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Lifeguard Tower 26: A Santa Monica Icon

Iconic lifeguard tower on Santa Monica Beach, symbolizing safety, recreation, and the laid-back Southern California lifestyle.

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Lifeguard Tower 26, situated on Santa Monica State Beach, is more than just a lifeguard station; it's a symbol of Southern California's beach culture. Recognizable from its bright colors and classic design, the tower represents safety, recreation, and the quintessential laid-back lifestyle of the region.

A brief summary to Lifeguard Tower 26

Local tips

  • Tower 26 is a popular spot for beginner surfers due to the shallow waves, making it easy to stand up.
  • The area around Tower 26 offers a more relaxed atmosphere compared to the busier Santa Monica Pier and Venice Beach.
  • Lifeguard Tower 26 is easily recognizable and serves as a great meeting point on Santa Monica State Beach.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the intersection of Ocean Park Boulevard and Main Street, walk west toward the beach. Continue on Ocean Park Boulevard until you reach Ocean Front Walk. Turn left (south) onto Ocean Front Walk. Lifeguard Tower 26 will be a short walk south, easily visible on the beach side of the path. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes and offers views of the beach and surrounding area.

  • Public Transport

    Take the Big Blue Bus to the Ocean Park Boulevard and Main Street stop. From there, walk west towards the beach on Ocean Park Boulevard until you reach Ocean Front Walk. Turn left (south) onto Ocean Front Walk. Lifeguard Tower 26 will be a short walk south. Big Blue Bus single ride fare is $1.25 for regular riders. Seniors/Disabled/Medicare fare is $0.50. A day pass is $4.00 for regular riders and $1.50 for S/D/M riders.

  • Parking

    Several parking options are available near Lifeguard Tower 26. There is a short-term parking lot (Lot 5 South) near the class meeting spot at Ocean Park Blvd. & Barnard Way for $1 per hour (2-hour max). A larger city beach parking lot south of the 2-hour lot offers all-day parking for a rate between $7 and $18 per day, depending on the season. Metered parking can also be found along Ocean Park Blvd near Main St for approximately $2 per hour.

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Discover more about Lifeguard Tower 26

Lifeguard Tower 26 stands as a sentinel on Santa Monica State Beach, embodying the essence of Southern California's beach culture. Located off Barnard Way, south of Ocean Park Boulevard, it's a landmark cherished by locals and tourists alike. More than a functional outpost, Tower 26 is an iconic symbol, representing safety and the relaxed beach lifestyle. Its distinctive design and bright colors make it instantly recognizable in countless photographs and films. The tower serves as a vital base for lifeguards who diligently watch over the beach, ensuring the safety of swimmers, surfers, and sunbathers. The history of lifeguarding in Santa Monica dates back to the early 20th century. Over the years, the lifeguard service has evolved, adopting new technologies and techniques. Today, Santa Monica's lifeguards are part of the Los Angeles County Fire Department, the largest professional lifeguard service in the world. The beach surrounding Lifeguard Tower 26 offers a wide range of activities. The sandy shores are perfect for sunbathing and building sandcastles. The ocean waters are inviting for swimming and surfing, though visitors should heed the advice of the lifeguards. The area is also known as a great spot for beginner surfers due to the shallow waves. Lifeguard Tower 26 is a place of community and connection. It's a spot where locals gather, families enjoy a day at the beach, and visitors experience the California dream. The tower also reminds everyone of the importance of beach safety.

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