Santa Monica Books

Santa Monica Books brings literary culture to one of the most iconic shopping streets on the California coast, offering a curated oasis of thoughtful reading on the bustling Third Street Promenade. The store reflects Santa Monica's dual identity as both a creative-industry hub and an environmentally progressive beach city, with strong sections in screenwriting and film alongside environmental studies and sustainability. The photography section showcases both California coastal imagery and international photojournalism, while the yoga and meditation shelves honor the mindfulness practices that have deep roots in the Santa Monica community. The star attraction is the rooftop reading terrace, accessible via a spiral staircase, where comfortable seating and unobstructed views of the Pacific Ocean create what may be the most beautiful place to read a book in all of Los Angeles. The in-store cafe serves organic coffee and plant-based snacks, completing the experience. Author events on the terrace at sunset have become legendary, drawing crowds who come as much for the setting as for the literary program.