Pacific Park: Santa Monica Pier's Thrill Center
Experience classic seaside thrills and breathtaking ocean views at Pacific Park, the iconic amusement park on the historic Santa Monica Pier, offering fun for the whole family.
Pacific Park, gracing the iconic Santa Monica Pier, is a vibrant amusement park offering classic seaside thrills and stunning ocean views. As the only amusement park on the West Coast situated directly on a pier, it provides a unique experience with its blend of vintage charm and modern excitement. From the solar-powered Pacific Wheel offering panoramic coastal vistas to the exhilarating West Coaster roller coaster, Pacific Park features a variety of rides, midway games, and food outlets to entertain visitors of all ages. Its historical significance, combined with its lively atmosphere, makes it a must-visit destination for those seeking a quintessential California experience. Whether you're enjoying the adrenaline rush of the rides or simply soaking in the lively boardwalk ambiance, Pacific Park encapsulates the spirit of Santa Monica.
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-9 pm
- Tuesday 11 am-9 pm
- Wednesday 11 am-9 pm
- Thursday 11 am-9 pm
- Friday 11 am-10 pm
- Saturday 11 am-10 pm
- Sunday 11 am-9 pm
Local tips
- Visit during the late afternoon or early evening for stunning sunset views from the Pacific Wheel.
- Consider purchasing an unlimited ride wristband if you plan to experience multiple rides to save money.
- Check the Pacific Park website for special events, promotions, and seasonal hours before your visit.
- Explore the Santa Monica Pier beyond Pacific Park, including the Heal the Bay Aquarium and the historic carousel.
- Utilize public transportation or ride-sharing services to avoid parking hassles, especially during peak season.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Downtown Santa Monica Expo Line Station (4th St and Colorado Ave), walk west on Colorado Avenue towards the ocean. Cross Ocean Avenue and continue onto the Santa Monica Pier. Pacific Park is located in the middle of the pier. The walk is approximately 10 minutes and offers scenic views. Note that the pier is wheelchair accessible.
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Public Transport
Several Big Blue Bus and Metro bus lines stop near the Santa Monica Pier at Ocean Avenue and Colorado Avenue. From the bus stop, walk onto the pier. Bus fares are typically $1.25 (Big Blue Bus) or $1.75 (Metro) per ride. Check the Big Blue Bus or Metro websites for specific routes and schedules.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Request a taxi or ride-share (Uber/Lyft) to drop you off at the intersection of Ocean Avenue and Colorado Avenue, the entrance to the Santa Monica Pier. From there, walk onto the pier to reach Pacific Park. Expect to pay around $10-15 for a short ride within Santa Monica, but prices may vary depending on demand.
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Driving
If driving, approach the pier via Ocean Avenue. Turn onto Colorado Avenue to access the pier entrance and parking. Parking is available on the pier deck and in nearby beach lots. Pier deck parking costs vary from $2.50 for up to an hour to $12 for the daily maximum. Beach lots range from $6 to $15 per day. Be aware that parking fills up quickly, especially on weekends and sunny days. Consider parking in Downtown Santa Monica and walking to the pier.
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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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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Old Rte 66,
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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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True Food Kitchen
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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
Big Dean's Ocean Front Cafe
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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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Bodega Wine Bar
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Basement Tavern
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Jameson’s Pub
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Tavern on Main SM
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Library Alehouse
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