Santa Monica is beautiful all year long, but the spring does hit a great balance between temperate ocean breezes and warm sunshine. From doing everything you can to soak up the outdoors to finding the best new dishes, and most desirable accommodations — here are the 10 best things to do in Santa Monica this spring.
1. Stay at The Ambrose
Los Angeles County is sprawling with many cities and neighborhoods beckoning travelers. Do yourself a favor, and book a room in the heart of Santa Monica where you can count on approachable luxury, rejuvenating indoor & outdoor spaces, and a central jumping-off point for exploring the area.
2. Go Shopping
Changing seasons is always a good reason for a wardrobe refresh. It’s also nice walking outside from boutique to boutique. Some spots in Santa Monica that we love include: Estelle Boutique on Montana Avenue, Sumiko on Main Street, and Savannah also on Montana Avenue.
3. Check Out 3rd Street Promenade
For more shopping options of the bigger retailer variety — i.e. Patagonia and Anthropologie — and dining, and entertainment, check out 3rd Street Promenade. Its outdoor setting filled with trees, shops, restaurants, and theaters offers travelers of all ages a lovely place to stay entertained on a spring afternoon.
4. Try the New Menus
The Santa Monica dining scene is known for staying on the cutting edge. To find high-quality, seasonal ingredients that highlight the wonders of spring, check out local restaurants that keep their menus fresh like Rustic Canyon Restaurant, LouLou Santa Monica, Fia Restaurant, and the Santa Monica Seafood Market.
5. Have a Drink Outside
The theme of enjoying spring in Santa Monica is getting outside, and adding a drink never hurts. Check out the patio seating at Library Alehouse, Ashland Hill, and Ye Olde King’s Head to try a wide variety of local bar experiences. Don’t forget to join us at The Ambrose for Santa Monica Sips.
6. Take a PCH Drive
The Pacific Coast Highway connects Santa Monica to a long stretch of California’s best beaches, towns, restaurants, and attractions. Take a drive and enjoy the clear skies this spring.
7. Stop Off at Malibu
While heading north on the PCH this spring, you can take the family for lunch at Malibu Pier, to one of the area’s many beaches, or even to one of the super popular Malibu Wine Safaris.
8. Go For a Run
If you take in too much wine on a safari or about town, then getting out for a run in the morning can do a world of wonders. With so many great places to take a jog around Santa Monica, it’s one of the healthiest ways to enjoy spring.
9. Bike & Scooter Too!
To get around a little faster, you can also take out one of the hotel’s Priority Bicycles available to guests for complimentary use. And you can rent an e-bike for just $25/day.
10. Get Your Groove On
Santa Monica is rich with nightclubs and dance spots. Check out Senator Jones and the Chestnut Club for great tunes and craft cocktails throughout the spring.