
Woodlawn Cemetery
A serene sanctuary of remembrance, Woodlawn Cemetery offers beautiful landscapes and historic mausoleums for peaceful reflection and connection.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful and uncrowded

Woodlawn Cemetery
Best Time
Peaceful and uncrowded

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene sanctuary of remembrance, Woodlawn Cemetery offers beautiful landscapes and historic mausoleums for peaceful reflection and connection.
"Absolutely beautiful. Very peaceful spirit here and not crowded at all today."

🚶♀️ Wander and Reflect
Take your time to explore the grounds; it's a beautiful and peaceful place for quiet contemplation.
🙏 Be Respectful
Remember this is a place of remembrance. Maintain a quiet demeanor and dress appropriately.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Mausoleums
Throughout the cemetery
Architectural marvels offering a glimpse into the past. Admire the intricate designs and enduring legacies.

Lush Landscaping
Throughout the cemetery
Beautifully maintained grounds provide a serene backdrop for reflection and remembrance.

Notable Gravesites
Various sections
Discover the final resting places of influential figures and local pioneers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Serenity
Respectful Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Wander and Reflect
Take your time to explore the grounds; it's a beautiful and peaceful place for quiet contemplation.
🙏 Be Respectful
Remember this is a place of remembrance. Maintain a quiet demeanor and dress appropriately.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially on warmer days, bring water as you'll be doing a lot of walking.
🚗 Parking Availability
Parking is generally available, but can be busier on weekends or during events.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Wander and Reflect
Take your time to explore the grounds; it's a beautiful and peaceful place for quiet contemplation.
🙏 Be Respectful
Remember this is a place of remembrance. Maintain a quiet demeanor and dress appropriately.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially on warmer days, bring water as you'll be doing a lot of walking.
🚗 Parking Availability
Parking is generally available, but can be busier on weekends or during events.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Woodlawn Cemetery is consistently praised for its beautiful, peaceful, and serene atmosphere, offering a tranquil space for reflection and remembrance. Visitors appreciate the well-maintained grounds and the helpfulness of the staff, who are noted for their compassionate assistance. While the facilities are older, they are kept clean and functional, contributing to an overall positive and respectful experience for those visiting loved ones or exploring the historical landscape.
"Absolutely beautiful. Very peaceful spirit here and not crowded at all today (a Thursday around 3pm) These souls truly live on no matter what your belief is, believe this, that a loving Heavenly Father (God almighty) has a plan for all of us. My fight with addiction took me to the debths of Hell. Literally. A place of pure confusion, pain, doubt, fear, despair. Live everyday with HOPE, FAITH, CHARITY and an eye single to the glory of God. He knows what you are going through, look to him for your answers, for peace and understanding. I testify to you, who took the time to read this review, that you'll be with your loved one('s) again. And it with be a glorious existence. Life doesn't just end, God works in an 'eternal round' sort of way. God bless all of you, and God bless America, the land of the brave, and the land of the free. In the name of Jesus Christ. Amen. Much love brothers and sisters. Stay strong Santa Monica. 🌴🇺🇸🙌"
Sterling Wood
"Beautiful resting spot. I have many loved ones here. Amen and Ameen"
Jinni Cab
"What an extraordinary experience we had with our visit yesterday. My second great grand parents are interned in the cemetery. They settled in Santa Monica circa 1885. My wife and I are in our mid 70's. We had a most gracious staff member help us locate the grave sites from circa 1920. We traveled a rather long distance, so was a bit concerned when another post stated the bathroom were not in good order. The bathroom is old which is true, but clean and well stocked. I have been wanting to visit for many years. Thank you Santa Monica for providing an exceptional visit and for providing an exceptional staff."
Sheldon Hough
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Woodlawn Cemetery is accessible by car and public transportation. Many visitors find driving to be the most convenient option, with ample parking available on-site. Check local transit routes for bus or train options if you prefer not to drive.
Yes, there is parking available within the cemetery grounds. It's generally ample, though it can get busier on weekends or during special events.
Depending on your starting location in Santa Monica, walking might be an option. However, it's a large property, so consider the distance and weather.
Information on the nearest bus or metro stops can be found on local public transit websites. It's advisable to check these in advance for the most up-to-date routes and schedules.
Woodlawn Cemetery is generally well-marked. Using a GPS or navigation app is recommended for precise directions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Woodlawn Cemetery is typically open to the public for visitation without requiring tickets for general entry.
The cemetery generally has set operating hours, often from morning until late afternoon. It's best to check their official website or contact them directly for the most current hours of operation.
General admission to wander and visit gravesites is usually free. Fees may apply for specific services or plot purchases.
Woodlawn Cemetery is often open on holidays, but hours may be adjusted. Confirm holiday hours in advance.
Visitors are expected to adhere to the posted opening and closing times. Respectful conduct is always required.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Walking is the most immersive way to experience Woodlawn Cemetery. You can also drive through certain sections. Consider a map to locate specific areas of interest.
Restroom facilities are available, though they may be older in style. Visitors have noted they are generally clean and stocked.
Photography for personal remembrance is generally permitted. However, be mindful of privacy and avoid intrusive photography, especially during services.
While many paths are paved, some areas may be uneven. Driving through sections can help with accessibility. Inquire with staff for specific needs.
The atmosphere is overwhelmingly peaceful and serene. It's a place of quiet reflection and remembrance, often described as beautiful and spiritual.
📸 📸 Photography
The historic mausoleums and the beautifully landscaped grounds offer excellent photographic opportunities. Look for interesting architectural details and serene vistas.
While personal photography is usually allowed, professional or commercial photography may require permission. Always be respectful of ongoing services and private memorials.
Any camera, from a smartphone to a DSLR, can capture the beauty of Woodlawn Cemetery. Consider a lens that can handle both wide shots of the landscape and details of the architecture.
Early morning or late afternoon light often provides the most flattering and dramatic illumination for photography, creating beautiful shadows and highlights.
Photographing specific gravesites for personal use is generally acceptable, but always be sensitive to the privacy of grieving families. Avoid intrusive shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's important to set expectations beforehand, explaining that this is a quiet place where people come to remember loved ones. Keep the visit relatively short and focused, perhaps highlighting a specific historical figure or a particularly interesting monument. Ensure children understand the importance of respectful behavior, such as walking quietly and not disturbing any memorials.
🕊️ Those Seeking Peace and Reflection
Consider visiting during off-peak hours, such as weekday afternoons, to maximize the sense of solitude. Bring a journal or simply allow yourself to wander and absorb the quiet beauty. The spiritual undertones, as described by some visitors, can offer a sense of hope and connection, making it a restorative experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Legacy of Remembrance
Visitors often speak of the cemetery's 'peaceful spirit' and the feeling that 'these souls truly live on.' This sentiment is amplified by the well-maintained grounds and the architectural significance of the mausoleums. It's a place where history is palpable, inviting reflection on the enduring human experience.
The staff at Woodlawn Cemetery are frequently commended for their helpfulness and compassion. One visitor shared an experience where an office staff member, Patrick, went above and beyond to rectify a mistake regarding a mother's marker, offering comfort and solutions. This dedication to service underscores the cemetery's commitment to supporting families during difficult times.
Navigating the Grounds
Many visitors come with a specific purpose, such as visiting loved ones or researching family history. The staff are known to be exceptionally helpful in assisting with grave location, as one visitor noted when their second great-grandparents' sites from circa 1920 were located with gracious assistance. This support can significantly enhance the visitor experience, especially for those traveling long distances.
While the cemetery is a place of solemnity, it also offers a sense of community and shared remembrance. The peaceful breeze and pleasant surroundings make it a place where visitors can feel a connection to both the past and the present, finding solace and a unique sense of 'ohakamairi' – a spiritual visit.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit