local attractions

From its beautiful coastal setting to fabulous restaurants and shopping, exhilarating recreational activities and world-class cultural attractions, no city in California offers as much to see, do and experience as Santa Monica.

Enjoy the best attractions, activities and events in Santa Monica. Then relax at the Gateway Hotel Santa Monica. Less than two miles from the Third Street Promenade, Santa Monica State Beach, the Pacific Park Pier and downtown Santa Monica, we’re the perfect Gateway to your Southern California adventure.

RECREATION

Santa Monica State Beach

Just west of Downtown Los Angeles, Santa Monica State Beach is almost four miles in length, offering luxuriously soft sand and the perfect location. You can walk to great shops and restaurants after enjoying fun beach activities. This iconic beach definitely represents the best of both worlds!

Hollywood Walk of Fame

More than 2,600 stars are embedded in 15 blocks along both Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street in Hollywood. This distinctive display honors those who have distinguished themselves in the world of entertainment. From actors and musicians to producers and directors, the list of famous names is extensive. Make sure to stop by this legendary landmark during your visit.

J. Paul Getty Museum

Love the visual arts? Then the J. Paul Getty Museum should certainly be on your list of attractions to explore. This museum collects, preserves and exhibits international artworks from a wide range of eras through the present day. You can enjoy various exhibitions and programs that celebrate visual interpretations of the world around us.

Getty Villa

If ancient Greece and Rome fascinate you, the Getty Villa is the perfect museum to visit. It focuses on numerous aspects of life during this time period. From art to architecture to garden landscapes, you’re sure to discover fascinating facts about what it was like to live in this era.

Universal Studios Hollywood

Universal Studios Hollywood is both a film studio and a theme park that’s exciting to visit. With amazing rides and great opportunities to learn the glamorous history of some of your favorite Universal movies, you’ll definitely enjoy an incredible time.

Malibu

Known for its great surfing, luxurious homes on the bluff overlooking the beach and great shopping, Malibu is a supremely popular California town. Whether you want to surf the dramatic waves, fish off the renowned pier or shop at a terrific selection of stores, you’ll always find fun things to experience in Malibu.

Venice Beach

Vibrant and artistic, Venice Beach is known as a place that invites creative thought and fun outdoor activities. You can participate in games of handball, tennis and volleyball on the beach or wander around on the boardwalk to sample different restaurants or browse through shops. There are always delightful things to experience along Venice Beach.

sHOPPING

Santa Monica Pier/Pacific Park

Open all day and all night, the Santa Monica Pier is a terrific place to enjoy fun activities and a wide variety of shops as well as a great selection of restaurants and eateries. Its famous Ferris wheel is this attraction’s most recognizable landmark. At Pacific Park, located on the Santa Monica Pier, you can enjoy thrilling rides, amusing games and an assortment of fantastic foods. Satisfy your sense of adventure on this dynamic pier during your Santa Monica stay.

Third Street Promenade

Like to shop? Then the Third Street Promenade should not be missed. The three, car-free blocks consist of an extensive collection of fantastic shops to explore at your leisure. From fresh produce to the latest fashions and everything in between, you’re bound to discover the items you want to take home with you at this retail extravaganza.

Rodeo Drive

Right in the center of Beverly Hills, three blocks of Rodeo Drive are considered the height of luxury. In this area, you can see the most exclusive stores that cater to high fashion and extravagant lifestyles. It’s a chic shopping experience you won’t soon forget.