Located one block from the beach in Santa Monica, this popular hostel offers dormitory beds and private rooms at a price point that puts you steps from the Pacific. Free Wi-Fi and a communal kitchen make it practical, while beach access makes it desirable.
HI Los Angeles Santa Monica Hostel stands at 1436 2nd Street in Santa Monica, California, one block from the Pacific Ocean and a five-minute walk from Santa Monica State Beach and the pier. The hostel is operated by Hostelling International USA and carries the HI brand's established standards for security, cleanliness, and community programming. Santa Monica's favorable coastal climate, beach access, and position on the Los Angeles transit network make this one of the most strategically located budget accommodations in Southern California. Accommodation spans dormitory bunk rooms in multiple configurations—4-bed, 6-bed, and larger arrangements—alongside a limited number of private rooms. All guests share bathroom facilities. Free Wi-Fi and a communal self-catering kitchen are standard. The main lounge serves as a social gathering space where the hostel's international guest mix of backpackers, cycling tourists, and budget travelers congregates in the evenings. Santa Monica's Third Street Promenade, a pedestrian shopping and dining street closed to vehicles, is two blocks east. The Santa Monica Pier with its Pacific Park amusement rides, the Arizona Avenue farmers' market, and the Annenberg Community Beach House are all within a 15-minute walk. The Metro Expo Line terminates at the Downtown Santa Monica station approximately six blocks northeast, providing a direct car-free rail connection to downtown Los Angeles, Culver City, and USC in about 45 minutes. Venice Beach—one of California's most iconic social destinations—is a 2-mile ride south along the oceanfront path, reachable by bicycle, electric scooter, or a 20-minute walk along the beach. Main Street Santa Monica and the dining scene on Ocean Park Boulevard are within walking or cycling distance. At $40–$110 per night, the hostel represents exceptional value for beachside Los Angeles accommodation.
Amenities
- Free Wi-Fi
- Communal kitchen
- Common room
- Luggage storage
- Beach access
Location
1436 2nd St, Santa Monica, CA 90401
Highlights
- One block from the Pacific Ocean in Santa Monica with direct beach access via 2nd Street
- Metro Expo Line terminus nearby providing direct, traffic-free rail to downtown Los Angeles in approximately 45 minutes
- HI USA-operated property with free Wi-Fi, communal kitchen, and consistent security and cleanliness standards
- Five-minute walk from the Santa Monica Pier, Pacific Park rides, and the Third Street Promenade
- Venice Beach oceanfront cycling and walking path beginning two blocks south—ideal for bike rentals and exploration
Tips for visiting
- Book early for summer—this is one of LA's only affordable beachside accommodation options and routinely sells out June through August
- The Metro Expo Line costs approximately $3.50 from Downtown Santa Monica to downtown LA and is far more predictable than driving
- Bicycle rentals are available on the beach path within a few blocks—consider renting for a full day to cover Venice Beach and Marina del Rey
- Santa Monica is cooler and foggier than inland LA, especially in mornings; bring a light jacket even in summer
- The hostel's tour desk can arrange day trips to Universal Studios Hollywood and Disneyland for first-time LA visitors
Accessibility
HI Los Angeles Santa Monica Hostel is housed in a multi-story building; some floors may require stair access depending on dormitory configuration. Guests with wheelchair or mobility needs should contact the hostel directly before booking to confirm accessible room and bathroom availability. The surrounding Santa Monica beachfront promenade is fully paved and wheelchair-accessible.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
How close is HI Los Angeles Santa Monica Hostel to the beach?
The hostel is at 1436 2nd Street, one block from the Pacific Ocean and a 5-minute walk from the Santa Monica State Beach and Pier.
Is there public transportation to downtown Los Angeles?
Yes, the Metro Expo Line's Downtown Santa Monica terminus is about 6 blocks northeast. Trains run frequently and reach downtown Los Angeles in approximately 45 minutes.
Are private rooms available?
A limited number of private rooms are available at higher rates; dormitory beds are the primary accommodation. Private rooms should be booked well in advance as supply is limited.
Is parking available at or near the hostel?
The hostel does not offer private parking. Santa Monica has public parking structures within a few blocks, though overnight rates are expensive. The Metro Expo Line is the recommended alternative to driving.
What age restrictions apply?
HI hostels are open to travelers of all ages. Programs tend to attract younger backpackers, but there are no strict age limits for booking dormitory or private rooms.