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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Downtown

Relaxing spots with outdoor space

You need to get outside to feel like yourself again, and you refuse to settle for a space that doesn't offer a sense of peace.

Based on 751 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
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Wide sidewalks lined with palm trees and bright storefronts create a playful, creative space filled with live street performances and ocean views. The atmosphere shifts from lively and vibrant during the day to quiet and peaceful at night. Plenty of benches and outdoor games invite relaxation amid a mix of shoppers and families.

A lively yet relaxing atmosphere blends with the close ocean views near the pier. Benches along the street invite quiet moments, while the sandy beach and bike path offer easy ways to unwind.

Outdoor shopping features human-size games like connect four and chess. Seating includes rotating chairs and plenty of space for people watching at eateries.

People are saying

"The beach here is beautiful, wide, and sandy."

"It's a lively yet relaxing spot with a great mix of shops and dining."

"I found the outdoor shopping area to be the best in the US."

Good to know

1

Public Parking Structure 6 offers 99 minutes of free parking.

2

Parking is often difficult to find in Downtown Santa Monica.

3

The area is generally safe and cheerful for visitors.

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Santa Monica Place image 1
Shopping mall

Open-air mall with modern architecture and rooftop ocean views offers a vibrant atmosphere filled with live music and family-friendly entertainment. Spacious design includes plenty of seating areas and shaded outdoor spaces. Unique features like the Immersion Room and rooftop dining add extra charm.

A relaxed vibe sets this spot apart from other malls. It offers a stylish and convenient place to hang out, enjoy good food, and unwind.

A modern, open outdoor concept defines the mall, creating a spacious and inviting atmosphere. It offers a high-end outdoor shopping center experience with great family entertainment options nearby.

People are saying

"This mall is a beautiful, large, open space."

"It's a modern, open outdoor space with a neat layout."

"It's a stylish and convenient relaxing spot for shopping and food."

Good to know

1

DJ performances occur on weekends, providing live entertainment.

2

Parking is available, making access convenient for visitors.

3

Many stores are currently closed or boarded up.

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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.

Rooftop lunches come with beautiful views and a relaxed atmosphere. The hotel feels both relaxed and refined.

Rooftop seating offers a mountain view and has heaters to keep the space warm. The outdoor area feels inviting yet intimate and creates a nice atmosphere for evenings.

People are saying

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

"The rooftop atmosphere here is mellow and welcoming."

"The outdoor rooftop vibe and atmosphere made the evening."

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.

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1212 Santa Monica image 1
New American restaurant

Large space with dog-friendly patio and live DJ music creates a loud, fun atmosphere that energizes the evening. Outdoor seating features fire pits enhancing the vibe. Music volume often challenges conversation but adds to the lively environment.

Warm and comfortable atmosphere with fireplaces and relaxing live music creates a welcoming vibe. The outside patio offers a relaxed family setting perfect for enjoying a good drink or meal.

Outside patio offers a relaxing family setting with a fireplace that enhances the atmosphere. It suits bottomless mimosa brunches and casual gatherings, making it a favored spot for both daytime and evening events.

People are saying

"The food here is flavorful, fresh, and delicious."

"The outdoor space is cozy and nice, perfect for sitting by the fire."

"The service here is so attentive and friendly, it makes it a truly relaxing spot."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with half-price appetizers.

2

All-night happy hour is available on Mondays, offering great deals.

3

Reservations are recommended for special events like the Super Bowl.

05
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New American restaurant

Restaurant offers open-air seating with a calm, relaxing atmosphere that contrasts with nearby noisy spots. Space feels homey and curated, encouraging guests to unwind in a bright, spacious interior suitable for families.

Open air atmosphere offers a refreshing and calm setting. Friendly environment makes it suitable for kids and easy to unwind.

Outdoor seating offers a lovely spot to enjoy meals. It suits days with perfect weather.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, healthy, and delicious."

"The food here is delicious and freshly prepared."

"It's a great relaxing spot with a friendly atmosphere."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is located on the 3rd floor of the Santa Monica Place Mall.

2

The menu offers a variety of dishes at reasonable prices.

3

There are many vegetarian options available.

06
HI Los Angeles Santa Monica Hostel image 1

Huge, spacious building with large common areas including a patio, kitchen, and lounge. Atmosphere is generally quiet and safe, with silent hours at night and a clean, cozy feel. Guests find plenty of relaxation spots and enjoy amenities like a pool table, fireplace, and well-equipped kitchen.

A beautiful interior courtyard creates a relaxed vibe perfect for resting or working remotely. Clean facilities and a friendly atmosphere add to the calm, hacienda-like feel near the beach.

A huge, spacious structure offers many common areas like a patio, kitchen, and lobby. Private rooms include terraces with outdoor sofas, and an outdoor seating area enhances breakfast.

People are saying

"The bathrooms here are spotless and really nice."

"It's a great outdoor space, just steps from the beach and pier."

"It's a dream location, just a short walk to the beach and shops."

Good to know

1

The hostel organizes daily activities like movie nights with free pizza and donuts.

2

Free yoga classes and comedy shows are available for all guests.

3

The location is ideal, just minutes from the Santa Monica Pier.

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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 offers a very relaxing atmosphere with a quiet vibe away from busy areas. Palma restaurant on the first floor combines stylish design with a calm setting.

Openable windows offer fresh air and views. Heated outdoor pool and rooftop areas provide relaxing spots. Lobby and pool deck support remote work outside rooms.

People are saying

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

"It's a beautiful, relaxing spot with stunning design."

"The outdoor space here is beautifully designed and truly amazing."

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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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.

Outdoor lounge offers a charming and relaxed setting with rooftop seating that provides beautiful views and a lively yet calm vibe. The atmosphere feels polished and chill, blending Mediterranean ambiance with a West Coast feel.

Outdoor space features a covered patio that lets sunlight in and a relaxed lounge area with bamboo and rope decorations. Views of the ocean and PCH enhance the dining atmosphere outside.

People are saying

"The food here was delicious and high quality."

"It's a relaxed vibe, perfect for a calm, comfortable meal."

"The outdoor space here has a great indoor and outdoor vibe."

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.

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Downtown, Santa Monica

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