The location was perfect. The house is one short block from Ocean Avenue & Palisades Park, perfect for morning and evening strolls. The beach below is access by passageways a few blocks south, and from there we would jump in the ocean or walk north to Annenberg Pool Club. Restaurants are nearby on Montana Ave, or a few blocks further on Santa Monica Blvd. There is always parking in back of the house or on the street.
The house itself is spacious with 2 bedrooms, a den, 1 bathroom and a very large dining/living room area adjacent to a small kitchen. But you’re not staying here to be cooped inside - you want to use the amazing patio out back where there are chairs and sofas surrounding a large table and additional seats all around. There is a grill and a fireplace, both available for use. In addition, a large teepee (!) was installed shortly before our arrival, complete with a custom mattress inside. We slept there many of our 9 nights, since Santa Monica is so quiet (the only sounds were literally crickets and an occasional passing plane). As beautiful as Santa Monica is, the patio and yard matched it, and we spent nearly all our nights grilling and relaxing out back. It was amazing.
The yard is large enough for kids to run around in, though playing a game of soccer would be challenging (best to take it to the beach). There is a volleyball net.
The owner, Alicia, is great, reachable at all times with questions, and very casual and hip. She seemed to work effortlessly to make our stay even better. Thank you Alicia!
Great for families, great for friends. I will be returning to Santa Monica, and if this place is available, I won’t even look for anything else.