Santa Monica: A Classic Californian Coastal City

Getting There

• Public Transport

  From Downtown Los Angeles, take the Metro E Line (Expo) directly to the Downtown Santa Monica Station. The station is located at 4th Street and Colorado Avenue, just a couple blocks from the Third Street Promenade and a few more blocks from the Pier. The Expo Line operates daily, with varying hours from early morning until after midnight. A TAP card is required and can be purchased at the Big Blue Bus Transit Store at 1444 4th St or online. A one-way fare is $1.75.

• Walking

  From the Downtown Santa Monica station, walk west on Colorado Avenue towards the pier. Colorado Avenue leads directly to the Santa Monica Pier. The walk is approximately 10-15 minutes, offering views of the city and the ocean. This route is accessible and pedestrian-friendly.

• Taxi/Ride-share

  From Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available. A taxi from LAX to Santa Monica Pier will cost approximately $40-$50, plus a $4.00 airport surcharge. The ride typically takes 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. Alternatively, a pre-arranged taxi from Santa Monica to LAX has a maximum rate of $40 if the pickup location is south of I-10, or $45 if north of I-10.

• Driving

  From Downtown Los Angeles, take the I-10 West to Santa Monica. Exit at Ocean Avenue and head north to reach the pier. Parking is available in several lots near the pier, including the Pier Deck Parking Lot. Parking rates vary from $7 to $18 per day, depending on the season and day of the week. Metered street parking is also available, costing $2.50 per hour in the downtown and beach zones. Be aware that parking can be limited, especially during peak season.