Discover Santa Monica's Hidden Local Experiences
Los Angeles4 everybody
Relaxing to be in the middle of the water with the boats, under the sun, but an arm work out to get there 😅 and worth it! Summer fun for sure :) • Marina del Rey is located just 4 miles from LAX, next to Santa Monica and Venice Beach. • Mother’s Beach is the best spot to learn how to paddleboard because of the calm, flat water. • Marina del Rey is the largest small-craft harbor in North America and is the second largest in the world after Dubai! • L.A.’s Marina is where locals go to play on the water. • Here, you can kayak, stand-up paddle board, jet-ski, or go deep-sea fishing, whale-watching or hop on a sunset dinner cruise.
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Los Angeles Fun Events
Monster Mash Karaoke Night Join us for a spooktacular night of Monster Mash Karaoke at Weary Livers in Santa Monica on Saturday, October 5th, 2024, from 9:30 PM until close! Sing, socialize, and show off your best Halloween costume in the cozy, Victorian-inspired atmosphere of this unique bar. 🎶 Sing Like a Ghoul Our karaoke playlist is packed with spooky hits, Halloween classics, and your favorite songs! Whether you’re channeling your inner monster or a pop diva, the stage is yours to haunt. Not a singer? Come cheer on the brave souls who are! 🎃 Costumes Encouraged Get into the Halloween spirit by dressing up! Come as your favorite creepy character, ghoul, or ghostly figure – prizes will be awarded for the most creative costumes! 🍹 Witch’s Brew & More Enjoy a variety of handcrafted cocktails, wines, and beers as you mingle with fellow karaoke lovers and costume enthusiasts. It's a frightfully good time to make new friends in a fun, welcoming setting. Age: 21 and up
Los Angeles4 everybody
Jiro Style Ramen, right here in Los Angie. At Tsujita Annex in West LA, Jiro-style ramen is a specialty that aligns with the authentic features of this style. Tsujita Annex is known for its rich, flavorful ramen and adheres closely to the traditional Jiro-style with its robust broth, substantial portions of toppings, and emphasis on a hearty, satisfying meal. The restaurant’s approach to Jiro-style ramen aims to capture the essence of the original while catering to the local palate. — Jiro-style ramen is a distinct type of ramen that originates from Ramen Jiro, a famous ramen shop in Tokyo, Japan. It’s characterized by its hearty, rich, and indulgent style. The key features of Jiro-style ramen include a thick, flavorful broth, a heavy dose of garlic, a significant amount of bean sprouts, and a generous portion of fatty pork. The noodles are usually thick and chewy, and the dish is often topped with extra slices of pork and sometimes a raw egg.
Los Angeles Fun Events
Goth Night at Weary Livers Embrace the Shadows at Goth Night! Join us for a relaxed and enchanting evening at Weary Livers Bar with a playlist of all goth music, all night long. Date: Thursday, September 19th Time: 7 PM Enjoy the laid-back, gothic ambiance with subtle decorations and a comfortable atmosphere. Dress in your favorite casual gothic attire and unwind with fellow goth enthusiasts.
Los Angeles Fun Events
Hiking + Speed Dating - Baldwin Hills (Ages 30+) Join our group hike where we will rotate hikers through a series of 1:1 speed dates on the trail! Date: Saturday, July 6th Time: 10 AM: Meet at Boneyard Dog Park on Duquesne for a warm welcome and check-in to speed dating program (no downloads required!, but you will need a smartphone!) 10:30 AM: We will explain how we will be using the speed dating program and introduce you to your first date before we begin the hike. - 10:35AM - 1:30PM : Our hike will commence, as we climb to Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook, you will be paired 1:1 for dates, along with breaks and mixing/mingling.
Los Angeles Fun Events
The +1 Singles Night Party Spice up your Friday night at The +1 Singles Party, taking place at the lively Weary Livers Bar in Santa Monica! This is your chance to mix and mingle in a fun, relaxed atmosphere. Bring a friend along—after all, it’s always better when you can share the fun (and maybe even play matchmaker)! 🍹 Exclusive Drink Specials: Enjoy our specially crafted cocktails to set the night’s mood. Draft beers on tap & hand-selected wines. Refresh with a variety of non-alcoholic options to keep you chatting all night long! 🎵 Music & Vibes: Groove to a playlist of classic hits and today's chart-toppers, setting the perfect backdrop for a night of conversations and connections. 🔞 Age Restriction: 21 and over only. 🌟 Party Highlights: Networking: Dive into a crowd of friendly singles in a vibrant setting—perfect for making natural connections. Fun: With a relaxed vibe and plenty of drinks, you’re in for a night of enjoyment and new encounters. Adventure: Bring your best wingman or wingwoman and double the excitement—help each other find that special someone! 🎟️ Admission: Free entry! But don't wait too long—space is limited, and you’ll want to secure your spot at this popular gathering.
Hellocalifornia
GJUSTA Located just a stone’s throw away from the famed Hammer art museum, Gjusta is one of the best gluten-free bakeries in Los Angeles and is located in the heart of Venice, CA. Gjusta occupies an inconspicuous warehouse, but inside there is a long, narrow hallway with warm, savory pastries and glass cases of captivating sweets, and of course a huge line. The bakery has become locally famous for the high quality of its remarkable gluten-free products. Gjusta locally sources only the best fruit and farm-fresh ingredients to ensure everything they make is as tasty as it is healthy. Their menu consists of delightful sweets such as fruit slices rolled into a sugar-glazed dough for a morning delight, and wonderfully fluffy croissants dusted with pistachio crumbs.
See also
Discover Mar Vista's Top Dining: Local Experiences & Foodie Favorites near LA
Hellocalifornia
Huckleberry Café and Bakery is without a doubt on the list of best french bakeries in Los Angeles. Zoe Nathan, the head baker, has developed quite a reputation for her pastries, cakes, and quality bread. We recommend trying the beautiful, flaky croissants which come in a wide range of flavors like Prosciutto Gruyère and Valrhona Chocolate. The Huckleberry Cafe and Bakery also offers a variety of other pastries including bread pudding, scones, tarts, donuts, old-fashioned coffee cake, ciabattas, and maple bacon biscuits. The bakery was established in 2009 and recently published a book, "Huckleberry: Stories, Secrets, and Recipes from Our Kitchen," which includes 115 recipes straight from the bakery’s distinguished chefs. Along with the large selection of baked goods offered here, Huckleberry Cafe also offers comfort food such as brisket hash, and egg sandwiches on freshly made country toast. All of this scrumptious food, plus outside patio seating in sunny southern California, make this a perfect place for an outdoor brunch date.
The Restaurant Guide
Xuntos: Great tapas bar in Santa Monica with traditional bar bites from Asturias, Catalonia, the Basque region and Galicia. Cordero designed XUNTOS, “together” in Gallego, to be warm, fun, not too serious, with plenty to eat. Occupying two storefronts of a 1926 building at 516 Santa Monica Boulevard, the space includes two kitchens, two mezzanines, a dining room & a bar room. XUNTOS serves pintxos & tapas, unrefined: small plates from the farmer’s market around the corner to traditional dishes of Galicia, Asturias, Catalunya & the Basque Country, as they’re eaten in Spain. Natural Wines from these regions are the centerpiece of the ambitious beverage program curated by beverage director Scott Baker, with a full bar featuring cocktails by friend Kim Stodel, gin tonics, chupitos (Galician after-dinner drinks), brandies, vermuts & cold cervezas.
Los Angeles Fun Events
Couples Social Night Calling All Los Angeles couples! Have you been looking for the perfect opportunity to make friends with other couples? Sharing experiences with new friends can make your evenings out even more enjoyable. Join us for an evening dedicated to bringing Los Angeles & Santa Monica couples together in a warm and friendly atmosphere. Date: Thursday, July 18th Time: 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM Games: Enjoy some light-hearted competition with games like shuffleboard and darts. Socializing: Meet and mingle with other couples in a relaxed and inviting setting. This is a wonderful chance to connect with like-minded couples, share stories, and create lasting memories. Whether you’re new to the area or simply looking to expand your social circle, our Couples' Social Night is the place to be.
Secret Los Angeles
Take a bite out of the best sandwiches in Los Angeles! Italy’s most famous sandwich shop has been drawing crowds to its Florence location since 1991, and we were lucky enough to gain an outpost of All’Antico Vinaio here in L.A. just last year. These globally-famous creations are made with Tuscan schiacciata bread and stuffed with mouthwatering ingredients like prosciutto, truffle honey, stracchino, spicy eggplant, artichoke cream, pancetta, sun dried tomatoes, and so many more. If you’re on the hunt for the best Italian sandwiches in Los Angeles, we’re not sure you can better than this.
Hellocalifornia
Why not have a cinnamon roll for breakfast?! 😋 Do you like sweet or savory in the morning? Milo & Olive is open Every Day for Indoor & Outdoor Dining, Curbside Pickup, Takeout & Delivery 🥐 Breakfast 🥖 Lunch 🍕 Dinner 🍝
Los Angeles Fun Events
Embrace the dark side and join us for Goth Night at Weary Livers! 🕸️🖤 Dress in your best goth attire and enjoy a night of music, drinks, and mingling with fellow goth enthusiasts. 🗓️ Date: Friday, July 26th ⏰ Time: 7-10PM 🔞 Age: 21+
citygirlvibes
Afternoon Tea at The Peninsula Beverly Hills is such a treat! The perfect picturesque setting to enjoy girl time, celebrate birthdays or special occasions. Afternoon tea is offered with daily seatings at 11am, 1:30pm or 4pm. Packages start at $125pp. You can reserve on OpenTable at The Living Room 💗
See alsoDiscover Mar Vista's Vibrant Community: Anonymous Posts & Trending Discussions Near LA
Los Angeles4 everybody
Wanna a danish style cube bread from Kyoto? It’s in Santa Monica now! Mr. Teddy Baker makes the best katsu sandwiches with milk bread too! $10 for the cube to take home and have it as you please. The imported butter that’s mixed into all the fluffiness is so unique, sweet, light, airy and crispy/flaky. It’s great that the katsu sandwich, tenderloin, and they have other options too! You find it at a to-go style place where you walk up and order, get it as delivery or even eat there with the small dining section they have. So good!
Los Angeles Fun Events
Saturday Night Karaoke & Social | Singles and Friends Come sing your favorite songs with new friends & a local scene! 🎤 Karaoke Night at Weary Livers 🍹 Join us at Weary Livers in Santa Monica for a cozy evening of karaoke and socializing on July 6th, 2024, from 9:30 PM until midnight. It's the perfect blend of a unique Victorian-inspired setting and a modern, fun vibe. 🎵 Sing Your Heart Out Our karaoke playlist has something for everyone - whether you're into classic hits or today's chart-toppers. So, whether you love singing or prefer to cheer on others, the stage is yours! 🥂 Meet & Greet Over Drinks Enjoy our selection of handcrafted cocktails, wines, and beers while you chat and connect with fellow music and fun enthusiasts. It's a great chance to make new friends in a unique and inviting atmosphere. Where: Weary Livers, Santa Monica When: Saturday July 6th, 2024, 9:30 PM - 1:00 AM Age: 21 and up
THE ROOFTOP GUIDE
High Rooftop Lounge at Hotel Erwin 🌟 Beachside rooftop bar with chill vibes and epic sunsets. From the roof terrace at the lovely Hotel Erwin rooftop bar, you get some amazing views over the Pacific Ocean and Venice Beach. Being the only rooftop in Venice, High Rooftop Lounge feels a lot like a continuing of the beach below, with lounge sofas and large umbrellas. The only difference might be that up here you also have infrared (and blankets) keeping the heat up on chilly nights. The rooftop bar offers a good selection of well made specialty cocktails and different Californian beers, along with some really tasty bar bites and a weekend brunch. The menu even includes sun screen, so visits during sunny days is no problem at all. Expect a great lounge vibe on the terrace, perfect for relaxing drinks in the sun. And at night, there are often live DJs picking up the pace a notch.
Discover Local Experiences in Santa Monica Near LA
Santa Monica, nestled next to the bustling city of Los Angeles, offers a unique blend of sun, sea, and vibrant urban vibes. This enchanting coastal city is brimming with secrets and experiences that cater to every taste and interest. Whether you're keen on food, nightlife, socializing, or in-depth exploration, let’s dive into some local insights that will make your visit unforgettable.
Indulge in Culinary Delights
Santa Monica is a culinary haven that food enthusiasts will appreciate. For breakfast, you can't miss stopping by Huckleberry Bakery & Cafe. It's a beloved local spot known for organic, farm-to-table goodness. To get the full experience, try their freshly baked pastries and avocado toast. For lunch, head over to Bay Cities Italian Deli, where their famous 'Godmother' sandwich, packed with an array of Italian cold cuts, will leave you craving more.
When dinner time rolls around, make sure to visit Tar & Roses. This trendy farm-to-table restaurant offers a seasonal menu that highlights the best local produce. Their wood-fired dishes are a local favorite. For a more laid-back yet equally impressive experience, check out the Father’s Office for their iconic Office Burger – often hailed as the best burger in LA County.
Immerse in Santa Monica's Nightlife
When the sun sets, Santa Monica's nightlife comes alive with trendy bars and chic lounges. Basement Tavern, located beneath The Victorian, is known for its lively atmosphere, live music, and craft cocktails – a perfect start to a night out. For a more upscale experience, head to The Bungalow, a stylish hotspot that feels more like a friend’s beach house, offering cozy nooks and lush gardens to socialize in.
Love dancing? Don't miss 1212 Santa Monica. This two-level hotspot offers a vibrant dance floor with top DJ tunes and excellent rooftop views. Another must-visit is the Harvelle’s Blues Club. This legendary spot has been featuring live blues, jazz, and burlesque shows since the 1930s, creating an intimate and electric atmosphere that locals adore.
Explore Hidden Gems and Scenic Spots
For those who love to explore and embark on new adventures, Santa Monica offers a variety of hidden gems and scenic spots. Start your day with a walk or bike ride along the Santa Monica Beach & Pier. As you soak in the sun and people-watch, you'll find it's the perfect spot for leisure and exercise. For more adventure, rent a bike and cruise down the Strand Bike Path, which stretches 22 miles along the coast from Pacific Palisades to Palos Verdes.
Nature enthusiasts should not miss Will Rogers State Historic Park, where you'll find hiking trails with breathtaking vistas of the Pacific Ocean. For a more secluded beach experience, head to El Matador Beach. Known for its picturesque sea caves and large rocks, it's a favorite local spot for stunning photos and peaceful walks.
Engage in Santa Monica's Social Scene
In Santa Monica, socializing isn't just limited to the night. Join the locals at the weekly Santa Monica Farmers Market. Held every Wednesday and Saturday, this market is one of the best places to mingle and enjoy fresh produce, artisanal goods, and live music. It's a community staple that offers an authentic peek into the local lifestyle.
Looking for a unique socializing experience? The Kikihub website allows you to tap into local anonymous chats where you can gain real opinions and secrets about Santa Monica. Engaging with locals through this platform helps you uncover trending experiences and invaluable insights that aren’t always accessible to tourists.
Art and culture lovers shouldn't miss Bergamot Station. This art complex is the largest in Southern California and houses numerous galleries and creative spaces. Attend exhibition openings or art talks to connect with local artists and enthusiasts. It’s an invigorating hub of creativity where you can truly see the vibrant art scene of the city.
Unique Spots Locals Love
One of the lesser-known but equally delightful spots in Santa Monica is Palisades Park. Stretching along Ocean Avenue, it offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, beautiful gardens, and scenic paths ideal for a leisurely stroll. It’s a serene spot where locals go to relax, read a book, or enjoy a peaceful picnic.
For a quirky experience, visit the Spitfire Grill near the Santa Monica Airport. Popular with both locals and pilots, this diner offers a cozy ambiance and hearty meals while you watch small aircraft take off and land. It’s an offbeat location that provides a unique glimpse into a different side of Santa Monica.
Finally, don't miss the mural-wrapped streets between Main Street and Abbot Kinney Boulevard. These vibrant murals showcase the talent of local artists and are perfect for a casual artistic exploration. Locals often wander these streets, snapping photos and appreciating the dynamic street art culture.
Santa Monica offers an array of experiences that bring you closer to the local lifestyle. By indulging in the city's finest food, vibrant nightlife, and hidden gems, while engaging with the community, you’ll uncover the heart and soul of this near-LA treasure trove of experiences.
