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Miramar Moreton Bay Fig Tree: A Santa Monica Landmark

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.

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The Miramar Moreton Bay Fig Tree, a majestic Ficus macrophylla, stands as a living monument in Santa Monica. Planted in the late 19th century, this magnificent tree has witnessed the city's evolution from a quiet seaside town to a bustling urban center. Towering at over 80 feet with a canopy stretching 120 feet wide, it's one of the largest Moreton Bay Figs in California. Its sprawling branches and intricate root system create a captivating natural spectacle, offering a tranquil oasis amidst the city's vibrant energy. The tree's historical significance, coupled with its sheer size and beauty, makes it a must-see attraction for visitors and a beloved landmark for locals. Situated near the Fairmont Miramar Hotel, it provides a serene escape and a tangible connection to Santa Monica's rich past, inviting all to marvel at its enduring presence.

A brief summary to Miramar Moreton Bay Fig Tree

  • 101 Wilshire Blvd, Santa Monica, Wilshire Montana, California, 90403, US
  • Visit website

Local tips

  • Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds, allowing for optimal photo opportunities and a more peaceful experience.
  • Take a stroll around the Fairmont Miramar Hotel grounds to fully appreciate the tree's surroundings and enjoy the hotel's beautiful landscaping.
  • Bring a blanket and relax under the tree's canopy for a tranquil escape from the city's hustle and bustle.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the intersection of Wilshire Boulevard and Ocean Avenue, walk east along Wilshire Boulevard. The Miramar Moreton Bay Fig Tree is located at 101 Wilshire Blvd, on the Fairmont Miramar Hotel property, a short walk from the intersection. Look for the large, distinctive tree at the hotel's entrance.

  • Public Transport

    Several bus lines stop near the intersection of Wilshire Boulevard and Ocean Avenue. From the Wilshire/Santa Monica bus stop, walk east along Wilshire Boulevard to the Fairmont Miramar Hotel. The Big Blue Bus lines 4, 720, 20, and 786 all have stops within a few minutes walk of the tree. A single ride on the Big Blue Bus costs $1.10.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Request a taxi or ride-share to the Fairmont Miramar Hotel at 101 Wilshire Blvd, Santa Monica. Most drivers will be familiar with the location. Expect to pay around $8-$12 for a short ride from nearby areas like the Santa Monica Pier or Third Street Promenade.

  • Driving

    If driving, navigate to 101 Wilshire Blvd, Santa Monica. Valet parking is available at the Fairmont Miramar Hotel for visitors. The first hour costs $20, with additional hours at $7, and a full day rate of $60, plus a 10% city parking tax. Street parking in the area is limited and metered.

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Discover more about Miramar Moreton Bay Fig Tree

The Miramar Moreton Bay Fig Tree, a magnificent specimen of Ficus macrophylla, graces the entrance of the Fairmont Miramar Hotel in Santa Monica, California. This colossal tree, estimated to be over 130 years old, stands as a testament to the city's history and natural beauty. Planted in the late 1880s, the tree's origins are shrouded in local lore. One popular story recounts an Australian sailor who, unable to pay his bar tab, offered a Moreton Bay Fig sapling as payment. The bartender, uninterested in plants, gifted the sapling to the wife of Senator John P. Jones, the founder of Santa Monica, who then instructed her gardener to plant it on their estate, Miramar. While the exact details may vary, the tree undeniably represents a living link to Santa Monica's infancy. Senator Jones's Miramar estate eventually transformed into the Fairmont Miramar Hotel, but the Moreton Bay Fig Tree remained, becoming a beloved landmark. Its immense size and distinctive features captivate all who encounter it. The tree soars to a height of over 80 feet, with a canopy that spreads an impressive 120 feet wide. Its massive trunk and sprawling branches create a dramatic silhouette against the sky, providing ample shade and a sense of tranquility. The Moreton Bay Fig Tree's aerial roots are particularly striking. These roots descend from the branches, eventually reaching the ground and forming additional trunks, adding to the tree's unique and imposing presence. The tree's leaves are large and leathery, providing a dense canopy that filters sunlight and creates a cool, inviting space beneath. Over the years, the Miramar Moreton Bay Fig Tree has become a symbol of Santa Monica, representing the city's diverse origins and its commitment to preserving its natural heritage. It has witnessed countless changes, from the city's early days as a seaside resort to its current status as a thriving urban center. The tree has provided shade and shelter to generations of residents and visitors, becoming an integral part of the community's identity. In 1976, the tree was officially designated as a historic landmark by the Santa Monica Landmark's Commission, further solidifying its importance to the city. Today, the Miramar Moreton Bay Fig Tree continues to thrive, offering a serene oasis amidst the bustling city. Its presence serves as a reminder of Santa Monica's rich history and its enduring connection to the natural world. Visiting the Miramar Moreton Bay Fig Tree is a must for anyone exploring Santa Monica. It's a place to escape the city's hustle and bustle, to marvel at the beauty of nature, and to reflect on the city's past. Whether you're a local resident or a first-time visitor, the tree's grandeur and historical significance will leave a lasting impression. The tree is easily accessible and free to visit, making it an ideal destination for a leisurely stroll or a quiet moment of contemplation. Its location near the Fairmont Miramar Hotel also provides convenient access to nearby amenities, including restaurants, shops, and other attractions. The Miramar Moreton Bay Fig Tree is more than just a tree; it's a living monument, a symbol of Santa Monica's past, and a testament to the enduring power of nature. Its presence enriches the city's landscape and provides a valuable connection to its history, making it a truly special and unforgettable destination. As you stand beneath its sprawling canopy, take a moment to appreciate the tree's immense size, its intricate root system, and its enduring presence. Imagine the countless stories it could tell, the generations it has witnessed, and the memories it has helped create. The Miramar Moreton Bay Fig Tree is a true treasure, a gift from the past that continues to inspire and delight all who encounter it.

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