3 Days in Santa Monica, California

Morning Arrival and Ocean Views
Arrive in Santa Monica and check into the Huntley Hotel Santa Monica Beach. Many guest rooms feature sweeping Pacific Ocean views, instantly setting the tone for a refined coastal stay.

One of the hotel’s strongest advantages is its location. You are within walking distance to the beach, Palisades Park, Ocean Avenue, and premier dining, meaning your trip begins without traffic or planning stress.

Late Morning Bike to Venice
Rent bikes and ride along the beach path toward Venice. The flat scenic route offers uninterrupted coastline views and a classic Southern California experience.

Staying in Santa Monica allows you to enjoy Venice’s creative energy while returning to a more elevated ocean view setting.

Lunch Abbot Kinney or Ocean Avenue
For true California farm-to-table cuisine, dine at
Gjelina
Gjusta

Both showcase seasonal, market-driven dishes that define the Westside food scene.

Prefer to stay closer? Choose a refined lunch along Ocean Avenue just steps from the Huntley Hotel Santa Monica Beach.

Afternoon Palisades Park
Walk through Palisades Park, located minutes from the hotel. The bluff top views over the Pacific are dramatic and unforgettable.

The walkability here is key. From the Huntley Hotel Santa Monica Beach, you explore without ever needing your car.

Evening Sunset at The Penthouse
Dinner at The Penthouse is essential.

Located atop Huntley Hotel Santa Monica Beach, The Penthouse offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and beyond. Sunset from this rooftop vantage point is one of the most compelling dining experiences in Santa Monica.

Reserve in advance and stay through golden hour.

Morning Drive the Pacific Coast Highway
From the Huntley Hotel Santa Monica Beach, Malibu is an easy and scenic drive north along the Pacific Coast Highway.

Head toward Malibu early for softer light and lighter traffic.

Stop One Point Dume State Beach
Explore Point Dume State Beach and walk down to the hidden beach cove below the cliffs.

It feels remote and expansive yet you are only minutes from Santa Monica.

Optional Adventure Escondido Falls
For guests who want light adventure, hike to Escondido Falls. The canyon trail reveals another side of coastal California.

Lunch Malibu’s Legendary Restaurants
Choose from Malibu’s most iconic dining destinations
Nobu Malibu
Geoffrey’s
Paradise Cove Beach Cafe

Each offers oceanfront dining with a distinct Malibu atmosphere.

Afternoon Return to Coastal Ease
Return to Huntley Hotel Santa Monica Beach mid-afternoon.

This is where Santa Monica becomes the ideal base. After exploring Malibu, you come back to a hotel that places you within walking distance of everything, including the beach, dining, and sunset views.

Evening Elevated or Effortless
Choose another refined evening at The Penthouse or walk to one of Santa Monica’s nearby restaurants.

Ending your night steps from your room, with the Pacific just outside, is what makes a three-day stay feel seamless.

Morning Santa Monica Farmers Market
If visiting on Saturday, explore the Santa Monica Farmers Market, one of California’s most respected markets and a favorite of local chefs.

It is easily accessible from the Huntley Hotel Santa Monica Beach and showcases the region’s seasonal abundance.

Alternative Morning Montana Avenue
Stroll Montana Avenue for boutique shopping, independent cafés, and neighborhood charm. It is refined, local, and a perfect complement to the coastline.

Brunch The Penthouse Weekend Highlight
Weekend brunch at The Penthouse is a defining experience.

Sunlit Pacific views combined with elevated seasonal cuisine create the kind of final memory that lingers long after departure.

Final Beach Walk and Departure
Take one last walk along the beach path before checking out.

Because of the hotel’s location, your final hours are spent enjoying the coast rather than navigating traffic.