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The 10 best Airbnbs in Santa Monica for solace and sunshine

Fall asleep to the sound of ocean waves at these Santa Monica Airbnbs, from affordable apartments to swanky homes

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With mountains to the north, miles of beachfront that stretch to the south, and clusters of restaurants and shopping in between, it’s no wonder Santa Monica is a prime destination for California vacationers. Visitors flock here for some of the best beaches near L.A. and for a room with a view (and an ocean breeze). But hotels on the beach are pricey, so why not head beach-adjacent instead? We've rounded up our choice spots that are pretty darn near the beach in Santa Monica.

Updated October 2024: Santa Monica has some of the strictest vacation rental laws in the L.A. area, so expect a limited supply. Although we've just added two more dreamy homes you may like to see on your next visit – enjoy.

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🌴Head to these secluded Airbnb spots near L.A.

This guide was written by Time Out L.A. editor, Michael JulianoAt Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines. While we might not stay in every hotel featured below, we've based our list on top reviews and amenities to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

Best Santa Monica Airbnbs

1. The colorful contemporary home in Ocean Park

Enjoy vaulted ceilings, colorful furnishings, and wood finishes in this uber-stylish three-bed, two-and-a-half-bath home that sleeps seven. You’ll have access to the entire place, including a two-car garage, but you may never need to use it since the house is mere blocks from the beach and Main Street’s shops and restaurants.

Rooms? Three bedrooms. Sleeps seven guests. 
The mood? Designer chic. Anyone else really dig the green rug?
Location perks? Forgotten something? Host Olga has taken care of your beach supplies along with bikes for getting around.  
Budget range? A luxury getaway best split between larger groups, thas is, unless you're on a splurging spree... 

2. The high-ceiling home near Ocean Park

Relax in a bright, airy, vaulted-ceiling luxury home just 300 meters from the beach. There are great bars, cafes, and shops nearby, too, but you'll likely want to stick around and enjoy the soaking tub, balcony, gas barbecue on the terrace, and outdoor heaters for cooler nights. There's even an electric charging point in the garage, which you also make use of.

Rooms? Three. Sleeps six guests.
The mood? Modern living.
Location perks? A hop, skip and a jump from the beach. 
Budget range? Spennnnny but worth it.

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3. The chic loft near Montana Avenue

Or perhaps you would like to crash at this eccentric mezzanine mid-century loft? Full of color, style and good vibes, this artsy one-bed has all you need while you're on the coast, including a full kitchen, bath and a charming balcony when you're in want of a little more relaxation. 

Rooms? One bedroom. Sleeps two guests. 
The mood? Uber cool. 
Location perks? Ditch the car keys – this one's great for exploring on foot, by bike, or an electric scooter (just not on 3rd Street). Whatever your mode of transit, you're a short distance from  Montana, Santa Monica and Venice Beach. 
Budget range? A luxury price tag for a fabulous short stay.

4. The cute cottage

Rent this entire cottage in the heart of Santa Monica that's within walking distance to the beach. It's super stylish and cute, perfect for a couple taking a trip away. As well as the usual mod cons, it has patio doors that open onto a decked area, leading to a private back yard with a barbecue. There's private parking, too.

Rooms? One. Sleeps two guests.
Mood? Cute and cozy.
Location perks? It's just a few blocks from Main Street and the beach.
Budget range? Mid to high-range.

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5. The custom-built villa near Venice Beach

Hide away in this home-turned-sanctuary that has a whole lot to offer, inside and out. The contemporary, open-plan interiors make for a calming space to lounge around (especially by the fireplace) and cook a hearty meal for the whole family. Big double windows bring the outdoors in, and the backyard has furniture and a BBQ on the decking for alfresco affairs. 

Rooms? Two bedrooms. Sleeps four guests. 
Mood? Traquil hideaway. 
Location perks? You're within easy reach of the restaurants, bars and boutiques of Abbot Kinney, and four blocks from the beach.
Budget range? Quite the spend. 

6. The little oasis with a roof deck in Venice

You're guaranteed a comfortable stay at this understated California home with a private backyard and roof deck. The glass sliding door leading out to the yard takes up most of the back wall, showering the living room with plenty of natural light. Both outdoor areas are decked out with furniture to make sure everyone gets a seat – including a dining table for scenic dinners under the sun or stars. 

Rooms? Three bedrooms. Sleeps six guests. 
Mood? Homely, but still has that 'vacation spark'.
Location perks? In a quiet neighborhood but just a few blocks from nightlife hotspot Abbot Kinney – and a short drive from Malibu. 
Budget range? A price you'll want to split between as many people as possible. 

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7. The tiny house in Ocean Park

Tiny homes are oh so de rigueur don't cha know? That's why we've included another backyard stay to the list, this time a helluva lot closer to the beach (only a five-minute walk). It's more of a home than a room, with a self-contained bathroom, a fully equipped kitchenette, and use of a washer/dryer. The garden is simply stunning, overflowing with verdant foliage, which offers extremely tranquil vibes as you relax in the hot tub. Not to mention, guests can't stop swooning over amazing hosts Dale and Paul, who are on hand for whatever you need. 

Rooms? One bedroom. Sleeps two guests. 
The mood? Rustic groove. 
Location perks? A few blocks down from this newly renovated abode, you'll find a tonne of coffee shops, restaurants and of course, the beach. 
Budget range? A decent price for a couple of nights. 

8. The dream apartment near Venice Beach

Making a statement with high ceilings, big windows presenting even bigger views of downtown L.A.'s mountains, and sleek modern furniture, this penthouse really is what dreams are made of. Everything about this place is impressive, right down to the state-of-the-art appliances in the kitchen. Chill by the indoor fireplace when it get cold or make the most of the sun by serving supper on the BBQ out back. You'll also benefit from direct beachfront access, and we think the room-darkening blinds are a real nice touch. There's enough room on the couch for the whole family, with movie nights made better thanks to the 60-inch HDTV with a bunch of streaming platforms pre-installed. 

Rooms? Two. Sleeps four guests.  
The mood? Flashy in the best way. 
Location perks? Those mountain and skyline views, of course. 
Budget range? A fair price for a family pad of this quality. 

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9. The compact home with a garden in Venice

It's impossible not to feel cozy in this Venice gem, with charmingly low ceilings and a tetris-style layout that sees bookcases in walls and stairs over the kitchen. The open-plan design and white walls provide an airiness, so you won't fee like you and your fellow guests are on top of each other 24/7. There are plenty of nooks to escape to for some peace and quiet, and the bedrooms are blissfully clean and uncluttered. If dining out is on your agenda, then you're in a prime location for it: restaurants, coffee shops, and markets are just a few minutes away on Rose Avenue. 

Rooms? Two. Sleeps four guests. 
The mood? Little home, big personality. 
Location perks? Close to Venice Beach Boardwalk and a 20-minute drive from LAX.
Budget range? Affordable family stay. 

10. The beachfront condo in Ocean Park

Not short on space or style, this mega Airbnb is a great way to impress your Instagram followers. High ceilings hold up showstopping light fixtures, complementing eye-catching furniture to create a strong statement look. The living room is made for movie nights, with a projector that pulls down over the windows. There's sofa seating on the balcony – the best place to enjoy your morning coffee. Handy amenities include a laundry room and a dedicated workspace. Both bedrooms have queen beds, and you'll benefit from the rare luxury of having a bathroom dedicated to each bedroom.  

Rooms? Two bedrooms. Sleeps four guests. 
The mood? Futuristic and makes a statement. 
Location perks? In the high-end part of Santa Monica, overlooking the famous beach which is a 2-minute walk away. 
Budget range: A great price for such a grand property. 

Looking to plan the rest of your stay in Santa Monica?

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