Santa Monica, California, is known for its stunning beaches, iconic pier, and relaxed coastal vibe, but it's also home to a lively and dynamic stand-up comedy scene. Just a short drive from the heart of Los Angeles, Santa Monica offers a unique blend of intimate comedy clubs, outdoor performances, and local showcases that bring together top-tier comedians and emerging talent. Whether you're a local looking for a fun night out or a visitor seeking a comedy fix near the beach, Santa Monica’s comedy offerings provide plenty of laughs in a laid-back, seaside setting. With its vibrant nightlife and proximity to LA’s comedy powerhouse, Santa Monica has become a go-to spot for both casual comedy fans and serious stand-up enthusiasts.
Top Comedy Clubs in Santa Monica
The Westside Comedy Theater: Located in the heart of the Third Street Promenade, The Westside Comedy Theater is the epicenter of Santa Monica’s comedy scene. This cozy, intimate club regularly hosts stand-up, improv, and sketch comedy shows, featuring a mix of local talent and big-name performers. The venue is known for its inclusive atmosphere and welcoming vibe, making it a favorite among both comedians and audiences. Regular shows like Unnecessary Evil and The Westside Showdown highlight the best in stand-up and improv, offering a unique and diverse comedy experience.
The Bungalow Santa Monica: While The Bungalow is primarily known as one of Santa Monica’s most popular beachfront bars, it occasionally hosts comedy nights and special events featuring local comedians. With its casual, laid-back atmosphere, The Bungalow is a fun spot to catch some laughs while enjoying drinks and the relaxed coastal environment. These comedy nights offer an unexpected treat for those looking to mix their beachside hangout with a bit of stand-up.
Harvelle’s Santa Monica: Harvelle’s is a historic jazz and blues club, but it also features regular comedy events, including Bourbon Room Comedy nights. Known for its intimate, speakeasy-style vibe, Harvelle’s offers a unique venue for comedy fans to enjoy a night of stand-up. The club attracts a mix of local comedians and LA-based talent, creating a fun blend of music, comedy, and entertainment.
Comedians to Watch in Santa Monica
Whitney Cummings: A regular performer at comedy clubs across LA, including The Westside Comedy Theater, Whitney Cummings is known for her bold, edgy humor and sharp wit. As a comedian, actress, and writer, Cummings has become a household name in the comedy world, with multiple stand-up specials and a starring role in Whitney. Her quick delivery and fearless approach to stand-up make her a standout performer in Santa Monica’s comedy scene.
Byron Bowers: A frequent performer at The Westside Comedy Theater, Byron Bowers brings a unique blend of personal storytelling and thought-provoking humor to the stage. Known for his insightful takes on life, race, and mental health, Bowers is a rising star in the comedy world. His blend of humor and vulnerability makes his performances memorable and impactful.
Eddie Pepitone: A veteran of the comedy scene, Eddie Pepitone is a master of dark, satirical humor and self-deprecating jokes. He performs regularly at venues across Los Angeles, including The Westside Comedy Theater, where his unpredictable style and biting commentary have earned him a loyal following. Pepitone’s performances are a rollercoaster of emotions, mixing humor with deeper, philosophical observations.
Jackie Kashian: Known for her relatable, conversational style, Jackie Kashian is a staple of the Los Angeles comedy circuit and a regular performer in Santa Monica. Kashian’s comedy often touches on personal stories, family life, and geek culture, delivered with warmth and humor. She’s appeared on Conan and her podcast The Dork Forest has made her a favorite among comedy fans.
Comedy Festivals in Santa Monica
Westside Comedy Festival: Hosted at The Westside Comedy Theater, the Westside Comedy Festival celebrates stand-up, sketch, and improv performances over a weekend filled with laughs. The festival features both local and national comedians, offering a mix of established stars and emerging talent. With its laid-back vibe and strong lineup of performers, the Westside Comedy Festival is a highlight for comedy fans in the Santa Monica area.
Los Angeles Diversity in Comedy Festival: Although this festival spans across multiple venues in the LA area, Santa Monica’s Westside Comedy Theater is one of the key locations. The festival celebrates diversity in comedy, offering a platform for comedians from underrepresented communities to perform and share their unique perspectives. With stand-up, improv, and sketch performances, the festival is an important event for promoting inclusivity in the comedy world.
Comedy Nights and Open Mics in Santa Monica
Westside Comedy Theater Open Mic: The Westside Comedy Theater is known for its supportive open mic nights, which give up-and-coming comedians a chance to test new material in front of an audience. These open mics attract a mix of local talent and aspiring comics, creating a fun and inclusive environment. For anyone looking to experience the next generation of comedians or try their hand at stand-up, the Westside Comedy Theater open mic is a must.
Trip Santa Monica: A local bar known for its live music and entertainment, Trip also hosts occasional comedy nights, featuring local comedians and open mic events. With its casual, dive-bar atmosphere, Trip is a great spot to catch local talent and enjoy a night of comedy with friends. The venue’s relaxed vibe and supportive crowd make it a fun place to discover new comedians in Santa Monica.
The Crow: A new comedy venue located in Bergamot Station Arts Center, The Crow offers weekly stand-up showcases, open mics, and special events featuring LA-based talent. This intimate venue provides a platform for both experienced and novice comedians to perform in front of a supportive, artsy crowd. With its fresh approach to comedy, The Crow is quickly becoming a favorite in Santa Monica’s comedy scene.
Santa Monica’s stand-up comedy scene offers a refreshing mix of intimate shows, diverse performers, and a laid-back coastal vibe. Whether you're catching a headliner at The Westside Comedy Theater or discovering local talent at a bar’s open mic night, the city offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy top-tier comedy without venturing into the heart of LA. From comedy festivals to regular showcases, Santa Monica is carving out its place as a comedy destination on the Westside, offering laughs with a side of ocean breeze.