Set along an unbroken twenty-mile stretch of white-sand beaches, the small, self-contained communities that line Santa Monica Bay feature some of the best LA has to offer, with none of the smog or searing heat that can make the rest of the metropolis unbearable. The entire area is well served by public transportation, near (but not too near) the airport, and a wide choice of accommodation makes it a good base for seeing the rest of the city.

Santa Monica, Venice and Malibu

• Santa Monica, Venice and Malibu

Explore Santa Monica, Venice and Malibu

• Malibu
• Santa Monica
• Venice

California cities


All U.S. city guides