Fall in Love With Santa Monica:
Why Autumn is the Ultimate Coastal Escape

While summer gets the headline, seasoned travelers know the secret: autumn is Santa Monica’s most magical season.

As the summer crowds ease, Southern California welcomes “Secret Summer”—a period from September through November characterized by warm golden days, crisp ocean breezes, uncrowded beaches, and breathtaking evening skies. Whether you are planning a November weekend refresh, a pre-holiday shopping trip, or an effortless Thanksgiving getaway, autumn in Santa Monica offers the ultimate blend of coastal luxury, vibrant culture, and relaxed sophistication.

Here is your guide to falling in love with Santa Monica this fall—and why The Huntley Hotel is your premier sanctuary on the coast.

  • Santa Monica Pier at sunset with Ferris wheel glowing over the shoreline
  • Malibu - Photo Credit: Kelly Verdeck
1. Basking in World-Class Sunset Views (Literally No. 2 in the World)

If you’ve ever witnessed the sky ignite in shades of violet, amber, and gold above the Pacific ocean, you won’t be surprised by Santa Monica’s latest global honor.

Travel + Leisure recently named Santa Monica as the No. 2 sunset destination in the world—and the only U.S. city to make the global top 10.

Autumn brings exceptionally clear skies and crisp ocean horizons, making September through November the prime months for sunset viewing. At The Huntley Hotel, you don’t just watch the sunset; you live inside the view.
Rising 18 stories above the coast at the corner of 2nd Street and California Avenue, The Huntley offers sweeping, unobstructed views of the Pacific Ocean, Malibu bluffs, and the iconic Santa Monica coastline. Ride our iconic glass elevator up to The Penthouse—our 18th-floor rooftop restaurant and lounge—and sip a handcrafted cocktail as the world’s finest sunset unfolds around you.

  • Crowded Malibu beach with waves and coastal homes.
  • aerial view of people on the beach
2. Quiet Luxury Just Steps From the Shore

One of the greatest advantages of a fall vacation in Santa Monica is the relaxed, peaceful atmosphere.

Located just off Ocean Avenue in a leafy, residential pocket of Wilshire Boulevard, The Huntley Hotel gives guests the best of both worlds: unmatched ocean proximity combined with a serene, intimate environment.

  • Steps from the Sand: Stroll just two blocks to Palisades Park and Santa Monica State Beach for morning walks along the bluff or quiet afternoon reads by the waves.
  • A Peaceful Haven: Retreat to residential-style luxury away from heavy beachfront traffic while staying within easy walking distance of the coast’s top sights.
  • Two people crossing a palm-lined city street near the beach.
  • Woman at outdoor flower market holding bouquets and smiling among colorful flowers
3. Unbeatable Walkability: World-Class Shopping & Dining at Your Doorstep

Ditch the car key and explore Santa Monica on foot. Autumn’s moderate temperatures—averaging in the low-to-mid 70s—create perfect weather for outdoor strolling, outdoor dining, and seasonal wardrobe shopping.

From the doors of The Huntley, you are effortlessly connected to Santa Monica’s premier districts:

  • Montana Avenue (5-minute walk): Tree-lined and quiet, Montana Avenue features 10 blocks of upscale boutiques, indie coffee houses, artisan bakeries, and local dining. It’s the ideal spot for picking up curated fall fashion and holiday gifts.
  • Wilshire Boulevard & Dining: Explore renowned Westside dining spots just steps from your guestroom, from coastal Italian concept eateries to modern seafood bistros.
  • Thanksgiving
  • Cabana with Chair and Ocean View in Back
4. Spend Thanksgiving in Coastal Comfort & Convenience

As November approaches, trade the stress of home holiday prep for an unforgettable Thanksgiving weekend by the sea.

A holiday stay at The Huntley Hotel redefines Thanksgiving travel with pure relaxation:

  • Panoramic Thanksgiving Dining at The Penthouse: Indulge in an elevated holiday feast curated by our culinary team, paired with 360-degree views of the Pacific Ocean and Los Angeles skyline.
  • Spacious Luxury Suites: Our residential-style suites offer ample room for families and couples to unwind, unwind in soaking tubs, and cozy up with luxury linens.
  • Holiday Spirit by the Coast: Kick off the holiday season early with Santa Monica’s festive lights, outdoor ice skating at ICE at Santa Monica, and world-class Black Friday shopping right in our neighborhood.
Plan Your November Getaway to The Huntley Hotel

Whether you’re seeking a weekend getaway to experience world-ranked sunsets or looking to celebrate a stress-free Thanksgiving on the coast, late autumn in Santa Monica is calling.

Book directly with The Huntley Hotel Santa Monica Beach to secure exclusive autumn rates, ocean view suites, and priority reservations at The Penthouse.

Frequently Asked Questions


What is the weather like in Santa Monica in November?

November in Santa Monica features warm, dry “Indian Summer” weather with average daytime highs around 68°F–72°F and cool coastal evenings near 52°F. It is ideal for sightseeing, beach walks, and rooftop dining without high summer humidity.

Is Santa Monica walkable without a car?

Yes, Santa Monica is exceptionally walkable, particularly when staying at a centrally located property like The Huntley Hotel. From 2nd Street, guests can easily walk to Palisades Park, Santa Monica Pier, Montana Avenue boutiques, and Third Street Promenade within 5 to 15 minutes.

Where is the best place to watch the sunset in Santa Monica?

Travel + Leisure ranked Santa Monica as the #2 sunset spot globally. The best elevated view in the city is at The Penthouse at The Huntley Hotel, an 18th-floor rooftop restaurant offering 360-degree panoramic ocean views.

Does The Huntley Hotel serve Thanksgiving dinner?

Yes, The Huntley Hotel’s rooftop restaurant, The Penthouse, hosts an annual holiday dining experience featuring gourmet multi-course meals set against panoramic Pacific views. Reservations are strongly recommended.