Los Angeles, United States
Santa Monica gives you the classic LA beach experience in a relatively safe area with good police presence. Tourist spots like the pier can get crowded with pickpockets, but overall it's a decent base for exploring the coast.
Santa Monica gives you the classic LA beach vibe in a relatively safe area, but timing matters. During the day, the pier is great - amusement park rides for $5-8, street performers, and tons of people around. The Third Street Promenade is this pedestrian mall with shopping and restaurants, plus you'll see police on bikes and ATVs patrolling the beach area. Beach bike rentals start at $10/hour and the path goes for miles. But here's the thing - after 10pm, the whole pier area changes. The homeless population increases and it feels way less safe, especially for women alone. The shopping areas and better restaurants stay fine, but avoid wandering around the actual pier at night. Hotel staff will usually warn you about this. During the day though, it's perfect tourist territory with good police presence.
Daytime Safety
ExcellentNight Walking Safety
GoodHarassment Risk
LowPublic Transport Safety
GoodPickpocketing Risk
ModerateScam Risk
ModeratePolice Visibility
GoodEmergency Services
ExcellentEvening Venues
GoodSolo Dining
ExcellentDrug Activity
LowHomelessness Visibility
ModerateGetting By in English
Excellent"I stayed in Santa Monica - felt pretty safe"
"Santa Monica was really welcoming, loved the beach atmosphere"
"Stayed at a hotel in Santa Monica that had good reviews and security"
"Santa Monica is definitely safer for women traveling alone"
Areas with comparable safety profiles for solo female travelers
Silver Lake gives you a taste of LA's creative hipster culture in a relatively safe area. Good coffee, innovative restaurants, and art venues, plus it's safer than nearby Echo Park if you want the alternative scene without too much risk.
Culver City offers a good blend of safety, culture, and dining in a walkable area. The arts district, good restaurants, and family-friendly atmosphere make it a secure base for exploring LA while having its own attractions.
Los Feliz offers a good balance of safety, affordability, and culture, with one of LA's lowest crime rates. Easy access to Griffith Park, charming village feel, and good local restaurants make it a solid base if you want security without sacrificing character.
Help other women stay safe in Santa Monica
Neighborhood conditions can change. Check recent news, ask locals or your accommodation about current safety, especially for nighttime plans.