S A N T A M O N I C A

One of California’s most iconic neighborhoods, Santa Monica, is located right on the beach bordered by the Pacific Palisades and Venice. Santa Monica has something for everyone, with a mix of beachfront apartments and beautiful homes. 

SHOPPING & GROCERIES
Third Street Promenade is a shopping and entertainment complex located three blocks away from the beach. Santa Monica Place was recently added to the Third Street Promenade in 2010, providing even more shopping and dining options. With lively street performances and outdoor eating options, the Third Street Promenade is perfect for families and young adults. 

Santa Monica is lucky to have many local and fresh grocery options. Twice a week on Wednesdays and Saturdays, the Third Street Promenade hosts a farmer’s market with many fresh fruits, vegetables, and more. In addition, residents are also able to shop at stores like Erewhon, Whole Foods, Bristol Farms, Trader Joe’s, Gelson’s, and more. 

RESTAURANTS
Santa Monica is home to an abundance of unique food and dining options. Because of its close proximity to the ocean, seafood options are widely available and guaranteed fresh. Restaurants like Water Grill, Urth Caffe, Sugarfish, Fig, Hillstone, and Flower Child are all popular, delicious, and in Santa Monica. 

STAYING ACTIVE
The beaches in Santa Monica have walking and biking paths that run parallel to the sand, allowing for gorgeous views and easy exercise. In addition, workout facilities like Sweat 60, Pure Barre, Corepower Yoga, Box N Burn, and Soulcycle all have locations in Santa Monica. 

SCHOOLS & COMMUNITY
Because Santa Monica is its own city, separate from Los Angeles, it also has its own school district, not a part of the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD). Santa Monica is a part of the Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District. According to Niche, this school district is one of the best school districts in California. Many private schools are located in or near Santa Monica, such as Crossroads School for Arts & Sciences and Brentwood School. 

Because Santa Monica attracts many tourists from around the world, crime rates may appear higher than those of other neighborhoods. Many of the crimes, however, involve nonviolent theft in the form of pickpocketing in highly touristy areas. 

LANDMARKS & ATTRACTIONS
One of Santa Monica’s most popular attractions is the Santa Monica Pier. With amusement park rides and games, the Pier is perfect for a family outing or get-together with friends. There is also an aquarium located nearby.