Santa Monica State Beach
A 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 State Beach is a long, wide stretch of sandy coastline along the Pacific Ocean, known for its easy access, classic Southern California beach atmosphere, and views of the Santa Monica Pier. It’s a good place for walking, sunbathing, swimming, biking, or simply watching the surf and sunset, with the beach connecting naturally to the city’s promenade and oceanfront paths. Because it sits in a busy urban area, it feels both relaxed and lively, with plenty of nearby amenities and a steady flow of locals and visitors.
History
Santa Monica State Beach is part of California’s state beach system and has long been one of the city’s signature public shoreline areas. The beach’s modern identity is closely tied to the development of Santa Monica as a seaside resort and to the later creation of the Santa Monica Pier, which helped make this stretch of coast a major recreational destination.
Expert notes
- Bring layers; ocean breezes can make it feel cooler than inland Santa Monica.
- Plan ahead for parking, since beach-adjacent lots and street spaces can fill quickly.
- If you want a quieter experience, walk farther from the pier area.
- Check local beach and water conditions before swimming.
More things to do in Santa Monica
Pacific WheelA Ferris wheel on the pier offering elevated views of the coastline and city. It’s a scenic outdoor attraction and a strong choice for sightseeing.
California Heritage MuseumA museum that can be a good family-friendly cultural stop, especially for visitors who want something educational beyond the beach. Its neighborhood setting also makes it easy to combine with other nearby activities.
Original Muscle Beach Santa MonicaA historic outdoor fitness and beachside recreation spot right on the oceanfront. It’s a distinctive Santa Monica place to see local beach culture in action.
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 Pier ArchA classic Santa Monica landmark near the beach and pier area that makes for a fun family photo stop. It’s easy to visit while exploring the waterfront.
Santa Monica Pier CarouselA classic carousel attraction on the pier that adds to the outdoor amusement-park atmosphere. It’s a fun scenic stop along the waterfront.