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.
A brief summary to Santa Monica State Beach
- California, US
Local tips
- Arrive early, especially during summer, to secure parking as the beach gets crowded.
- Utilize the Marvin Braude Beach Trail for a scenic bike ride or walk along the coast.
- Visit the Santa Monica Pier for amusement park rides, dining, and stunning ocean views.
- Check out the International Chess Park south of the pier for a game of chess with a view.
- Take advantage of the wheelchair-accessible pathways for easy access to the water.
Getting There
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
Discover more about Santa Monica State Beach
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Will Rogers Highway Marker
0.3 km
Commemorating the iconic Route 66 and the beloved Will Rogers, this Santa Monica marker offers a glimpse into America's open road spirit and a tribute to a legendary entertainer.
Beach Crossing Staircase
0.4 km
Discover Santa Monica's coastal charm at the Beach Crossing Staircase, a historical landmark offering stunning ocean views and a seamless connection between city life and beach serenity.
Miramar Moreton Bay Fig Tree
0.5 km
Discover Santa Monica's iconic Miramar Moreton Bay Fig Tree, a majestic landmark with a rich history and stunning natural beauty, offering a tranquil escape in the heart of the city.
Clock Tower Building
0.5 km
Discover Santa Monica's iconic Clock Tower Building: an Art Deco masterpiece with a rich history, offering a blend of architectural beauty and modern attractions in the heart of downtown.
Downtown Santa Monica
0.6 km
Experience the best of Southern California in Downtown Santa Monica: sun-kissed beaches, vibrant shopping, diverse dining, and iconic attractions all steps from the Pacific Ocean.
Santa Monica Pier Arch
0.6 km
Discover the vibrant Santa Monica Pier Arch, an iconic historical landmark representing California's coastal charm and lively beach culture.
Edwin Building
0.7 km
Discover the Edwin Building, a historical landmark in Santa Monica showcasing architectural beauty and cultural heritage amidst vibrant surroundings, designed by Paul Revere Williams.
Santa Monica Place
0.7 km
Discover the ultimate shopping experience at Santa Monica Place, where luxury meets the laid-back charm of California's coast.
Chess Park
0.8 km
Experience intellectual seaside relaxation at Santa Monica's Chess Park, a historic beachfront location offering chess and ocean views near the iconic pier.
Original Muscle Beach Santa Monica
0.8 km
Discover the birthplace of the American fitness movement at Santa Monica's Original Muscle Beach, where gymnasts, acrobats, and fitness enthusiasts have gathered since the 1930s.
Surf City Tours
0.8 km
Uncover the stunning beauty and vibrant culture of Santa Monica with Surf City Tours, your guide to unforgettable coastal adventures.
City of Santa Monica
1.0 km
Experience the best of California in Santa Monica: stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and exquisite dining await you.
Idaho Gate
1.0 km
Explore Idaho Gate, a historic landmark in Santa Monica, showcasing the city's rich history and stunning coastal views.
Santa Monica History Museum
1.0 km
Discover Santa Monica's vibrant history at the Santa Monica History Museum, featuring engaging exhibits and rich cultural stories that celebrate the city's heritage.
Christine Emerson Reed Park
1.2 km
Discover a vibrant community hub in Santa Monica's Christine Emerson Reed Park, offering recreation, culture, and relaxation for all ages, nestled between the city's bustling streets.
Unmissable attractions to see
Santa Monica Beach
0.1 km
Experience the quintessential Southern California beach lifestyle at Santa Monica Beach, where sun, sand, and iconic attractions create unforgettable memories along the Pacific Coast.
Santa Monica Statue
0.4 km
Discover the iconic Santa Monica Statue in Palisades Park: a historic Art Deco masterpiece offering serene ocean views and a tranquil escape in the heart of Santa Monica, California.
Camera Obscura Art Lab
0.4 km
Explore the enchanting Camera Obscura Art Lab in Santa Monica, where art meets science in a unique interactive experience.
Farmers Market - Wednesday/Saturday Downtown Santa Monica
0.5 km
Explore the vibrant Santa Monica Farmers Market for fresh produce, local crafts, and the essence of California's agricultural bounty in a lively atmosphere.
Route 66 End of the Trail
0.6 km
Experience the end of Route 66 at Santa Monica Pier, where history meets breathtaking ocean views and vibrant culture.
Route 66 End of the Trail Sign
0.6 km
Discover the vibrant Santa Monica Pier, the iconic end of Route 66, featuring amusement rides, stunning ocean views, and a lively atmosphere perfect for tourists.
Santa Monica Pier
0.6 km
Explore the historic Santa Monica Pier, where fun meets history against the stunning backdrop of the California coastline.
Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier
0.6 km
Discover Pacific Park on Santa Monica Pier, an amusement park with thrilling rides, games, and stunning ocean views perfect for family fun and adventure.
Santa Monica Looff Hippodrome
0.6 km
Discover the charm of the Santa Monica Looff Hippodrome, a historic carousel on the iconic Ocean Front Walk, where nostalgia meets fun.
Santa Monica Pier Carousel
0.6 km
Experience a nostalgic ride on a hand-carved carousel at the Santa Monica Pier, a historic landmark offering timeless fun and breathtaking ocean views for visitors of all ages.
Heal the Bay Aquarium
0.6 km
Discover marine wonders at the Heal the Bay Aquarium in Santa Monica, where education meets conservation and oceanic beauty awaits.
Pacific Wheel
0.6 km
Experience breathtaking Pacific Ocean views from the world's first solar-powered Ferris wheel, an iconic Santa Monica Pier attraction offering eco-friendly fun and dazzling light shows.
Essential places to dine
Blue Plate Oysterette
0.4 km
Experience coastal dining at Blue Plate Oysterette in Santa Monica - where fresh seafood meets stunning ocean views.
BOA Steakhouse
0.4 km
Experience unparalleled steak perfection at BOA Steakhouse in Santa Monica - where culinary artistry meets coastal charm.
Water Grill
0.4 km
Experience exquisite seafood dining at Water Grill in Santa Monica - where fresh catches meet stunning ocean views.
Élephante
0.4 km
Discover Élephante in Santa Monica: An Italian rooftop gem serving delightful dishes with breathtaking ocean views.
UOVO | Santa Monica
0.4 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors at UOVO in Santa Monica - where fresh ingredients meet traditional recipes for an unforgettable dining experience.
Santa Monica Whaler
0.5 km
Experience coastal dining at its finest at Santa Monica Whaler - where fresh flavors meet stunning ocean views.
SUGARFISH by sushi nozawa
0.5 km
Discover exceptional sushi at SUGARFISH by sushi nozawa in Santa Monica—where quality meets tradition in every bite.
North Italia
0.5 km
Discover the authentic taste of Italy at North Italia in Santa Monica – where fresh ingredients meet classic recipes.
Meat On Ocean
0.5 km
Experience culinary excellence at Meat On Ocean - Santa Monica's premier steakhouse with stunning ocean views.
Hillstone
0.5 km
Discover culinary excellence at Hillstone in Santa Monica, where New American cuisine meets exquisite sushi in an inviting atmosphere.
The Misfit Bar & Restaurant
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of American cuisine at The Misfit Bar & Restaurant in Santa Monica - where great food meets lively ambiance.
FIG RESTAURANT
0.6 km
Experience Mediterranean flavors in a vibrant setting at FIG Restaurant in Santa Monica – where seasonal ingredients meet exceptional culinary artistry.
Wally's Santa Monica
0.6 km
Experience culinary excellence at Wally's Santa Monica – where gourmet meets coastal charm.
Seaside on the Pier
0.6 km
Experience delectable American cuisine at Seaside on the Pier with stunning ocean views and vibrant atmosphere in Santa Monica.
The Albright
0.6 km
Discover fresh seafood delights at The Albright on Santa Monica Pier, where ocean views and delicious flavors unite for an unforgettable dining experience.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Santa Monica Pier Rock Shop
0.6 km
Explore unique gifts and souvenirs at the Santa Monica Pier Rock Shop, a treasure trove of coastal charm and local craftsmanship.
Oatman Rock Shop
0.6 km
Explore the unique gifts and treasures at Oatman Rock Shop, your go-to destination for souvenirs at the iconic Santa Monica Pier.
Sand 'n Surf
0.6 km
Explore Sand 'n Surf in Santa Monica for unique gifts and souvenirs that capture the essence of California's vibrant coastal culture.
Wonders of the World
0.6 km
Discover unique souvenirs and handcrafted treasures at the Wonders of the World gift shop in Santa Monica's lively 3rd Street Promenade.
Anthropologie
0.6 km
Shop at Anthropologie in Santa Monica for a unique blend of women's fashion, beauty products, and home décor in a stunning coastal setting.
66-To-Cali
0.6 km
Explore the vibrant culture of California at 66-To-Cali, a unique gift shop in Santa Monica offering local souvenirs and trendy apparel.
Pier Gear
0.6 km
Explore Pier Gear at Santa Monica Pier for a diverse selection of unique souvenirs capturing the spirit of California's coastal charm.
Beachcomber Gift Cart
0.6 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at Beachcomber Gift Cart, your go-to gift shop on Santa Monica Pier.
LA Gift Stop
0.6 km
Explore LA Gift Stop in Santa Monica for unique gifts and treasures that embody the spirit of California's coastal charm.
Sand 'n Surf Promenade
0.6 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts at Sand 'n Surf Promenade in Santa Monica, where California coastal charm meets vibrant shopping.
Arrow Gift
0.6 km
Explore Arrow Gift in Santa Monica for a unique selection of locally crafted souvenirs and gifts, capturing the spirit of California's coastal culture.
Urban Outfitters
0.6 km
Discover Urban Outfitters in Santa Monica, where fashion meets fun with a unique blend of clothing, beauty, and home goods.
Istanbul Home
0.6 km
Explore a treasure trove of unique gifts at Istanbul Home, a vibrant shopping destination in Downtown Santa Monica.
Santa Monica Pier Bait and Tackle (Route 66 Gift Shop)
0.6 km
Explore Santa Monica Pier Bait and Tackle, your go-to gift shop for unique souvenirs and fishing supplies on the iconic Santa Monica Pier.
2 Bella boutique
0.6 km
Explore the chic 2 Bella Boutique in Santa Monica for stylish women's clothing, unique pieces, and a vibrant shopping experience on the Third Street Promenade.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Coco Club
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Coco Club, Santa Monica's premier rooftop bar and lounge with stunning ocean views and crafted cocktails.
Ye Olde King's Head
0.5 km
Discover the charm of British cuisine at Ye Olde King's Head in Santa Monica, a brewpub and tea house offering a delightful culinary experience.
THE BUNGALOW
0.5 km
Discover The Bungalow, a stylish bar and restaurant in Santa Monica offering a unique blend of relaxation, vibrant nightlife, and coastal charm.
Bar Chloe
0.6 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and unique cocktails at Bar Chloe, Santa Monica's trendy bar perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
Lanea
0.6 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Lanea, a Santa Monica cocktail bar offering delicious Mexican cuisine and live music in a chic beach setting.
Big Dean's Ocean Front Cafe
0.6 km
Experience the best of Santa Monica dining at Big Dean's Ocean Front Cafe, where fresh seafood and stunning ocean views come together.
The Backyard
0.8 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of The Backyard in Santa Monica, where crafted cocktails and coastal cuisine meet in a stunning outdoor oasis.
Esters Wine Shop & Bar
1.1 km
Experience the finest selection of wines and gourmet bites at Esters Wine Shop & Bar in Santa Monica, where every sip tells a story.
The Living Room
1.1 km
Experience the elegance of The Living Room in Santa Monica, where coastal charm meets culinary excellence and breathtaking ocean views.
Bodega Wine Bar
1.3 km
Experience the perfect blend of artisan pizzas, fine wines, and a cozy ambiance at Bodega Wine Bar in Santa Monica, California.
The Room Santa Monica
1.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Santa Monica at The Room, where exquisite cocktails meet an electrifying dance atmosphere.
The Chestnut Club - Santa Monica Bar - Cocktails - Happy Hour 5-7pm
1.9 km
Discover the vibrant cocktail culture at The Chestnut Club, a cozy bar in Santa Monica where crafted drinks and socializing come together.
Basement Tavern
2.1 km
Basement Tavern: A lively bar and American restaurant in Santa Monica, perfect for great food, drinks, and vibrant nightlife.
Jameson’s Pub
2.2 km
Discover the charm of Ireland at Jameson’s Pub in Santa Monica, where great food, drinks, and hospitality come together in a lively atmosphere.
Tavern on Main SM
2.4 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Tavern on Main SM in Santa Monica, where delicious grill dishes and a lively bar atmosphere come together.
