Girls Guide to Santa Monica & Malibu
I wanted to take the time to dedicate a blog post to Santa Monica and Malibu. Each part of Los Angeles is so unique and has so many different great qualities about it. Venice and Beverly Hills are up there on my list of favorites but Santa Monica and Malibu are also 2 of the greatest places and both are a MUST for anyone visiting! Here is a list of go to’s when you finally make it to the West Side.
Where to Stay, or pretend to stay:
Shutters on the Beach : Something about Shutters feels like home to me. I live for this New England charmed haven. Get a drink and app on the deck or enjoy a glass at their chic champagne bar while you gaze across at the beach views. They have a few restaurants including Coast and 1 Pico. 1 Pico is the fanciest option and perfect for a date night while Coast is the ideal brunch spot.
Santa Monica Proper Hotel
Santa Monica Proper Hotel : Amazing property in Santa Monica with breathtaking interior design by Kelly Wearstler. They also have a rooftop with amazing views and a tropical vibe.
Where to Eat:
Elephante: The best restaurant in Santa Monica! The Elephante drink, shown in the photo here is semi spicy and sweet and so tasty! The type of cocktail so specially made that we all have been missing during quarantine. Also the brunches options are amazing, like these truffle potatoes and the eggplant dip with their famous bread is to die for. I just adore this place. It’s very trendy and the food is honestly so good.
Ivy at the Shore- I am so obsessed with this place. Like picture me in restaurant form, this would be it. Pink, sailboats, flowers, by the beach, and the best cake I’ve ever tasted.
Eat Alfalfa- The newest hot spot cafe! Of course it is decked in the color of pink, cool plants and modern vibes. The matcha latte was INSANELY good! Like wow, I had to ask if there was a secret ingredient, and there was.. You must get it. They are also known for their salads.. and I love a good salad. Get the Greek, you won’t regret it. Alfalfa is also seen in Hoboken, which fun fact I lived there for a HOT second.
Lanea- Such a cool vibe and a Mexican band performing outside. I got the Vegan Tacos, chips & guac and the spicy margarita and everything was SO good.
Where to go out:
Shore Bar- OK it’s been awhile since we’ve had the ability to go out on the town and let me tell you this spot is a must. I feel like it has such a fun vibe and the right type of people you want to be around. The spicy margs are IT and you will find yourself wanting to dance even if you’re not a dancer. Get a table for the best time!
The Bungalow: The weekend hot spot. Some may call it the place to find “douschey” guys but I think it’s the perfect amount of LA sunshine and good vibes.
Where to explore:
Third Street Promenade: Go shopping! Here is where you will find all the mall stores. From Nordstrom to Urban Outfitters they got you covered, the promenade is awesome because from store to store you’re outside taking in awesome views and feeling the hot sun.
Santa Monica Pier- Go to the pier and have yourself a child like day on the ferris wheel taking in views and ride the kiddy sized roller coasters. The pier is so much fun, even if you don’t go on the rides just go for the experience! It’s a tourist must.
Main Street: Great shopping and restaurants all down this street!
Malibu:
My advice for Malibu is to grab a blanket, hoodie, wine, cheese and crackers and have yourself a peaceful day taking in the breathtaking views. Don’t forget to take a moment to listen to Miley Cyrus song while in this beautiful place, and take it all in. The best way for you to get here is to rent a car or just get in an Uber and let someone else take the lead while you edit your billions of LA Instagram pics. Either way if you’re making the trip and decide to head to a fabulous restaurant too here’s a list of my personal favorites.
The Sunset Restaurant- The second I arrived at The Sunset I was in awe. From the pink umbrellas lined up to the sign inspiring you to travel the world it was my kind of vibe. It was directly across the beach and mopeds lined up outside creating the perfect spot for photos. The drinks were great, I got the strawberry basil rita and the cheese plate is a must. Also do not skip out on the DESSERT, one of the best desserts I have had in a long time, and I’m picky!!
Malibu Farms- The cutest spot! Countryside chic with an amazing view from the end of the pier. GO HERE. You may have to wait a bit but there’s a few cute shops on the pier that you can go in while you wait. Also I suggest making your Malibu trip on a weekday, you will be better off with the waitlist.
Malibu Pier Farm Cafe- This one is at the beginning of the pier and also a super cute spot for lunch. Affordable and great food options. Sit outside! They also have great GF + Vegan options.
Geoffrey’s - Amazing spot, just be ready to spend a lot. The views here are literally perfection and the greenery and flowers just feel like your in a tropical fairytale.
Nobu- You can sit outside on the deck and enjoy sushi or you can sit on the right side of the restaurant at there bar which I love. The wait for eating is always long and they are exclusive in that sometimes you cannot even get a seat, so call ahead. I have eaten at Nobu and have just gone to the bar and I think both are great but for someone traveling here I would suggest the experience of dining out at Nobu. The sushi is like no other and the crashing waves behind you makes for the perfect day.