Is it better to stay in Malibu or Santa Monica?

Santa Monica is a city, filled with shops, cafes, restaurants, bars, and lots of people all about (think Brighton on a sunny day). Malibu is a laid back, locals only, small town - not much to see except to take pictures at the Pier and watch surfers - enjoy the 27 miles of Malibu coastline on your drive up to SB.



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Malibu is an iconic destination with miles of beautiful coastline, accessible beaches, and hiking in the canyons of the Santa Monica Mountains. You can also enjoy a nice glass of California wine and great seafood with a priceless view…and the view on its own makes Malibu one of the most desirable places in the world.

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Santa Monica has everything going for it; it's surely LA's most walkable district, it has good shopping, it's right on the beach and it's just a 30 minute cab ride from LAX. If you're choosing where to stay on a visit to LA, look no further!

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Sun-kissed year round, Santa Barbara is the perfect destination for those who don't like straying too far from the beach. The beaches are prime for surfers, casual sunbathers, and adventurers alike, and offer activities and landmarks that separate it from Malibu's own beachy vibes.

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The city of Santa Monica is widely recognized for its exceptional walkability, particularly in areas close to Montana Avenue, Wilshire Boulevard, or the 3rd Street Promenade. There are several key factors that contribute to its pedestrian-friendly environment.

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Although Santa Monica was eclipsed as a port by San Pedro, the city prospered as a residential and vacation centre; it is particularly noted for its pier (1909), which includes restaurants, shops, an aquarium, and a classic carousel. Also popular are the city's fine beaches, art galleries, and theatres.

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Autumn is the perfect time to visit Santa Monica: weather (and prices) cool off and deals abound.
  • In September, the summer crowd heads home. The weather is sunny with an average high of 71° and low of 63°.
  • In October, the Abbot Kinney Festival draws a crowd. ...
  • In November, global guests flock to the American Film Market.


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Yes, you can definitely swim at Santa Monica Beach as well as enjoy other water activities like surfing or paddle boarding. Even with 280 days of Santa Monica sunshine, the Pacific Ocean tends to be a little cold, so you may want to consider swimming during warmer months.

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Santa Monica is a city, filled with shops, cafes, restaurants, bars, and lots of people all about (think Brighton on a sunny day). Malibu is a laid back, locals only, small town - not much to see except to take pictures at the Pier and watch surfers - enjoy the 27 miles of Malibu coastline on your drive up to SB.

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Carbon Beach The richest of the rich, including music mogul David Geffen, Oracle's Larry Ellison and media proprietor Haim Saban own mansions that sit on the sand. These Malibu celebrity homes are some of the priciest on the Pacific.

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