This, LA's premier beach community, is one of many enclaves that dot the 60-mile beachfront stretching from Malibu in the north to the Palos Verdes Peninsula in the south. It is equally well known for attractions ranging from Third Street Promenade and Main Street shops to the colorful Carousel crowning its long ocean pier. In addition to its many stores, theaters, and clubs, more than 80 restaurants in and around Third Street cater to every taste and budget, and range from cafes and fast food joints to ethnic foods and fine dining near the pier. But Santa Monica life also thrives beyond Third Street. Striking a comfortable balance between beachfront casual and LA hip, Main Street forms the main artery connecting Santa Monica to Venice Beach and makes an ideal strip for a stroll.
Shops here range from trendy chain stores to unique, left-leaning boutiques.
If the sight of so many stores leaves you itching for something more, look no further than the waterfront. Sitting at the end of Colorado Boulevard on Ocean Avenue, the Santa Monica Pier encapsulates the aura of a pre-Hollywood Los Angeles. Built in 1909 to serve cargo and passenger ships, today the newly-renovated wooden wharf is home to numerous restaurants, food stands, and amusement park rides, including the famous Carousel. For a live view of the Santa Monica Pier, check out Santa Monica Pier Cam , where a live picture is updated every 10 minutes. Also visit the Web site for the Santa Monica Convention and Visitors Bureau .