Palisades Park: Santa Monica's Scenic Coastal Retreat
Discover breathtaking ocean views, public art, and a tranquil escape at Santa Monica's iconic Palisades Park.
Palisades Park is a 26-acre clifftop park in Santa Monica, California, offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Monica Bay. This iconic park features walking paths, gardens, public art, and historic monuments, making it a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike.
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.
- Explore the park's public art installations, including the Santa Monica statue and the Native American totem pole.
- Bring a picnic and enjoy a relaxing meal at one of the park's picnic areas.
- Check out the Camera Obscura Art Lab for a unique artistic experience.
- Take advantage of the park's accessibility features, including paved paths and accessible restrooms.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Third Street Promenade, walk west towards Ocean Avenue. Cross Ocean Avenue and head north or south to access Palisades Park. The park stretches along Ocean Avenue, offering multiple access points.
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Public Transport
Several Big Blue Bus lines serve Palisades Park. From downtown Santa Monica, take any bus heading north along Ocean Avenue (e.g., lines 2, 33, R3). The Big Blue Bus local trips are $1.25 each way. Check the Big Blue Bus website for up-to-date schedules.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Request a ride to any address along Ocean Avenue adjacent to Palisades Park (e.g., 1400 Ocean Avenue). Be aware that traffic can be heavy, especially during peak hours. A short trip from the Santa Monica Pier to Palisades Park will cost approximately $7-9.
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Driving
Limited metered street parking is available along Ocean Avenue. Visitors can also park nearby in the parking structures surrounding the Third Street Promenade. Parking rates vary, but expect to pay around $1-3 per hour. Free parking is available at 603 Ocean Avenue. Be aware that there are high-traffic times in this area on weekends and holidays.
Discover more about Palisades Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Idaho Gate
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Ocean Ave Stairs of Santa Monica
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Ocean Pacific Coast Stairs
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Miramar Moreton Bay Fig Tree
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Edwin Building
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Christine Emerson Reed Park
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Downtown Santa Monica
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Will Rogers Highway Marker
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Clock Tower Building
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Beach Crossing Staircase
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Old Santa Monica Forestry Station
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Old Rte 66,
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Santa Monica Place
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Route 66 End of the Trail
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Heal the Bay Aquarium
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Unmissable attractions to see
Annenberg Community Beach House
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Santa Monica State Beach
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Santa Monica Statue
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Santa Monica Art Museum
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Farmers Market - Wednesday/Saturday Downtown Santa Monica
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Santa Monica Beach
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Santa Monica Public Library
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Santa Monica History Museum
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Camera Obscura Art Lab
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Santa Monica
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Cayton Children's Museum
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Greetings from Santa Monica Mural
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The Bike Center Santa Monica
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Yacht Harbour, Santa Monica
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Santa Monica Pier Arch
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Essential places to dine
The Penthouse
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FIG RESTAURANT
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Michael's
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Hillstone
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Wally's Santa Monica
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1212 Santa Monica
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Rosti Tuscan Kitchen - Santa Monica
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Art's Table
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Lobster & Beer Santa Monica
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UOVO | Santa Monica
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Colapasta Restaurant
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Élephante
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Blue Plate Oysterette
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SUGARFISH by sushi nozawa
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BOA Steakhouse
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Arrow Gift
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Estell Boutique
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Lucky Penny General Store
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Istanbul Home
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2 Bella boutique
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The Acorn Store
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Divine Vintage Santa Monica
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Sand 'n Surf Promenade
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Wonders of the World
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Anthropologie
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Brentwood General Store
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American Cancer Society Discovery Shop - Santa Monica, CA
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Urban Outfitters
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Timeless Symbols
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LA Gift Stop
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
THE BUNGALOW
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The Coco Club
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Esters Wine Shop & Bar
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Bar Chloe
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Lanea
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Big Dean's Ocean Front Cafe
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Bodega Wine Bar
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The Backyard
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The Room Santa Monica
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The Chestnut Club - Santa Monica Bar - Cocktails - Happy Hour 5-7pm
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The Living Room
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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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