How is the weather in Santa Monica?

Santa Monica's weather is typically mild, boasting an average temperature of 70°F (21°C) throughout the year. Winters are cooler, averaging around 60°F (15°C), while summers can heat up to 75°F (24°C). It's generally sunny, with occasional rain in winter months.

What are some of the best things to do in Santa Monica?

Visitors in Santa Monica often enjoy rollerblading or biking along the Marvin Braude Bike Trail, exploring the shops on Main Street, watching the sunset from Palisades Park, or taking yoga classes on the beach.

What is the best time of year to visit Santa Monica?

Many visitors choose to explore Santa Monica from June to August due to the warm and pleasant weather. Local events that draw crowds during this period include the Santa Monica Pier Concert Series and the Twilight Dance Series.

What are the best places to stay in Santa Monica?

Visitors often choose to stay in areas such as Downtown Santa Monica, for its proximity to shopping, dining, and nightlife; the Ocean Park neighborhood, well known for its beachy vibe; and the quieter Mid-City, which is close to the Santa Monica Airport and arts district.

What are the best places to visit in Santa Monica?

The most popular places to visit in Santa Monica include the iconic Santa Monica Pier, the Third Street Promenade for shopping and street performers, and the artsy Bergamot Station. The Tongva Park and Santa Monica State Beach are also frequently suggested for relaxation and outdoor activities.

What are some hiking trails in Santa Monica?

The Santa Monica Mountains have several popular hiking trails. Temescal Canyon Trail is a loop that provides panoramic ocean views, while the Los Liones Trail weaves through lush greenery and offers a spectacular vista of the Pacific Ocean.

What are some family activities to do in Santa Monica?

Families can enjoy a fun-filled day at the Santa Monica Pier, which has the Pacific Park amusement park and the Aquarium. Another often recommended activity is a bike ride along the South Bay Bicycle Trail, and visiting the interactive exhibits at the Santa Monica History Museum.

What are some of the best day trip ideas in Santa Monica?

A popular day trip from Santa Monica is to the Getty Center to explore its impressive art collection. Visitors also frequently travel to the Griffith Observatory for a panoramic view of Los Angeles, or to Malibu for its beautiful beaches and the Malibu Wine Safaris.

What types of vacation rentals are available in Santa Monica?

Uncover the perfect home-away-from-home with our diverse selection of vacation rentals in Santa Monica. From over 1,390 apartment rentals, over 530 house rentals to over 220 condo rentals, we've got you covered. For even more variety, explore our Airbnb Categories to find the ideal space for your getaway.

Are there vacation rentals with a dedicated workspace in Santa Monica?

Yes! Work meets play with ease at over 1,470 vacation rentals in Santa Monica featuring dedicated workspaces. Stay connected and productive in your home away from home.

Santa Monica vacation rentals

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Top-rated vacation rentals in Santa Monica

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Guest favorite

Rental unit in Malibu

4.99 out of 5 average rating, 350 reviews

Idyllic, Romantic Beachfront Apartment in Malibu

Fall asleep to the sound of ocean waves in this charming beachfront apartment. The light, airy home features open-plan living and a wall of windows to maximize the amazing views. Enjoy drinks on the deck and a sunset over the water—it's pure bliss. This beachfront apartment is right above the sand and surf. At night the sounds of the sea will lull you to sleep. During the day, you can watch the sea lions sunning on the rocks and dolphins and whales swimming by or go for a walk along the water's edge and dive in yourself. This is an amazing place to have a glass of wine and watch the sunset and relax! In the evening, the lights of the "Queen's Necklace" glimmer in the distance and the moonlight shines on the water. The living room is cozy with two loveseats to snuggle in and watch a movie on the 50" flat screen TV. Three large sliding glass doors open up if you want to let the ocean breezes blow through. The kitchen is small but fully equipped with an apartment size stove and oven, a microwave, a Keurig coffee maker and a French press, tea kettle, toaster and all the dishes and pots and pans you need. A round table with linens provides a beautiful spot for morning coffee. The bedroom has a queen bed with a new organic mattress and designer sheets, pillows and duvet. There is a large closet with room to store your clothes. Books line the bookshelves if you'd like something to read. Mostly, this is just a quiet, beautiful space to put your feet up and really relax while watching the endless panorama of the natural world outside. And....if you want to feel like a movie star, the apartment was recently used as a glamorous setting in an independent film due out soon!!! Two-person kayak (life jackets available) Boogie Boards and a surfboard Television with premium channels (HBO, Showtime, etc.) Wi-Fi Shared entry gate with one other unit. My husband and I live in a small cottage above the apartment but the only shared space is the entry door. We rarely even see our guests. However, I am always available to answer questions or concerns but almost no one has them! Situated directly above the sand and surf, the home is in a residential area along the Malibu coast, away from the tourist areas. Take in the stars at night while strolling along the beach, or eat at one of the nearby restaurants right on the water. There is bus service available just a minute from the apartment that will take you into Santa Monica or the center of Malibu, or farther north to some of Malibu's more remote beaches. Uber is readily available. At high tide, the ocean may come right up to the seawall limiting beach availability. This all depends on the moon, the tides and the amount of sand that we have. This can really vary from day to day and depending on the season. This winter, rough seas washed away our private stairs to the beach, so guests need to use the public access stairs just a few houses away and a very short walk.

Guest favorite

Bungalow in Santa Monica

4.98 out of 5 average rating, 291 reviews

Santa Monica Bungalow on Quiet Street North of Montana

Step through the carriage doors and into an open interior with polished concrete floors, plus a kitchen with navy cabinets and stone countertops. The bedroom comes with barn door, bamboo floors, and 55" HDTV, while a verdant garden awaits outside. Enter the guest house thru carriage doors to a first floor open living space with kitchen, sofa and 60'' HD flatscreen TV. Polished concrete floors and stone countertops. Exit to open, outdoor staircase leading to an upper bedroom with Cal-King Bed, bamboo floors, dresser, 55'' HD TV, comfortable bathroom with walk-in shower and vanity. Wifi / Cable / AC & Heating units in each room. Design is a mix of beach cottage with contemporary accents. 2 Blocks to beautiful Ocean Avenue to watch gorgeous California sunsets or walk to beach. 2 Blocks to Montana Avenue shopping and cafes. Close to Promenade and Metrolink. Unbeatable Location ! Our place is good for couples, solo adventurers, and business travelers. The bungalow is a separate guesthouse but owners are present on the property in the main house. Outside table with a bench and chairs are perfectly located for morning coffee lunch or evening cocktail. We live in the front house so feel free to reach out to us with any questions and/or concerns regarding your stay. Leave the car behind - the beach, restaurants, cafes, and shops, are all an easy walk away. Rent a bike nearby to explore further. Watch the sunset over the water from Ocean Avenue, 2 blocks away, while Metrolink and Promenade are also close. Rent a Hulu Bike for your stay. “On May 12, 2015, the Santa Monica City Council adopted the Home-Sharing Ordinance reiterating its ban on the rental of entire units as vacation rentals. The Home-Sharing Ordinance also legalized the short term rental of a portion of a person’s home when the host lives on-site throughout the visitor’s stay and when the host obtains a business license. Hosts are also required to collect and remit Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) if not collected and remitted by the hosting platform.” Our license #221557 is listed with the City of Santa Monica

Guest favorite

Guest suite in Santa Monica

4.85 out of 5 average rating, 315 reviews

A Uniquely Beautiful Modern Studio in Santa Monica

A unique and modern studio located in the heart of Santa Monica, California! We are locator 1.5 miles from Santa Monica and Venice beaches with trendy shopping and restaurant destinations nearby! The studio is newly renovated with its own separate/private entrance, an updated kitchen, mini refrigerator, TV, WIFI, a Queen size bed, an extra fold-out/futon bed, shower, closet, luggage storing space, and more. The Studio is situated in a quiet and safe neighborhood with lots of street parking.

Superhost

Rental unit in Ocean Park

4.82 out of 5 average rating, 109 reviews

Minutes walk to beach / Traveling Nurses welcome

This treetop New York-style walk-up is one of the original fourplex's in the city. Back in 1925 when this was built, the beach was the main attraction. It still is. Just a few blocks west you'll be able to enjoy exquisite sunsets, fun people watching, and a lovely, very clean space to return to after a day of exploring. We offer one queen-size “dream-cloud” mattress bed and a fold-down couch. All with clean and cozy linens. We are now welcoming Healthcare workers. message us for information.

Superhost

Guesthouse in Venice

4.88 out of 5 average rating, 173 reviews

Studio Guesthouse Marina del Rey/Venice Beach

This is a very quiet Neighborhood Sanitized before you check in Separate free standing Studio Guesthouse located in your own private Garden setting ,private entrance Gate House has a new kitchen unit ,private Bathroom Sleeps up to 4 ,Beach is 1/2 mile, Restaurants of all price ranges around the corner, 1 block from America's most trendies Abbot Kinney, Santa Monica a short bike ride, Yacht Harbor , Hollywood is not far Private entrance Gate is located in our Ally secured by outdoor Camera

Guest favorite

Guest suite in Mar Vista

4.95 out of 5 average rating, 459 reviews

Bright Architectural Studio

Perched on the 2nd floor, our place feels like a getaway in itself. Completely private with views of a well-manicured garden. Walking distance to The Mar Vista Farmer's Market, a pedestrian-friendly area on Venice Blvd. that features both casual and formal dining, coffee, gift, vintage record and clothing shops. Steps away from a bike lane to the beach. It features high ceilings, a newly built kitchenette, lovely courtyard, and parking. Centrally located to all of LA.

Guest favorite

Bungalow in Venice

4.9 out of 5 average rating, 432 reviews

The Alex | Venice Beach, Clawfoot Tub, NEW AC

The house next door is currently under construction. Prices have been adjusted to offset the potential for noise. Welcome to The Alex, the open floor plan includes a curated library and queen bed in a spacious one-bedroom retreat, a work desk & kitchenette. Relax & enjoy our sun-drenched garden with seasonal flowers. The star of the show? A massive private bathroom with a clawfoot tub and glass rain shower. Complimentary beach cruisers await for a seaside adventure.

Guest favorite

Guesthouse in Pacific Palisades

4.94 out of 5 average rating, 642 reviews

Cottage Near the Sea!

Our lovely, comfortable cottage guest room with private entrance is just blocks from the beach. Enjoy your own private garden view and patio. It comfortably sleeps two and is convenient to all of LA including Santa Monica, Venice Beach, Hollywood, LAX. Easy access to bus lines. And now we have 100 MPS Broadband for strong Wi-Fi for all your personal or business needs. Minimum stay: 3 nights. Maximum stay: 28 nights. We are both fully vaccinated.

Guest favorite

Guest suite in Ocean Park

4.88 out of 5 average rating, 612 reviews

Large Studio by the Beach

[License #221828] Spacious basement studio offered by a super host with over 4.9 rating over 500 + reviews. It: * Is 10 blocks from hotspots like 3rd St Promenade, Santa Monica Beach and Main St * Free coffee/tea/snacks, WiFi, TV * Close to bike/car/train hubs * Includes coin op washer/dryer (shared by building) * Parking: $7 / day if purchased 48 or more hours in advanced or $9 / day otherwise

Guest favorite

Guesthouse in Venice

4.94 out of 5 average rating, 254 reviews

Charming Venice Retreat

A great location- 20 minutes by car from the airport and 25 minutes by foot from iconic Venice Beach. Walk around the corner to have brunch at one of the hippest restaurants on the Westside-Superba. You can also cross Lincoln Boulevard and walk down one of our quiet walk streets to world famous Abbot Kinney. There are bike rentals nearby and electric scooters on the corner.

Guest favorite

Guesthouse in Santa Monica

4.97 out of 5 average rating, 266 reviews

Papu's Guest House

Modern, bright, light filled guest house! Quiet residential neighborhood with hidden gems on local retail street of Ocean Park Blvd, including wonderful shops, cafes and restaurants. Close to all the activities Santa Monica & Venice offer, including beaches, 3rd Street Promenade, Abbott Kinney, etc. All available to you without the congestion of the tourist districts.

Guest favorite

Guesthouse in Sawtelle

4.99 out of 5 average rating, 294 reviews

CLEAN A-FRAME Studio Westside

White walls, and butcher block counter tops give this spacious modern studio a clean and bright feel. Located on the Westside of Los Angeles about 32 blocks from Santa Monica Pier with conveinenant access to the beach, restaurants, and shopping. Near 10 & 405 freeways and Expo Line Metro. Los Angeles Home-Sharing Registration #HSR19-000102

Vacation rentals for every style

Get the amount of space that is right for you

Popular amenities for Santa Monica vacation rentals

Stay near Santa Monica's top sights

Santa Monica Pier2,744 locals recommend

Santa Monica State Beach169 locals recommend

Whole Foods Market1,701 locals recommend

Apple Third Street Promenade1,594 locals recommend

Venice Beach1,387 locals recommend

Venice Beach Park1,202 locals recommend

Santa Monica beach vacation rentals

Guest favorite

Condo in Santa Monica

4.95 out of 5 average rating, 193 reviews

NEW and Gorgeous Walk Everywhere with Garden

Superhost

Guest suite in Pacific Palisades

4.88 out of 5 average rating, 279 reviews

Ocean View Santa Monica Beach Studio w/ fire pit

Guest favorite

Guesthouse in El Segundo

4.91 out of 5 average rating, 420 reviews

Nice Guesthouse Close to the Beach, LAX & Sofi Stadium

Guest favorite

Rental unit in Venice

4.83 out of 5 average rating, 124 reviews

Venice Studio

Guest favorite

Guesthouse in Santa Monica

4.98 out of 5 average rating, 151 reviews

New Luxe Studio Guesthouse 12 blocks from Ocean

Guest favorite

Condo in Santa Monica

4.94 out of 5 average rating, 348 reviews

Elegant Upper w Courtyard Garden Dining Space

Superhost

Rental unit in Santa Monica

4.82 out of 5 average rating, 155 reviews

Perfect Cozy Apartment w/Patio & Free Parking

Guest favorite

Guest suite in Ocean Park

4.97 out of 5 average rating, 137 reviews

UPPER BEACH OASIS

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Santa Monica home rentals

Guest favorite

Home in Bel Air

4.87 out of 5 average rating, 402 reviews

Sleep w/ Stars in Bel Air! Tiny Home Guesthouse

Guest favorite

Home in Sherman Oaks

4.99 out of 5 average rating, 183 reviews

MULHOLLAND HILLS RETREAT W/BEST VIEWS IN LA

Superhost

Home in Venice

4.91 out of 5 average rating, 271 reviews

BEST Location in the Heart of Venice! 5 star stay

Guest favorite

Home in Venice

4.99 out of 5 average rating, 177 reviews

The Dudley - Silicon Beach Craftsman

Guest favorite

Home in Santa Monica

4.91 out of 5 average rating, 362 reviews

Quiet & Lovely Light-Filled Casita - Santa Monica

Guest favorite

Home in Venice

4.92 out of 5 average rating, 260 reviews

Venice Beach 2 Blocks from Abbot Kinney Blvd.

Guest favorite

Home in Venice

4.93 out of 5 average rating, 106 reviews

Luxurious Venice Pad with Amazing Rooftop Deck!!

Guest favorite

Home in Ocean Park

4.97 out of 5 average rating, 124 reviews

NEWLY RENOVATED - 1min to Sand & Sea - Dream Home

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Santa Monica apartment rentals

Guest favorite

Rental unit in Ocean Park

4.98 out of 5 average rating, 284 reviews

Ocean Park Treasure... 3 Blocks to the Beach!

Superhost

Rental unit in Santa Monica

4.88 out of 5 average rating, 271 reviews

Yellow House in Santa Monica

Superhost

Rental unit in Malibu

4.88 out of 5 average rating, 113 reviews

The Malibu Penthouse

Superhost

Rental unit in Mar Vista

4.88 out of 5 average rating, 130 reviews

Chic 1-bedroom with private yard and free parking.

Superhost

Rental unit in Santa Monica

4.78 out of 5 average rating, 143 reviews

Ocean View Walk to Beach, Pier, 3rd St Promenade*

Guest favorite

Rental unit in Los Angeles

4.92 out of 5 average rating, 154 reviews

Beach Getaway in Santa Monica

Guest favorite

Rental unit in Venice

4.94 out of 5 average rating, 359 reviews

Couple's Nest one block off Abbot Kinney District

Guest favorite

Rental unit in Ocean Park

4.91 out of 5 average rating, 108 reviews

An Entire Classic Santa Monica Beach Guest Home.

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Quick stats about vacation rentals in Santa Monica

Total rentals
2.6K properties
Total number of reviews
114K reviews
Family-friendly rentals
940 properties are a good fit for families
Pet-friendly rentals
930 properties allow pets
Rentals with a pool
330 properties have a pool
Rentals with dedicated workspaces
1.5K properties have a dedicated workspace

Your guide to Santa Monica

Introduction

With 3.5 miles of sandy beach and swimmable water, and some of the most heavenly summer sunsets, Santa Monica is about fun in the sun with a healthy dose of relaxation. The city’s numerous shops, restaurants, vacation rentals, and entertainment venues can convince you the city is one large coastal theme park, but it’s also a surprisingly walkable section of Los Angeles, with adjacent Venice Beach just a leisurely 2.5-mile stroll away.

The best time to stay in a vacation rental in Santa Monica

Santa Monica’s coastal Mediterranean climate promises warm daytime temperatures and cool evenings. Sunny, temperate days are generally the rule for the majority of the year, with rain a rare exception. The months of June, July, and August are the driest, while January and February are more regularly gray and gloomy.

Santa Monica temperatures generally hover between the mid-60s to the low 70s Fahrenheit. Morning skies can often be obscured by a marine layer, which typically melts away before lunch, giving way to sunshine. Summers can occasionally introduce warmer daytime temps in the low 80s, but the presence of a coastal breeze tends to keep the temperature hovering around perfect. Still, it’s never a bad idea to bring an extra light layer, especially for evening excursions. Otherwise, bring sunglasses and plenty of sunscreen.

Top things to do in Santa Monica

Santa Monica Pier

Arguably the most iconic structure along the Southern California coast, this pier overlooks Santa Monica State Beach and operates as a popular social, dining, and entertainment spot for locals and visitors alike. Take a ride on the historic merry-go-round, watch locals cast and catch along the length of the boardwalk, or enjoy the panoramic view from atop the Pacific Park Ferris wheel (especially beautiful during summer as the sun is setting). The pier’s Secret Story Tour app is worth a download before and during any visit.

Santa Monica Farmers’ Market

If you’re looking for an authentic taste of Southern California’s expansive cornucopia of produce, a visit to the largest grower-only farmers’ market in the region will surely be a rewarding and flavorful affair. It’s not uncommon to run into famous local chefs loading up carts for their week’s menu alongside other celebrities as you peruse the more than 85 farm stands on Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday morning.

Third Street Promenade

This three-block, pedestrian-only stretch of shops and restaurants is an iconic part of the Santa Monica landscape. In recent years, the outdoor pedestrian mall has seen a revitalization. Investment has brought new, heralded dining options to the strip along with numerous public amenities that invite visitors to rest and relax, children to play, and audiences to enjoy free public performances.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is the weather in Santa Monica?
Santa Monica's weather is typically mild, boasting an average temperature of 70°F (21°C) throughout the year. Winters are cooler, averaging around 60°F (15°C), while summers can heat up to 75°F (24°C). It's generally sunny, with occasional rain in winter months.
What are some of the best things to do in Santa Monica?
Visitors in Santa Monica often enjoy rollerblading or biking along the Marvin Braude Bike Trail, exploring the shops on Main Street, watching the sunset from Palisades Park, or taking yoga classes on the beach.
What is the best time of year to visit Santa Monica?
Many visitors choose to explore Santa Monica from June to August due to the warm and pleasant weather. Local events that draw crowds during this period include the Santa Monica Pier Concert Series and the Twilight Dance Series.
What are the best places to stay in Santa Monica?
Visitors often choose to stay in areas such as Downtown Santa Monica, for its proximity to shopping, dining, and nightlife; the Ocean Park neighborhood, well known for its beachy vibe; and the quieter Mid-City, which is close to the Santa Monica Airport and arts district.
What are the best places to visit in Santa Monica?
The most popular places to visit in Santa Monica include the iconic Santa Monica Pier, the Third Street Promenade for shopping and street performers, and the artsy Bergamot Station. The Tongva Park and Santa Monica State Beach are also frequently suggested for relaxation and outdoor activities.
What are some hiking trails in Santa Monica?
The Santa Monica Mountains have several popular hiking trails. Temescal Canyon Trail is a loop that provides panoramic ocean views, while the Los Liones Trail weaves through lush greenery and offers a spectacular vista of the Pacific Ocean.
What are some family activities to do in Santa Monica?
Families can enjoy a fun-filled day at the Santa Monica Pier, which has the Pacific Park amusement park and the Aquarium. Another often recommended activity is a bike ride along the South Bay Bicycle Trail, and visiting the interactive exhibits at the Santa Monica History Museum.
What are some of the best day trip ideas in Santa Monica?
A popular day trip from Santa Monica is to the Getty Center to explore its impressive art collection. Visitors also frequently travel to the Griffith Observatory for a panoramic view of Los Angeles, or to Malibu for its beautiful beaches and the Malibu Wine Safaris.
What types of vacation rentals are available in Santa Monica?
Uncover the perfect home-away-from-home with our diverse selection of vacation rentals in Santa Monica. From over 1,390 apartment rentals, over 530 house rentals to over 220 condo rentals, we've got you covered. For even more variety, explore our Airbnb Categories to find the ideal space for your getaway.
Are there vacation rentals with a dedicated workspace in Santa Monica?
Yes! Work meets play with ease at over 1,470 vacation rentals in Santa Monica featuring dedicated workspaces. Stay connected and productive in your home away from home.

Santa Monica vacation rentals

Top-rated vacation rentals in Santa Monica

Vacation rentals for every style

Apartments

Houses

Cottages

Popular amenities for Santa Monica vacation rentals

Stay near Santa Monica's top sights

Santa Monica beach vacation rentals

Condo in Santa Monica

Guest suite in Pacific Palisades

Guesthouse in El Segundo

Rental unit in Venice

Guesthouse in Santa Monica

Condo in Santa Monica

Rental unit in Santa Monica

Guest suite in Ocean Park

Santa Monica home rentals

Home in Bel Air

Home in Sherman Oaks

Home in Venice

Home in Venice

Home in Santa Monica

Home in Venice

Home in Venice

Home in Ocean Park

Santa Monica apartment rentals

Rental unit in Ocean Park

Rental unit in Santa Monica

Rental unit in Malibu

Rental unit in Mar Vista

Rental unit in Santa Monica

Rental unit in Los Angeles

Rental unit in Venice

Rental unit in Ocean Park

Quick stats about vacation rentals in Santa Monica

Total rentals

Total number of reviews

Family-friendly rentals

Pet-friendly rentals

Rentals with a pool

Rentals with dedicated workspaces

Your guide to Santa Monica

Introduction

The best time to stay in a vacation rental in Santa Monica

Top things to do in Santa Monica

Santa Monica Pier

Santa Monica Farmers’ Market

Third Street Promenade

Frequently Asked Questions

Destinations to explore