We’ve been California dreaming all summer long … and we’re finally making it happen! This trip is a special one—with my middle, Andrew—to celebrate his college graduation. (How did we get here already??)
We started this little tradition last year with a trip to Malibu for Emma’s graduation (you can catch that post here), and I couldn’t be more grateful that this has turned into a thing. A few days by the ocean, just the two of us, before life takes us in new directions.
I packed light (truly, tried my best) and went in with a mindset of soaking it all up. It was a mix of morning walks, baseball games, and just enough downtime to really talk and connect.
Keep scrolling to see what we did, what we packed, and some notes you might want to remember for your next trip to Santa Monica!
Where We Stayed: Santa Monica Proper Hotel
We checked into the Santa Monica Proper, and from the moment we walked in, it felt like a true escape. The hotel is a restored 1920s landmark with interiors designed by Kelly Wearstler—think earthy tones, sculptural furniture, and textural everything. It’s coastal and modern, but not in a try-hard way. Every detail felt intentional.
The location is just a few blocks from the beach and right in the heart of Santa Monica, which made it super convenient for walking to coffee, shops, or heading straight to the sand. The rooftop pool deck was a highlight—hands down the best views of the city and coastline. You could easily spend a whole day up there with a book and a glass of wine.
They also have two restaurants—Palma, the more casual lobby spot, and Calabra upstairs, which we preferred. Mediterranean-inspired dishes, sunset views, and a great vibe for dinner or just drinks.
In the room, I wore the Kelly Wearstler x Parachute robes every chance I got—so cozy, I wanted to sneak it into my suitcase! The beds were comfortable, the lighting was warm and moody, and there was a bench by the window that made the perfect spot for reading in the mornings.
If you’re into design, good food, and want a hotel that feels both elevated and laid-back, this one’s hard to beat. We’d absolutely stay again.
What We Did
Dodgers Game Night
One of the first things we locked into the itinerary? A Dodgers game! Andrew is a die-hard fan. Like, don’t even think about wearing the opposing team’s hat around him — he will absolutely chirp you from across the stadium (in the most loving way, of course ?).
So obviously, this wasn’t a maybe—it was a must. And honestly, I was all in. There’s something about the energy of a ballpark that’s so exciting! The chanting, the hot dogs, the organ music, the endless stream of people watching … I live for baseball culture in the summer. It’s one of those quintessential American things that never gets old.
We grabbed a couple of Dodger Dogs, found our seats (great view!), and fully leaned into the moment. Sunset over the stadium, cheering fans, and Andrew completely in his element — it was such a good night, and one of those memories I’ll always hold on to from the trip.
Bike Ride to Venice Beach
One of our favorite mornings was spent biking from Santa Monica along the boardwalk to Venice Beach, passing the Santa Monica Pier. It’s such a classic LA experience—people watching, street performers, the ocean breeze. We stopped a few times along the way just to take it all in.
Mid-ride, we made a little detour and grabbed a quick bite at Shutters on the Beach—lobster rolls, oysters, and a couple of cocktails (highly recommend the Pura Vida!) by the water. It’s a great spot to bask in the sun, refuel, and pretend (just for a minute) that we lived there. If you’re ever in the area, rent bikes and do this ride. It’s easy, fun, and gives you a real feel for the local energy.
Visited the Pier
You can’t be in Santa Monica and not visit the pier—it’s iconic. For us, it’s a place that holds many memories. We used to take the kids here to ride the ferris wheel and eat funnel cake, so of course, we had to hop on a rollercoaster! But even just walking around brought it all back.
There’s something so nostalgic about it—the lights, the music, the smell of saltwater and sunscreen in the air. It’s a little chaotic, a little cheesy, but in the best way. It feels like summer. We strolled around, people-watched, and soaked in the view from the edge of the pier. Sometimes, the simple things are the ones that stick ?
Where We Ate
We were only in town for a few days, but managed to hit a few good spots between outings. One of the highlights? Giorgio Baldi — such a classic if you’re hoping to run into celebs (spoiler: we didn’t … but the paparazzi were there, so we knew someone special was nearby). But beyond that, it’s just genuinely amazing food. It’s family-run and has been serving the LA crowd for over thirty years. Their vibe is all about simplicity, authenticity, and tradition — it’s the best.
We ordered a little bit of everything — the ravioli in veal broth (silky and comforting), the maltagliati verdi (a spinach pasta with the coziest, most perfect meat sauce), and the branzino with mushrooms and artichoke hearts, which might be the dish that convinced me to start roasting artichokes again. Paired it all with a crisp Italian Sauvignon Blanc. Andrew was in heaven. Honestly, we barely spoke for 1o minutes because we were too busy savoring every bite!
If I’m in LA and can swing it, I always try to squeeze in a visit to The Ivy. Yes, it’s iconic, and yes, it leans a little over-the-top—but that’s half the charm. I had never been to this location, and while I loved it, I will say it’s not quite as charming as OG location on Robertson Blvd in Los Angeles. But the rose floral arrangements, hand-painted plates, and that lush, pink-and-green everything … it’s kind of magical.
I ordered the huevos rancheros (a little spicy, very flavorful), and Andrew went for the eggs Benedict, which he claimed might be the best version he’s ever had. We sat outside with coffee and a brunch cocktail and pretended we didn’t have anywhere to be after (which we didnt LOL… the beauty of a getaway).
Another spot we loved that a friend told me was a “MUST” was The Bungalow Santa Monica. The vibe did not disappoint. It’s like cool, laid-back beach house meets social club — you walk in and immediately feel like you’re at a friend’s really fun house party. The vintage furniture, outdoor seating, even the game room—it’s all just so fun, and different from your typical LA bar.
It was National Tequila Day so of course we ordered margs. We absolutely love the tuna poke, guac and chips and split the cheese burger! 10/10 would go back in a heartbeat.
I’d heard about Le Great Outdoors and was curious, mostly because the name alone made me think it’d be my kind of place—and wow, it really was. Their whole vibe is rooted in simplicity: nature, food, and people. Nothing fussy, just thoughtful and grounded. The space itself felt earthy and calm, and everything we ate tasted like it came straight from the garden or the coast—super fresh, not overly dressed up, just right. They cook all the food over an open fire, and somehow it makes everything taste like a childhood memory.
They’re also big on sustainability and zero waste, which we support. I left feeling full, happy, and honestly, inspired.
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All in all, this trip felt like exactly what we needed. A pause before the next chapter, a few days to slow down and soak it all in—sunsets, salty air, belly laughs, impromptu adventures!
If you’re planning a getaway to Santa Monica, I hope this guide gives you a few ideas to tuck in your back pocket. Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, there’s something about this stretch of coastline that just hits different! Until next time, California ?
