From Eve
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Santa Monica State Beach.
Local know-how to help you travel smarter and make the most of every moment.
Santa Monica State Beach: A Southern California Icon
Experience the iconic Santa Monica State Beach: sun, sand, and endless activities on Southern California's famous coastline.
Santa Monica State Beach, a quintessential Southern California destination, stretches 3.5 miles along the Pacific Coast Highway. Known for its soft sandy shores, iconic pier, and vibrant atmosphere, it offers a diverse range of activities from sunbathing and swimming to volleyball and cycling. With its accessible pathways and proximity to shops and restaurants, it's a beloved spot for locals and tourists alike.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Santa Monica State Beach
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
California, US
Discover more about Santa Monica State Beach
Santa Monica State Beach is more than just a beach; it's a vibrant hub of activity and relaxation, drawing visitors from around the globe. Stretching 3.5 miles from Venice Beach to Will Rogers State Beach, the beach offers ample space for everyone.
Historically, the area was initially inhabited by the Tongva people, with a village named Comicranga located in the vicinity. The city's name, Santa Monica, is attributed to Franciscan missionary Juan Crespí, potentially named after Saint Monica's feast day or springs reminiscent of her tears. In the early 20th century, a section of the beach known as the "Ink Well" provided beach access for African Americans during a time of segregation.
Today, the beach is famous for its various attractions. The Santa Monica Pier, dating back to 1909, features an amusement park, aquarium, and the historic Looff Hippodrome Carousel. Muscle Beach, south of the pier, is a historic site that fueled a worldwide fitness craze. Visitors can also enjoy volleyball courts, the International Chess Park, and the Marvin Braude Beach Trail for biking and walking.
The beach is also known for its commitment to accessibility, with wheelchair-accessible pathways to the water. Palisades Park, located atop the cliffs, offers stunning views of the beach and ocean. Santa Monica State Beach continues to be a dynamic and inclusive space, hosting events like beach volleyball and surfing during the 2028 Summer Olympics.
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Getting There
Public Transport
From Downtown Santa Monica Station, take the Big Blue Bus Route 9 towards the beach. The bus ride takes approximately 16 minutes and costs $1. Alight at 4th Nb & Washington Fs. From there, it's a short walk to the beach. Alternatively, several other Big Blue Bus routes and Metro buses service the area. A day pass on the Big Blue Bus can be purchased online.
Walking
From Downtown Santa Monica Station, walk west on Colorado Avenue towards the ocean. Cross Ocean Avenue and continue onto the Santa Monica Pier bridge. The walk is approximately 1 mile and takes about 20 minutes. From the pier, the beach is easily accessible. Note that e-scooters are not permitted on the beach biking paths.
Taxi/Ride-Share
From Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), a taxi or ride-share to Santa Monica State Beach will take approximately 30-45 minutes depending on traffic. The cost will range from $35-$60. Alternatively, take the Big Blue Bus Rapid 3 from LAX to Santa Monica. Once in Santa Monica, ride-share services offer a convenient way to reach specific points along the beach. A short ride within Santa Monica typically costs $8-$15.
Driving
Driving to Santa Monica State Beach is a popular option, but traffic can be heavy, especially during summer and holidays. Major routes include I-10, Santa Monica Blvd, Pacific Coast Highway (US 1), and Lincoln Blvd (US 1). Parking is available in several lots along the beach, costing between $7 and $18 per day. Some lots offer electric plug-in options. Consider purchasing a monthly or annual parking permit if you plan to visit frequently. Street parking is also available, with meters costing $2.50 per hour in the downtown and beach zones.
A brief summary to Santa Monica State Beach
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