Tongva Park: A Santa Monica Oasis

Tongva Park, located at 1615 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica, California, is a meticulously designed 6.2-acre park that provides a refreshing escape from the urban environment. Opened on October 13, 2013, the park is named in honor of the Tongva people, the original inhabitants of the Los Angeles area, recognizing their deep connection to the land. The park's design, by James Corner Field Operations (who also worked on the High Line in New York City), draws inspiration from the arroyo landscape of Santa Monica, featuring rolling hills, braided pathways, and diverse native plants. The park is divided into four main sections: Observation Hill, offering panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Monica Pier; Discovery Hill, a children's play area with a splash pad; Garden Hill, showcasing a variety of plants and gardens; and Gathering Hill, a community gathering space. Visitors can explore unique structures, including steel cocoons that provide shaded picnic spots and a conch-like, wireframe lookout. Public art, such as Iñigo Manglano-Ovalle's kinetic sculpture, Weather Field, adds to the park's charm. Notable trees include "Morty," a large Moreton Bay Fig Tree, and the "Three Amigos," three Rusty Fig trees, which were relocated to the park. Tongva Park also offers amenities such as walking paths, restrooms, free Wi-Fi, and an amphitheater for performances. The splash pad is open from Memorial Day through summer. Smoking is prohibited in the park.