must-visit in Los AngelesBeach & Island

Santa Monica

📍 United States, California, Santa Monica, Beach and Pier (Santa Monica Pier)

1 photos

4.5/ 5.0

★★★★★

Quick Facts

Location: USA, Los Angeles
Category: Beach & Island
Duration: Half a day
Opening Hours: Beach open all day (pier amusement hours vary · reference)
Ticket Price: Adult: Free · Free (pier rides charged separately)
Address: United States, California, Santa Monica, Beach and Pier (Santa Monica Pier)
Coordinates: 34.0219, -118.4814

Introduction

Santa Monica Beach is the most representative sunshine beach on Los Angeles' west side; broad golden sand, rows of palms and the classic wooden pier form a postcard Californian scene. On the wooden pier sits the small Pacific Park amusement area with its Ferris wheel, and at the entrance stands the Route 66 "End of the Trail" sign, marking where this legendary cross-country highway meets the Pacific. A coastal bike path links to Venice Beach—a pleasant spot for cycling, skating and sunsets.

✨ Highlights

Santa Monica Pier

The classic wooden pier and Pacific Park Ferris wheel—an icon of California beaches.

Route 66 end sign

The 'End of the Trail' sign on the pier is a must-shoot for road-trip fans.

Coastal bike path

The seaside path lets you rent a bike south to Venice Beach, with continuous views.

Pacific sunset

Facing due west, the horizon is a top Los Angeles sunset spot.

Third Street Promenade

A pedestrian strip of restaurants, shops and performers one block from the sand — the natural next stop after the beach.

Parking and access

Several public garages sit near the beach; from downtown LA allow 40–60 minutes on the I-10, longer in peak traffic.

🛈 Practical Info

→Best time to visit：Sunset is most beautiful at dusk; daytime suits sand, swimming and cycling.

→Transport：Metro E Line goes straight to downtown Santa Monica, a few minutes' walk to the beach.

→Sun protection：Strong beach sun—reapply sunscreen and drink water.

→Combine visits：Pair with Venice Beach and the Third Street Promenade for a half-day outing.

→Belongings：Don't leave valuables unattended on the sand when in the water.

→Opening Hours：Beach open all day (pier amusement hours vary · reference)

→Transportation：Take Metro E Line to its Santa Monica terminus at the pier; drive west on I-10 from downtown LA (~30 min); paid parking structures near the pier.

Ticket Information

Ticket Information
Adult	Free

Free (pier rides charged separately)

💡 Tips

• The Ferris wheel lit at night is especially photogenic; pier lights and sea reflections are great shots.

• The coastal bike path runs all the way to Venice Beach, about 30–40 minutes.

• Pier rides are priced per attraction; a combo pass can be better value.

• The amusement park's hours and prices are subject to the official Pacific Park announcement.

FAQ

What are the opening hours of Santa Monica?

Beach open all day (pier amusement hours vary · reference)

How much is the admission for Santa Monica?

Adult: Free; Free (pier rides charged separately)

Any practical tips for visiting Santa Monica?

The Ferris wheel lit at night is especially photogenic; pier lights and sea reflections are great shots. The coastal bike path runs all the way to Venice Beach, about 30–40 minutes.