is a jewel of the neighborhood. People can take a relaxing stroll through Palisades Park or wander the trails along the pristine beach. When it is time for a respite from the sun, the inland town has a variety of laid-back cafes and coffee shops. Although Santa Monica remains passively peaceful all year round, the beachside nightlife is a draw for people from all over Los Angeles. People can unwind by sipping drinks and taking in some live music at hot spots throughout Santa Monica.
Bungalow-style homes, apartments, and townhouses are available, with some close to the water and others further inland. Much of the architecture has a beachy feel matching the landscape of the Palisades. Everything about Santa Monica envelops its residents with the slow living comfort of coastal living.
Dining, Entertainment, & Shopping
The area’s most significant advantage is the vast assortment of dining, entertainment, and shopping available to residents and visitors. For those looking for a luxurious dining experience, FIG restaurant, right off of Ocean Ave, offers a locally sourced and fresh menu in a romantic, breezy setting. For brunch lovers, Huckleberry Cafe has a bursting pastry case and a stay-all-day vibe.
Entertainment seekers have access to music festivals, farmers' markets, sporting events on the water, and community gatherings. The annual Mainstreet Summer SOULstice attracts visitors and citizens alike with multiple headlining acts. For drinks and late-night festivities, The Bungalow is a popular destination.
Shopping in Santa Monica and Pacific Palisades have a mixture of coveted brand storefronts, like Alo and Reformation, along with more unique finds, like The Acorn Store, a quaint specialty toy store.
Things to Do
The calendar of events in town is an exciting mix ensuring life in Santa Monica, and the Palisades never gets boring. Health and wellness lovers can partake in beach-front yoga classes and run along the trails with stunning views. The Marvin Braude Bike Trail is a relaxing 22-mile ride for leisure riders and cyclists alike.
The charming Bay Theater looks like a blast from the past on the outside but has modern and comfortable viewing on the inside. It is a popular theater with a regular schedule of new releases. Pacific Park, on the Santa Monica Pier, is a great attraction for families with thrilling rides and mini-golf. Santa Monica is also home to one of the best farmers’ markets in the country, operating four days a week with fresh produce, meats, and cheeses.
Schools
Santa Monica and the Palisades have access to many schools that perform highly on a national scale. Most are public schools with a few charters as well.
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