1. Rollerblade and Rollerskate

Wheeled shoes never went out of style here, even though they’re “vintage” almost everywhere else. 

Photo by Si B

2. Workout Everywhere  

Fitness-obsessed Santa Monicans exercise outside all year thanks to our sunny climate and outdoor spaces. Even pre-Covid.

Photo by Salomon888

3. Take Our Dogs Everywhere (and even sometimes our cats)

 4. Live Side-by-Side with Homeless People

Homelessness has been a part of life in LA since the 1980s, and it has grown as housing in the city (and especially beachfront Santa Monica) has become increasingly more unaffordable. Santa Monica’s easygoing culture and miles of beaches and parks means some of our neighbors live outdoors. 

Photo by Ian T. McFarland

5. Bike, scoot, and skate everywhere

In this walkable city, active transportation is a way of life.

 Photo by waltarrrrr

6. Wear Down Jackets and Boots When it’s Under 60 Degrees Out

Because of the year-round mild climate, Santa Monicans often bust out sweaters in the mid 60s and winter coats and boots in the low 60s. 

(Below, actress Jennifer Garner shopping in Santa Monica on a 60something degree day.)

7. Hibernate inside at the first sign of rain outside -- even if it’s a fine mist or light drizzle.

See #6 for why.

Photo by pinelife

8. Are good neighbors to celebrities

Yes, it’s common to see famous actors and musicians grocery shopping, eating out, and hanging with their kids. But we are good neighbors and usually avoid asking for selfies, and can be hostile to paparazzi photographers that block our streets and sidewalks.

(Below, Gwen Stefani by The Fairmount in Santa Monica.)

 Photo by Starstyle

9. Wear flip flops (or sandals) everywhere

It’s not strange to see flip flops or sandals almost everywhere in town (even to fine dining restaurants), and people even sometimes walk around barefoot. It’s our surf and beach culture. 

10 Feel relief and happiness when we come home from vacation

Even though we’re sad when the vacation is over, we come home to this:

 Photo by Santa Monica Cityguide

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