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Tongva Park: A Modern Oasis in Santa Monica

Discover Tongva Park in Santa Monica: a blend of nature, art, and ocean views, honoring the region's indigenous heritage and offering a tranquil escape.

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Tongva Park, a 6.2-acre urban oasis in Santa Monica, California, offers a blend of natural beauty and modern design. Named after the indigenous Tongva people, the park features gardens, art installations, a children's play area, and stunning ocean views. It's a peaceful retreat from the bustling city.

A brief summary to Tongva Park

  • 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 the splash pad during the summer months for a refreshing break, especially for kids.
  • Explore the park's four sections to experience the diverse landscapes and viewpoints.
  • Take photos of the steel cocoon sculptures on Observation Hill, especially from Ocean Avenue.
  • Enjoy a picnic at Gathering Hill while taking in the views and atmosphere.
  • Check out the park's native plants and sustainable landscaping, which change with the seasons.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Santa Monica Pier, walk south along Ocean Avenue for about 0.4 miles. Tongva Park will be on your left, just past Colorado Avenue. The walk is mostly flat and offers scenic views of the ocean.

  • Public Transport

    Take the Metro E Line to the Downtown Santa Monica Station. From the station, walk southwest on 4th Street, then turn left onto Colorado Avenue. Turn right onto Ocean Avenue, and the park will be on your left. The total walk is about 5 minutes. A single ride on the Metro is $2.

  • Driving

    From the I-10 freeway, exit at 4th/5th Street in Santa Monica. Head towards Ocean Avenue. Limited metered street parking is available. Alternatively, use the Civic Center Parking Structure at 333 Civic Center Drive or Beach Parking Lot 1 South at 1640 Appian Way. Parking rates at the Civic Center Parking Structure start at $2 on weekdays and $3 on weekends. Lot 1 South costs $2 for 2 hours.

Unlock the Best of Tongva Park

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Discover more about Tongva Park

Tongva Park, located at 1615 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica, is a meticulously designed 6.2-acre park that connects Ocean Avenue to the Santa Monica Civic Center area. Opened on October 13, 2013, the park is named in honor of the Tongva people, the original inhabitants of the Los Angeles area. The park's design incorporates elements reminiscent of the arroyo landscape and the Tongva people's woven huts and baskets. The park is divided into four main sections: Observation Hill, Discovery Hill, Garden Hill, and Gathering Hill. Observation Hill features the iconic steel cocoon sculptures and offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Monica Pier. Discovery Hill is home to a children's play area with a splash pad that operates from Memorial Day through summer. Garden Hill showcases a variety of native California plants and sustainable landscaping. Gathering Hill is a community gathering spot with picnic areas. Tongva Park includes an amphitheater for performances, walking paths, shaded picnic areas, and free Wi-Fi. Notable trees include "Morty," a large Moreton Bay Fig Tree, and the "Three Amigos," three Rusty Fig trees, each weighing over 100 tons, that were moved to the park from a nearby location. The park is well-lit and maintained, making it a safe and enjoyable place to visit. A city ordinance prohibits smoking in the park.

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