A new outdoor film series opens Saturday, July 25, on the oceanfront pool deck of the Regent Santa Monica Beach, offering locals a small-batch alternative to the city's larger free movie nights.
Cinema by the Sea runs six consecutive Saturday evenings through August 29, with screenings from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. at 1700 Ocean Avenue. Each night is capped at 50 to 60 guests, according to Regent spokesperson Lauren Green.
The lineup honors the Route 66 centennial. The historic highway was commissioned in November 1926, and 2026 marks its 100th anniversary. It stretches 2,448 miles from Chicago to its western terminus in Santa Monica. Green said the programming reflects that connection.
"This isn't a generic movie night," Green told the Santa Monica Sun. "We wanted to create something that reflects Santa Monica's place at the end of Route 66 — something that celebrates travel, storytelling, and summer."
The hotel's lower pool deck, separate from the swimming pool, is set up with lounge chairs, couches, fire pits, and ocean views. Blankets are provided. Tickets cost $40 per person and include unlimited popcorn, a candy bar, soft drinks, and bottled water. Guests can also order sliders, fries, and film-themed cocktails. For the August 29 screening of Grease, that means a custom "Pink Lady Elixir."
Orla by Michael Mina, the hotel's restaurant, sits steps from the screening area for anyone looking to add dinner to the evening.
Full schedule
- Saturday, July 25 — Cars (G)
- Saturday, August 1 — Eat Pray Love (PG-13)
- Saturday, August 8 — To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything! Julie Newmar (PG-13)
- Saturday, August 15 — Little Miss Sunshine (R)
- Saturday, August 22 — Almost Famous (R)
- Saturday, August 29 — Grease (PG)
Tickets are available through Eventbrite, with refunds accepted up to three days before each screening. The Regent Santa Monica Beach can be reached at 310-458-6700.
