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Local picks

Chill nice view spots in Santa Monica

Watching the horizon shift colors while sitting back in a low-pressure environment.

Based on 641 Opinions
+638
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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.

A super chill beach restaurant with a relaxed and casual beach vibe. Great spot to unwind and enjoy the sea breeze while having a drink or a burger.

Offers a beachfront view with sights of the ocean, volleyball courts, and bike trail. Dining happens with toes in the sand and an ocean breeze, creating a relaxed, resort-like feel.

People are saying

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

"You can enjoy a great view right on the beach."

"It's a super casual beach spot to just chill."

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
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.

Relaxed, casual vibe with great ocean views creates a nice spot to unwind. The atmosphere suits visits with kids and keeps things easygoing.

Unobstructed beachfront views and the sound of waves create a peaceful setting. The sunset over the water offers a relaxed, casual vibe that makes the experience feel special.

People are saying

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

"I enjoyed the beautiful ocean view from the patio."

"It's a chill spot with beautiful ocean views."

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.

03
Calabra image 1
Restaurant

Rooftop setting offers stunning views and outdoor heaters that keep the space comfortable despite the breeze. Atmosphere blends casual enjoyment with a sexy, entertaining vibe, attracting a lively crowd. Accessibility features include elevator access and wheelchair-friendly seating.

Atmosphere feels casual and relaxed. Overall vibe stays chill and easygoing.

Rooftop setting offers incredible views that create a relaxed vibe. The spot sits atop a hotel, providing beautiful scenery during lunch.

People are saying

"The food here was incredible, especially the slow-roasted chicken."

"The service here is so nice, they always recommend the best food."

"The atmosphere here is pretty chill and has a fantastic vibe."

Good to know

1

Reservations are almost required due to high demand.

2

A $5 non-refundable reservation fee is charged per person.

3

Valet parking is available and convenient.

04
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.

Lively yet casual atmosphere sets a relaxed tone. The vibe stays chill even with the pier's buzz nearby.

Great views and seaside ambience set the scene here. Eating outside on the pier offers a better view of the ocean and boardwalk, matching the hearty coastal comfort food served.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh and delicious."

"It's a nice view of the ocean from the outdoor seating."

"It's a pretty chill atmosphere with a great view of the ocean."

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.

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.

Casual vibe with fast, friendly service makes it a chill spot. Affordable prices and a sports bar feel add to the relaxed atmosphere.

Outdoor dining offers lovely views of the beach and Santa Monica Pier. The patio and roof provide great vantage points with a lively atmosphere including music and TV.

People are saying

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

"I loved the nice view of the Santa Monica Pier from the patio."

"It's a really chill place to eat some delicious food."

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
LouLou Santa Monica image 1
French restaurant

Rooftop restaurant offers cool views of water and Ferris wheel with a club-like vibe created by a live DJ and percussionist. Atmosphere suits large groups and blends beachy elegance with lively energy.

An oasis of relaxed chill-out with a Mediterranean vibe from the South of France. The ambiance stays not too loud and not too wild, perfect for casual appetizers and happy hour.

Rooftop seating offers beautiful views of the ocean and PCH, creating a lively yet relaxed vibe. The atmosphere includes nice furnishings and a cozy feel that complements the scenery.

People are saying

"The food here was delicious and high quality."

"The vibe here is pretty chill, not too loud."

"I loved the cool rooftop with its great views."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great deals on food and drinks, making it worthwhile.

2

Expect long wait times during busy events, like Valentine's Day.

3

The restaurant turns into a lively party after 9 pm with dancing.

07
Santa Monica Proper Hotel image 1

Boutique hotel with warm, comforting vibe and beautiful, charming design offers a rooftop pool oasis and panoramic city views. Spaces range from relaxed rooftop bars to lively restaurants with strong energy. Guests encounter a mix of calm ambiance indoors and vibrant social scenes on the rooftop.

Rooftop pool offers breathtaking views of the city and ocean, perfect for unwinding. Design blends coastal chill with high design, creating a casual and inviting vibe.

Rooftop areas show panoramic city and ocean views with a beautiful sunset backdrop. Openable windows add a glimpse of the outside from inside spaces.

People are saying

"This hotel's design is beautiful, stylish, and incredibly comfortable."

"The design creates a modern California daydream atmosphere."

"The design here blends coastal chill with a warm, inviting atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Valet service fee is $55, but some guests report being charged $70.

2

Additional $40 per night for amenities not disclosed at check-in.

3

The pool and bar may be closed for private events, impacting guest access.

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Santa Monica, California

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