WHAT’S NEW AND NOTEWORTHY IN SANTA MONICA IN 2024
As Santa Monica blooms with excitement this spring, seize the opportunity to explore its vibrant offerings and create unforgettable memories along the stunning coastline.
As the sun-kissed days of spring unfold along the Pacific coastline, Santa Monica emerges with a vibrant array of new experiences waiting to be discovered. From chic hotels to tantalizing dining options, captivating art exhibitions, and lively events, there’s no shortage of excitement in this beachside paradise. Whether you’re a visitor or a local, here’s your guide to what’s new and noteworthy in Santa Monica for Spring 2024.
Chic Hotels and Culinary Delights
Experience the epitome of coastal luxury at Sandbourne Santa Monica, formerly known as Le Merigot Santa Monica. This reimagined hotel, nestled along the iconic Ocean Avenue, boasts chic design by architect Gulla Jónsdóttir and promises a haven of comfort and style in its 175 guest rooms and suites. Indulge in culinary delights at the hotel’s new restaurant by Chef Raphael Lunetta, and take advantage of the 10,000 square feet of event space for business travelers looking to combine work and leisure.
For a taste of Middle Eastern flavors with a modern twist, venture to Sonder The Beacon in Downtown Santa Monica. Chef Chris Sayegh brings his Jordanian heritage to life at Layla, where guests can savor timeless recipes infused with French culinary techniques. Don’t miss The Coco Club, Santa Monica’s only open-air rooftop bar and lounge, perched atop Sonder The Beacon, offering breathtaking views of the serene seaside and meticulously crafted cocktails.
Hotel Casa del Mar invites diners to 1 Pico, its ocean-view restaurant, for a fresh spring menu crafted by Chef Sean Runyon. Sourcing local ingredients from the renowned Santa Monica Farmers Market, Chef Runyon delivers an unforgettable culinary adventure against the backdrop of Shutters on the Beach resort.
Culinary Explorations and Gourmet Retail
For plant-based delights that appeal to all palates, head to B&T’s Deli on Montana Ave. This charming eatery aims to introduce plant-based options to a broader audience with its selection of plant-based subs crafted from familiar ingredients like artichokes, ensuring accessibility for all.
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Southeast Asian cuisine at Cassia in Downtown Santa Monica. Chef Bryant Ng’s all-new menu celebrates his Chinese-Singapore heritage with soulful, ancestral dishes prepared with high-quality, locally-farmed ingredients.
Zona Little Italy on Main Street invites visitors to explore its gourmet retail offerings, boasting authentic, artisanal Italian products directly imported from Italy. With a focus on GMO-free, gluten-free, and vegan options, Zona Little Italy ensures a delightful culinary experience for all.
Art, Culture, and Entertainment
Immerse yourself in Santa Monica’s vibrant art scene at the Adler-Smith Gallery in Ocean Park/Airport. Inspired by surf, skate, art, and music culture, the gallery showcases colorful works by artists such as Russell Crotty and David Lloyd, offering a feast for the eyes.
Santa Monica Place welcomes visitors with Sounds of Santa Monica, a free, family-friendly series featuring live music in the Center Plaza every Wednesday through Sunday. From live DJs to acoustic performers and rock bands, these performances add a touch of rhythm and melody to any shopping experience.
Engaging Events and Celebrations
Art lovers won’t want to miss Karla Diaz’s solo exhibition, “Wait ’til Your Mother Gets Home,” at the 18th Street Arts Center Airport Campus. Through Diaz’s perspective, explore the American Mexican identity from the 1970s to the present day, featuring 37 new and recent works.
Laugh out loud at the Bergamot Comedy Fest, a week-long celebration of comedy at Bergamot Arts Station Center. Featuring nearly 50 comedians, live performances, panels, workshops, and community events spotlight underrepresented voices and unique perspectives.
Discover original artwork at affordable prices at The Other Art Fair, returning to the Santa Monica Airport with immersive installations, performances, and DJs. This art fair celebrates independent artists and offers a diverse selection of artwork for art lovers of all tastes.
Celebrating Diversity with SAMO Pride
Throughout June and beyond, Santa Monica embraces diversity with SAMO Pride, celebrating all faiths, ethnicities, sexual orientations, genders, and more. Experience the beauty of Santa Monica with LGBTQ+-friendly hotels, restaurants, and activities, and stay tuned for updates on Pride Month festivities across the city.
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