Palisades Park: Santa Monica's Oceanfront Oasis
Discover breathtaking ocean views, public art, and historic landmarks in Santa Monica's iconic Palisades Park, a 26-acre oasis offering a tranquil escape along Ocean Avenue.
Palisades Park, a 26-acre haven perched atop the bluffs of Ocean Avenue in Santa Monica, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the coastal mountains. This iconic park, gifted to the city in 1892, stretches for 1.6 miles, providing a serene escape with walking paths, gardens, public art, and historic landmarks. Visitors can explore the Camera Obscura Art Lab, admire the Statue of Santa Monica, and discover diverse tree species. With its accessible pathways, picnic areas, and convenient location near the Santa Monica Pier and Third Street Promenade, Palisades Park is a must-visit destination for tourists seeking natural beauty and tranquility in the heart of Santa Monica. It's a place to relax, soak in the scenery, and enjoy the quintessential Southern California vibe.
A brief summary to Palisades Park
- Ocean Ave, Santa Monica, North of Montana, California, 90401, US
- +1310-458-8300
- Visit website
- Monday 5:30 am-11 pm
- Tuesday 5:30 am-11 pm
- Wednesday 5:30 am-11 pm
- Thursday 5:30 am-11 pm
- Friday 5:30 am-11 pm
- Saturday 5:30 am-11 pm
- Sunday 6 am-11:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit during sunset for spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean and the coastline. The park's western exposure makes it an ideal spot to watch the sun dip below the horizon.
- Explore the Camera Obscura Art Lab for a unique historical perspective on photography and optics. It's a hidden gem within the park that offers a fascinating glimpse into the past.
- Take a stroll through the rose garden to admire the diverse collection of rose species. The garden is especially beautiful during the spring and summer months when the roses are in full bloom.
- Pack a picnic and enjoy a meal at one of the park's picnic areas. The park offers stunning views and a relaxing atmosphere for a memorable outdoor dining experience.
- Check the local events calendar for outdoor concerts, art exhibitions, and other community events that take place in the park throughout the year.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Santa Monica Pier, head north along Ocean Avenue. Palisades Park stretches for 1.6 miles along the bluffs overlooking the ocean. The walk from the pier to the northern end of the park takes approximately 20-30 minutes, offering scenic views along the way. Note the California Incline, a pedestrian and vehicle bridge connecting Ocean Avenue to the Pacific Coast Highway below, as a landmark. The park is directly accessible from Ocean Avenue.
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Public Transport
The Big Blue Bus provides convenient access to Palisades Park. Several bus lines stop along Ocean Avenue, which runs adjacent to the park. From Downtown Santa Monica, take any Big Blue Bus that travels north on Ocean Avenue. A single ride fare is $1.25, with discounts available for seniors, disabled individuals, and Medicare recipients. As of August 2025, the fare will increase to $1.50. Day passes are also available for $4, offering unlimited rides for the day.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft provide a convenient way to reach Palisades Park. Simply request a ride to Ocean Avenue in Santa Monica, near Palisades Park. From Santa Monica Pier, a taxi or ride-share will cost approximately $7-$9 and take only a few minutes, depending on traffic. Be aware of potential surge pricing during peak hours.
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Driving
If driving, navigate to Ocean Avenue in Santa Monica. Note that Palisades Park does not have designated on-site parking. Metered street parking is available along Ocean Avenue, but it can be limited, especially during weekends and holidays. Parking is also available in nearby parking structures, such as those near the Third Street Promenade. Metered parking costs approximately $1-3 per hour, with varying time limits. Parking in nearby structures can range from $12.80 per hour to a daily maximum of $28.80.
Discover more about Palisades Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Idaho Gate
0.4 km
Explore Idaho Gate, a historic landmark in Santa Monica, showcasing the city's rich history and stunning coastal views.
Ocean Ave Stairs of Santa Monica
0.8 km
Experience the beauty and history of the Ocean Ave Stairs in Santa Monica, where stunning ocean views meet a charming coastal atmosphere.
Ocean Pacific Coast Stairs
0.9 km
Ascend to breathtaking Pacific Ocean views on Santa Monica's iconic Ocean Pacific Coast Stairs, a scenic workout blending history and coastal charm in Pacific Palisades.
Miramar Moreton Bay Fig Tree
0.9 km
Discover Santa Monica's iconic Miramar Moreton Bay Fig Tree, a majestic landmark with a rich history and stunning natural beauty, offering a tranquil escape in the heart of the city.
Edwin Building
1.1 km
Discover the Edwin Building, a historical landmark in Santa Monica showcasing architectural beauty and cultural heritage amidst vibrant surroundings, designed by Paul Revere Williams.
Christine Emerson Reed Park
1.2 km
Discover a vibrant community hub in Santa Monica's Christine Emerson Reed Park, offering recreation, culture, and relaxation for all ages, nestled between the city's bustling streets.
Downtown Santa Monica
1.4 km
Experience the best of Southern California in Downtown Santa Monica: sun-kissed beaches, vibrant shopping, diverse dining, and iconic attractions all steps from the Pacific Ocean.
Will Rogers Highway Marker
1.4 km
Commemorating the iconic Route 66 and the beloved Will Rogers, this Santa Monica marker offers a glimpse into America's open road spirit and a tribute to a legendary entertainer.
Clock Tower Building
1.4 km
Discover Santa Monica's iconic Clock Tower Building: an Art Deco masterpiece with a rich history, offering a blend of architectural beauty and modern attractions in the heart of downtown.
Beach Crossing Staircase
1.6 km
Discover Santa Monica's coastal charm at the Beach Crossing Staircase, a historical landmark offering stunning ocean views and a seamless connection between city life and beach serenity.
Old Santa Monica Forestry Station
1.6 km
Discover California's first experimental forestry station in Santa Monica's Rustic Canyon, a peaceful retreat with historic eucalyptus groves and access to scenic hiking trails.
Old Rte 66,
1.7 km
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Santa Monica Place
1.7 km
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Route 66 End of the Trail
1.9 km
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Heal the Bay Aquarium
1.9 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Annenberg Community Beach House
0.4 km
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Santa Monica State Beach
0.5 km
Experience the quintessential Southern California beach lifestyle at Santa Monica State Beach: sun, sand, iconic pier, and endless activities await along this famous coastline.
Santa Monica Statue
1.0 km
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Santa Monica Art Museum
1.2 km
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Farmers Market - Wednesday/Saturday Downtown Santa Monica
1.3 km
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Santa Monica Beach
1.4 km
Experience the quintessential Southern California beach lifestyle at Santa Monica Beach, where sun, sand, and iconic attractions create unforgettable memories along the Pacific Coast.
Santa Monica Public Library
1.6 km
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Santa Monica History Museum
1.6 km
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Camera Obscura Art Lab
1.6 km
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Santa Monica
1.7 km
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Cayton Children's Museum
1.8 km
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Greetings from Santa Monica Mural
1.9 km
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The Bike Center Santa Monica
1.9 km
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Yacht Harbour, Santa Monica
1.9 km
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Santa Monica Pier Arch
1.9 km
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.
Essential places to dine
The Penthouse
0.9 km
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FIG RESTAURANT
0.9 km
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Michael's
1.0 km
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Hillstone
1.1 km
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Wally's Santa Monica
1.1 km
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1212 Santa Monica
1.1 km
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Rosti Tuscan Kitchen - Santa Monica
1.2 km
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Art's Table
1.2 km
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Lobster & Beer Santa Monica
1.2 km
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UOVO | Santa Monica
1.3 km
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Colapasta Restaurant
1.3 km
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Élephante
1.4 km
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Blue Plate Oysterette
1.4 km
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SUGARFISH by sushi nozawa
1.4 km
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BOA Steakhouse
1.4 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Arrow Gift
1.1 km
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Estell Boutique
1.1 km
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Lucky Penny General Store
1.2 km
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Istanbul Home
1.2 km
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2 Bella boutique
1.2 km
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The Acorn Store
1.2 km
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Divine Vintage Santa Monica
1.3 km
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Sand 'n Surf Promenade
1.3 km
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Wonders of the World
1.4 km
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Anthropologie
1.5 km
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Brentwood General Store
1.5 km
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American Cancer Society Discovery Shop - Santa Monica, CA
1.5 km
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Urban Outfitters
1.6 km
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Timeless Symbols
1.6 km
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LA Gift Stop
1.6 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
THE BUNGALOW
1.0 km
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The Coco Club
1.3 km
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Ye Olde King's Head
1.5 km
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Esters Wine Shop & Bar
1.5 km
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Bar Chloe
1.6 km
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Lanea
1.6 km
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Big Dean's Ocean Front Cafe
1.9 km
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Bodega Wine Bar
1.9 km
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The Backyard
2.0 km
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The Room Santa Monica
2.1 km
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The Chestnut Club - Santa Monica Bar - Cocktails - Happy Hour 5-7pm
2.2 km
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The Living Room
2.4 km
Experience the elegance of The Living Room in Santa Monica, where coastal charm meets culinary excellence and breathtaking ocean views.
Basement Tavern
3.4 km
Basement Tavern: A lively bar and American restaurant in Santa Monica, perfect for great food, drinks, and vibrant nightlife.
Jameson’s Pub
3.5 km
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Tavern on Main SM
3.7 km
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