I Left My Heart in Santa Monica, California
Santa Monica California is a magical place to visit. With its close proximity to chaotic downtown Los Angeles (only 13 miles) the city offers a funky, beachside escape to the city of angels. Having grown exponentially over the past decade and reigning as the premier tourist destination in all of Los Angeles County, it is remarkable that this small beach community has managed to hold on to its small town appeal.
The city is organized much like a small town, complete with a Main street that features small boutiques and unique shops. Santa Monica California is also famous for the pedestrian only 3rd street promenade, the musical focused strip of Pico Boulevard and the upscale shopping on Montana Boulevard. If it is shopping that you are after, you cannot miss in this city. Catering at once to celebrity clientele, tourists and a local community, Santa Monica has a distinct charm that no one can resist.
A trip to Santa Monica, CA would not be complete without a visit to the Santa Monica Pier. The Santa Monica Pier is a local establishment that draws tourists and locals alike and features many attractions. Take a ride on the roller coaster or play old timer fair games; or if you are in the mood to relax, simply take a stroll down the pier. If you are traveling with children be sure to visit the arcade that features almost every game imaginable. And I think it is safe to say that children and adults alike will appreciate the vintage carousel that operates throughout the week, except for Tuesdays and Fridays. There are plenty of restaurants and cafes on the pier and vendor carts for snacking.
The New York Trapeze School operates on the Santa Monica Pier and there is nothing like seeing trapeze performed with the pacific coast of Santa Monica, CA as a backdrop. The school operates throughout the year and they even allow individuals to sign up for an introductory course, if you are feeling brave.
The Santa Monica Pier also boasts one of the best views of the downtown skyline and the Santa Monica Beach that stretches underneath the pier. One of the most popular beaches in all of Los Angeles County, the Santa Monica Beach also attracts some of the best surfers in California. The local surf community can be spotted on this beach, day in and day out, no matter what the weather is like (although it is almost always sunny in Santa Monica, CA).
The Santa Monica Pier is bursting with energy throughout the day and features spectacular views of the beach below, but at night the lights of Santa Monica, CA dance in the distance and the Pier becomes a magical place. Day or night, it is safe to say that the Santa Monica Pier will take you back in time.
Valerie Hikram is an avid traveler and contributing author to RealAdventures . Valerie writes about great destinations and vacation spots and her writing is a great resource for any traveler visiting Santa Monica . RealAdventures aims to provide travelers with a one-stop location for the best reviews and ratings for travel destinations.