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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Santa Monica

Beach spots with outdoor space

You want to spend your time by the water without being confined to an indoor space.

Based on 825 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Perry's Café & Beach Rentals - Santa Monica 2400 image 1
Perry's Café & Beach Rentals - Santa Monica 2400 image 2
Perry's Café & Beach Rentals - Santa Monica 2400 image 3
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Outdoor seating on sand with ocean views and umbrella-covered tables creates a relaxed, beachside atmosphere. Comfortable beach chairs and live music on select days add to the laid-back vibe. The setting features sunset views and casual dining right by the water.

Seating and dining happen right on the sand with toes in the sand and views of the Pacific Ocean and bike trail. Rentals include beach chairs, umbrellas, and bikes, plus a beach butler service that handles needs for a relaxing time.

Ample parking sits right outside. Large outdoor seating basks in Californian sunshine with a romantic vibe. An outdoor bar serves delicious margaritas and painkillers. Patio furniture is inexpensive. Restroom sits outside the bar.

People are saying

"I loved watching everything happening on the beach from the cafe."

"I enjoyed a cold beer while watching the sunset."

"I loved lounging on the sand in this outdoor space."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 5pm to 7pm on weekdays.

2

Bikes and beach umbrellas can be rented for $8 per hour.

3

The café closes just before sunset, limiting evening visits.

02
Shutters on the Beach image 1

Hotel offers beachfront views and a stylish, romantic atmosphere with live music and evening cocktails. Guests enjoy daily bike rentals and a lounge bar favored for socializing. The setting combines luxury decor with a relaxing vibe despite occasional traffic noise.

The hotel sits right on the beach with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and Santa Monica Pier. Dining options include a unique beachside dinner and a lovely lunch spot inside the hotel, all accessible to exciting beach activities.

Outdoor areas include a nautical-themed patio with seating that feels inviting and a boardwalk with added outdoor seating. The pool and spa area features a beach bar and is well maintained.

People are saying

"This hotel's location is great, right on the beach."

"It's right on the beach with great views."

"The outdoor space offers amazing, panoramic views of the ocean and pier."

Good to know

1

Parking without validation costs $44 for 2.5 hours.

2

The hotel offers a Mon-Thurs Happy Hour at Coast restaurant.

3

Live music is available on Wednesday nights.

03
Coast image 1
Californian restaurant

Beachfront restaurant offers breathtaking ocean views and comfortable outdoor seating that creates a relaxed, casual atmosphere. Soft live music enhances the peaceful vibe while diners enjoy the scenic patio setting.

A beach-front location offers a peaceful setting with outdoor seating that overlooks the waves and sunset. Soft music plays nearby, enhancing the relaxed beach atmosphere.

Outdoor seating offers beautiful oceanfront tables with views of the beach and pier. The patio provides a cozy spot to watch the sunset or enjoy brunch while people watching.

People are saying

"The food at this beach spot is outstanding, especially the lobster roll."

"I loved the ocean view from the outdoor seating."

"I loved the beach view from the outdoor patio."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to the restaurant's popularity.

2

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers during specific hours.

3

Valet parking is available for $20 on weekends.

04
Sirena image 1
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.

Outdoor seating offers terrace views of the ocean, park, and beach. Options include sidewalk tables and a patio with plenty of space, though heat lamps are not provided.

People are saying

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

"The outdoor space offers beautiful views of the ocean and park."

"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.

05
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.

Outdoor seating offers great views of the Santa Monica Pier and waterfront. The patio captures the setting sun, creating a pleasant atmosphere for dining outside.

People are saying

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

"The outdoor seating has a great view of the Santa Monica Pier."

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

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.

06
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.

A huge, lovely outside deck and an outdoor patio offer plenty of space. Sitting on the pier provides a better view and shaded spots make eating outside nicer than inside.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh and delicious."

"The outdoor space has a lovely atmosphere with an ocean view."

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

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.

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.

A beautiful patio offers a great spot for happy hour and people-watching. The swimming pool stays quiet and isolated from outside noise.

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."

"This outdoor space is so dog friendly, they even have menu items for them."

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
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.

Outdoor areas include a breakfast patio that catches the morning sun and a private patio attached to rooms. Seating options exist both inside and outside, offering comfortable spots to relax.

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 outdoor space felt like home, with a cozy, personal touch."

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.

09
Viceroy Santa Monica image 1

Modern hotel with chic California vibe and stylish decor offers ocean views and a calm, elevated atmosphere. Outdoor spaces include a clean swimming pool, lively bar, and terrace with fire seating. The setting attracts guests seeking upscale surroundings and amenities like free bikes and a gym.

Rooms offer a nice view of the beach and the hotel sits right by the beach with very easy access. Complimentary bikes are available for rides along Santa Monica Blvd to Venice Beach.

Outdoor pool area stands out with a pretty setting and relaxing vibe. Fireplaces and an outdoor bar add cozy spots to enjoy the weather and drinks.

People are saying

"The Hotel staff were all so wonderful and helpful."

"The staff here are genuinely the nicest people."

"The outdoor pool area was pretty and the highlight of my stay."

Good to know

1

Parking is valet only at the hotel.

2

Expect additional resort fees that may exceed room rates.

3

The restaurant and bar close at 10:00 PM.

10
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.

Outdoor seating offers a beautiful patio with views of the ocean and sunset. Tables on the pier provide a fantastic location for dining outside, with polite hosts ensuring a nice experience.

People are saying

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

"I enjoyed the outdoor seating with a great view of the pier."

"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.

11
Maison Twenty Seven image 1

Refurbished Spanish-style apartment house offers old-world charm with stately gardens and a quiet, spacious layout. Atmosphere feels like living in a museum of old Hollywood, blending vintage decor with a chill, relaxed vibe. Location is ideal for those seeking a unique, historical oasis away from modern hotel uniformity.

Super easy access leads right to the beach. Morning walks along the Promenade offer a relaxing route down to the shore.

Outdoor grounds feature a bocce court and a beautiful fountain in a well-curated garden. The outside areas are stately, gracious, and quiet enough for meetings or work.

People are saying

"They welcomed me and my dog so warmly."

"It's an easy walk down to the beach and the ocean."

"The outdoor spaces and gardens are beautiful and well-curated."

Good to know

1

Palihouse Santa Monica only serves breakfast and light lunch with no bar available.

2

Rooms lack basic amenities like a kettle, coffee maker, or refrigerator.

3

The hotel is more like a grand bed and breakfast due to its limited service.

12
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.

A pool sits at the center, surrounded by hotel rooms each with a reading swing right outside the door. The patio offers immediate outdoor seating upon arrival.

People are saying

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

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

"It's a tranquil outdoor space, a quiet gem away from the bustle."

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.

13
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.

Outdoor space features an outdoor heated pool with cabanas, a jacuzzi, and a bar. Rooms on the first floor offer patios overlooking a beautiful courtyard.

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 a perfect outdoor space 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.

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Santa Monica, California

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