Santa Monica State Beach
Santa Monica State Beach: A Southern California Icon
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.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Palisades Park
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
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
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Getting There
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.
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.
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.
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.
Local tips
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Visit during sunset for spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean and the coastline.
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Explore the park's public art installations, including the Santa Monica statue and the Native American totem pole.
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Bring a picnic and enjoy a relaxing meal at one of the park's picnic areas.
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Check out the Camera Obscura Art Lab for a unique artistic experience.
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Take advantage of the park's accessibility features, including paved paths and accessible restrooms.
Discover more about Palisades Park
Palisades Park, stretching along Ocean Avenue in Santa Monica, is a captivating blend of natural beauty and cultural landmarks. Gifted to the city in 1892, it was originally named Linda Vista Park until 1915. The park's history is rich, evolving from a dusty bluff to a beautifully landscaped space with walking paths, diverse trees, and rustic wooden fencing.
Today, Palisades Park offers visitors a tranquil escape with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the coastal mountains. The park is home to various attractions, including public art installations like the Statue of Santa Monica and a Native American totem pole. Visitors can also explore the Camera Obscura Art Lab, a unique artistic experience, and a rose garden.
The park's landscape features a diverse collection of trees, including palm, pine, and fig trees. Benches and picnic areas are scattered throughout the park, providing perfect spots for relaxation and enjoying the scenery. Palisades Park is also known for its accessibility, with mostly flat surfaces and ADA-accessible paths, ensuring visitors of all abilities can enjoy its amenities.
Throughout the year, Palisades Park hosts community events and offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll, a scenic view, or a glimpse into local art and history, Palisades Park offers a memorable experience.
A brief summary to Palisades Park
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