Santa Monica Beach Rentals: A Guide

Would you like a beach-front apartment or condo in lieu of a motel, the next time you are in Santa Monica?

Well, let me tell you this, anything in Southern California that is even relatively close to the beach is expensive. But, if you are prepared for that, then I think I can help you.

The first thing I would do is get on the internet and access 'Craig's List.' You're going to find your best deals here. The good places go fast, so you will need to check back often.

I have put together a list of the best places in Santa Monica to stay for your visit. Not all of the places are right on the beach, but they are as close as I could find.

SeaCastle

SeaCastle is the only luxury apartment complex where the front terrace is on the beach. This is a beautiful place that has been tastefully decorated. The floor to ceiling windows give an absolutely spectacular view of the ocean. A studio apartment in this place costs $2,240 a month. A one bedroom-one bath apartment is $2,275, so if a one bedroom is available, I would go with that. It is only $35.00 more for a little added privacy and more closet space.

Archstone Santa Monica

The Archstone is only about a block from the beach, so it is still do-able. Offered is a studio to a three bedroom, and there are some townhouses available. The Archstone Santa Monica is stretched out over several different areas. It has a rooftop heated pool and Jacuzzi, gated entrance-controlled access, and is pet friendly. A one bedroom and one bath with 450 sq. ft. rents from $2,090. A one bedroom and one bath with 500 sq. ft. rents from $2,105.A one bedroom two bath 1,000 sq. ft. apartment rents from $5,500. It's a very high end apartment, but it is nice.

Citrus Suites

These are fully furnished corporate apartments. Short term or long term stays. A studio with one bath with 500 sq. ft. rents from $3,800 and it goes up to a 2 bedroom and 2 bath 1,300 sq. ft. that rents from $7,000. That's a lot of money for being right on the beach.

House on Dewey St.

It rents fully furnished and short term is available. It has an open floor plan and is the perfect house for entertaining. It has 4 bedrooms and 3 baths and rents for $7,495.

House on Franklin St.

Franklin St. is considered to be one of the best locations in Santa Monica because of the views. This house comes fully furnished and has 4 bedrooms and 3 baths plus a den, and rents for $6,900. It is also a good house for entertaining.

I could not find a single place to rent in Santa Monica for under $1,200, and the closer it was to the ocean, the more expensive it was.

Renting a place is okay, but these prices are expensive. At these prices I would rather stay in a really nice motel, and have someone to clean my room. A lot of the motels have at least a continental breakfast also, so that even helps o save money.