Skip the Snow and Opt for Breakfast With Santa and Seaside Ice Skating
Santa Monica is a sunny beachside oasis that takes holiday celebrations to the next level. Even in November, it’s never too early to get in the spirit and start planning your holiday festivities. Whether you’re a born and bred West-sider or a first-time visitor, Santa Monica decks the halls in a BIG way every year. From seaside ice skating to the ultimate seasonal shopping experience, we’ve rounded up some of the best ways to spend the holidays in Santa Monica this year.
Seaside Staycation
Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel
Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel is the perfect place for a holiday escape with the whole family. From cozy fire pits with Pacific Ocean views to holiday libations fit for Saint Nick himself, Loews Santa Monica is pulling out all the stops to get guests in the spirit of the season. Every Sunday leading up to Christmas Day, Loews will be hosting Breakfast with Santa, where kids and adults can enjoy a festive feast and fun activities like making reindeer antlers and, of course, snapping photos with Santa. There will also be live holiday music in the lobby during the evenings every weekend along with a special “Tea with a Twist” experience that pairs tasty treats and tea with live performances from the local Elemental Music Choir. Skip the snow this year—head straight for the sand!
All Is Merry and Bright
Winterlit Santa Monica
Winterlit is an annual Santa Monica celebration that truly lights up the city. Tens of thousands of colorful holiday lights are scattered throughout the Third Street Promenade, Second St and Fourth St, immersing visitors and residents in a festive display unlike any other. Expect to see life-size ornaments, holiday art installations and vibrant garland strung throughout this shopping haven. Whether you’re looking to snap some Instagram-worthy photos or you simply want to get in the spirit and stroll around with a cup of hot cocoa in hand, Winterlit is a must-see.
Show Off Your Moves
Ice at Santa Monica
From Nov. 16 to Jan. 16, Ice at Santa Monica is making its return and bringing 8,000 square feet of skating to the city. The $20 all-day skate passes allow visitors to come and go at their leisure, and there is no time limit on skate sessions. Enjoy soaring across the ice under a sea of twinkling lights and holiday decor, or you can rent one of the massive 25-person cabanas for a celebratory shindig. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or new to ice skating, Ice at Santa Monica is a memorable and iconic experience for the whole family this holiday season.
Smile Big!
Take Photos with Santa
Ready for a new framed photo with Santa? From Nov. 19 to Dec. 24, Santa is posting up at his beachside cottage at Santa Monica Place right next to the Third Street Promenade. Best of all, pre-booking your session allows you to skip the lines. On top of that, those that pre-book and pre-order a photo package will receive a personalized video from Santa himself following the session. In addition to taking home some frame-worthy photos, this experience also gives kids the opportunity to make memories that are sure to last a lifetime.
Check It Off Your List
Holiday Shopping at Third Street Promenade
Get ahead on holiday shopping by browsing the best stores at Third Street Promenade. From big-name brands to local boutiques, this spot turns into a reliable one-stop shop for picking up your gifts and enjoying a winter wonderland during the holidays. On Dec. 10, shoppers can also explore more than 40 vendors at the Conscious Holiday Market. This annual market takes place right in the center of Third Street Promenade and shines the spotlight on sustainable brands looking to make a difference in Santa Monica. From festive dresses to eco-friendly jewelry, the Conscious Holiday Market is a must-see for shoppers looking to get out of the box and find some one-of-a-kind gifts for their loved ones.
Allie Lebos graduated from the University of California, Santa Barbara in 2017 with a BA in Communication. While in school she was a staff writer at The Daily Nexus for nearly two years. Since graduating she has written for The Palisades Magazine, as well as Hidden Hills Magazine. Currently living in Santa Monica, Allie loves to indulge in good food, hot yoga, and daily walks along the beach; writing articles on travel, special events, as well as features on local businesses and individuals.
