Ocean View Park: Santa Monica's Coastal Retreat
Discover Ocean View Park in Santa Monica: a coastal oasis with stunning ocean views, sports facilities, and a vibrant connection to Main Street, perfect for relaxation and recreation.
Ocean View Park, nestled in Santa Monica's Ocean Park neighborhood, offers a refreshing escape with its stunning Pacific Ocean vistas and a wealth of recreational opportunities. This well-maintained park features expansive grassy areas perfect for picnics and relaxation, along with sports facilities including basketball and tennis courts. A unique spiral walkway leads to Ashland Walk, connecting visitors to Main Street's vibrant shops and restaurants. Whether you're seeking a tranquil spot to watch the sunset, engage in a friendly game, or simply enjoy the coastal ambiance, Ocean View Park provides an idyllic setting for locals and tourists alike. Open daily from sunrise to late evening, it's a versatile destination for morning jogs, afternoon picnics, or evening strolls, embodying the quintessential Southern California outdoor lifestyle. The park's dog-friendly policy (on leash) makes it a popular spot for pet owners, further enhancing its community appeal. With its blend of natural beauty and recreational amenities, Ocean View Park is a must-visit destination in Santa Monica.
A brief summary to Ocean View Park
- 2701 Barnard Way, Santa Monica, Ocean Park, California, 90405, US
- +1310-458-8300
- Visit website
- Monday 6 am-11 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-11 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-11 pm
- Thursday 6 am-11 pm
- Friday 6 am-11 pm
- Saturday 6 am-11 pm
- Sunday 6 am-11 pm
Local tips
- Visit during sunset for breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean as the sky transforms into a vibrant canvas of colors.
- Pack a picnic and enjoy a relaxing meal on the expansive grassy areas, taking in the serene coastal ambiance.
- Take a stroll along Ashland Walk, accessible via the spiral walkway, to explore the shops and restaurants on Main Street.
- Bring your dog (on a leash) for a walk or playtime in the park's dog-friendly environment.
- Utilize the park's sports facilities, such as the basketball and tennis courts, for an active and fun-filled day.
Getting There
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Walking
From the intersection of Main Street and Ocean Park Boulevard, walk west towards the ocean. Continue on Ocean Park Boulevard for approximately three blocks until you reach Barnard Way. Ocean View Park will be directly in front of you, spanning north and south along the coastline. This is a straightforward walk of about 10-15 minutes, offering a pleasant stroll through the Ocean Park neighborhood.
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Public Transport
If arriving via the Big Blue Bus, several routes stop near Ocean View Park. The closest stops are along Main Street. From a Main Street stop, walk west on Ocean Park Boulevard or Ashland Avenue towards the ocean. The park is a short walk from either of these streets. A single ride on the Big Blue Bus costs $1.25 for regular riders. Senior, disabled, and Medicare riders pay $0.60. Cash payments are accepted, but contactless payments with a TAP card or mobile ticket are encouraged for free transfers.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Request a taxi or ride-share to 2701 Barnard Way, Santa Monica, CA 90405. This will drop you off directly in front of Ocean View Park. A short ride from downtown Santa Monica (e.g., from the Third Street Promenade) will typically cost between $8 and $15, depending on traffic and surge pricing.
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Driving
When driving, navigate to Ocean View Park at 2701 Barnard Way, Santa Monica, CA 90405. Limited street parking is available in the surrounding neighborhood, but it can be challenging to find a spot, especially during peak hours. Several parking lots are located near the park, including Lot 5 South at 2701 Barnard Way. Parking costs vary, with beach parking lots typically charging between $7 and $18 per day, depending on the season and day of the week. Metered street parking costs between $1 and $2.50 per hour, with enforcement from 12 AM to 11 PM Monday through Sunday.
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