Pacific Park: Santa Monica Pier's Thrill Center
Experience classic seaside thrills and breathtaking ocean views at Pacific Park, the vibrant amusement park on the iconic Santa Monica Pier, offering fun for the whole family.
Pacific Park, perched on the iconic Santa Monica Pier, is a vibrant amusement park offering classic seaside thrills and stunning ocean views. Since 1996, it has been a family-friendly destination featuring a solar-powered Ferris wheel, a thrilling roller coaster, and a variety of midway games and food options. With its lively atmosphere and appearances in numerous movies and TV shows, Pacific Park embodies the quintessential Southern California beach experience, drawing millions of visitors annually. Whether you're seeking adrenaline-pumping rides or a nostalgic stroll along the pier, Pacific Park promises a memorable day of fun and entertainment.
A brief summary to Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier
- 380 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, California, 90401, US
- +1310-260-8744
- Visit website
- Monday 11 am-7 pm
- Tuesday 12 pm-7 pm
- Wednesday 12 pm-7 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-7 pm
- Friday 11 am-10 pm
- Saturday 11 am-10 pm
- Sunday 11 am-10 pm
Local tips
- Visit during the late afternoon or early evening for stunning sunset views from the Pacific Wheel.
- Check the Pacific Park website for special events and promotions before your visit.
- Consider purchasing a wristband for unlimited rides if you plan to experience multiple attractions.
- Take advantage of the accessible parking options and pathways for a smooth visit.
- Explore the Santa Monica Pier's other attractions, including the historic carousel and Heal the Bay Aquarium.
Getting There
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Public Transport
For those arriving via the Metro E Line, disembark at the Downtown Santa Monica Station. From there, walk west along Colorado Avenue for approximately 10 minutes. You'll cross Ocean Avenue and then proceed onto the Santa Monica Pier bridge, leading directly to Pacific Park. A regular adult fare on the Metro is $1.75 and includes two hours of free transfers. Alternatively, several Big Blue Bus lines serve the pier, stopping at Ocean and Colorado. Local trips are $1.25 each way. Check metro.net or bigbluebus.com for schedules.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
If arriving by taxi or ride-share, request drop-off at the intersection of Ocean Avenue and Colorado Avenue. From there, it's a short walk west onto the Santa Monica Pier. Expect to pay around $10-15 for a short ride from downtown Santa Monica, depending on traffic.
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Driving
If driving, approach the pier via the ramp located at Ocean Avenue and Colorado Avenue. Limited parking is available on the pier itself (Monday-Thursday 9AM-8PM), but it fills up quickly. Alternative parking is available at the nearby Beach Lot 1 North (1550 Appian Way). Parking rates vary, so check the City of Santa Monica Parking website for updated information. Expect to pay a premium for parking close to the pier, especially on weekends and during peak season.
Discover more about Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Beach Crossing Staircase
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Will Rogers Highway Marker
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Santa Monica Place
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City of Santa Monica
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Viceroy Santa Monica
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Clock Tower Building
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Crescent Bay Park
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Santa Monica Civic Auditorium
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Downtown Santa Monica
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Historic Belmar Park
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Santa Monica Statue
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Miramar Moreton Bay Fig Tree
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Edwin Building
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Horatio Court (Point of Interest - Architecture)
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Santa Monica History Museum
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Unmissable attractions to see
Pacific Wheel
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West Coaster
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Santa Monica Pier
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Route 66 End of the Trail Sign
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Route 66 End of the Trail
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Santa Monica Pier Carousel
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Santa Monica Looff Hippodrome
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Heal the Bay Aquarium
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Original Muscle Beach Santa Monica
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Chess Park
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Santa Monica Pier Arch
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Yacht Harbour, Santa Monica
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Surf City Tours
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Essential places to dine
The Albright
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Seaside on the Pier
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The Lobster
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Bruno's Italian Restaurant
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RED O CANTINA
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Chez Jay
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Meat On Ocean
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Santa Monica Whaler
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1 Pico
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Water Grill
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North Italia
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Coast
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LouLou Santa Monica
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Pier Gear
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Beachcomber Gift Cart
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Santa Monica Pier Rock Shop
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Oatman Rock Shop
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66-To-Cali
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Santa Monica Pier Bait and Tackle (Route 66 Gift Shop)
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Gift & Souvenirs Santa Monica
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Sand 'n Surf
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LA Gift Stop
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Free People
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UNIQLO Santa Monica Place
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Johnny Was
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Urban Outfitters
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Anthropologie
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Wonders of the World
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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The Backyard
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The Living Room
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Bar Chloe
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The Coco Club
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THE BUNGALOW
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