Santa Monica State Beach: A Coastal Paradise
Experience the beauty of Santa Monica State Beach, where golden sands meet the vibrant California coastline, perfect for sun, fun, and adventure.
Santa Monica State Beach is a stunning stretch of coastline in California, famous for its golden sands, vibrant atmosphere, and iconic pier. Ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying the stunning Pacific views, it offers a perfect escape for tourists seeking relaxation and adventure.
A brief summary to Santa Monica State Beach
- California, US
Local tips
- Arrive early to secure a good spot on the beach, especially during weekends and holidays.
- Consider renting bikes to explore the scenic coastal paths.
- Check for local events or festivals happening at the pier for added entertainment.
- Bring sunscreen and stay hydrated, as the sun can be intense during the day.
- Don’t miss the stunning sunset views; it's a perfect backdrop for photos.
Getting There
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Public Bus
From any central location in Glendale, head to the nearest bus stop. Look for Metro Bus Line 92 or Line 180, which will take you towards the West. Board the bus and ride for approximately 30-40 minutes. You will pass through Burbank and eventually reach the stop at the intersection of Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) and Santa Monica Boulevard. From there, it's a short walk to Santa Monica State Beach. Follow Santa Monica Boulevard towards the beach, and you will see the entrance within a few blocks.
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Metro Train
Make your way to the nearest Metro Station in Glendale, which is the Glendale Station. From there, take the Metro Red Line towards Union Station. Transfer at Union Station to the Metro Expo Line towards Santa Monica. After approximately 50 minutes, you will arrive at the Downtown Santa Monica Station. From the station, walk west on Colorado Avenue for about 10 minutes, and you will reach Santa Monica State Beach.
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Rideshare Service (e.g., Uber, Lyft)
If you're looking for a more direct and convenient option, you can use a rideshare service. Open the app and set your pickup location in Glendale. Enter 'Santa Monica State Beach' as your destination. The ride will typically take around 25-35 minutes, depending on traffic. The driver will drop you off near the beach entrance.
Discover more about Santa Monica State Beach
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Will Rogers Highway Marker
0.3 km
Discover the rich history of Route 66 at the iconic Will Rogers Highway Marker in Santa Monica, a perfect blend of nostalgia and coastal charm.
Beach Crossing Staircase
0.4 km
Explore the Beach Crossing Staircase in Santa Monica, a historical landmark connecting the beach with the city, offering stunning ocean views and rich architectural charm.
Miramar Moreton Bay Fig Tree
0.5 km
Discover the grandeur of the Miramar Moreton Bay Fig Tree, a historical landmark in Santa Monica that offers beauty, history, and tranquility.
Clock Tower Building
0.5 km
Discover the Clock Tower Building in Santa Monica: a unique shopping mall blending style, dining, and vibrant coastal culture.
Downtown Santa Monica
0.6 km
Experience the perfect blend of shopping, dining, and beachside fun at Downtown Santa Monica, California's coastal gem.
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.
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 Chess Park, a charming beachfront community hub in Santa Monica, perfect for chess lovers and those seeking relaxation by the ocean.
Original Muscle Beach Santa Monica
0.8 km
Discover Santa Monica's Original Muscle Beach, a historic landmark blending fitness, fun, and the vibrant culture of California's coastline.
Surf City Tours
0.8 km
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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
Experience the tranquility and recreational charm of Christine Emerson Reed Park, a serene escape in the heart of Santa Monica, California.
Unmissable attractions to see
Santa Monica Beach
0.1 km
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Santa Monica Statue
0.4 km
Discover the Santa Monica Statue, a stunning cultural landmark that embodies California's rich history amidst breathtaking coastal views.
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
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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
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Santa Monica Pier Carousel
0.6 km
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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
Discover the Pacific Wheel at Santa Monica Pier: An eco-friendly Ferris wheel with stunning ocean views, perfect for an unforgettable experience.
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
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UOVO | Santa Monica
0.4 km
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Santa Monica Whaler
0.5 km
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SUGARFISH by sushi nozawa
0.5 km
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North Italia
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Meat On Ocean
0.5 km
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Hillstone
0.5 km
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The Misfit Bar & Restaurant
0.5 km
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FIG RESTAURANT
0.6 km
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Wally's Santa Monica
0.6 km
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Seaside on the Pier
0.6 km
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The Albright
0.6 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Santa Monica Pier Rock Shop
0.6 km
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Oatman Rock Shop
0.6 km
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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
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Beachcomber Gift Cart
0.6 km
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LA Gift Stop
0.6 km
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Sand 'n Surf Promenade
0.6 km
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Arrow Gift
0.6 km
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Urban Outfitters
0.6 km
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Istanbul Home
0.6 km
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Santa Monica Pier Bait and Tackle (Route 66 Gift Shop)
0.6 km
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2 Bella boutique
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Coco Club
0.4 km
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Ye Olde King's Head
0.5 km
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THE BUNGALOW
0.5 km
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Bar Chloe
0.6 km
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Lanea
0.6 km
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Big Dean's Ocean Front Cafe
0.6 km
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The Backyard
0.8 km
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Esters Wine Shop & Bar
1.1 km
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The Living Room
1.1 km
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Bodega Wine Bar
1.3 km
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The Room Santa Monica
1.9 km
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The Chestnut Club - Santa Monica Bar - Cocktails - Happy Hour 5-7pm
1.9 km
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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
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Tavern on Main SM
2.4 km
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