Exclusive report from our special correspondent in California, Jessica Pierné
A symbol of the American dream, California has remained a world apart. Beneath its postcard-perfect setting, Santa Monica is a fantastic destination for enjoying sunny beaches and living life to the rhythm of the ocean. Located in western Los Angeles County, this seaside resort, which was home to Hollywood in the 1930s, has retained its old-world charm, where beautiful Art Deco addresses mingle with trendy rooftops along the Pacific Ocean.
The Pierside, a typical Californian hotel just a stone's throw from the Santa Monica Pier
Just steps from the iconic Santa Monica Pier and the Pacific Ocean, this beautiful location is the perfect place to explore the city and take long walks on the beach. Its chic, bohemian decor immediately immerses us in a 70s Californian atmosphere with revisited folk music, rattan armchairs by the fire, surfboards, and a secluded lagoon-colored pool. In the bright rooms, you'll enjoy the magical beach and ocean views day and night.
Pacific Park, the only amusement park on the West Coast of the United States
Overlooking the Pacific Ocean, this amusement park with a Ferris wheel and roller coaster is next to a century-old carousel that notably appeared in the cult film Forest Gump. Remember when Forest starts running, he arrives at the Santa Monica Pier where the legendary Route 66 ends. To commemorate Forest's passage, a restaurant from the franchise bubba gump was built at the beginning of the pier in 1996. Here you can enjoy shrimp specialties in complete tranquility, overlooking the beach and the waves of the Pacific Ocean.
Route 66 ends at the Santa Monica Pier
It is undoubtedly one of the most legendary roads in the world. From Chicago to the Santa Monica Pier, this ribbon of asphalt embodies the golden age of America and the nostalgia of the 50s with the motels and diners that line the "Mother Road." This sign, which runs for 3860 km, ends at the Santa Monica Pier, but historians recall that Route 66 ended at the time in Downtown Los Angeles, at the corner of Broadway and 7e The Rolling Stones even dedicated a song in 1964 to the iconic road's eight-state crossing.
The house of Marion Davies: iconic actress of the 20s
Before entering this house on Santa Monica beach, you have to take a trip back in time to the end of the First World War. A new era is coming, we see the birth of currents and trends whose common point is freedom of expression, the desire to leave the beaten track of traditional art with the school of the surrealists, jazz, art deco and its architectural audacity, fashion according to Poiret and the release of Chanel number 5. After the First World War, Americans became the world's leading film producers. The story of Marion Davies (a silent film actress) and producer William Randolph begins in Santa Monica in the early 20s. He had her build this superb villa right on the sand. Although partly demolished, it is possible to visit the "Marion Davies Guest House" where an old-fashioned scent of this Belle Époque floats.
Bergamot Station, the temple of contemporary art
This former Los Angeles rail yard has been transformed into an art complex. Today, it's a true sanctuary for art lovers. Between the gigantic artist murals dedicated to 70s artists and the vibrant creations of local talent, you'll discover a world where creativity flows freely. Art galleries, bohemian cafes, and independent boutiques add even more charm to Bergamot Station!
Santa Monica by bike
Santa Monica is the epitome of Californian bohemianism. Rent a bike to ride along the 35km West Coast to Palos Verdes, and admire the magnificent villas that charmingly reveal themselves, lined up along the calm waters. Each one features a unique façade, with flower-filled balconies. The South Bay Bicycle Trail is a very pleasant path between the beach and Ocean Avenue where you can take a coffee break with your toes in the sand. We ride along the Pacific Ocean with the wind in our hair on a flat path on an electric bike from the company "Bikes & Hikes LA Tours" to fully enjoy the panoramas.
The Regent and its Guerlain spa
Carefully designed decor, a stylish pool, and a unique experience make this place a must-see, where authenticity blends with creativity. Overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the Regent Santa Monica has just opened its doors on Ocean Avenue. From the moment you enter, you fall under the spell of this Californian cocoon bathed in light. The 167 rooms in soothing tones open, some of them onto terraces that allow you to contemplate the ocean or the famous Pacific Park. Another highlight is that it is here that Guerlain has chosen to install its first Californian Spa. Located on the ground floor, it offers relaxing massages and soothing treatments around an intimate pool. Note that the most demanding customers have at their disposal a Bentley hybrid for their journeys…
Take your taste buds on a journey to Santa Monica
Santa Monica's culinary scene shines with diversity and innovation. From Michelin-starred restaurants to sublime Californian rooftops, the chic and bohemian city delights its visitors with creative cuisine. For a timeless experience, book a table at Citrine (one Michelin star) where black Périgord truffles are featured in the risotto and tagliatelle. For lunch, you'll enjoy the Mediterranean menu at Calabra, which boasts one of the most beautiful rooftops in Santa Monica. And if you're looking for an unusual place, treat yourself to a Michelin-starred dinner at Cobi's to savor the best of Malaysian cuisine accompanied by Oregon wine in a chic and bucolic setting.
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GETTING THERE: Zoom on Air TAHITI NUI
Paris – Los Angeles round-trip flights with Air TAHITI NUI from 419 euros. A change of scenery guaranteed on board and promotional TGV Train + Air fares from 18 cities in France. https://fr.airtahitinui.com
For more than 25 years, Air Tahiti Nui is the leading airline for connecting French Polynesia and Los Angeles. It serves numerous destinations across 10 countries, thanks to agreements with several partners such as American Airlines, SNCF, Aircalin, Air New Zealand, Japan Airlines, Korean Air, Qantas, and LATAM.
The journey between Paris-Charles de Gaulle and Los Angeles takes approximately 11 hours.
Air Tahiti Nui operates until 7 flights per week from Paris CDG to Los Angeles. Possible connections by TGV from 18 cities French and Brussels with Train + AIR.
Every trip with Air Tahiti Nui is a invitation to discover the soul of Polynesia, through its sense of hospitality, its cultural richness, and its spirit of adventure. Closely linked to the destination it connects, the company strives to immerse its passengers in the Polynesian atmosphere from the moment they depart. A warm smile, the soothing notes of the ukulele, the delicate scent of the Tiare flower given upon boarding, and the traditional "Maeva"—which means "welcome"—mark the beginning of an immersive journey. The staff proudly embody the values of the islands, while each aircraft reflects the spectacular beauty of Polynesia.
Air Tahiti Nui fares are ALL INCLUSIVE with meals (alcoholic drinks included) and snacks, hand luggage, cabin baggage, 23 kg checked baggage (in economy class) as well as an additional bag containing sports equipment. Online check-in is open from 24 hours to 5 hours before departure and it is possible to request a special meal reservation up to 72 hours before departure (free of charge).
The company provides a range of complementary services to enhance the travel experience: access to lounges, priority check-in, boarding and baggage claim, Extra Comfort or Preferred seats in Economy class, as well as easy payment options.
WHERE TO STAY?
At the Santa Monica Pierside for its proximity to the beach, Pacific Park, and the pier. The establishment will seduce you with its Californian style, its spacious rooms, and its relaxed atmosphere. The "Surfing Fox" restaurant offers healthy menus in an exotic setting, and some rooms have a beautiful view of the Pacific. www.thepiersidehotel.com/
At the Regent Santa Monica for an exceptional stay with your feet in the sand. This new address is inspired by the warm atmosphere of the West Coast Beach Houses with its immense lobby, organic materials, and blue hues. The 167 rooms have a marble bathroom equipped with a Dyson hairdryer and Californian products. The 5-star establishment also has a Guerlain spa, a huge oceanfront pool, and a Mediterranean restaurant. A perfect place to put down your suitcases!
WHERE TO DINE?
In Calabra de Santa Monica for its pleasant rooftop located at 7rd floor of the Proper Hotel, decorated by the talented Kelly Wearstler. You'll enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, delicious smoothies, and Mediterranean menu. www.properhotel.com
At Pasjoli for its scallops in butter and its strawberry tart in a decor inspired by Parisian bistros of the 60s. The perfect place to step back in time with the famous Mamas and the Papas song "California Dreamin'" playing in the background. www.pasjoli.com/
At Citrin for a gourmet dinner with a Michelin-starred chef in an intimate setting. The chef favors seasonal produce and delicately blends French and Californian cuisine. www.citrinandmelisse.com/
At Elephante for the relaxed atmosphere and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. The perfect place to enjoy Italian specialties in a location that served as the setting for the American series The White Lotus. www.elephanterestaurants.com/
ACTIVITIES
Bike renting at Tour White Bikes & Hikes LA which offers tours in Santa Monica and around Los Angeles. https://bikesandhikesla.com
Yoga session on the beach to start the day like a true Californian with Beach Yoga SoCal. www.beachyogasocal.com/
