In recent years, Santa Monica has become one of Los Angeles’ coolest, hottest, and breeziest hangouts. Dumpy streets, dated shops, and roach-coach diners have metamorphosed into gracious thoroughfares, hip shops, and trendy cafes and bars. Added lures include the historic Santa Monica Pier.

Although the pier is but a shadow of its early self during the days when it was a prime tourist attraction, Santa Monica Pier still manages to provoke plenty of carnival – and boardwalk-type nostalgia.

Santa Monica’s main street, running parallel to the ocean and best explored on foot, is one of Los Angeles’ most atmospheric retail and gustatory trails. Mingled among the older brick buildings is a grab-bag mix of celebrity restaurants, novelty ships, high-end boutiques, cafés, salons, and interesting architecture.