A couple shopping at Andrew's Cheese Shop on Montana Ave

Shop Like a Local

It’s no secret that Santa Monica is the premiere shopping destination of Los Angeles, thanks to areas like the Third Street Promenade and Santa Monica Place. Whether you are picking up fresh produce and tasty snacks at one of the many farmers markets or finding beachy decor for the home on Main Street, you’re bound to run into residents of Santa Monica going about their daily routine.

Main Street

Santa Monica’s Main Street has long had a very local surfer vibe to it and that continues with its shopping offerings. Be sure to make a stop at Angel City Bookstore which features an impressive collection of vintage and rare books and vinyl. While many people know about the Downtown Santa Monica farmers market, Main Street has its own more intimate farmers market every Sunday morning.

Montana Avenue

An ideal spot for leisurely Santa Monica shopping is Montana Avenue, the heart of a vibrant residential neighborhood just off Ocean Avenue. The shops and cafes begin at 7th Street and continue for 10 blocks to 17th Street. As you stroll along the tree-lined street, check out fashion boutiques and specialty stores such as Splendid, Kiehl’s Since 1851, Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Couture and Benefit Cosmetics. Curb your appetite with something sweet from Sweet Lady Jane, which has been serving Santa Monica’s sweet tooth for more than two decades.

Art’s Table

Sweet Lady Jane Bakery

Pico Boulevard

Stretching from the ocean all the way into downtown and beyond, Pico Boulevard houses several iconic Santa Monica shops. A historic spot further east on Pico is McCabe’s Guitar Shop, which has been in business since 1958. In addition to selling and renting musical instruments and offering lessons on a variety of instruments, McCabe’s also hosts live music nights. Over the years, many famous folk artists have performed there, including Joni Mitchell, Beck and Tom Waits.

Wilshire Boulevard

Running parallel to Pico is Wilshire Boulevard, a main thoroughfare in Santa Monica that boasts block after block of great stores. Enjoy a treat at Vanilla Bake Shop, featuring a variety of sweets to treat yourself to, from unique cupcakes, like Marshmallow Graham, to icebox desserts. If you can’t find what you need in Downtown Santa Monica, chances are you’ll find it on Wilshire.