Santa Monica State Beach: A Coastal Paradise
Experience the sun-soaked beauty and vibrant atmosphere of Santa Monica State Beach, a must-visit coastal paradise in California.
Santa Monica State Beach, a quintessential Californian destination, offers a stunning blend of sun, sand, and surf. With its vibrant atmosphere and iconic pier, it's perfect for tourists seeking relaxation and adventure alike.
A brief summary to Santa Monica State Beach
- 930 Pacific Coast Hwy, Santa Monica, Wilshire Montana, California, 90403, US
Local tips
- Arrive early to secure a good parking spot, especially on weekends.
- Consider renting bikes to explore the scenic beachfront path.
- Don't miss the sunset; it's a breathtaking sight from the pier.
- Check out local food trucks for delicious and affordable meals.
- Bring sunscreen and stay hydrated, as the sun can be intense.
Getting There
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Walking
From the heart of Downtown Santa Monica, head towards the Santa Monica Pier, which is a landmark you can see from various points in the area. Start by walking west on Colorado Avenue, which will lead you directly to the pier. Once you reach the pier, you will see the beach just beyond it. To get to Santa Monica State Beach, continue walking past the pier and follow the path that leads directly to the beach area. The beach stretches along the Pacific Coast Highway, making it easy to locate.
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Biking
If you prefer biking, you can rent a bike from one of the many bike rental shops in Downtown Santa Monica. After renting a bike, head towards the Santa Monica Pier by biking west on Colorado Avenue. Once you reach the pier, you can easily bike along the designated bike paths that run parallel to the beach. Continue biking past the pier to reach Santa Monica State Beach. Remember that bike rentals usually cost around $10 to $20 per hour.
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Public Transportation (Big Blue Bus)
You can also take the Big Blue Bus, which serves the Santa Monica area. From Downtown Santa Monica, locate the nearest bus stop that services Route 1 or Route 8, both of which have stops near the beach. Board the bus and ride towards the Pacific Coast Highway. The bus fare is approximately $1.00, and you should check the schedules for the most accurate timing. Once you arrive at the beach stop, you will be just a short walk away from Santa Monica State Beach.
Discover more about Santa Monica State Beach
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Idaho Gate
0.1 km
Explore Idaho Gate, a historic landmark in Santa Monica, showcasing the city's rich history and stunning coastal views.
Miramar Moreton Bay Fig Tree
0.5 km
Discover the grandeur of the Miramar Moreton Bay Fig Tree, a historical landmark in Santa Monica that offers beauty, history, and tranquility.
Edwin Building
0.7 km
Discover the Edwin Building, a historical landmark in Santa Monica showcasing architectural beauty and cultural heritage amidst vibrant surroundings.
Christine Emerson Reed Park
1.0 km
Experience the tranquility and recreational charm of Christine Emerson Reed Park, a serene escape in the heart of Santa Monica, California.
Will Rogers Highway Marker
1.0 km
Discover the rich history of Route 66 at the iconic Will Rogers Highway Marker in Santa Monica, a perfect blend of nostalgia and coastal charm.
Clock Tower Building
1.0 km
Discover the Clock Tower Building in Santa Monica: a unique shopping mall blending style, dining, and vibrant coastal culture.
Downtown Santa Monica
1.0 km
Experience the perfect blend of shopping, dining, and beachside fun at Downtown Santa Monica, California's coastal gem.
Beach Crossing Staircase
1.1 km
Explore the Beach Crossing Staircase in Santa Monica, a historical landmark connecting the beach with the city, offering stunning ocean views and rich architectural charm.
Ocean Ave Stairs of Santa Monica
1.3 km
Experience the beauty and history of the Ocean Ave Stairs in Santa Monica, where stunning ocean views meet a charming coastal atmosphere.
Ocean Pacific Coast Stairs
1.3 km
Explore the historic Ocean Pacific Coast Stairs in Santa Monica, where stunning ocean views meet rich coastal heritage, perfect for every traveler.
Santa Monica Place
1.3 km
Discover the ultimate shopping experience at Santa Monica Place, where luxury meets the laid-back charm of California's coast.
Old Rte 66,
1.4 km
Explore the historic charm of Old Route 66 in Santa Monica, where the iconic highway meets stunning ocean views and a vibrant cultural scene.
Route 66 End of the Trail
1.4 km
Explore the historic End of Route 66 at Santa Monica Pier, where adventure meets the beautiful California coastline in a vibrant, cultural hub.
Heal the Bay Aquarium
1.4 km
Explore Heal the Bay Aquarium in Santa Monica for a captivating journey into marine life and ocean conservation, perfect for families and nature lovers.
Santa Monica Looff Hippodrome
1.4 km
Discover the historic Santa Monica Looff Hippodrome, a charming carousel that brings joy and nostalgia to your seaside adventure.
Unmissable attractions to see
Palisades Park
0.5 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and tranquility of Palisades Park, a premier destination for relaxation and stunning ocean views in Santa Monica.
Santa Monica Statue
0.6 km
Discover the Santa Monica Statue, a stunning cultural landmark that embodies California's rich history amidst breathtaking coastal views.
Santa Monica Art Museum
0.8 km
Discover contemporary creativity at the Santa Monica Art Museum, a vibrant hub for artistic expression and cultural enrichment in Santa Monica, California.
Annenberg Community Beach House
0.8 km
Experience the charm of the Annenberg Community Beach House, where recreation, art, and history meet on the beautiful Santa Monica coastline.
Farmers Market - Wednesday/Saturday Downtown Santa Monica
0.8 km
Explore the vibrant Santa Monica Farmers Market for fresh produce, local crafts, and the essence of California's agricultural bounty in a lively atmosphere.
Santa Monica Beach
1.0 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere, stunning views, and endless activities at Santa Monica Beach, a must-visit destination on California's coast.
Camera Obscura Art Lab
1.2 km
Explore the enchanting Camera Obscura Art Lab in Santa Monica, where art meets science in a unique interactive experience.
Santa Monica Public Library
1.2 km
Explore the Santa Monica Public Library: A cultural hub for knowledge, creativity, and community engagement in the heart of Santa Monica.
Santa Monica History Museum
1.2 km
Explore Santa Monica's vibrant history at the History Museum, where captivating exhibits and local culture come to life.
Cayton Children's Museum
1.3 km
Discover creativity and fun at the Cayton Children's Museum – an imaginative paradise for kids in Santa Monica, California.
Santa Monica
1.4 km
Experience the sun-soaked beaches and vibrant culture of Santa Monica, California, where relaxation meets adventure along the Pacific coast.
Yacht Harbour, Santa Monica
1.4 km
Experience the stunning Yacht Harbour in Santa Monica, a vibrant coastal gem perfect for relaxation, dining, and water activities.
Santa Monica Pier Arch
1.4 km
Experience the charm and history of Santa Monica Pier Arch, a must-visit landmark that captures the essence of California's coastal culture.
The Bike Center Santa Monica
1.4 km
Experience Santa Monica’s stunning coastline and vibrant streets with bike rentals and repair services at The Bike Center.
Essential places to dine
The Penthouse
0.5 km
Discover exquisite Californian cuisine with breathtaking ocean views at The Penthouse in Santa Monica.
FIG RESTAURANT
0.5 km
Experience Mediterranean flavors in a vibrant setting at FIG Restaurant in Santa Monica – where seasonal ingredients meet exceptional culinary artistry.
Michael's
0.6 km
Discover Michael's in Santa Monica - where New American cuisine meets an inviting atmosphere for an unforgettable dining experience.
Hillstone
0.7 km
Discover culinary excellence at Hillstone in Santa Monica, where New American cuisine meets exquisite sushi in an inviting atmosphere.
Wally's Santa Monica
0.7 km
Experience culinary excellence at Wally's Santa Monica – where gourmet meets coastal charm.
1212 Santa Monica
0.7 km
Discover culinary innovation and vibrant nightlife at 1212 Santa Monica—your go-to destination for New American cuisine and unforgettable experiences.
UOVO | Santa Monica
0.9 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors at UOVO in Santa Monica - where fresh ingredients meet traditional recipes for an unforgettable dining experience.
Lobster & Beer Santa Monica
0.9 km
Experience fresh lobster and local craft beers at Lobster & Beer in Santa Monica—where coastal flavors meet casual dining.
Élephante
0.9 km
Discover Élephante in Santa Monica: An Italian rooftop gem serving delightful dishes with breathtaking ocean views.
Blue Plate Oysterette
1.0 km
Experience coastal dining at Blue Plate Oysterette in Santa Monica - where fresh seafood meets stunning ocean views.
Colapasta Restaurant
1.0 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Colapasta Restaurant in Santa Monica, where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.
SUGARFISH by sushi nozawa
1.0 km
Discover exceptional sushi at SUGARFISH by sushi nozawa in Santa Monica—where quality meets tradition in every bite.
BOA Steakhouse
1.0 km
Experience unparalleled steak perfection at BOA Steakhouse in Santa Monica - where culinary artistry meets coastal charm.
The Misfit Bar & Restaurant
1.0 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of American cuisine at The Misfit Bar & Restaurant in Santa Monica - where great food meets lively ambiance.
Water Grill
1.0 km
Experience exquisite seafood dining at Water Grill in Santa Monica - where fresh catches meet stunning ocean views.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Arrow Gift
0.7 km
Explore Arrow Gift in Santa Monica for a unique selection of locally crafted souvenirs and gifts, capturing the spirit of California's coastal culture.
Lucky Penny General Store
0.8 km
Discover unique gifts, stylish apparel, and charming home goods at Lucky Penny General Store in Santa Monica, the perfect spot for distinctive souvenirs.
Istanbul Home
0.8 km
Explore a treasure trove of unique gifts at Istanbul Home, a vibrant shopping destination in Downtown Santa Monica.
2 Bella boutique
0.8 km
Explore the chic 2 Bella Boutique in Santa Monica for stylish women's clothing, unique pieces, and a vibrant shopping experience on the Third Street Promenade.
The Acorn Store
0.9 km
Discover unique gifts and toys at The Acorn Store in Santa Monica, where creativity meets charm in every corner.
Sand 'n Surf Promenade
0.9 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts at Sand 'n Surf Promenade in Santa Monica, where California coastal charm meets vibrant shopping.
Wonders of the World
1.0 km
Discover unique souvenirs and handcrafted treasures at the Wonders of the World gift shop in Santa Monica's lively 3rd Street Promenade.
Anthropologie
1.1 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.
Estell Boutique
1.2 km
Discover unique women's fashion at Estell Boutique in Santa Monica - a must-visit for stylish travelers seeking California chic.
Urban Outfitters
1.2 km
Discover Urban Outfitters in Santa Monica, where fashion meets fun with a unique blend of clothing, beauty, and home goods.
Sand 'n Surf
1.2 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
1.2 km
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Timeless Symbols
1.2 km
Explore Timeless Symbols in Santa Monica, your go-to destination for unique gifts, metaphysical supplies, and spiritual treasures.
American Cancer Society Discovery Shop - Santa Monica, CA
1.3 km
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Free People
1.3 km
Discover bohemian fashion and unique clothing at Free People, a must-visit women's clothing store in the heart of Santa Monica.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
THE BUNGALOW
0.5 km
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The Coco Club
0.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Coco Club, Santa Monica's premier rooftop bar and lounge with stunning ocean views and crafted cocktails.
Ye Olde King's Head
1.0 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.
Esters Wine Shop & Bar
1.2 km
Experience the finest selection of wines and gourmet bites at Esters Wine Shop & Bar in Santa Monica, where every sip tells a story.
Bar Chloe
1.2 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
1.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Lanea, a Santa Monica cocktail bar offering delicious Mexican cuisine and live music in a chic beach setting.
Big Dean's Ocean Front Cafe
1.5 km
Experience the best of Santa Monica dining at Big Dean's Ocean Front Cafe, where fresh seafood and stunning ocean views come together.
Bodega Wine Bar
1.6 km
Experience the perfect blend of artisan pizzas, fine wines, and a cozy ambiance at Bodega Wine Bar in Santa Monica, California.
The Backyard
1.6 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of The Backyard in Santa Monica, where crafted cocktails and coastal cuisine meet in a stunning outdoor oasis.
The Room Santa Monica
1.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Santa Monica at The Room, where exquisite cocktails meet an electrifying dance atmosphere.
The Chestnut Club - Santa Monica Bar - Cocktails - Happy Hour 5-7pm
1.9 km
Discover the vibrant cocktail culture at The Chestnut Club, a cozy bar in Santa Monica where crafted drinks and socializing come together.
The Living Room
2.0 km
Experience the elegance of The Living Room in Santa Monica, where coastal charm meets culinary excellence and breathtaking ocean views.
Basement Tavern
3.0 km
Basement Tavern: A lively bar and American restaurant in Santa Monica, perfect for great food, drinks, and vibrant nightlife.
Jameson’s Pub
3.1 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
3.3 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Tavern on Main SM in Santa Monica, where delicious grill dishes and a lively bar atmosphere come together.
