Santa Monica Zip Code Map Travel Guide
Introduction
Santa Monica is a beautiful coastal city located in Los Angeles County, California. The city is known for its sunny beaches, palm trees, and vibrant culture. Santa Monica is divided into several zip codes, each with its unique attractions and hidden gems. In this travel guide, we will explore the top things to do in Santa Monica by zip code.
Zip Code 90401
Top Attractions
Zip code 90401 is the heart of Santa Monica. Here you will find the iconic Santa Monica Pier, which has an amusement park, aquarium, and several restaurants. The Third Street Promenade is another popular attraction, with its high-end shops, street performers, and movie theaters.
Hidden Gems
The Camera Obscura Art Lab is a hidden gem in 90401. The lab offers art classes, exhibitions, and workshops. The Annenberg Community Beach House is another hidden gem, which has a beach club, a pool, and a historic guesthouse.
Food Scene
For a fine dining experience, head to Rustic Canyon, which offers farm-to-table cuisine. Herringbone is another popular restaurant, known for its seafood dishes and chic ambiance. For a casual meal, try The Misfit, which has a retro vibe and American comfort food.
Budget-Friendly Tips
If you’re on a budget, grab a picnic basket from Bay Cities Italian Deli and head to Palisades Park, which has stunning ocean views. You can also rent a bike from Santa Monica Bike Center and explore the city on two wheels.
Zip Code 90402
Outdoor Adventures
Zip code 90402 is situated in the hills of Santa Monica, offering hiking trails with breathtaking views. The Will Rogers State Historic Park is a popular spot for hiking and horseback riding. The Santa Monica Stairs are another outdoor adventure, with over 170 steps to climb.
Historical Landmarks
The Adamson House and Malibu Lagoon Museum is a historical landmark in 90402, with a beautiful Spanish Colonial Revival-style house and gardens. The Getty Villa is another must-visit, with its ancient Roman and Greek art collections.
Family-Friendly Activities
The Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area has several family-friendly activities, including camping, picnicking, and wildlife watching. The Santa Monica Pier Aquarium is also a great place to take kids, with its interactive exhibits and touch tanks.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
The Self-Realization Fellowship Lake Shrine is an off-the-beaten-path experience, with beautiful gardens and a meditation chapel. The Marion Davies Guest House is another hidden gem, which has a historic mansion and beach access.
Zip Code 90403
Natural Wonders
Zip code 90403 is located between the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Monica Mountains, offering several natural wonders. The Tongva Park is a beautiful green space with a playground, gardens, and a splash pad. The Palisades Park is another natural wonder, with stunning views of the ocean and the mountains.
Vibrant Nightlife
The Bungalow is a popular bar in 90403, with a beachy vibe and outdoor seating. The Basement Tavern is another great spot for live music and craft cocktails. The Buffalo Club is a classic lounge, with a retro decor and a speakeasy feel.
Local Markets
The Santa Monica Farmers Market is a local market in 90403, offering fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and baked goods. The Brentwood Farmers Market is another nearby market, which has a wide range of organic products.
Beaches and Mountains
The Santa Monica State Beach is the most famous beach in the area, with its white sand and clear water. The Topanga State Park is another nearby attraction, offering hiking trails and mountain views.
Zip Code 90404
Cultural Immersion
Zip code 90404 is home to several cultural institutions, including the Bergamot Station Arts Center, which has over 30 galleries and museums. The Santa Monica Museum of Art is another cultural attraction, with contemporary art exhibitions.
Art and Music Scene
The Santa Monica Playhouse is a great spot for theater and musical performances. The McCabe’s Guitar Shop is another must-visit, with its live music shows and guitar workshops. The Santa Monica Symphony Orchestra is another cultural institution, offering free concerts throughout the year.
Walking Tours
The Santa Monica Walking Tours is a great way to explore the city on foot, with several themed tours, including the Art Deco Walking Tour and the Ghosts of Santa Monica Walking Tour. The Santa Monica Pier Walking Tour is another popular option, which takes you on a journey through the history of the pier.
Architectural Marvels
The Frank Gehry-designed Edgemar Center for the Arts is a unique architectural marvel in 90404. The Santa Monica Public Library is another impressive building, with its modern design and sustainable features.
Zip Code 90405
Historical Sites
Zip code 90405 is home to several historical sites, including the Santa Monica History Museum, which has exhibitions on the city’s history. The Barker Hangar is another historical landmark, which has hosted several aviation events and exhibitions.
Biking Routes
The Marvin Braude Bike Trail is a popular biking route in 90405, which runs along the beach and offers stunning ocean views. The Ballona Creek Bike Path is another nearby biking route, which takes you through wetlands and parks.
Wellness Retreats
The Santa Monica Yoga studio is a great spot for yoga and meditation classes. The Exhale Spa is another wellness retreat, which offers yoga, Pilates, and spa treatments. The Annenberg Community Beach House also offers wellness classes, including yoga and Tai Chi.
Adventure Sports
The Santa Monica Bay is a great spot for water sports, including surfing, paddleboarding, and kayaking. The Santa Monica Mountains also offer several adventure sports, including rock climbing and zip-lining.
Conclusion
Santa Monica is a city full of diversity and charm, with something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural immersion, or just a relaxing beach vacation, Santa Monica has it all. With this comprehensive travel guide, you can explore the city’s top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, and off-the-beaten-path experiences by zip code.