I Took Dreamy Pictures Of Santa Monica Pier In California (13 Pics) (2024)

FAQs

How would you describe Santa Monica Pier? ›

The Pier is a destination where people come together to enjoy local culture and to reconnect with the Pier's storied past. Whether you are here to take in the incredible views, ride Pacific Park's Ferris Wheel, hosting an event, or enjoying a family-friendly activity, the Santa Monica Pier welcomes you!

The History Behind the Santa Monica Pier

It quickly gained a reputation as the best fishing spot in Santa Monica. Santa Monica Pier fishing remains a popular activity to this day. The Looff Hippodrome, now a National Historic Landmark, opened in 1916, followed by the iconic carousel's opening in 1939.

Beyond the natural elements and fitness opportunities, there's also the iconic Santa Monica Pier with its own amusem*nt park, equipped with the world's only solar-powered Ferris Wheel and a roller coaster. So much of Santa Monica's culture stems from the beach and is reflected throughout the city.

Great place to visit so much to see and do here. We were here while on a tour of Hollywood from Las Vegas. We loved the pier so many interesting things to see and do there is something for everyone we just enjoyed walking up and down the pier looking at all the shops and stalls and watching the people go by.

Santa Monica Pier

Moviegoers may remember the pier from classic films such as “Forrest Gump” (1994), where Tom Hanks' character embarked on his epic cross-country run, and “The Sting” (1973), starring Paul Newman and Robert Redford, which featured the pier's captivating ambiance.

The company that runs the park, Santa Monica Amusem*nts LLC, announced its sale Thursday to an investment group that plans on pumping $10 million into the pier's various attractions. The sale amount to investment group SC Holdings remains undisclosed. The new owners specialize in sports, entertainment, and hospitality.

Downtown & Third Street Promenade

The world-famous alfresco 3rd Street Promenade shopping experience includes national stores, name brand clothing, boutiques and restaurants, all in the heart of Downtown Santa Monica.

According to the cost of living calculator, Santa Monica cost 44.1% higher than the National Average in 2023. (1) Cost of living data shows Santa Monica is one of the most expensive cities in the US as compared to its nearby cities.

A film permit is required for commercial filming or commercial still photography in any public space in Santa Monica including all streets, parks, City facilities, Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica State Beach and beach parking lots.

The Santa Monica State Beach is one of the most iconic and picturesque locations in the world and attracts global visitors daily. The State Beach stretches over three miles, covers 245 acres of sand, and is managed by the City of Santa Monica and California State Park.

What to expect in Santa Monica Pier? ›

Fun on the Pier

Enjoy the rides like the West Coaster and the Pacific Wheel, carnival games, and food at Pacific Park. Purchase a seashell necklace from one of our vendor carts, catch a show from one of our many street performers, or treat yourself to a thick and creamy milkshake.

Santa Monica has everything going for it; it's surely LA's most walkable district, it has good shopping, it's right on the beach and it's just a 30 minute cab ride from LAX. If you're choosing where to stay on a visit to LA, look no further!

Santa Monica rests on a mostly flat slope that angles down toward Ocean Avenue and toward the south. High bluffs separate the north side of the city from the beaches. Santa Monica borders the L.A. neighborhoods of Pacific Palisades to the north and Venice to the south.