Pacific Wheel: Santa Monica's Solar-Powered Icon
Experience breathtaking views from the world's first solar-powered Ferris wheel on the iconic Santa Monica Pier. A must-see attraction!
The Pacific Wheel, located in Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier, is the world's first and only solar-powered Ferris wheel. Offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the Southern California coastline, it's a must-see attraction for visitors of all ages.
A brief summary to Pacific Wheel
- 380 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, California, 90401, US
- +1310-260-8744
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during sunset for the most spectacular views and to see the dazzling LED light show begin.
- Check Groupon for potential discounts on ride wristbands.
- Consider purchasing an unlimited ride wristband if you plan to experience multiple rides in Pacific Park.
- Arrive early, especially during peak season, to avoid long lines.
- Note that single riders are not allowed in any gondola.
Getting There
-
Walking
From the Downtown Santa Monica Expo Line Station, walk west on Colorado Avenue towards the pier. Cross Ocean Avenue and continue onto the Pier bridge. The Pacific Wheel will be directly ahead within Pacific Park. The walk is approximately 10 minutes.
-
Public Transport
Take the Big Blue Bus Route 8 to the Ocean and Colorado stop. From there, walk onto the Pier bridge. The Pacific Wheel will be directly ahead within Pacific Park. A single ride on the Big Blue Bus is $1.25.
-
Ride Share
Request a ride to 1550 Appian Way to be dropped off near the beach, avoiding congestion on Ocean Avenue. From there, take the stairs or ramps up to the Pier deck. The Pacific Wheel will be within Pacific Park. A ride from LAX to the Santa Monica Pier typically costs around $30.
-
Driving
If driving from the Pacific Coast Highway, enter Lot 1 North directly from PCH. If approaching from I-10, exit onto 4th/5th Streets, turn left onto Colorado Boulevard, and then left again onto Ocean Avenue. The pier entrance will be on your right. Parking rates in the beach zone are typically $2.50 per hour. Parking at the pier varies from $7 to $18 per day.
Discover more about Pacific Wheel
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Beach Crossing Staircase
0.5 km
Discover Santa Monica's coastal charm at the Beach Crossing Staircase, a historical landmark offering stunning ocean views and a seamless connection between city life and beach serenity.
Will Rogers Highway Marker
0.6 km
Commemorating the iconic Route 66 and the beloved Will Rogers, this Santa Monica marker offers a glimpse into America's open road spirit and a tribute to a legendary entertainer.
Viceroy Santa Monica
0.7 km
Discover luxury at Viceroy Santa Monica, where modern elegance meets stunning ocean views in the heart of California's iconic beach city.
City of Santa Monica
0.7 km
Experience the best of California in Santa Monica: stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and exquisite dining await you.
Santa Monica Place
0.7 km
Discover the ultimate shopping experience at Santa Monica Place, where luxury meets the laid-back charm of California's coast.
Crescent Bay Park
0.8 km
Discover a tranquil coastal haven at Crescent Bay Park in Santa Monica, offering stunning ocean views, lush green spaces, and a rich history as part of the Bay Street Beach Historic District.
Santa Monica Civic Auditorium
0.8 km
Discover the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium, a landmark of mid-century modern architecture with a rich history of hosting the Academy Awards and legendary performers, currently awaiting revitalization.
Clock Tower Building
0.8 km
Discover Santa Monica's iconic Clock Tower Building: an Art Deco masterpiece with a rich history, offering a blend of architectural beauty and modern attractions in the heart of downtown.
Downtown Santa Monica
0.9 km
Experience the best of Southern California in Downtown Santa Monica: sun-kissed beaches, vibrant shopping, diverse dining, and iconic attractions all steps from the Pacific Ocean.
Historic Belmar Park
0.9 km
Discover Santa Monica's Historic Belmar Park: A poignant memorial and vibrant community space honoring a displaced African American neighborhood through art, history, and recreation.
Santa Monica Statue
1.0 km
Discover the Santa Monica Statue, a stunning cultural landmark dedicated to the Virgin Mary, nestled in picturesque Palisades Park with breathtaking ocean views.
Miramar Moreton Bay Fig Tree
1.1 km
Discover Santa Monica's iconic Miramar Moreton Bay Fig Tree, a majestic landmark with a rich history and stunning natural beauty, offering a tranquil escape in the heart of the city.
Horatio Court (Point of Interest - Architecture)
1.1 km
Discover Horatio Court in Santa Monica: An architectural masterpiece by Irving Gill, showcasing early modernist design and a commitment to simple, functional living in Ocean Park.
Edwin Building
1.1 km
Discover the Edwin Building, a historical landmark in Santa Monica showcasing architectural beauty and cultural heritage amidst vibrant surroundings, designed by Paul Revere Williams.
Santa Monica History Museum
1.3 km
Discover Santa Monica's vibrant history at the Santa Monica History Museum, featuring engaging exhibits and rich cultural stories that celebrate the city's heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
West Coaster
0.0 km
Experience the thrill of the West Coaster, the only oceanfront steel roller coaster on the West Coast, at Santa Monica Pier's Pacific Park.
Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier
0.0 km
Discover Pacific Park on Santa Monica Pier, an amusement park with thrilling rides, games, and stunning ocean views perfect for family fun and adventure.
Santa Monica Pier
0.1 km
Explore the historic Santa Monica Pier, where fun meets history against the stunning backdrop of the California coastline.
Route 66 End of the Trail Sign
0.1 km
Discover the vibrant Santa Monica Pier, the iconic end of Route 66, featuring amusement rides, stunning ocean views, and a lively atmosphere perfect for tourists.
Route 66 End of the Trail
0.1 km
Experience the end of Route 66 at Santa Monica Pier, where history meets breathtaking ocean views and vibrant culture.
Santa Monica Pier Carousel
0.3 km
Experience a nostalgic ride on a hand-carved carousel at the Santa Monica Pier, a historic landmark offering timeless fun and breathtaking ocean views for visitors of all ages.
Santa Monica Looff Hippodrome
0.3 km
Discover the charm of the Santa Monica Looff Hippodrome, a historic carousel on the iconic Ocean Front Walk, where nostalgia meets fun.
Heal the Bay Aquarium
0.3 km
Discover marine wonders at the Heal the Bay Aquarium in Santa Monica, where education meets conservation and oceanic beauty awaits.
Original Muscle Beach Santa Monica
0.3 km
Discover the legacy of fitness at Original Muscle Beach in Santa Monica, where history meets health in a stunning coastal setting.
Chess Park
0.3 km
Experience the unique charm of Chess Park in Santa Monica—a seaside destination for chess lovers and beachgoers alike.
Santa Monica Pier Arch
0.4 km
An iconic gateway to seaside fun, the Santa Monica Pier Arch welcomes visitors to a historic landmark filled with amusement park thrills, classic charm, and breathtaking ocean views.
Yacht Harbour, Santa Monica
0.4 km
Experience the stunning Yacht Harbour in Santa Monica, a vibrant coastal gem perfect for relaxation, dining, and water activities.
Surf City Tours
0.4 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Santa Monica with Surf City Tours, offering memorable sightseeing experiences along the stunning California coastline.
Essential places to dine
The Albright
0.2 km
Discover fresh seafood delights at The Albright on Santa Monica Pier, where ocean views and delicious flavors unite for an unforgettable dining experience.
Seaside on the Pier
0.2 km
Experience delectable American cuisine at Seaside on the Pier with stunning ocean views and vibrant atmosphere in Santa Monica.
The Lobster
0.4 km
Experience exquisite seafood dining at The Lobster in Santa Monica, where ocean views meet culinary artistry for an unforgettable meal.
Bruno's Italian Restaurant
0.4 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at Bruno's Italian Restaurant in Santa Monica - where every dish tells a story.
RED O CANTINA
0.5 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine with a modern twist at RED O CANTINA in Santa Monica - where vibrant flavors meet coastal charm.
Chez Jay
0.5 km
Experience exceptional steak and seafood at Chez Jay in Santa Monica - where coastal charm meets culinary excellence.
Meat On Ocean
0.5 km
Experience culinary excellence at Meat On Ocean - Santa Monica's premier steakhouse with stunning ocean views.
Santa Monica Whaler
0.5 km
Experience coastal dining at its finest at Santa Monica Whaler - where fresh flavors meet stunning ocean views.
1 Pico
0.6 km
Experience exquisite seafood dining at 1 Pico in Santa Monica - where coastal charm meets culinary excellence.
Sol Agave - santa monica
0.6 km
Savor authentic Mexican cuisine at Sol Agave in Santa Monica; indulge in flavorful dishes and an extensive tequila selection by the beach.
Coast
0.6 km
Experience exquisite Californian cuisine with stunning ocean views at Coast in Santa Monica—where every meal is a celebration.
True Food Kitchen
0.6 km
Discover healthful dining at True Food Kitchen in Santa Monica - where delicious meets nutritious with diverse menu options for every palate.
Capo
0.6 km
Indulge in authentic Italian cuisine at Capo in Santa Monica - where fine dining meets stunning coastal views.
Terrazza
0.6 km
Experience Terrazza in Santa Monica - where American comfort meets Mediterranean charm amidst breathtaking ocean views.
LouLou Santa Monica
0.6 km
Experience exquisite French-Mediterranean cuisine at LouLou Santa Monica, where stunning views meet culinary excellence in the heart of California's coastline.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Pier Gear
0.1 km
Explore Pier Gear at Santa Monica Pier for a diverse selection of unique souvenirs capturing the spirit of California's coastal charm.
Beachcomber Gift Cart
0.1 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at Beachcomber Gift Cart, your go-to gift shop on Santa Monica Pier.
Santa Monica Pier Rock Shop
0.1 km
Explore unique gifts and souvenirs at the Santa Monica Pier Rock Shop, a treasure trove of coastal charm and local craftsmanship.
Oatman Rock Shop
0.1 km
Explore the unique gifts and treasures at Oatman Rock Shop, your go-to destination for souvenirs at the iconic Santa Monica Pier.
66-To-Cali
0.2 km
Explore the vibrant culture of California at 66-To-Cali, a unique gift shop in Santa Monica offering local souvenirs and trendy apparel.
Santa Monica Pier Bait and Tackle (Route 66 Gift Shop)
0.2 km
Explore Santa Monica Pier Bait and Tackle, your go-to gift shop for unique souvenirs and fishing supplies on the iconic Santa Monica Pier.
Gift & Souvenirs Santa Monica
0.5 km
Explore Santa Monica's Gift & Souvenirs for unique keepsakes and stylish clothes that capture the essence of California's coastal charm.
Sand 'n Surf
0.6 km
Explore Sand 'n Surf in Santa Monica for unique gifts and souvenirs that capture the essence of California's vibrant coastal culture.
LA Gift Stop
0.7 km
Explore LA Gift Stop in Santa Monica for unique gifts and treasures that embody the spirit of California's coastal charm.
Free People
0.7 km
Discover bohemian fashion and unique clothing at Free People, a must-visit women's clothing store in the heart of Santa Monica.
UNIQLO Santa Monica Place
0.7 km
Explore modern fashion for all ages at UNIQLO Santa Monica Place, a stylish clothing store in the heart of Santa Monica.
Johnny Was
0.7 km
Explore the unique blend of bohemian fashion and luxurious accessories at Johnny Was in Santa Monica, a must-visit boutique for every style enthusiast.
Urban Outfitters
0.7 km
Discover Urban Outfitters in Santa Monica, where fashion meets fun with a unique blend of clothing, beauty, and home goods.
Anthropologie
0.8 km
Shop at Anthropologie in Santa Monica for a unique blend of women's fashion, beauty products, and home décor in a stunning coastal setting.
Wonders of the World
0.9 km
Discover unique souvenirs and handcrafted treasures at the Wonders of the World gift shop in Santa Monica's lively 3rd Street Promenade.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Big Dean's Ocean Front Cafe
0.3 km
Experience the best of Santa Monica dining at Big Dean's Ocean Front Cafe, where fresh seafood and stunning ocean views come together.
The Backyard
0.5 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of The Backyard in Santa Monica, where crafted cocktails and coastal cuisine meet in a stunning outdoor oasis.
The Living Room
0.6 km
Experience the elegance of The Living Room in Santa Monica, where coastal charm meets culinary excellence and breathtaking ocean views.
Bar Chloe
0.7 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and unique cocktails at Bar Chloe, Santa Monica's trendy bar perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
Lanea
0.7 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Lanea, a Santa Monica cocktail bar offering delicious Mexican cuisine and live music in a chic beach setting.
Ye Olde King's Head
0.7 km
Discover the charm of British cuisine at Ye Olde King's Head in Santa Monica, a brewpub and tea house offering a delightful culinary experience.
The Coco Club
0.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Coco Club, Santa Monica's premier rooftop bar and lounge with stunning ocean views and crafted cocktails.
THE BUNGALOW
1.1 km
Discover The Bungalow, a stylish bar and restaurant in Santa Monica offering a unique blend of relaxation, vibrant nightlife, and coastal charm.
Esters Wine Shop & Bar
1.3 km
Experience the finest selection of wines and gourmet bites at Esters Wine Shop & Bar in Santa Monica, where every sip tells a story.
Bodega Wine Bar
1.4 km
Experience the perfect blend of artisan pizzas, fine wines, and a cozy ambiance at Bodega Wine Bar in Santa Monica, California.
Basement Tavern
1.5 km
Basement Tavern: A lively bar and American restaurant in Santa Monica, perfect for great food, drinks, and vibrant nightlife.
Jameson’s Pub
1.6 km
Discover the charm of Ireland at Jameson’s Pub in Santa Monica, where great food, drinks, and hospitality come together in a lively atmosphere.
Tavern on Main SM
1.9 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Tavern on Main SM in Santa Monica, where delicious grill dishes and a lively bar atmosphere come together.
JuneShine - Santa Monica
1.9 km
Experience the unique taste of hard kombucha in a vibrant bar atmosphere at JuneShine, Santa Monica's refreshing oasis for tourists.
Library Alehouse
1.9 km
Discover Library Alehouse in Santa Monica, where American cuisine meets a cozy brewpub atmosphere filled with craft beers and literary charm.
