Tmimah’s home was the perfect location for my daughter’s first Southern California vacation. You could never leave Santa Monica and have plenty to do, the house is only a few minute walk to the beach, Main Street shops (wonderful farmers market on Sundays), a little further away is the 3rd street promenade for shopping and dining. But there is also easy access to the highway to visit all the usual tourist spots. The home was clean and the beds and pillows were very comfortable. Timmah left us a snack basket, offered tips for grocery shopping and was available if we had a question. A parking permit was provided and we didn’t have any trouble finding parking near the house. My teen daughter and I had a great time riding the waves with the provided boogie boards. Timmah is a superb host and we wouldn’t hesitate to stay here again if back in Santa Monica.
A few things that might be helpful if you are planning a stay:
-A hair dryer is provided and the fridge isn’t full-size but does have a small freezer with ice trays- We had more than enough room for groceries. There is an extension cord in the desk drawer that was helpful in keeping device chargers near the bedside.
-Perry’s Cafe (on the beach right near the house)was a pleasant surprise. It’s rare to find a counter service beach restaurant that serves fresh, delicious food but they do! Surf board rentals too.
-Terazza at Hotel Casa Del Mar for dinner- reserve outdoor dining for an ocean view and fun people watching. 10 min walk from the rental.
-As two females traveling alone I’m always concerned with safety. We always felt safe in the house, in the neighborhood and on the beach. The walk back after dark from the pier made me a bit tense, but no one ever bothered us and it was fine. I would go during the day next time just to avoid the worry and the crowds at the pier. Also,sadly,the Venice beach of the 80’s and 90’s is long gone. We expected eccentric, quirky and a bit gritty, but fun. We got dirty and unsafe, hate to say it but don’t bother. Happily, Santa Monica is the opposite.
-If you want to take surfing lessons try Go Surf L.A. They are right down the beach from the house and were professional and encouraging but fun. They got my landlocked teen daughter up on the board on our arrival day and she was a happy girl the rest of the trip! We rented a surf board from Perry’s so she could practice the rest of the week.