It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always.
They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.
However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting the historic St. Monica Pier gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.
Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Santa Monica, CA is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.
Home Care Services
Service AreasSince 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.
Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.
The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.
“I highly recommend Always Best Care for every aspect from the ones seeking care for”
“Always Best Care absolutely saved us when my father needed immediate assistance. Maria and team”
“I cannot say enough good things about Always Best Care in the South Bay. I”
“Always Best Care agency has been wonderful to work with. The caregivers they have provided”
“The senior in-home care was top notch. The caregivers were caring, comforting, and always available”
“I attended the free family caregivers seminar presented by Dr. David Hart. The seminar was”
“Dr David Hart has given me security to know that I can do it. He”
“My experience with ABC Senior Services has been uniformly positive, starting with participation in their”
“This is a long overdue review and endorsement of Always Best Care-Torrance. My family is”
“I attended one of their monthly caregiver essentials workshop and found it incredibly informative. I”
“Carrie, David, and their team are terrific to work with. Carrie has been a lifesaver”
“From the moment I first spoke to Mark Wecker at Always Best Care, he was”
“My son and I have received family counseling from Dr. Hart for nearly two years.”
“I'm glad I attended Dr. Hart's caregiver support workshop which focused on Alzheimer's disease. I”
“Experienced people, excellent service.”
“I HIGHLY RECOMMEND Dr. David Hart for your elder-care needs. Dr. Hart is an incredibly”
“Dr Hart knows so much about dealing with issues that Alzheimer's creates for those who”
“Best in home care company in the South Bay & LA”
“Mark Wecker provided us with invaluable help both in terms of finding appropriate board &scare”
““ I have been very happy with the excellent professional and loving care services ABC”
“My widowed 80-year-old mother who has Alzheimer's disease has been living alone for 3 years.”
“I want to express how helpful Mark Wecker was to me and my family as”
“Thankful and grateful don’t seem quite good enough to express how I feel about Always”
“The attitude and professionalism of the management of a company is especially important in the”
“Its always a pleasure working with a team that has their hearts and minds on”
“Always best care saved my life they have a great staff ready to assist 24/7”
“I am a current client of this provider This company is very professional. All the staff”
“I am a current client of this provider Very professional staff. Also my caregiver was awesome”
“I am a current client of this provider Best In Home Care Company in the Southbay”
“I am a past client of this provider Helpful, compassionate, and always available to assist. I”
“The staff are friendly and professional every step of the way.”
“Mark Wecker provided us with invaluable help both in terms of finding appropriate board &scare”
“Dr. Hart has been of monumental assistance to our family during a very difficult time.”
“Over the last five years always best care has provided Home Care to several of”
“I want to let you know how fortunate I feel that our lives intersected with”
“I am so very fortunate to be a part of a professional, caring and supportive”
“I've worked for four agencies over the last 16 years but this is the best”
“Great place to work”
“Ms.Carrie Bianco (owner) is very friendly and accomodating. Ms.Rhona (staffing) is very nice, easy to”
“I highly recommend Always Best Care for every aspect from the ones seeking care for a loved one or themselves, all the way to the ones seeking an opportunity to care for a senior. I personally worked for ABC, and throughout my years with them I had the pleasure of interacting with the seniors as well as with the amazing caregivers. From the stories of a much more simpler time in the elders life to the reasons from a caregiver wanting to truly care for the seniors. (Most reasons are personal to them that have impacted their life and heart). This is truly a caring company with exceptional professional staff. It's hard to find a company that demonstrates both of those traits....”
“Always Best Care absolutely saved us when my father needed immediate assistance. Maria and team were extremely compassionate, responsive, informative and truly wanted us to feel comfortable with every small detail. The caretakers were all amazing and dependable. I truly cannot say enough positive things about the level of service provided by ABC as they helped us navigate this truly impossible time.”
“I cannot say enough good things about Always Best Care in the South Bay. I was lucky to be referred to ABC when my Father suddenly needed in-home care several years ago and I hired ABC again a few months ago when my friend needed in-home care. The learning curve is steep when a family member is no longer independent. Having reliable, caring and professional caregivers is invaluable in getting through these challenges. Hiring the caregivers from ABC allowed me to be the "daughter" again. I absolutely could not have cared for my beloved Father or my dear friend without ABC by my side!”
“Always Best Care agency has been wonderful to work with. The caregivers they have provided to stay with my dear friend, who has dementia, have been outstanding. My husband, an MD, and I, an RN, have rather high standards and have found all of the caregivers to be professional, caring and extremely reliable (24/7 care in this case) They go above and beyond expectations. I have felt safe with the caregivers,as they are also down-to-earth; caring people. Dr. David Hart is the main point person in this family-run agency and he is not only a very caring person, he is extremely intelligent in his communication, yet very down-to earth at the same time. He is responsive to any issues that arise immediately…not only for the client, but also to his caregivers, who he genuinely cares about. That is perhaps why he attracts and retains such stellar employees, We feel very lucky to have found ABC Senior Care services. Ilene Watson, RN and Dr. Walter Watson,MD, Manhattan Beach, CA”
“The senior in-home care was top notch. The caregivers were caring, comforting, and always available even with our requested schedule changes. Definitely would recommend to others in our family.”
“I attended the free family caregivers seminar presented by Dr. David Hart. The seminar was both informative and practical. Dr. Hart is very knowledgeable and practical as he cared for his grandmother with Alzheimers. He is an unusually caring person who is very approachable. I am grateful to know him and to know he is available whenever he might be needed.”
“Dr David Hart has given me security to know that I can do it. He has such a caring and approachable demeanor. I feel I can call on him at any time for help with either one of us. Thank heavens he came along in our lives.”
“My experience with ABC Senior Services has been uniformly positive, starting with participation in their Memory Club several years ago. My wife has Alzheimer's and the challenges are severe. ABC, notably Dr. David Hart, has been a terrific source of support and advice. They take the time to understand your individual needs and circumstances. This is a great resource for those of us in the South Bay.”
“This is a long overdue review and endorsement of Always Best Care-Torrance. My family is forever grateful for all the care given to my father for more than four years. From our initial meeting with Carrie and David to selecting the most wonderful caregiver that was with Dad to the end of his days. The love and support from everyone at ABC was so appreciated especially during some very difficult times. May God bless you always - You are truly special angels. Thank you all!”
“I attended one of their monthly caregiver essentials workshop and found it incredibly informative. I now have a much better understanding of the disease progression, and have walked away with so many helpful resources. Attending made me aware that I do not have to struggle alone through this, there are support groups and resources available to assist me. Dr. David Hart is a compassionate person who is genuinely willing to help others navigate the path of caring for a loved one with dementia.”
“Carrie, David, and their team are terrific to work with. Carrie has been a lifesaver by helping us to quickly find a wonderful 24/7 board and care facility for our loved one who is suffering from both advanced dementia and a broken, severe arthritic neck. They have provided very capable temporary care givers to us to help with taking our loved one to doctor's appointments and during the time our loved one was being treated in the hospital. David has thoroughly educated us on all aspects of dementia and counseled the family members to help sort out their emotions during these difficult times. We strongly recommend Always Best Care South Bay to anyone needing advise, help, and services to find care facilities, care givers, and/or counseling.”
“From the moment I first spoke to Mark Wecker at Always Best Care, he was kind, caring and extremely knowledgeable. He made sure to ask all the right questions to help my siblings and me find the perfect place for our father who had very advanced Parkinson's Disease. He took us to places that fit the high quality we were looking for and in our budget range. Mark showed genuine concern for us and my father. And he helped us navigate through a challenging situation. We made a great decision based on his expert advice. Unfortunately, my father passed away before we could bring him to LA. But I will always be grateful for the detailed attention we received from Mark and Always Best Care.”
“My son and I have received family counseling from Dr. Hart for nearly two years. We both suffer from PTSD, among other mental disabilities, and have been seen by a number of therapists over the years. We have found Dr. Hart’s care to be among the most helpful. He is kind, understanding, and patient. Rather than employing long term, traditional psychotherapy or other limited methods exclusively, he uses different approaches to break through a person’s natural resistance. He suggests interpretations of feelings and actions, asks questions that show real insight, and then gives practical and usually appropriate advice that can be accepted or discussed further. He has treated us with respect and even with a non-intrusive, kind of professional affection. We would recommend him to friends and family without hesitation.”
“I'm glad I attended Dr. Hart's caregiver support workshop which focused on Alzheimer's disease. I knew then Always Best Care would be the right agency to handle my Dad's care. From the beginning to the end the staff were professional and courteous. My dad unfortunately decided to end services because of his stubbornness. Mark was understanding and expressed his concern for my Dad's wellbeing. He didn't push for us to continue services. I would work with ABC again if my father agrees to resume services. They definitely have your loved ones best interest in mind.”
“Experienced people, excellent service.”
“I HIGHLY RECOMMEND Dr. David Hart for your elder-care needs. Dr. Hart is an incredibly knowledgeable and caring person who helped our family beyond measure to provide the best level of care for our mother who has Alzheimer's Disease. We engaged Dr. Hart to 1) conduct his own periodic assessments of our mother; 2) create a forum for our broader family, including our mom, to communicate and ask questions; 3) provide training and resources; and 4) help our family evaluate and implement an interim and long-term care plan for our mother. DR. HART EXCEEDED OUR EXPECTATIONS ON EVERY LEVEL. Prior to meeting Dr. Hart we had received a lot of conflicting information and our broader family was experiencing a very high level of stress and frustration. Thankfully, after engaging with Dr. Hart for several months, our family became knowledgeable, we communicated well with each other, and we just implemented a long-term care plan that addresses all of our mom's needs and one that she really enjoys. DR. HART IS THE BEST AND HE TRULY CARES ABOUT HIS PATIENTS AND THE FAMILIES HE WORKS WITH. Thank you Dr. Hart for all of you have done for our family. Words cannot express our gratitude.”
“Dr Hart knows so much about dealing with issues that Alzheimer's creates for those who have the disease as well as those of us who are caretakers.”
“Best in home care company in the South Bay & LA”
“Mark Wecker provided us with invaluable help both in terms of finding appropriate board &scare homes for our loved one, and explaining how this whole senior placement business works. It turns out we were quite naïve about it being a "service" as it is very territorial! That made us all the more impressed with Mark's unselfish and caring approach to helping us meet our needs. He also took time to really listen to our criteria, asked great questions when he accompanied us to look at the homes, and only showed us places that met our standards. We recommend him highly to anyone!”
““ I have been very happy with the excellent professional and loving care services ABC has provided for Kathleen who suffers from Alzheimer’s Dementia and the Andreoli family who cares for her. ABC is a full service provider that has also offered free seminars, consultation and information to me and my daughter who are Kathleen’s primary care takers. These have helped us greatly in this daunting task. THANK YOU – Leo Andreoli, Torrance, CA””
“My widowed 80-year-old mother who has Alzheimer's disease has been living alone for 3 years. She has been extremely resistant to having caregivers in her home and my brother and I had all but given up. We have been amazed at the progress we've made since enlisting the help of Dr. David Hart at Always Best Care. In a little over a month, Mom has accepted a caregiver and is considering a move to an assisted living facility. Equally important, the support and assistance we have received in making both large and small decisions has been invaluable and a huge relief. I also highly recommend the Caregiving Essentials class taught by Dr. Hart, which covers everything you need to know in a single 3-1/2 hour "bootcamp" session, including brain science, communication tips, and resources. (GPS shoe insert, who knew?!) The class would benefit anyone who has a friend or family member suffering from dementia.”
“I want to express how helpful Mark Wecker was to me and my family as we were looking for a place for my father to live. We needed to quickly move him from Kansas City to Los Angeles. Mark spent time with us to hear our needs and then appropriately guide us through this new challenging stage in our lives. His advice and dedicated time was so valuable and personable to us, I don't how we would have managed without him. Thank you again, Mark!”
“Thankful and grateful don’t seem quite good enough to express how I feel about Always Best Care South Bay and all the good work they do. They offer a support group run by Dr. David Hart. That group was my lifeline while I was caring for my husband. When it came time to place him in a memory care facility, they assisted me with that decision also. Dr. Hart and his team are extremely knowledgeable, always professional but most of all genuinely caring.”
“The attitude and professionalism of the management of a company is especially important in the field of elder care. I can think of no better way to express my experience with Always Best Care then to say the management and their hands on approach with the care givers they hire is 5 stars”
“Its always a pleasure working with a team that has their hearts and minds on the patient’s wellbeing. ABC is the way to go.”
“Always best care saved my life they have a great staff ready to assist 24/7 always available and reliable I highly recommend Always best care.”
“I am a current client of this provider This company is very professional. All the staff is very experenced. They provide top notch care..The caregivers are also so professional on time and experenced.”
“I am a current client of this provider Very professional staff. Also my caregiver was awesome”
“I am a current client of this provider Best In Home Care Company in the Southbay”
“I am a past client of this provider Helpful, compassionate, and always available to assist. I appreciate Always Best Care so much!”
“The staff are friendly and professional every step of the way.”
“Mark Wecker provided us with invaluable help both in terms of finding appropriate board &scare homes for our loved one, and explaining how this whole senior placement business works. It turns out we were quite naïve about it being a "service" as it is very territorial! That made us all the more impressed with Mark's unselfish and caring approach to helping us meet our needs. He also took time to really listen to our criteria, asked great questions when he accompanied us to look at the homes, and only showed us places that met our standards. We recommend him highly to anyone!”
“Dr. Hart has been of monumental assistance to our family during a very difficult time. We first learned of Dr. David’s practice when mom was first diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). His support groups for families and patients offered comfort and practical advice from others going through the same experience. He provided essential information—facts about dementia and lifestyle changes to slow the process—based on the latest research findings, sparing us the time and frustration of navigating the web and sorting facts from myths. But most important to me has been the emotional support Dr. David has personally provided to my sister and I, and the trusting relationship he established with mom. His professional empathy and experience with human behavior as well as his expertise in the field of geriatrics and cognition combine to provide an array of servicesthat will truly make the difference toward a successful transition for elders and their families. I could not recommend Dr. Hart more highly!”
“Over the last five years always best care has provided Home Care to several of my patients. I appreciate their case management did they include with their service. The patients and families have been very happy with the caregivers. Several have been able to take advantage of the driving service. I have referred numerous people to their caregiving course that is offered monthly.”
“I want to let you know how fortunate I feel that our lives intersected with your company and with those who work there. When I realized that we would be needing a company that provided caring care-providing services, I was hoping and praying that I would find a company like yours. We could not have asked for better with the service Always Best Care provided. Even when the chemistry and/or the timing wasn't quite right, adjustments were made and reasonably so. Carrie, that introductory talk you and I first had and why you started ABC -- I want to let you know that what you created and why you created it is evident. Some of Dad's caregivers go the extra mile and above and beyond and really give of themselves. They are really top notch people. I have heartfelt gratitude for your company and for your employees who cared for my dad during our time of need. Thank you not only for providing the service that your company does, but also and in particular, for the high quality of the service that some of your employees provided.”
“I am so very fortunate to be a part of a professional, caring and supportive company. We are all family here trying our very best to be a family for all the clients we work with. Our caregivers and staff try our best to help those families in need live a peacefully, fulfilling and loving life. If you want to have a dependable, reliable and gratifying career come and work with Always Best Care South Bay!!”
“I've worked for four agencies over the last 16 years but this is the best by far! Personable, supportive, compassionate, knowledgeable, and the greatest staff!”
“Great place to work”
“Ms.Carrie Bianco (owner) is very friendly and accomodating. Ms.Rhona (staffing) is very nice, easy to approach...I would say this company is wonderful to be part of a team...Great people, great company. ABC is the answer for your help! more power!!!Ed”
Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.
When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.
The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.
At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.
To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:
If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.
Common personal care services include assistance with:
Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.
Common home helper care services include assistance with:
Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Palisades Park with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.
Common companionship services include:
According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local Mélisse Restaurant or visit John P Jones Memorial, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.
At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.
If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.
Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:
According to AARP, 9 out of 10 seniors prefer to age in place within the comfort of their own home. With in-home care, seniors have a way to stay at home, receive the care they need, and maintain a sense of independence, improving overall wellness.
If you or a member of your family have assumed the role of caregiver for your senior loved one, you know how stressful the job can be. Between caregiver burnout and constant worry, being a family caregiver is hard. In-home care relieves your burden and gives you peace of mind knowing that your older family member is in expert hands.
Unlike nursing homes, where the staff and residents rotate frequently, seniors can foster new friendships and build bonds with their caregiver. Seniors who socialize on a regular basis are often happier, which fosters positivity and leads to increased wellbeing.
No two seniors need the same kind of in-home care assistance. That is why each of our Care Plans is tailored to meet our client's individual needs. We offer plans that cover everything from light housekeeping to more involved duties like transportation to doctor's appointments. Our Care Coordinators will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan to ensure your senior's needs are exceeded.
Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.
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While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.
In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.
How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?
A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.
With the help of elderly care in Santa Monica, CA, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.
Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.
Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.
For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.
More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.
In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.
With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.
In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.
Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.
At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.
In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:
When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.
Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.
At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Santa Monica, CA understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.
Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.
Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.
While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.
Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.
At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.
Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:
At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.
Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.
Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:
For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.
The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:
A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way
A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive
Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider
Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.
If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.
At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Santa Monica, CA 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.
When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.
A large great white shark estimated at 14-15 feet long was spotted just 50 yards from shore in Santa Monica Bay on Thursday, swimming near an unaware paddleboarder before heading south toward the Santa Monica Pier.Carlos Gauna, who observed and tracked the shark, said the untagged adult great white was spotted in an area known for juvenile shark activity but was notably larger than the typical young sharks seen in the region."I'm...
Carlos Gauna, who observed and tracked the shark, said the untagged adult great white was spotted in an area known for juvenile shark activity but was notably larger than the typical young sharks seen in the region.
"I'm conservatively estimating this shark at around 14-15 feet long," Gauna said in an online post alongside his video. "I've seen a fair share of sharks in my days, and I'm pretty confident in my estimates these days."
Gauna followed the shark as it moved south from the north end of the bay toward the pier before airspace restrictions prevented further tracking. He alerted lifeguards on the beach about the sighting.
"It's a good reminder that we do live next to these apex predators daily," Gauna said. "It's a testament to just how rare a negative encounter with one can be."
According to Heal the Bay, Santa Monica Bay serves as a seasonal home to dozens of shark and ray species, with juvenile great white sharks being regular visitors to Southern California's coastal waters during warmer months. The young sharks, typically measuring up to 10 feet long, are drawn to the area by abundant prey and warm water conditions.
Adult great whites typically migrate south in winter when coastal waters drop below 60 degrees, though warmer ocean temperatures in recent years due to climate change and El Niño-like conditions have caused some sharks to remain in Southern California waters year-round.
The sharks congregate in shallow waters throughout the region, including areas off Huntington Beach, San Onofre, Long Beach, Santa Monica Bay and Ventura. They are frequently spotted by boaters, pier visitors, surfers and paddlers, particularly between El Porto and Manhattan Beach Pier.
Juvenile great whites primarily feed on bottom fish such as halibut, small rays and smaller sharks, while adults prey on marine mammals. The species is protected under California law, making it illegal to hunt, pursue, catch or kill great white sharks.
According to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, there have been only 13 fatal white shark attacks in the state since the 1920s. Experts note that poor water quality, powerful waves, strong currents and stingrays pose greater threats to ocean users than sharks.
Fish and Wildlife said that shark bites are extremely rare. They said that while humans are not normal prey for sharks, they can be dangerous when humans cross into their territory. Officials said that since 1950, there have been 225 shark incidents in California involving all species of sharks, at least 197 of which involved white sharks. Of those, 16 were fatal and all of the fatalities likely involved white sharks.
Regulators said that a shark incident is defined as any documented case where a shark approached and touched a person in the water, or touched a person’s surfboard, kayak, paddleboard, etc. This summary does not include shark sightings where no contact occurred, instances where sharks approached boats, or cases where hooked sharks caused injury or damage.
It is important to note that while human beach use and ocean activities have greatly increased due to the growing population and greater popularity of surfing, swimming, and scuba diving, shark incidents have not increased proportionally. This is even more evident when looking at incidents where a person was injured.
The increase in shark sightings is considered positive for ocean health, as sharks maintain ecosystem balance by keeping fish populations healthy. Scientific studies show that shark depletion can result in the loss of commercially important fish and shellfish species, including key fisheries such as tuna.
Great white shark populations in the Northeastern Pacific are thought to be low, ranging from hundreds to thousands of individuals, making protection efforts crucial for the species' recovery.
Santa Monica knows how to brunch.So if you’re into classic eggs benny, stacked avocado toast, or bottomless mimosas by the beach, this coastal city delivers the goods.With sunshine, ocean air, and seriously good food, it’s the kind of place where brunch turns into a whole afternoon.Local or just passing through, these spots are worth the detour. Let’s dive into the best brunch places Santa Monica has to offer.1. Back on the Beach CafeBack on the Beach Cafe offers quality...
Santa Monica knows how to brunch.
So if you’re into classic eggs benny, stacked avocado toast, or bottomless mimosas by the beach, this coastal city delivers the goods.
With sunshine, ocean air, and seriously good food, it’s the kind of place where brunch turns into a whole afternoon.
Local or just passing through, these spots are worth the detour. Let’s dive into the best brunch places Santa Monica has to offer.
Back on the Beach Cafe offers quality ocean-front dining. Here, you can enjoy the sweet sea breeze while treating yourself to a delicious breakfast.
I highly recommend starting with the Ocean House Scramble creamy avocado and cream cheese with a buttery mini scone.
For a heartier option, try the Breakfast Papa Mama, a pasta dish which comes with linguine in a delicious creamy egg sauce,
With light, sweet, and sour flavors, both dishes are a must-try!
What to order: Ocean House Scramble, Breakfast Papa Mama, Bananutella French Toast
Address: 445 CA-1, Santa Monica, CA 90402
Lunetta All Day is the cutest brunch spot in Santa Monica that transports you to a seaside cafe in the South of France.
To enjoy the salt air even more, try their Wood-Grilled Salmon Sandwich. This sandwich bursts with flavor from the salmon seasoning and cilantro aioli.
Lunetta also offers the town’s best Fried Chicken Sandwich, complete with a game-changing sauce and fries on the side.
What to order: Wood-Grilled Salmon Sandwich, Fried Chicken Sandwich
Address: 2420 Pico Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90405
Blue Daisy is a local favorite where you can take aesthetic photos for your Instagram feed. Their signature French Toast, adorned with caramel, bananas, and strawberries, will satisfy any sweet tooth.
Craving something hearty? Get their Breakfast Burrito with creamy eggs and yummy bacon!
And don’t forget the Turkish Latte for the complete brunch meal!
What to order: French Toast, Breakfast Burrito, Turkish Latte
Address: 609 Broadway, Santa Monica, CA 90401
Strolling down the block, you’ll spot Bru’s Wiffle right away, thanks to the scent of freshly made waffles wafting through the air.
Sink your teeth into Bru’s Toast, boasting crispy waffles crowned with creamy ice cream, fresh fruit, and a tantalizing hint of peanut butter.
Or get the fiery Chicken on Fire with Bru’s secret sauce that’ll leave your taste buds begging for more. Isn’t this the perfect wake-up call?
What to order: Bru’s Toast, Chicken on Fire
Address: 2408 Wilshire Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90403
For a nostalgic trip to childhood meals cooked with love, Society Kitchen got your back! Their warm hospitality will make you feel right at home.
Try their Stuffed Cinnamon Bites. These crispy bites are coated in cinnamon, whipped ricotta, and a lot of love—perfect for those who like sweets for breakfast.
Or opt for the Chilaquiles with the ranchero salsa that gives off a refreshing taste. The perfect start to your day!
What to order: Stuffed Cinnamon Bites, Chilaquiles, Ranchero Omelet
Address: 2901 Ocean Park Blvd #123, Santa Monica, CA 90405
Say hello to your next go-to brunch spot! Huckleberry Cafe is a comfort haven, reminiscent of grandma’s cozy home with wooden tables and vintage chairs.
Their signature Huckleberry Breakfast is the talk of the town, but their Green Eggs & Ham with Niman Ranch ham is a solid choice!
If you want a quick bite, however, their Breakfast Burrito will give you everything you want and more.
What to order: Huckleberry Breakfast, Green Eggs & Ham, Breakfast Burrito
Address: 1014 Wilshire Blvd Santa Monica CA 90401
Having been around since World War II, Snug Harbor has been a nostalgic retreat, offering a glimpse into Santa Monica’s past, when Frank Leight created a calm port in a storm for hanging out, sipping coke, and enjoying Zwiebel burgers.
Uncle Zeke’s Scramble is a meat lover’s delight with a hearty mix of ham, bacon, and sausage. Their “Let’s Hash It Out” gives you two flavor-packed options—Corned Beef Hash or Sweet Potato Hash.
What to order: Uncle Zeke’s Scramble, Corned Beef Hash, BBQ Chicken Hash, Sweet Potato Hash
Address: 2323 Wilshire Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90403
Established in 2002, Tartine Santa Monica holds a special place in locals’ hearts for its amazing pastries like country bread, morning buns, and lemon tarts.
Their Morning Bun is the perfect start to your day. The croissant dough is soft and buttery, filled with orange zest and cinnamon, then tossed in organic sugar for that irresistible sweetness.
For those who can’t function without caffeine in the morning, the Poppyseed Coffee Cake is a treat for both the eyes and the taste buds. Croissant dough is swirled with a poppyseed and chocolate filling, with a hint of almond paste.
Topped off with a sweet coffee glaze, this cake is a decadent “wake-up call” you won’t want to miss.
Before you head out the door, don’t forget to grab a bag of Mini Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies to enjoy at home!
What to order: Morning Bun, Poppyseed Coffee Cake, Mini Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies Bag
Address: 1925 Arizona Ave, Santa Monica CA 90404
Looking to soak up Santa Monica’s beauty while enjoying delicious food? Look no further than Kafe K!
With a sunny outdoor patio, tasty dishes, and fantastic coffee, it’s the ultimate spot to unwind.
Try the Smoked Salmon Carpaccio for a refreshing brunch that will wake up your taste buds. And if you’re looking for something healthy to start the day, their Power Bowl is the way to go!
What to order: Smoked Salmon Carpaccio, Power Bowl, Mediterranean Salad
Address: 2209 Main St b, Santa Monica, CA 90405
Yagul Cafe blends traditional Oaxacan techniques with L.A. flavors, offering delicious fare in a cozy setting.
Despite limited seating, the food quality is unmatched.
Dive into their Tanivet Scramble or their nourishing Açaí Bowl which are my absolute top picks in Yagul Cafe.
For a healthier alternative, their signature Yagul Salad with fresh veggies is sure to please your taste buds.
What to order: Tanivet Scramble, Açaí Bowl, Yagul Salad
Address: 530 Wilshire Blvd Suite 107, Santa Monica, CA 90401
That’s the end of today’s ultimate guideline. Don’t let us have you any longer but start your journey!
Looking for more? Here are our recommendations of the must-visit Santa Monica Restaurants that you shouldn’t miss out on! Can’t wait to see you there again!
Let’s put this to rest. Yes, the Westside has fewer Mexican options than other parts of Los Angeles, but that doesn’t mean it's lacking in quality spots. There’s still an exciting variety to explore: Sonoran-style taquerías, Nayarit-style mariscos, Oaxaca gems hiding in West LA strip malls, and colorful cantinas that have been in business for over four decades. So whether you live here or need a wet burrito after a long day at the beach, here are the best restaurants on the Westside for great Mexican food (and sorry ...
Let’s put this to rest. Yes, the Westside has fewer Mexican options than other parts of Los Angeles, but that doesn’t mean it's lacking in quality spots. There’s still an exciting variety to explore: Sonoran-style taquerías, Nayarit-style mariscos, Oaxaca gems hiding in West LA strip malls, and colorful cantinas that have been in business for over four decades. So whether you live here or need a wet burrito after a long day at the beach, here are the best restaurants on the Westside for great Mexican food (and sorry Tito's Tacos lovers, we had to draw the line somewhere).
Unrated: This is a restaurant we want to re-visit before rating, or it’s a coffee shop, bar, or dessert shop. We only rate spots where you can eat a full meal.
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The smell of cafe de olla and chorizo mingling in the air at Saby’s lets you know you’re in for a comforting meal. This family-owned daytime spot in Mar Vista makes delicious Mexican breakfast and lunch staples from scratch, like the blue corn tortillas for their football-sized quesadillas and pulpy salsas spooned over huevos divorciados. If you're at Saby’s counter for lunch, get the mar y tierra burrito. One of LA’s great burritos, it’s tightly packed with breaded shrimp and charred asada for double the texture, and generously doused in tangy chipotle crema.
Meet the late-night taco kingpin of the Westside. Conveniently located just off the 405, you can peel off the freeway for an impromptu taco at Brothers Cousins anytime between 6pm and 11pm, Tuesday through Thursday (and midnight on Friday and Saturday)—just expect lines to start forming as soon as they open. The main attraction at this roadside spot is its wide, bubbling pan of tender meats that have been braised into absolute submission. Choose your cut of choice—asada, carnitas, chorizo, lengua, suadero, among others—and the taquero chops it to order, scooping it into a supple corn tortilla in one swift motion. Pro tip: If the line is down the block, Brothers Cousins has an “annex” location two blocks west with smaller crowds.
For a Oaxacan spot on the Westside that does a bit of everything well—molotes, coloradito, chorizo-filled molcajetes, you name it—Monte Alban is your place. This West LA spot tries to transport you far away from its generic strip mall by painting the walls to look like you’re eating tamales in a Oaxacan village. Whether or not it works is up to you, but we appreciate the attention to detail that’s also seen in the food. Monte Alban’s mole negro has a subtle dry chile kick that we love, the tacos enchilados are just the right middle ground between taquitos and enchiladas, and their signature tlayuda is coated in a salty, fatty asiento that seasons its thicker-than-usual bean paste.
Sonoritas is a casual Northern Mexican spot in Sawtelle with chewy, mega-sized flour tortillas, but the real draw is what they roll into them. Their excellent burritos are stuffed with fancy fresh-off-the-grill fillings like spicy shrimp, charred salmon, even filet mignon. The rice and stewed beans packed in between the chopped proteins are warm and flavorful, and we like ours with a big glob of creamy guac inside. And if you don’t want to commit to a giant burrito, you can taste the same delicious tortillas as smaller Sonoran-style tacos filled with smoky beef rib and premium beef cuts like lengua.
This unassuming mariscos truck parked on 4th and Rose in Venice has saved us from lunchtime hungry meltdowns numerous times. It’s a great option on beach days when we’ve finished our lone bag of SunChips or when we don’t want to empty our wallet for a sandwich on Abbot Kinney. La Isla Bonita always comes in clutch with tostadas and tangy, finely minced fish ceviche for sub-$20.
Teddy’s Red Tacos is one of the few casual places to eat along the Venice boardwalk that’s not only worth your time, but an actual taco destination. The original Teddy’s in East LA got a lot of online buzz for its photogenic cheese pulls and crimson-stained tortillas, but its juicy beef birria is what made it an LA taco staple. It’s also the lone protein option on the menu, served in various ways, from tortas to ramen. If you’re especially hungry, go with the Deluxe Platter, a fully loaded tray that includes a quesadilla, mulita, tostada, and taco, plus consomme for dipping.
Located inside Culver City’s upmarket mini-mall The Platform, Loqui is often used as a pit stop between shopping for high-end hand soap and designer furniture. In the least rude way possible, we see Loqui as a bougier alternative to Chipotle. This casual counter-service spot assembles tacos and bowls, both of which feature Loqui’s braised meats, like zippy cochinita pibil and marinated chicken that packs an unexpected kick. Their handmade flour tortillas are chewy, thick, and tender—not even in the same food group as the sad ones found at most chain restaurants.
For tacos in downtown Santa Monica, the casual La Purépecha is our go-to. The handmade corn tortillas here are plump and sturdy enough to hold the heaping amounts of grilled asada and guacamole, and the fresh salsas pack a punch. We prefer to spend a little extra and order our tacos taconazo-style, which adds a layer of molten griddled cheese with a satisfying crunch. If you want something more substantial, the machaca burritos are very solid, too.
Tacos Tamix is a chain of taco trucks that park in several locations around the city, the westernmost of which is located right where the 405 meets Venice Blvd. The main attraction here is the bright red trompo of al pastor, which is shaved off in generous portions onto palm-sized tortillas that make for a great meat-to-masa ratio. Aside from the solid al pastor tacos, try the crispy alambre with cheese and bacon and plate-sized gringas with ham and pineapple that taste eerily similar to a Hawaiian pizza. Tamix is also open until at least 1am nightly, making it a clutch option for a late-night taco run.
Located on that stretch of Venice Boulevard in Culver City that always seems to be in gridlock, Gloria’s is a laid-back, family-run spot that’s been serving both Mexican and Salvadoran food for nearly four decades. While you can’t go wrong with a cheese pupusa or tortilla soup, we stick to “Ms. Gloria’s Specialties,” and in particular, the carne adobada. The massive plate of braised pork in tangy achiote sauce is as good an excuse as any to pull over while waiting for traffic to die down.
It’s fun to go to Don Antonio’s with a big group and eat in what feels like an underground cave, even though there aren’t any underground caves in Los Angeles. There’s usually a wait here, but time moves quickly when you have one of Don Antonio’s blended-to-order margaritas in hand (order it spicy and they’ll throw in some jalapenos as well). You’ll also probably end up eating too many warm chips before the food comes out, but that’s all part of the experience. Everyone seems to like the super burrito, but we recommend a combination plate involving enchiladas, crispy tacos, or chile rellenos.
Juquila is a casual Oaxacan spot in West LA with murals of Mexican landscapes and a built-in shrine to La Virgen de Juquila. Maybe her holy presence is why this family-owned spot is so good at diffusing a hangry group that just sat in 405 traffic. Many dishes on its extensive menu are impressively large, from the tlayudas to the sizzling parrilladas with enough chorizo and tasajo to feed four to the namesake Juquila burrito. This “Oaxacalifornian” behemoth is loaded with a full entree worth of rice, beans, grilled chicken, and a matte coat of mole negro. It’s popped in the oven, so the cheese on top melts, and the sweet-smoky sauce seeps into the tortilla.
We used to love eating Provecho Calimex’s hulking breakfast burritos at the Marina Del Rey Farmers Market, even if it meant spilling salsa on our shirt every time. Well, now you can sit down and enjoy this family-owned operation’s Mexican breakfasts at their Mar Vista, where you can start the day with cafe de olla, chilaquiles, and their signature burrito filled with your choice of meat. Our go to’s are the asada and housemade Oaxacan chorizo, both of which get bundled up with a perfectly cooked potato, pepper, and egg scramble.
The menu at this old-school Mexican restaurant in Venice hasn’t changed much since the place opened 40 years ago, and we consider that one of its best qualities. The signature dish is the calamari steak, but sometimes we deviate and order either a grande burrito or fajitas. And, aside from the solid food, Casablanca is dependably raucous. Expect live music, a tortilla production zone in the main dining room, and a margarita cart that will roll right up to your table.
Something about Socalo’s funky, mid-century decor and portraits of cute chihuahuas feels like they belong poolside at a Palm Springs hotel, which isn’t the worst contrast for a place across the street from a busy hospital. This casual spot from the Border Grill chefs is one of few sit-down Mexican restaurants in mid-city Santa Monica and a reliable spot to find solid antojitos and cocktails throughout the day. The barbacoa tacos are griddled until crispy, and the gooey tacos gobernador with cheesy shrimp make for a nice snack with the bar’s strong margaritas. If you’re the type whose ears perk up at the mention of a Taco Tuesday special, this is your kind of place.
Paco’s has been a staple in that part of town that’s definitely sort of Del Rey (but maybe also Mar Vista or Marina Del Rey) since 1975, and it shows. From the festive dining room filled with Christmas lights, fish tanks, and Mexican murals, to the menu loaded with combo platters, Paco’s hasn’t changed since the Carter administration, and sometimes, that’s exactly what you’re looking for. Do they have 14-pound burritos and chimichangas? You bet. Are they good? Sure—mostly because they’re made with Paco’s fresh fluffy flour tortillas. Those tortillas are great on their own, too (especially slathered with butter), so get some for the table, plus a few frozen margaritas, and enjoy the ambiance.
Dives, breweries, and pierside hangs—there’s more to Santa Monica's bar scene than you might think.For a town best known for farmers markets and brunches in athleisure wear, Santa Monica’s nightlife scene is surprisingly robust—and we're not just talking about the pubs on Main Street where dudes staring in silence at Lakers games, or god forbid, The Bungalow...
Dives, breweries, and pierside hangs—there’s more to Santa Monica's bar scene than you might think.
For a town best known for farmers markets and brunches in athleisure wear, Santa Monica’s nightlife scene is surprisingly robust—and we're not just talking about the pubs on Main Street where dudes staring in silence at Lakers games, or god forbid, The Bungalow. From throwback dives to chic rooftops and cocktail bars on the beach, there’s real drinking to be done in Santa Monica. And here are the best places to do it.
Unrated: This is a restaurant we want to re-visit before rating, or it’s a coffee shop, bar, or dessert shop. We only rate spots where you can eat a full meal.
This bottle shop-wine bar hybrid has great daily happy hour specials (including all-day happy hour on Sunday and Monday) with $10 glasses, charcuterie spreads with seasonal jams and fancy honey, and freshly shucked oysters for $3.50 a mollusk. And once the evening rolls around, Esters lights candles to give the space a romantic and on-the-quieter-side feel, in case you want to explore the extensive bottle list and split a seafood tower with a date.
Although technically a restaurant, The Georgian Room doubles as a historic piano lounge. So if you’re looking for a moody place with red leather booths to celebrate something big, book a reservation. That’s the only way you’ll get into this dark basement bar, hidden just off of Santa Monica’s packed Ocean Avenue strip. It’s the kind of place where you have to buzz a mysterious doorbell and put a privacy sticker over your phone camera before you’re seated. Start with one of the house martinis, and don’t leave until you hear the jazz singer crooning renditions of Britney Spears songs next to a vintage Steinway.
The profound lack of good rooftops in Santa Monica is one of society’s great mysteries. At least we have Calabra. Perched atop the Santa Monica Proper Hotel, this gigantic bar has an indoor lounge, poolside patio, and curved couches that you can rent out for more privacy. Come weekends, the music is loud and people are definitely dressed up, but if you want to sneak up on a weekday to watch the sunset and sip a gin and tonic, you’ll always be able to find a seat at the wrap-around bar.
Offhand is a natural wine bar that looks like it could be a Chipotle from the outside. (Sorry, no moody, candlelit atmosphere here.) But if you want a casual spot that pours interesting wines, then this is your place. Not everything at Offhand is soulless and gray, though. They’re spinning vinyl, the friendly staff is eager to explain every bottle on their list, and locals stroll in wearing their comfiest hoodies to drink chilled reds and dry rieslings. It’s just-sophisticated-enough, making it perfect for a date or night out with friends that entails a lot of chit-chat.
It might not be fair to judge a book by its cover—but in the case of Big Dean’s, what you see is what you get. And that’s why we like it so much. Because even though this beachside sports bar is basically underneath the pier, it’s one of the few places where you’ll find actual Santa Monica locals hanging out this close to the tourists. Grab an excellent burger (an underrated LA classic) and a pitcher of beer, then head to their turf patio to watch whatever game is happening.
When it comes to Santa Monica bars, there’s a belief that it’s Chez Jay and everyone else—and it’s hard to argue otherwise. Opened in 1959, this nautical-themed landmark (literally) is a one-of-a-kind watering hole where you can get a dangerously stiff drink and a 10-oz. butter steak at the same time. There are peanut shells on the floor, a weird giant fish on the wall, and a jukebox playing The Stones. If you want one of the last remaining authentic Santa Monica experiences, head to this crazy shack by the water.
At this den of debauchery, the name of the game is karaoke. The Gaslite is one of the best bars in Santa Monica for cutting loose, plus there’s free popcorn and a dance floor that gets wild in a hurry. It's a great option when you prefer to skip the scene—or the long lines at a bar you don’t want to be at anyway—and go experience the dive bar of your dreams.
Santa Monica Brew Works is one of the only non-kombucha breweries in the neighborhood, so they could probably skate by on mediocrity if they wanted. But they don’t. Their taproom pours a long list of beers, like tangy witbiers, IPAs, and more experimental brews like a fruity guava-piña sour that tastes like something from a beach bar. The physical space is pretty brewery-standard, but what sets it apart is its built-in food options: Emmy Squared. The Brooklyn-based pizzeria has QR codes on the table so you can order a gooey pan pizza or double-stacked burger.
Does Father’s Office have one of LA's best burgers? You better believe it, and the bar’s not bad, either. Admittedly pretty cramped during peak hours, the original location on Montana is a small but nonetheless fantastic place to drink beer on a Saturday afternoon. The rotating craft beer list is solid, the non-burger small plates are tasty, and the ambiance is fun but relaxed, which is usually what we want from an evening in Santa Monica.
The Daily Pint is a 20-something-year-old English pub/dive that might not look like much, but you’re not going to find a better craft beer list on the Westside (not to mention their 500 kinds of whiskey). Quirky, dimly lit, with old pool tables scattered about, this is the kind of place 50-year-old pirates go to get their Stone Imperial Russian Stout and reminisce about ports of call.
If you’re looking to get rowdy and make a few mistakes but drink well-made cocktails while you’re doing it, Chestnut Club is where you go. The craft cocktail bar is located in that strange, sleepy stretch of inland Santa Monica, but it still gets all-out mobbed on the weekends. So get there early or prepare to wait in line. Or just go during the week when things have calmed down considerably, and you can drink in peace.
The Misfit is another restaurant that often gets used as a bar, and even though it's located a little too close to the Third Street Promenade, we grin and bear it. The crowd is full of locals, the pitchers of white sangria come extra cold, and the food is solid, like the massive fried chicken sandwich with creamy fennel slaw and a quinoa-kale salad that’s great for sharing. Also, there are free cookies and a Happy Hour from noon to 7pm daily.
Santa Monica is strangely full of legitimate UK-themed pubs, and while everyone seems to have their favorite, we’ll never pass up the chance to sip a lager and eat a basket of fish and chips at King’s Head. Mere steps from the beach, it’s a staple that can certainly get a touch touristy, but the crowds add to the fun when there’s a Premier League match on the telly. Come and see what true sports passion looks like.
A grunion is a small fish that emerges from the water by the thousands to dig in the sand and lay its eggs. SANTA MONICA, CA —Don't miss the last few and best chances this year to see one of the most unique experiences Southern California has to offer. The gr...
SANTA MONICA, CA —Don't miss the last few and best chances this year to see one of the most unique experiences Southern California has to offer.
The grunion, a small fish that rides ocean tides onto beaches to lay their eggs, are running Thursday night through the weekend, marking one of the best summer weekend runs of the season, according to the California Department of Fish And Wildlife.
The grunion, which are exclusive to Southern California, may be an ordinary-looking silver fish, measuring only six to eight inches in length. But what makes them so special is that they're the only fish that come out of the water to dig into beach sands and lay their eggs during mating season.
The small fish ride the tides around new and full moons, with the female grunion laying about 3,000 eggs at once and 18,000 in a mating season. The male grunion then rides the tide to the eggs and fertilizes them before catching a ride back into the ocean several minutes later through the tides. This event is known as a grunion run.
When the grunion run, the California coast looks like it's boiling with silverly fish flopping in the waves by the hundreds of thousands.
The grunion mating season starts in the spring and ends in the summer. These are good places to see them make their run for the last few times until mating season begins again next spring:
Grunions make their runs in two-hour intervals. These are 16 dates on which the grunions will make their runs between July and August:
"Typically, the second hour of an expected run is usually better than the first hour, so be patient," the California Department of Fish and Wildlife said in a statement Tuesday.
It's currently open season for the grunion, meaning people hoping to take some can as long as they are 16 and older with a valid fishing license. They can also only be taken by hand, no holes may be dug in the beach to trap them and they are limited to 30 per person, according to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.
"While grunion spawn on many beaches in southern California, CDFW does not recommend any particular beach because of changing safety conditions and local curfews," the California Department of Fish and Wildlife said. "If you don’t attend an official event, one of the best ways to find out which beaches have had recent runs is to call the state and county beach lifeguards, who can often tell if spawning has taken place."
For more tips to avoid missing out on the grunion, click here.
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