Original Muscle Beach: The Birthplace of Fitness
Visit the birthplace of the physical fitness boom in Santa Monica, where sun, sand, and sweat meet history on the iconic Ocean Front Walk.
The Original Muscle Beach in Santa Monica is a historic outdoor fitness area that started the physical fitness boom in the United States. Once a simple playground, it became a hub for gymnasts, acrobats, and bodybuilders. Today, it's a place where fitness enthusiasts and tourists can enjoy the sun, sea, and a bit of retro workout equipment.
A brief summary to Original Muscle Beach Santa Monica
- Ocean Front Walk, Santa Monica, California, 90401, US
- +1800-544-5319
- Visit website
- 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
- Arrive early for a quieter experience and a chance to see the sunrise over the ocean.
- Bring a camera to capture the acrobatic performances and the lively atmosphere.
- Check the local event calendar for fitness competitions or beach volleyball games.
- Metered parking near the beach accepts credit cards, and the first 90 minutes are free in downtown structures.
- Be courteous and share the equipment; regulars often offer tips and chalk.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Santa Monica Pier, walk south along Ocean Front Walk. Original Muscle Beach is a short distance away, located south of the pier, next to the volleyball courts. The walk is flat and takes about 5-10 minutes. There are no costs associated with this approach.
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Public Transport
If arriving by the Big Blue Bus, get off at the Ocean Ave & Colorado Ave stop. Walk south on Ocean Avenue toward the pier, then turn left onto Ocean Front Walk and continue south. The walk is approximately 5 minutes. A single ride on the Big Blue Bus is $1.25 for regular riders. Seniors, disabled individuals, and Medicare riders pay $0.50. Note that fares are expected to increase in August 2025 to $1.50 for regular riders and $0.60 for senior, disabled, and Medicare riders using TAP cards or mobile payment.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Request a taxi or ride-share to Ocean Front Walk near the Santa Monica Pier. From the drop-off point, walk south along Ocean Front Walk to reach Original Muscle Beach. A short taxi ride from downtown Santa Monica typically costs $7 to $9, depending on traffic.
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Driving
If driving, parking is available at the Santa Monica Pier deck or in nearby beach lots. From the pier parking, walk south along Ocean Front Walk to Original Muscle Beach. Parking costs vary: Pier deck parking ranges from $2.50 to $12 per day. Beach lots typically charge between $6 and $15 per day. Metered street parking is also available, costing $1.25 to $2.50 per hour with a 2-hour time limit.
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Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Downtown Santa Monica
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Santa Monica Statue
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Edwin Building
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Route 66 End of the Trail
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Santa Monica Pier Arch
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Pacific Wheel
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The Albright
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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