Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Santa Monica

Beach date spots

Walking along the sand is the only way to spend an evening with someone special.

Based on 641 Opinions
+638
User
User
User
Updated April 2026
01
Sirena image 1
Sirena image 2
Sirena image 3
View all
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers terrace seating with views of the ocean and park, creating a relaxing and romantic atmosphere. Live music and a classy bar add to the elegant yet cozy vibe. Charming booths provide privacy while overlooking a beautifully decorated dining room.

Terrace seating offers views of Palisades Park, the ocean, and the Santa Monica beach. A cool breeze comes off the beach, especially at sunset.

Dim lighting and sophisticated surroundings create a romantic atmosphere. Meals like breakfast, lunch, and dinner suit couples, families, or friends looking for a happy dining experience.

People are saying

"The food here is outstanding, fresh, and served hot."

"The food and service here make for a magical date spot."

"You can sit overlooking the Santa Monica beach and have a nice meal."

Good to know

1

Valet parking is available for $20 at the front of the hotel.

2

The restaurant offers a beautiful view of Palisades Park and the beach.

3

Lunch menu options are limited and primarily American cafeteria-style food.

02
Hotel Casa del Mar image 1

Grand lobby and ocean views create an elegant, peaceful atmosphere with a classic California vibe. Heated rooftop pool and live bands add to the relaxed yet upscale energy. Guests enjoy spacious rooms and easy beach access, making it a luxurious coastal oasis.

Location offers unbeatable ocean views and direct access to the beach. Rooms provide stunning beach and pool views, with included access to chairs and bikes for beach enjoyment.

A great spot to grab food at the bar and hang out with a date or solo. The atmosphere suits relaxed, casual moments with good vibes and comfortable seating.

People are saying

"The oceanfront view of the sunset over the Pacific is amazing."

"It's right on the beach with amazing ocean views."

"The staff's attention to detail made my Date Spots experience unforgettable."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm daily with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

The hotel charges a $44 daily amenity fee for access to facilities.

3

The hotel offers complimentary beach chairs and bikes for guests.

03
The Georgian Hotel image 1

Hotel offers oceanfront views with rooms featuring vintage glamour and spacious suites. Atmosphere stays bustling day and night, blending charm with lively energy. Amenities include a speakeasy bar, secret library, and terrace restaurant with live music.

Steps from the beach with easy access to the pier and outdoor mall. Offers complementary beach cruisers and towels plus valet parking after checkout for extra beach time.

Rooms offer a comfortable setting for couples. Staff provide friendly service and assist with special plans like birthdays, enhancing the staycation experience.

People are saying

"The hotel staff were so polite and helpful with everything."

"The staff here makes you feel like royalty on a date."

"It's steps from the beach, with direct access and amazing beachfront views."

Good to know

1

The hotel has a speakeasy opening this summer.

2

The Georgian Room will open in about a month.

3

Check-in is available as early as 11 AM.

04
The Whaler Santa Monica image 1

Oceanfront setting offers unmatched beach views and a lively atmosphere with loud music and a DJ at night. The space includes a game room nook and TVs showing sports, attracting groups who enjoy social and energetic vibes. Outdoor seating on terraces enhances the experience with sunset views and a bar-focused environment.

A casual spot right on the beach offers affordable prices and a delightful view of the ocean. It captures the beach atmosphere well, making it a nice place for a snack or meal near the water.

Service skills stand out with attentive and friendly staff. The setting suits couples looking for a relaxed meal together.

People are saying

"The live sports here are great, with friendly and attentive service."

"The fish tacos here are amazing, truly to die for."

"Our server REED was so attentive and fun for our Date Spots."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-5pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Karaoke night, called terry-oke, happens every Monday at 9pm.

3

Parking is available nearby through SpotHero for convenience.

05
1 Pico image 1
Californian restaurant

Upscale restaurant offers gorgeous ocean views and a welcoming, romantic atmosphere. Dining room provides a perfect sunset spot with meticulously decorated surroundings. Energy stays pleasant and relaxed, attracting diners who appreciate both setting and seafood.

Tables sit right by the shore with amazing beach views and sunsets. The spot offers a prime location on the sand, making the beach feel close and present.

Seabass comes simply grilled and cooked medium, making for a straightforward dinner choice. Service can be tense, with waitstaff sometimes questioning orders and showing disrespect when ordering for a partner.

People are saying

"I loved the gorgeous ocean views, especially at sunset."

"I loved the awesome beach view, especially at sunset."

"I had my first date here and it was fantastic."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

2

Expect entrees to range from $50 to $100, excluding sides.

3

The restaurant offers a variety of vegan options on the menu.

06
Huntley Hotel Santa Monica Beach image 1

Hotel offers luxurious rooms with spectacular ocean views and a rooftop restaurant featuring a lively atmosphere. Amenities include complimentary electric bikes and a small heated pool nearby. The space balances quiet comfort in rooms with a vibrant social scene in dining areas.

Beach and pier sit within walking distance. Easy access to electric scooters and bikes for cruising along the shore. The Penthouse restaurant offers phenomenal views over the beach.

Great for celebrations like birthdays and anniversaries. Offers a solid setting for a date night with a relaxed vibe.

People are saying

"The Hotel beds were so comfortable, I had the best sleep."

"It's an easy walk to the beach, just two blocks away."

"The staff here really spoil you on a date."

Good to know

1

Parking at the hotel costs $58 overnight.

2

Valet parking rates are $68 per night without any special rate for guests.

3

Check-in time is guaranteed at 3PM, but actual availability may vary.

07
The Pierside Santa Monica image 1

Hotel offers mesmerizing water views and a swanky surfer vibe with luxurious rooms featuring king beds and sectional sofas. Heated pool area provides a quiet retreat despite nearby freeway noise. Guests can enjoy free rentals like surfboards and skateboards, enhancing the beachside experience.

Location sits across the street from the beach with easy access to the pier and nearby shopping. Complimentary beach gear like chairs, towels, and games are available, plus a Saturday beach yoga class.

Great for couples with a location near the beach and a quiet, relaxing atmosphere. Rooms offer comfortable, cozy spaces ideal for spending quality time together.

People are saying

"This hotel's location is amazing, just steps from the pier and restaurants."

"It's a short walk to the beach and local attractions."

"The staff here makes your stay unforgettable and eases all your stress."

Good to know

1

The hotel is located just a 2-3 minute walk to Santa Monica beach.

2

Expect a $40 daily amenity fee, even if amenities are limited.

3

The hotel is undergoing renovations, so the pool and gym are unavailable.

08
The Albright image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seaside restaurant on a pier offers huge outdoor deck with scenic views and patio seating where dogs are welcome. Atmosphere stays chill and cozy with Bob Marley music and heaters keeping the space warm. Counter service uses buzzers for orders, creating a casual, relaxed vibe.

Outdoor seating offers a view of the beach, ocean, and pier with a super chill vibe. The spot serves seafood and draft beer right by the beach, making it a solid choice for lunch or a casual bite.

Clam chowder served in a sourdough bread bowl stands out as a favorite. The menu also offers dishes like seared salmon with light pesto and a fried chicken sandwich that work well for sharing on dates.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh and delicious."

"The seafood at this beach spot is fresh and delicious."

"The seafood here is fresh, tasty, and cooked to perfection."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is wheelchair accessible.

2

Expect long lines around noon; arrive early to secure a table.

3

Prices are effectively 10% higher due to a hidden fee.

09
Channel Road Inn, A Four Sisters Inn image 1

Historic inn offers quiet retreat with comfortable rooms featuring private patios and gas fireplaces. Surrounding flower gardens and bird song create a peaceful atmosphere, complemented by complimentary wine and breakfast in a welcoming, home-like setting.

Within a short walk, the beach lies close enough for easy access. The area offers scenic routes for walking and biking along the coast and nearby trails.

A week-long stay offers plenty of time to enjoy the intimate atmosphere and relaxed pace. Couples find it suitable for special occasions like anniversaries.

People are saying

"The staff at this hotel made my experience unforgettable with their kindness."

"I loved the happy hour snacks and drinks near the beach."

"The staff here are amazing and helpful for Date Spots."

Good to know

1

The inn is located a short walk from the beach and nearby restaurants.

2

Parking is free, which is a rarity in the area.

3

The evening happy hour offers a charcuterie board and wine.

10
Oceana Santa Monica, LXR Hotels & Resorts image 1

Intimate oceanfront retreat with refined elegance and laid-back vibe. Small property features stylish interiors and warm saltwater pool in a serene courtyard. Guests enjoy ocean views and proximity to the beach.

Steps from the beach, the property feels like its own private beach area. A third-floor rooftop offers a great spot to relax and enjoy the ocean view.

Couples can borrow beach cruisers with locks and waters included. The team helps create memorable celebrations for special occasions.

People are saying

"The hotel staff's stellar service and warm hospitality made my stay amazing."

"The staff's warm hospitality makes it a great spot for a date."

"Peter went above and beyond to help me find a room."

Good to know

1

The hotel is located just steps away from Santa Monica beach.

2

The hotel is close to the pier and 3rd Street Promenade.

3

The 8 AM yoga class on Saturday morning is a great way to start the day.

11
Shore Hotel image 1

Oceanfront hotel offers bright and airy rooms with balcony views overlooking a lively main strip and beach. Pool area features a heated outdoor pool, jacuzzi, and bar, though noise from nearby bars and weekend DJs creates a loud atmosphere. Location places guests steps from an active pier and vibrant restaurants.

The beach sits directly across from the hotel, offering easy access and a beautiful shoreline. A bike path runs along the beach, perfect for rides, and the hotel provides plenty of beach towels for convenience.

Helpful staff provide detailed info on tours, restaurants, and attractions. Thoughtful gestures like surprise gifts add a special touch to the experience.

People are saying

"This hotel's location is unbeatable, steps from the beach and pier."

"It's perfectly located right across from the beach and pier."

"It's the perfect location for date spots, right across from the pier."

Good to know

1

Happy hour by the pool occurs midweek with live music.

2

Parking costs $158 per night for valet service, which is high compared to nearby public options.

3

The hotel charges a $40 destination fee, which may feel like a hidden cost.

12
Maria Sol image 1
Mexican restaurant

Ocean-facing patio offers breathtaking views and warmth from scattered heating lamps. Live music from street artists creates a lively atmosphere with a touristy vibe. Fresh, locally sourced seafood and exceptional margaritas complement the energetic seaside setting.

Located right at the tip of the beach, it offers great views of the sand and ocean. Tables sit by the corner with sights of the beach and mountain, creating a beautiful beach vibe.

Romantic atmosphere suits couples well. Waitstaff offer personalized service like special desserts for celebrations. Menu features delicious tacos enjoyed on vacation.

People are saying

"The Mexican Food here is served with quick, friendly, and welcoming service."

"It's a great spot for date nights with amazing food and views."

"The tres carnes fajitas were so good."

Good to know

1

Check your bill carefully as extra charges may be added.

2

Expect a reasonable cost of about $50 for two entrees and drinks.

3

Outdoor seating is available, but the upper level may be closed.

Discover more

Santa Monica, California

Area guide
Loading Map...