New Years Eve In Santa Monica: Celebration Guide

As the clock strikes midnight on December 31st, people around the world gather to bid farewell to the old year and welcome the new one. Santa Monica, with its picturesque beachfront, lively pier, and vibrant downtown area, is an ideal spot to celebrate New Year's Eve. Whether you're a local or just visiting, the city offers a wide range of activities, events, and parties to make your New Year's Eve unforgettable.

From family-friendly festivities to glamorous galas, Santa Monica has something for everyone. In this article, we'll provide you with a comprehensive guide to help you plan an unforgettable New Year's Eve celebration in Santa Monica.

Family-Friendly Activities

If you're looking for a fun and safe way to celebrate New Year's Eve with your family, Santa Monica has plenty of options. Here are a few ideas:

Santa Monica Pier: The pier is a great place to spend the evening with your family. You can enjoy the stunning ocean views, play games, and ride the historic Ferris wheel. There are also plenty of restaurants and snack stands to keep everyone satisfied. Third Street Promenade: This pedestrian-friendly street is lined with shops, restaurants, and street performers. You can find everything from face painting to live music, making it an ideal spot for families. Santa Monica Library: Many libraries in the area host special New Year's Eve events, such as storytime, crafts, and movie screenings. These events are perfect for younger kids and are usually free or low-cost.

New Year's Eve Parties and Events

If you're looking for a more adult-oriented celebration, Santa Monica has plenty of options. Here are a few ideas:

The Huntley Hotel: This luxurious hotel hosts a New Year's Eve party with live music, dancing, and a champagne toast at midnight. The Viceroy Santa Monica: This upscale hotel offers a sophisticated New Year's Eve celebration with live jazz music, a buffet dinner, and a champagne toast. The Santa Monica Pier Aquarium: This unique venue hosts a New Year's Eve party with live music, food, and drinks, as well as a countdown to midnight.

Bars and Clubs

If you're looking for a more low-key celebration, Santa Monica has plenty of bars and clubs to choose from. Here are a few ideas:

The Misfit Restaurant + Bar: This trendy bar offers a wide selection of craft cocktails and a menu of small plates. The Albright: This seafood restaurant has a lively bar area with a wide selection of drinks and a menu of seafood favorites. Circle Bar: This popular bar has a wide selection of drinks and a lively atmosphere, making it a great spot to ring in the new year.

Dining and Drinking

If you're looking for a special meal to celebrate New Year's Eve, Santa Monica has plenty of excellent restaurants to choose from. Here are a few ideas:

The Strand House: This upscale restaurant offers a menu of contemporary American cuisine with stunning ocean views. Water Grill: This seafood restaurant has a wide selection of fresh seafood and a lively atmosphere. Blue Plate Oysterette: This seafood restaurant has a wide selection of fresh seafood and a cozy atmosphere.

Champagne and Cocktail Specials

Many restaurants and bars in Santa Monica offer special champagne and cocktail deals on New Year's Eve. Here are a few ideas:

Champagne Toast: Many restaurants and bars offer a complimentary champagne toast at midnight. Cocktail Specials: Many bars and restaurants offer special cocktail deals on New Year's Eve, such as a "Midnight Kiss" or a "New Year's Eve Sparkler".

Getting Around

Getting around Santa Monica on New Year's Eve can be challenging, especially if you're planning to drink. Here are a few ideas:

Uber and Lyft: Both Uber and Lyft operate in Santa Monica and offer a safe and convenient way to get around. Taxi: Taxis are also available in Santa Monica, but be prepared for higher prices on New Year's Eve. Public Transportation: Santa Monica has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses and a light rail line. However, be aware that service may be limited on New Year's Eve.

Accommodations

If you're planning to celebrate New Year's Eve in Santa Monica, you may want to consider staying overnight. Here are a few ideas:

The Huntley Hotel: This luxurious hotel is located in the heart of Santa Monica and offers stunning ocean views. The Viceroy Santa Monica: This upscale hotel is located just a block from the beach and offers a range of amenities, including a spa and fitness center. The Shutters on the Beach: This beachfront hotel is located in the heart of Santa Monica and offers stunning ocean views and a range of amenities.

Conclusion:

Santa Monica is a fantastic place to celebrate New Year's Eve, with its stunning ocean views, lively pier, and vibrant downtown area. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly celebration or a more adult-oriented party, there's something for everyone in this beautiful beachside city. With its wide range of activities, events, and parties, you're sure to have an unforgettable New Year's Eve celebration in Santa Monica.

We hope this guide has helped you plan your New Year's Eve celebration in Santa Monica. Don't forget to stay safe, have fun, and happy new year!