Santa Monica Beach Highlights

Santa Monica Beach epitomizes the southern California beach lifestyle. Located near the cultural heart of LA, Santa Monica offers more attractions than any beach in southern California!

Santa Monica Pier, located at the end of Colorado Street, is the focal point. The wide, sandy beach extends for about a mile north and south of the pier. Pacific Park, an amusement park located on the pier, features a nine-story, solar-powered Ferris wheel. Thrill seekers might enjoy the roller coaster. Romantics and little ones will enjoy the carousel (seen in the Hollywood classic “The Sting”). Underneath the pier you’ll find the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium, which has sea life exhibits for the whole family.

The Santa Monica beach is top notch, even by southern California standards. The large sandy area between the water and the bicycle path is great for sunbathing, people watching, tossing a ball, or simply lying in the soft, warm sand. An offshore breakwater was installed to keep the surf gentle — great for kids but not so good for surfers. Plenty fun for swimming, body boarding, or just splashing. The kids will enjoy the play area located near the pier.

A paved bicycle and walking path extends for miles to the south. No doubt you’ve seen this path—it stars in countless TV shows and movies. You’ll see every kind of nonmotorized transportation known to mankind. Bicycle and rollerblade rental shops are plentiful. Don’t forget the safety gear; on crowded days, negotiating the path has turned into an art form. Non-thrill-seekers might enjoy the path early in the morning or later in the evening.

The entire downtown area — including the Third Street Promenade, an open air pedestrian street — is great for shopping. The Promenade features an eclectic mix of people, shops, restaurants, and galleries. Keep your eyes peeled — we saw several Hollywood notables during our last visit.

At the southern end of Santa Monica Beach is the renowned “Muscle Beach.” Remember the film reels of copper-toned hard-bodies flexing rippled muscles on the beach? They built those bodies right here. You’ll find an outdoor workout venue with gymnastic and balance equipment and an exhibition area for “flexing.” Muscle Beach has been around since 1930 but was newly restored in 2000.

Getting There

From Los Angeles or the San Diego Freeway (405), take the Santa Monica Freeway (I-10) west to the 4th Street exit and turn right. Turn left on Colorado Boulevard, one-quarter mile to the Santa Monica Pier and adjacent beaches. Parking lines the coast north and south of the pier. Arriving early will help you find a spot near the beach

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