Route 66 doesn’t end quietly. It ends with sea spray, sunlight, and a city that knows how to show off.
Santa Monica is the western terminus of Route 66, where cross-country wanderlust collides with coastal living. And whether you’re in it for the history, the architecture, or the ocean breeze, this is one stop that delivers on every promise the open road makes.
📍 Where to Find Route 66 in Santa Monica
The official “End of the Trail” sign stands at the Santa Monica Pier, where Route 66 meets the Pacific. It’s more symbolic than literal (the original highway technically ended in Downtown LA), but no one seems to mind. With the pier’s historic carousel, street performers, and sunset views, it’s hard not to feel like you’ve arrived somewhere special.
🧱 Architectural Charm on the Coast
Santa Monica’s Route 66 connection isn’t all about the pier. Along Santa Monica Boulevard, you’ll find traces of Googie architecture, mid-century motor inns, and beautifully preserved 1920s beach apartments.
Don’t miss:
The Georgian Hotel – Art Deco legend overlooking the coast
The Clock Tower Building – A Spanish Revival standout since 1929
Santa Monica City Hall – Streamline Moderne at its finest
🏡 Real Estate Snapshot: Living the End-of-the-Road Dream
Santa Monica real estate is no secret—it’s some of the most sought-after in Southern California. But tucked between the trophy homes and beachside condos are historic properties that whisper of Route 66’s golden age.
💸 Current Price Ranges (Spring 2025):
2BR condo off Ocean Ave: ~$1.3M+
Single-family in North of Montana: $3.5M–$7M+
Fixer on the Sunset Park side: $1.8M–$2.2M+
➡️ Looking for legacy properties or investment options? Reach out via Coastline 840 to see what’s available now.
🥂 Eat, Drink & Wander
Route 66 may have been built for cars, but Santa Monica is built for walking—and grazing. A few must-stop spots to keep the road trip spirit alive:
The Albright – Family-owned spot right on the pier (with seafood worth the wait)
Colapasta – Michelin Rated in 2024 - and some of the best pasta in the city.
Father’s Office – Classic burger, craft beer, no ketchup allowed
📍More Santa Monica foodie favorites here
🔗 While You’re in the Area
Dive into design stories and mid-century architecture
Want more California inspiration? Explore Los Feliz or check out our statewide real estate insights at Coastline 840.
🛣️ Ready to Ride?
Santa Monica is just the beginning. Whether you’re road-tripping for fun, relocation, or real estate scouting, Route 66 offers more than nostalgia—it offers possibility. And here at Coastline 840, we believe the best way to understand California is to drive it.
Stay tuned for Pasadena, Echo Park, San Bernardino, and more stops as we follow the road east.
🔗 Explore the full series: Route 66: On the Road Again
Filed Under: Your Location, Route 66, Santa Monica Real Estate, California Travel