Safe Vacations Spots Near LA

Question

Looking to book a vacation in July. Flying into Los Angles Airport. Thoughts on Santa Monica - we want to feel safe walking around and we are hearing Santa Monica is not safe. Any information or other suggestions would be greatly appreciated. We are an active couple in our sixties.

Answer

Santa Monica is generally considered a popular and vibrant area for tourists, with the beach, pier, and shopping streets attracting visitors from all over. Like many busy tourist areas, it has some neighborhoods with higher petty crime rates, including occasional pickpocketing, vehicle break-ins, and panhandling, but violent crime is relatively rare in the main tourist zones. Walking around during the day in heavily trafficked areas is usually safe, but standard precautions are recommended: keep valuables out of sight, stay aware of your surroundings, and avoid isolated streets at night.

If your priority is feeling very safe while walking and exploring, there are several alternative areas near Los Angeles that tend to feel more secure and are still enjoyable for active travelers in their sixties:

Pasadena: Upscale and walkable, known for its historic architecture, shopping, and outdoor cafes. Great for walking tours and gardens like the Huntington Library.
Beverly Hills / West Hollywood: Busy, upscale, and generally safe for pedestrians in the main shopping areas like Rodeo Drive and Melrose Avenue. Plenty of dining and light hiking nearby.
Marina del Rey / Venice canals area: Scenic walks along the marina and canals. Venice Boardwalk is lively but has some tourist-related street activity, so stay in the main areas.
Manhattan Beach / Hermosa Beach: Smaller beach towns south of Santa Monica, quieter and often perceived as safer for strolling along the pier and beachfront paths.

Other tips for a safe and enjoyable visit:

Stay in hotels or rentals in busy, well-lit areas near main attractions.
Plan daytime walks rather than late-night excursions, especially in less-populated neighborhoods.
Use ride-sharing or taxis if you need to travel at night or to less familiar areas.
Keep your valuables secure and avoid leaving anything visible in parked cars.

In summary, Santa Monica can be safe if you stick to main areas and take standard precautions, but for maximum peace of mind, consider one of the smaller beach towns or more residential areas with good amenities and walkability.

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