Santa Monica Travel Secrets: Hidden Gems & Local Tips
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.
1
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.
Secret Los Angeles
The Stalking Horse Brewery & Freehouse This venue exudes the quintessential charm of a British-inspired sports bar. With its inviting atmosphere and a wide array of craft beers brewed on-site, it offers a delightful haven for sports enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking to catch the latest game or simply unwind with friends over traditional British fare, such as fish and chips or meat pies, this establishment delivers on both fronts.
Hellocalifornia
The Underrated Thing to Do in Venice, California... Go to the legend beach bike tour! This guided sightseeing tour is a great way to spend half a day exploring Venice Beach attractions. Starting on the Santa Monica Pier, you’ll spend two hours biking along Venice’s most interesting landmarks. You’ll cruise along the boardwalk, stop at Muscle Beach, pass by the Venice Canals, and see homes of Hollywood stars like Charlie Chaplin.
Secret Los Angeles
Sip, swim, & dine at a tropical rooftop oasis with ¡ESTA! at the Fairmont Century Plaza! Beat the heat this summer with a dip in the pool, a refreshing cocktail, stunning views of LA’s skyline, and delicious food at ¡ESTA!. The poolside, rooftop restaurant is serving up mouthwatering light fare including chips and dips, ceviche, fish tacos, tequila cocktails, cervezas, and non-alcoholic refreshments. From the views to the vibes, Fairmont Century Plaza and ¡ESTA! are ringing in the summer right.
Hellocalifornia
Explore art and architecture at the Getty Center, a top Los Angeles cultural destination. The Getty Center, located in Los Angeles, California, is a world-renowned art museum that attracts visitors from all over the world. The museum is home to an extensive collection of art, ranging from ancient to modern, and features exhibits that showcase the work of some of the most famous artists in history. Visitors to the Getty Center can expect to see works by artists such as Vincent van Gogh, Rembrandt, and Pablo Picasso. To visit the Getty Center, visitors must obtain tickets in advance. The museum also offers a variety of tours, including self-guided tours and guided tours led by knowledgeable docents. If you are planning a visit to the Getty Center, here is some helpful information to make your trip as smooth as possible.
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.
See also
Discover Mar Vista's Top Dining: Local Experiences & Foodie Favorites near LA
Explore Santa Monica's Hidden Gems: Local Travel Tips
Santa Monica, situated just west of Los Angeles, is known for its iconic pier, picturesque beaches, and vibrant lifestyle. But beyond the well-trodden tourist paths lie hidden gems and local secrets that can transform your visit from a typical trip into an unforgettable adventure. Kikihub, the platform known for its local anonymous chats, is your gateway to discovering these off-the-beaten-path experiences straight from the locals' mouths.
Discover the Secret Beaches
Everybody flocks to Santa Monica Beach, but locals know where to find quieter stretches of sand for some much-needed relaxation. Head north to Will Rogers State Beach, a serene spot offering less crowded shores and crystal-clear waters. It’s the perfect place for a peaceful swim, a sunset picnic, or even a scenic workout. Don’t miss out on Topanga State Beach either; it’s a local favorite for surfing, and its rocky coves make it a picturesque and tranquil escape.
Uncover Local Eateries
While Santa Monica boasts fine dining and popular eateries, the real culinary adventure lies in its hidden local favorites. Visit Bay Cities Italian Deli & Bakery for the legendary "Godmother" sandwich, a local staple. Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Lares Restaurant, where the handmade tortillas and rich flavors are the talk of the town. For an anonymous insight into Santa Monica's thriving vegan scene, try Erven - a culinary gem specializing in innovative, flavorful plant-based dishes.
Adventure in the Outdoors
Santa Monica is more than its beaches; it’s a hub for outdoor adventure. Lace up your hiking boots and tackle the Solstice Canyon Trail, where you can discover hidden waterfalls and historical ruins. For a local secret and a stunning coastal view, hike up to the Temescal Canyon Gateway Park. Make sure to check Kikihub for anonymous insights from locals about lesser-known trails that promise breathtaking scenery without the crowds.
Arts and Culture: Beyond Mainstream
Beyond the Santa Monica Pier’s amusement rides, the city is a hotbed of cultural experiences. Explore Bergamot Station, a collection of art galleries housed in a former train station. It's off the typical tourist circuit and offers rotating exhibitions that showcase emerging artists. Pop into the Street Pixel Art Murals scattered through Santa Monica’s alleys and byways; these hidden art pieces are local treasures waiting to be discovered. More local secrets? Kikihub chats often reveal upcoming pop-up galleries and underground events worth checking out.
Off-the-Radar Shopping
Stroll past the usual shopping hotspots and delve into unique stores treasured by the locals. Browse for quirky souvenirs at Santa Monica Antique Market, which brims with vintage finds and rare collectibles. Dive into Lionsgate Books, an independent bookstore offering rare collections and personalized recommendations from the owner. For fashionistas, the boutique Clover offers curated, one-of-a-kind pieces you won’t find elsewhere. Remember, Kikihub is a treasure trove for discovering anonymous local suggestions on hidden shops and markets.
Relaxation and Wellness
Even in a bustling area like Santa Monica, there are sanctuaries for relaxation. Visit the Santa Monica Stairs; though popular for fitness enthusiasts, these steps lead to quiet areas perfect for meditation and soaking up serene views. Experience hidden zen at Heal the Bay Aquarium's meditation garden, a tranquil spot known mainly to locals. Another local secret? The therapeutic salt caves at Shutters on the Beach Spa, touted in Kikihub chats as a perfect escape for invigoration and relaxation.
