Though Santa Monica may not be Hollywood, celebrity sightings are very much a part of the beach scene.
However in this casual atmosphere, you’re more likely to spot a celebrity in a baseball hat walking their dogs rather than flashy designer gowns!
Check out these top five spots in Santa Monica to scope out celebs.
1. The Ivy At The Shore
There is a reason this exclusive beachfront bar has sky-high hedges shielding patrons from the spectacular ocean views of Santa Monica beach – it’s to provide celebrities with a haven from the public eye and paparazzi.
Grab a seat at the bamboo bar, order a fresh cucumber margarita, and keep your eyes peeled for an almost guaranteed celebrity sighting. Sean Penn, Danny DeVito, Kate Hudson and Reese Witherspoon have been noted to visit frequently.
2. Bungalow At The Fairmont Miramar Hotel
From hospitality visionary Brent Bolthouse, The Bungalow is a new paradigm in romantic socializing for the Westside of Los Angles.
The new space provides exclusive guests with expansive ocean views, lush gardens, rustic interior designs, sweeping decks, stylish meeting space and intimate patios.
The unique design is complimented by superior service, refreshing cocktails and an exclusive menu designed and provided by Chef Yousef Ghalaini’s FIG Restaurant at the hotel.
The Fairmont Miramar Hotel has been playing host to A-listers since the roaring 20s, with the likes of Marilyn Monroe and Jean Simmons. The classy bohemian-style Bungalow addition continues to play host to many celebrity guests including Matthew McConaughey.
How can you resist that? Sip a tasty Bungalow Margarita and soak up the atmosphere!
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3. Santa Monica Farmers Market
Boasting some of California’s most beautiful produce including meats, fish, cheeses and flowers, these markets are a literal feast for the senses.
In addition to an array of high-quality produce, visitors will find plenty of food stalls, live music, arts and crafts, and of course activities for children, such as face-painting, and pony rides.
Tori Spelling, Owen Wilson and a string of high-profile chefs have been snapped here doing their weekly shop.
4. Hot 8 Yoga
Recognised as the ‘Rolls Royce’ of hot yoga studios, this state-of-the-art yoga space boasts a seriously impressive list of celebrity clientele including the likes of Jessica Alba, Jennifer Aniston and Pink.
Heal, detoxify and exhilarate your mind with more than 100 classes per week in a warm temperature-controlled room and finish off at the in-house cafe serving tonics by Pressed Juicery.
5. Montana Avenue
Boasting more than 150 boutiques, restaurants, yoga studios and retailers, this is the laid-back alternative to Rodeo Drive.
While most of us might not have the budget for the many exclusive boutiques along Montana Avenue, the celebrities do, which means plenty of celeb sightings!
Noteable A-listers wandering this street include Steven Spielberg, Gwyneth Paltrow and Lea Michele.