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7 reasons why Santa Monica is the ULTIMATE cool destination

The coastline and golden sands of Santa Monica coming into view from the plane are usually the first exciting glimpses of California and the U.S mainland for us Aussies flying into Los Angeles.

The coastline and golden sands of Santa Monica coming into view from the plane are usually the first exciting glimpses of California and the U.S mainland for us Aussies flying into Los Angeles.

After landing at LAX airport, most Aussies head straight to Santa Monica to ease the jetlag and grab their first taste of California’s Mediterranean climate, and the seaside town’s iconic pier and laid back vibes.

Dig a little deeper though, and you’ll soon find out that the Santa Monica SoCal vibe has something for everyone with hidden gems everywhere.

Enjoy the best coffee in town imported from Sydney at Bondi Harvest café, shop for one-offs at Third Street Promenade, or explore Santa Monica’s plentiful organic Farmers Markets.

Here’s seven more reasons why we reckon Santa Monica rocks as a destination worth spending even more time in.

 

1. It’s easy to make your wellbeing #1

Santa Monica yoga

There’s a simple reason Santa Monica folk look so good and its because of their active lifestyle. Working out in any shape or form is the daily habit that puts the smile on the dials of the locals.

Soul-Cycle, Santa Monica

Soul-Cycle, Santa Monica

Santa Monica is one of the most walkable destinations around, so get inspired and walk the pier, do a spin class at the famous SoulCycle or mix it up at Yogahop to the sound of hip-hop at their unique dance-party yoga studio for high-energy classes that will leave you hot, sweaty and totally buzzed.

 

2. Wilshire Boulevard

Pacific Dining Car on Wilshere

The Pacific Dining Car on Wilshere

Wilshire Boulevard is the artery into the big smoke of LA and the road that takes you to LA’s Beach City. Keep your eyes peeled as you drive the colourful strip and you’ll see vintage stores, old-school Hollywood diners and real deal Californian cafes where the locals go.

Check out the 24-hour Pacific Dining Car on Wilshere. Opened in 1921, it is the only 24-hour fine dining establishment in LA. At any time, on any day, you can roll in and receive outstanding service, drink out of crystal and enjoy a well-prepared steak.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mO0NHTDhIGk

Wilshire is for explorers, for those who love a road trip and aren’t afraid to go off the beaten track away from the touristy crowds. Our tip – go there!

 

3. Santa Monica Farmers Markets

Santa Monica Farmer

Image: Santa Monica Farmers Market

Santa Monica’s outstanding farmers’ markets are like perfect pop-up festivals in the heart of the city.

Each of the city’s year-round market locations has its own unique charms: there’s picnicking on the lawn at Virginia Avenue Park (Saturdays), jazz at the Main Street market in Heritage Square (Sundays), and celebrity chefs looking for fresh produce at the Downtown Santa Monica market (Wednesdays and Saturdays).

Find out more: Santa Monica Farmers Markets

 

4. Downtown cool

Third Street cool

Third Street cool

The home of Third Street, a shopping mecca where you can hunt for vintage cowboy boots, find a new young LA designer or grab an alfresco lunch and savour the atmosphere. Downtown is for the bargain hunters, the avid shoppers who want to come home with an LA classic rather than the big brand offerings.

Check out The Closet, which offers some of the most affordable prices around on second-hand designer garb, plus personalised service and even free styling appointments.

 

5. Stroll Third Street Promenade

Third Street, an icon of Santa Monica

Third Street Promenade, a Santa Monica icon

But if you must still gorge on the big brands… Third Street Promenade features an all-star (usually cheaper than AUS) retail lineup that includes the likes of Lululemon, Abercrombie & Fitch, Adidas, Nike and a spectacular Apple Store.

Browse the stores as you walk this vehicle-free street, where street musicians serenade passersby, and the fantastical topiary dinosaurs add a weird and whimsical touch to your shopping experience.

Find out more: Third Street Sant Monica

 

6. O-mazing Ocean Avenue

Santa Monica pier

There’s no better place to be at sunrise or sunset than Ocean Avenue to chill and re-energise in the Pacific Ocean air. Here you can people watch on the manicured grass at Palisades Park or check out the original Muscle Beach which still flexes its charm for bodybuilders and other assorted sun-worshippers.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CIx9ve7mk5w

Feeling active? Go on a Segway or bike tour or a re-energising swim in the Pacific to power up the energy endorphins for the next exciting chapter on your Santa Monica experience.

 

7. Pico Boulevard hangs

pico-boulevard

Pico Boulevard is one of the most diverse neighbourhoods in Santa Monica where your day can begin at a farmers market buying fresh Californian produce and end partying in a dark club watching your new favourite band.

Check out Gastropub the Brixton Bar for delicious urban bites and cocktails and Speak Easy Cocktail, a fun, low key dive joint with cheap beers and cocktails, karaoke and pool tables.

 

Book Santa Monica with Excite and get BONUS POINTS!

Exciteholidays

Hey Agents! You can score 500 bonus points for every night booked and paid for in Santa Monica between Monday 10 September – Sunday 22  September 2018.

During the campaign, agents will be given a chance to WIN daily Santa Monica-themed prizes thanks to the ‘14 Days of Giveaways’, which will run on the Excite Holidays Facebook page (with agents answering daily questions to be in the running).

For more information, download the Santa Monica Guide.

Explore Santa Monica

What are your favourite hangouts and tips for Santa Monica?

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