Celebrating the Holidays in Coastal Style
Santa Monica is a vibrant coastal city that shines brightest during the fall and winter months. As temperatures cool and the ocean breeze takes on a crisp edge, the city transforms into a hub of festive energy and local charm. From cozy autumn celebrations to dazzling winter lights, visitors can experience the best of coastal California's seasonal spirit. Whether exploring artisan markets or gliding across the ice beneath twinkling lights, there's something magical to enjoy in every moment.
Autumn Celebrations
As summer fades, autumn arrives with its own coastal charm. Santa Monica embraces the season with a variety of community events that highlight local culture, creativity, and connection.
- Harvest Festival: Celebrate the fall harvest with fresh seasonal foods, local crafts, and family-friendly fun. Farmers and artisans come together to share their best produce and handmade goods.
- Thanksgiving Community Dinner: Local restaurants and chefs host festive meals to bring the community together in gratitude and celebration.
- Santa Monica Music Festival: Experience live performances across multiple genres from talented local musicians. The festive energy fills the streets with rhythm and joy.
- Artisan Craft Fairs: Shop one-of-a-kind creations from local artists. These fairs are perfect for finding unique gifts while supporting small businesses.
Visitors can find the perfect retreat among Santa Monica's beachside hotels, where the season's beauty blends with ocean breezes and culinary delights featuring locally sourced ingredients.
Winter Festivities
When winter arrives, Santa Monica sparkles with holiday magic. The city transforms into a winter wonderland filled with lights, music, and festivities that capture the spirit of the season.
- Santa Monica Winterlit: Stroll through dazzling light displays and festive decorations that transform the streets into a glowing holiday scene.
- Holiday Markets: Explore local artisan booths filled with handcrafted gifts and gourmet treats, perfect for holiday shopping.
- Ice at Santa Monica presented by Disney+ and Hulu: Opening November 7, 2025, this beloved tradition invites guests to skate under the California sun by day and beneath twinkling stars by night—a truly unforgettable experience.
- Festive Concerts: Enjoy live holiday music from local performers that bring warmth and cheer to cool winter evenings.
- New Year's Celebrations: Welcome the new year with vibrant beachfront festivities and fireworks that light up the Pacific sky.
Guests staying at Santa Monica Hotel are just moments away from these joyful winter events, with the perfect balance of comfort, style, and convenience after a day of celebration.
Celebrate the Holidays at Santa Monica Hotel
Santa Monica comes alive in the fall and winter with festive charm, creative spirit, and oceanfront beauty. From harvest celebrations to sparkling holiday lights, every moment invites visitors to slow down, connect, and savor the season.
At Santa Monica Hotel, you're perfectly positioned to enjoy it all. After a day spent exploring autumn festivals or wandering beneath the city's twinkling winter displays, return to the comfort of modern coastal elegance. Relax by the pool, or savor locally inspired dining that reflects the flavors of the season.
Whether you're celebrating the holidays or simply embracing the cooler months by the coast, Santa Monica Hotel offers the perfect home base—where warmth, relaxation, and the magic of the season meet by the ocean's edge. Book Your Stay Today!
Yes! Shore Hotel offers valet parking with secured, on-site access.
- Standard rates: $60 per night plus tax, including unlimited in-and-out privileges.
- Coastal rates: Discounted at $20 per night plus tax Sunday through Thursday and $25 per night plus tax Friday and Saturday (no in-and-out privileges).
- Upgrade option: Guests on coastal rates can add unlimited in-and-out privileges for an additional $30 per night plus tax.
Our private parking garage offers direct access to the hotel and is conveniently located in the heart of Santa Monica, just steps from the beach and the iconic Santa Monica Pier.
Yes! Shore Hotel offers valet parking with secured, on-site access.
Overnight Valet Parking
- Standard Rate: $65 per night plus tax, including unlimited in-and-out privileges.
- Coastal Rate: Discounted to $20 per night plus tax Monday–Friday and $22 per night plus tax Saturday–Sunday (no in-and-out privileges).
- Coastal Upgrade: Add unlimited in-and-out privileges for an additional $30 per night plus tax.
Dining Valet Special
Guests dining at Shoreside may enjoy discounted valet parking for just $15 for up to 3 hours with validation. Additional hours are $10 each. Self-parking is also available at posted rates for Shoreside restaurant guests only.
Our private parking garage offers direct access to the hotel and is conveniently located in the heart of Santa Monica, just steps from the beach and the iconic Santa Monica Pier.