For our latest Neighborhood Spotlight, Smith & Berg Property Group is diving into the stunning coastal gem of Santa Monica. From the famous pier with its ferris wheel that seems to reach to the sky to the coveted residential neighborhoods, Santa Monica offers a lifestyle that's equal parts comfortable, California cool, and sophisticated urban chic. Consider this your insider's guide to some of what's new and best about life in Santa Monica.
Culture
Explore your inner child at the Santa Monica Pier: An iconic landmark that's more than just a tourist attraction. Experience the historic carousel, Pacific Park's amusement rides, street performers, and stellar ocean views. The pier is the heart of Santa Monica's playful spirit.
Wander the Santa Monica Farmers Market: A local institution that draws top chefs and food lovers. Every Wednesday and Saturday, the market showcases the best of California's fresh, seasonal produce, artisanal goods, and local culinary talent.
Visit the Heal the Bay Aquarium: Located beneath the Santa Monica Pier, this marine education center is dedicated to protecting Southern California’s coastal waters. Get up close with local sea life, enjoy interactive exhibits, and learn about ocean conservation efforts.
Restaurants
Shirube: A hidden gem offering an authentic Japanese izakaya experience with a focus on fresh seafood, sake pairings, and a lively atmosphere that makes for an unforgettable night out.
Xuntos: A vibrant Spanish tapas bar with an inviting ambiance, shareable plates, and expertly crafted cocktails, Xuntos delivers an authentic taste of Spain in the heart of Santa Monica.
Ghisallo: A modern pizzeria and wine bar that specializes in Neapolitan-style pizzas with perfectly blistered crusts, fresh pastas made in-house, and a curated wine list that pairs beautifully with every dish.
Pasjoli: Chef Dave Beran's intimate French bistro is a true culinary destination. With its legendary duck press and seasonal tasting menus, Pasjoli offers a transportive dining experience that brings Parisian sophistication to Santa Monica.
Photo: @pasjoli.sm
Coffee
Dogtown Coffee: Born from Santa Monica's legendary skateboarding culture, this coffee shop serves expertly crafted drinks that pay homage to the area's surf and skate heritage.
Primo Passo: A coffee sanctuary for true enthusiasts. Offering a curated selection of single-origin beans and perfectly executed espresso in a minimalist space that lets the coffee shine.
10 Speed Coffee: A neighborhood gem that combines cycling culture with exceptional coffee. The go-to spot for local cyclists and coffee lovers seeking quality brews.
Photo: @10speedcoffee
Bagels & Bakeries
Layla Bagels: Famous for their sourdough bagels, Layla has revolutionized the classic breakfast staple. Each hand-crafted bagel showcases a unique sourdough twist that has local foodies lining up around the block.
Bread Head: This buzzy new bakery on Montana Avenue has quickly become a must-visit for artisanal bread, pastries, and top-tier focaccia sandwiches. Don’t sleep on the Muffaletta.
Sam’s Bagels: A Montana Avenue staple, Sam’s is known for its classic, no-frills bagels and delicious schmears — perfect for a grab-and-go breakfast or a relaxed weekend bite.
H&H Bagels: The newest addition to Santa Monica's bagel scene, bringing the legendary New York bagel brand to the Westside. Fresh off their recent opening, this spot is quickly becoming the talk of the town for bagel enthusiasts.
Photo: @hhbagels
Real Estate
Smith & Berg Property Group’s recent record-breaking sale at 628 25th Street in the coveted North of Montana neighborhood is a testament to Santa Monica’s red-hot real estate market. This jaw-dropping new construction home just closed at $14,550,000, achieving an impressive $2,052,000 over asking price and setting a new benchmark at $1,891.58 per square foot.
JUST SOLD | 628 25th Street
A true masterpiece of coastal living, the home features a chef's kitchen with top-tier Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances, a luxurious primary suite, and a lower level complete with home theater and spa suite. The resort-inspired backyard with its waterfall pool is the ultimate entertainment destination.
NOW AVAILABLE | 101 Larkin Place
For the visionary developer, our listing at 101 Larkin Place offers a rare 10,343-square-foot lot with potential to build up to 10,000 square feet of custom home. Nestled in a serene cul-de-sac, it's a blank canvas moments from Montana Avenue's best.
Contact us at [email protected] for more information or to schedule a tour now.
Shops
Jill Roberts: A carefully curated boutique that epitomizes Santa Monica's effortless style. Designer pieces and unique finds for the fashion-forward local.
Lost & Found: More than a store, a lifestyle destination celebrating artisan craftsmanship and unique design through carefully selected home goods and accessories.
The Hangar: A concept store that captures Santa Monica's creative spirit, blending fashion, art, and local design into a unique shopping experience.
Photo: @thehangarla
Bars
Calabra: Perched atop the Santa Monica Proper Hotel, this rooftop bar offers breathtaking ocean views and artfully crafted cocktails in a seamless indoor-outdoor setting.
Ester’s Wine Shop: Part wine shop, part tasting room, Ester’s is an intimate haven for wine lovers featuring an expertly curated selection and warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Not No Bar: Fresh to the Santa Monica scene, this pizzeria-cocktail bar hybrid on Main Street is the neighborhood’s hottest new late-night destination.
Self-Care
Alchemie Spa: A wellness sanctuary blending cutting-edge technology with traditional healing practices for a transformative self-care experience.
Sweat Yoga: A community-driven wellness destination offering dynamic classes that challenge and inspire mind and body.
Willow Spa: An urban retreat providing personalized wellness treatments in a serene escape from city life.
Photo: @willowsantamonica
Schools
Santa Monica is served by several top-notch public and private schools, including Franklin Elementary School, Roosevelt Elementary School and Santa Monica High School, as well as acclaimed private institutions like Crossroads School for Arts and Sciences and New Roads School.
Access
Santa Monica offers incredibly easy access to major hubs via scenic routes like Ocean Avenue and Lincoln Boulevard. The Metro Expo Line provides direct access to Downtown LA, while the Third Street Promenade and Santa Monica Place offer world-class shopping and dining.
