Santa Monica Pier Arch: An Iconic Gateway

An iconic gateway to seaside fun, the Santa Monica Pier Arch welcomes visitors to a historic landmark filled with amusement park thrills, classic charm, and breathtaking ocean views.

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Santa Monica Pier Arch

The Santa Monica Pier Arch, a vibrant and welcoming landmark, marks the entrance to the historic Santa Monica Pier. Erected in 1941, this Streamline Moderne-style sign has become synonymous with the pier and the city itself, appearing in countless films and photographs. More than just a sign, it's a symbol of Southern California's beach culture and the enduring appeal of classic seaside entertainment. Welcoming millions of visitors each year, the arch beckons you to experience the amusement park, the historic carousel, the aquarium, restaurants, shops, and the vibrant atmosphere that makes the Santa Monica Pier a must-see destination. Whether you're strolling along the pier, enjoying the ocean views, or seeking thrills on the rides, the Santa Monica Pier Arch stands as a reminder of the pier's rich history and its continued role as a beloved gathering place.

A brief summary to Santa Monica Pier Arch

81-99 Colorado Ave, Santa Monica, California, 90401, US

Monday 12 am-12 am
Tuesday 12 am-12 am
Wednesday 12 am-12 am
Thursday 12 am-12 am
Friday 12 am-12 am
Saturday 12 am-12 am
Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

Visit during the week or early in the day to avoid large crowds, especially during peak season and holidays.
Take advantage of the free activities, such as strolling along the pier, enjoying the street performers, and watching the sunset.
Consider using public transportation or biking to the pier, as parking can be limited and expensive.
Check the pier's event calendar for special events, concerts, and movie screenings.
Visit Heal the Bay Aquarium to discover local marine life.

Getting There

Walking

From the Downtown Santa Monica Expo Line station (4th and Colorado Ave), head west on Colorado Avenue towards the pier. Cross Ocean Avenue and continue onto the pier via the pedestrian access sidewalk. The arch is located at the entrance of the pier. The walk is approximately 10 minutes.
Public Transport

Several Big Blue Bus and Metro bus lines stop near the pier at Ocean Avenue and Colorado Avenue. From the bus stop, walk west on Colorado Avenue towards the pier. The arch is located at the entrance of the pier. Bus fares are typically $1.25-$1.75 per ride.
Taxi/Ride-Share

Request a drop-off at the intersection of Ocean Avenue and Colorado Avenue, which is the closest point to the pier entrance. From there, walk west on Colorado Avenue towards the pier. The arch is located at the entrance. A short ride from downtown Santa Monica will typically cost $7-$12, depending on traffic.
Driving

From the I-10 Freeway, exit at 4th Street and turn left onto Colorado Avenue. Follow Colorado Avenue west towards the ocean. To park on the pier, take the ramp down to the pier parking deck at the intersection of Ocean Avenue and Colorado Avenue. Alternatively, parking is available at nearby beach lots (Lot 1 North) and downtown parking structures. Parking rates vary, with pier deck rates ranging from $2.50 to $3.75, beach lots charging a flat fee (typically $15-$18 per day), and downtown structures offering free parking for the first 90 minutes, with a daily maximum of $17-$20 on weekends.

Discover more about Santa Monica Pier Arch

The Santa Monica Pier Arch is more than just a sign; it's an iconic gateway to a world of seaside fun and nostalgia. Standing proudly at the entrance of the Santa Monica Pier, this vibrant archway welcomes visitors to a historic landmark that has captivated generations. Originally erected in 1941 by the Santa Monica Businessmen's Association, the arch was designed to promote the pier as a tourist destination. The Pan-Pacific Neon Sign company brought the vision to life, crafting a Streamline Moderne-style sign that has since become synonymous with the pier and the city itself. The sign initially read "Santa Monica Yacht Harbor – Sport Fishing – Boating – Cafes", reflecting the pier's attractions at the time. While the yacht harbor is no longer present, the sign remains a testament to the pier's evolving history. The arch's design is a classic example of neon-era signage, featuring a curved shape and vibrant blue, white, and gold paint. Standing approximately twenty feet high at its highest point and thirty-five feet wide, the sign is supported by a sturdy steel lattice frame. Its welcoming presence has made it a favorite subject for photographers and filmmakers, solidifying its place as an internationally recognized landmark. The Santa Monica Pier itself boasts a rich and diverse history. The longer, slender portion on the north side was built in 1909 as the Municipal Pier. Originally, it served as a conduit for the city's sewage to be pumped out into the bay, while also providing a pleasant space for walking and fishing. In 1916, the southern portion of the pier was constructed by amusement entrepreneur Charles Looff, featuring rides and the Looff Hippodrome, which houses a historic carousel and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Over the years, the pier has undergone numerous transformations. During the Great Depression, the amusement portion of the pier faced financial difficulties, while the Municipal Pier continued to attract visitors for fishing. In the 1930s, a breakwater was built to create the Santa Monica Yacht Harbor, although this endeavor was short-lived. During World War II, the pier adapted to new uses, including dances for servicemen and shelter for troops. In the 1970s, a proposal to demolish the pier sparked a grassroots movement to save it, leading to the establishment of a Landmarks and Historic District Ordinance in Santa Monica. The pier was designated a City of Santa Monica Landmark in 1976, ensuring its preservation for future generations. Today, the Santa Monica Pier is a vibrant hub of activity, attracting millions of visitors each year. Pacific Park, an amusement park located on the pier, offers thrilling rides and classic carnival games. The historic carousel continues to delight visitors of all ages, while the Heal the Bay Aquarium provides an opportunity to learn about marine life. Numerous restaurants and shops offer a variety of dining and shopping options. The Santa Monica Pier Arch stands as a symbol of the pier's enduring appeal and its significance as a cultural landmark. It represents the pier's rich history, its evolution over time, and its continued role as a beloved gathering place for locals and tourists alike. As you pass under the arch, you're entering a world of fun, nostalgia, and unforgettable experiences. The pier is open daily from 6 am to 10 pm, offering ample time to explore its many attractions. While there is no admission fee to enter the pier, individual attractions and rides may require tickets or wristbands. Getting to the pier is easy, with various transportation options available, including public transportation, biking, and driving. Parking is available on the pier and in nearby lots, but it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and holidays. The Santa Monica Pier Arch is more than just a landmark; it's an invitation to experience the magic of the Santa Monica Pier. Come and discover the history, the excitement, and the timeless appeal of this iconic destination. Accessibility is a key consideration at the Santa Monica Pier. Upgrades have been made to ensure that visitors of all abilities can enjoy the pier's attractions. These include a wheelchair-friendly deck path, a new chariot on the historic carousel, and new entrance ramps at Heal the Bay Aquarium and Mariasol restaurant. Accessible parking is available in Beach Lot 1 North, near the elevator at Bubba Gump Shrimp Company, and in Lot 1-S 1640 Appian Way, near wheelchair-accessible ramps. The Santa Monica Pier Arch has been featured in countless films, television shows, and commercials, further cementing its status as a cultural icon. Its image is instantly recognizable around the world, evoking feelings of nostalgia, excitement, and the quintessential Southern California beach experience. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned local, the Santa Monica Pier Arch is a must-see landmark that embodies the spirit of Santa Monica. Its welcoming presence invites you to step into a world of fun, history, and unforgettable memories. As you stroll along the pier, take in the breathtaking ocean views, enjoy the thrilling rides, and savor the delicious food, you'll understand why the Santa Monica Pier Arch has become such an enduring symbol of Southern California's beach culture.

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Santa Monica Pier Arch: An Iconic Gateway

A brief summary to Santa Monica Pier Arch

Local tips

Getting There

Walking

Public Transport

Taxi/Ride-Share

Driving

Unlock the Best of Santa Monica Pier Arch

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Santa Monica Pier Arch

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Beach Crossing Staircase

Santa Monica Place

City of Santa Monica

Will Rogers Highway Marker

Pacific Wheel

Santa Monica Pier

Clock Tower Building

Downtown Santa Monica

Viceroy Santa Monica

Santa Monica Civic Auditorium

Historic Belmar Park

Crescent Bay Park

Santa Monica Statue

Edwin Building

Santa Monica History Museum

Unmissable attractions to see

Yacht Harbour, Santa Monica

Santa Monica Street Art

Heal the Bay Aquarium

The Bike Center Santa Monica

Santa Monica Looff Hippodrome

Santa Monica Pier Carousel

Surf City Tours

Tongva Park

Chess Park

Camera Obscura Art Lab

Original Muscle Beach Santa Monica

Sci-Fi World

Route 66 End of the Trail Sign

Route 66 End of the Trail

Cayton Children's Museum

Essential places to dine

The Lobster

RED O CANTINA

Bruno's Italian Restaurant

Seaside on the Pier

Chez Jay

Meat On Ocean

True Food Kitchen

The Albright

Santa Monica Whaler

LouLou Santa Monica

North Italia

THE Curious PALATE

Water Grill

Sol Agave - santa monica

BOA Steakhouse

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Gift & Souvenirs Santa Monica

66-To-Cali

Sand 'n Surf

Free People

LA Gift Stop

Santa Monica Pier Rock Shop

Oatman Rock Shop

UNIQLO Santa Monica Place

Johnny Was

Beachcomber Gift Cart

Urban Outfitters

Pier Gear

Anthropologie

Wonders of the World

Santa Monica Pier Bait and Tackle (Route 66 Gift Shop)

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Big Dean's Ocean Front Cafe

The Backyard