Santa Monica Pier
An iconic seaside attraction with oceanfront access and lively outdoor energy. It’s a landmark stop if you want a quintessential Santa Monica experience.
Santa Monica Pier is a classic Southern California seaside landmark with an amusement park, arcade, shops, casual food stands, and wide views over the Pacific. It’s one of the easiest places to combine a beach walk with a bit of old-school boardwalk fun, and it’s especially appealing at sunset when the lights come on and the oceanfront feels lively. The pier also gives you direct access to Santa Monica State Beach, making it a good stop for strolling, people-watching, and photos.
History
Santa Monica Pier opened in 1909 as a municipal pier, originally built to carry sewage out to sea and later expanded for recreation. In 1916, the smaller adjacent pleasure pier known as the Looff Hippodrome was added, and the area gradually became a major entertainment destination rather than a purely utilitarian structure. Today the pier is one of the city’s best-known landmarks and a surviving example of early 20th-century seaside amusement culture.
Expert notes
- Wear comfortable shoes; the pier and surrounding beach paths involve a fair amount of walking.
- Bring layers, since ocean breezes can feel cool even on warm days.
- If you want a quieter visit, go earlier in the day before the busiest evening hours.
More things to do in Santa Monica
West CoasterA roller coaster on the Santa Monica Pier that can appeal to older children and teens looking for a thrill. It’s part of the pier’s amusement atmosphere, making it a fun family outing.
Palisades ParkA scenic oceanfront park known for its palm-lined walking paths and coastal views. It’s especially appealing for a leisurely walk or sunset stop.
Crescent Bay ParkA neighborhood park with a bluff-top setting and views over the ocean area. It works well for a quieter outdoor visit in Santa Monica.
Santa Monica State BeachA major beach area with wide sandy stretches and easy access to the coast. Great for swimming, strolling, and enjoying the Pacific Ocean scenery.
Santa Monica ConservancyA strong fit for history and culture in Santa Monica, with museum and historical-landmark roles that suggest preservation and interpretation of the city’s heritage.
Santa Monica Ghosts: Ghost Tours & Haunted Pub CrawlsA historically themed attraction focused on Santa Monica’s ghost stories and haunted history, offering a culturally significant way to explore local lore.