Santa Monica Beach: A Coastal Paradise
Experience the sun-soaked beauty and vibrant atmosphere of Santa Monica Beach, a premier coastal destination with stunning views and endless activities.
A brief summary to Santa Monica Beach
- Santa Monica, California, 90401, US
Santa Monica Beach is one of California's most iconic coastal destinations, offering visitors an unforgettable blend of sun, surf, and scenic beauty. As soon as you set foot on the golden sands, you're greeted by the sound of waves crashing and the scent of salt in the air. The beach stretches for 3.5 miles, providing ample space for sunbathing, beach volleyball, or simply taking a leisurely stroll along the shoreline. The beach is not only a haven for sun seekers but also a hub of activity, bustling with tourists and locals alike. The famous Santa Monica Pier adds to the charm of the beach, featuring an amusement park, restaurants, and shops. The vibrant atmosphere here is palpable, especially during sunset when the sky turns into a canvas of colors. Visitors can enjoy various activities, from riding the iconic Ferris wheel to indulging in delicious seafood at one of the many eateries lining the pier. For those interested in exploring further, the nearby Third Street Promenade offers shopping, street performances, and a variety of dining options. Whether you're looking to relax on the beach, engage in water sports, or explore the local area, Santa Monica Beach has something for everyone. With its stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and a lively atmosphere, it's the perfect destination for tourists who want to experience the best of California's coastline.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy a quieter beach experience and stunning sunrise views.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy on the beach or at the nearby parks for a budget-friendly meal with a view.
- Rent a bike to explore the scenic Marvin Braude Bike Trail that runs along the coastline.
- Check the local events calendar for live music, festivals, and activities happening on the beach or pier.
- Don't miss the iconic sunset; it's a must-see spectacle that draws crowds every evening.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Venice Beach Boardwalk, head north along Ocean Front Walk. Continue walking until you reach the end of the boardwalk, where it intersects with the street. At this point, you'll be at the corner of Ocean Ave and California Ave. Here, turn left onto California Ave and continue until you reach the intersection with Main St. Turn right onto Main St, which will lead you directly to the Santa Monica Pier. Once you reach the pier, you can follow the path to Santa Monica Beach.
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Bike
If you prefer biking, you can rent a bike from one of the many rental shops in Venice Beach. Start your ride on the Marvin Braude Bike Trail, which runs along the beach. Head north on the trail, which will directly lead you to Santa Monica Beach. The ride is scenic, and you’ll pass by the beautiful coastline. You’ll eventually arrive at Santa Monica Beach, where you can lock up your bike at the bike racks available near the beach.
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Public Transit
To take public transit, walk to the nearest bus stop on Ocean Ave. Board the Big Blue Bus Route 1, which travels north towards Santa Monica. Stay on the bus for about 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic, and get off at the Santa Monica Pier stop. From there, it’s just a short walk to Santa Monica Beach. Follow the signs to the beach area, and you’ll find yourself at the sandy shores in no time.
Attractions Nearby to Santa Monica Beach
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Santa Monica Statue
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Heal the Bay Aquarium
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Santa Monica Pier Carousel
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Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier
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Santa Monica Pier
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Santa Monica Pier Arch
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Yacht Harbour, Santa Monica
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Pacific Wheel
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West Coaster
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Santa Monica Street Art
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Cayton Children's Museum
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Santa Monica Art Museum
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Chess Park
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Original Muscle Beach Santa Monica
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Tongva Park
Landmarks nearby to Santa Monica Beach
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Will Rogers Highway Marker
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Beach Crossing Staircase
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Route 66 End of the Trail
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Clock Tower Building
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Santa Monica Looff Hippodrome
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Downtown Santa Monica
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Miramar Moreton Bay Fig Tree
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Santa Monica Place
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Surf City Tours
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Edwin Building
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City of Santa Monica
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Idaho Gate
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Viceroy Santa Monica
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Santa Monica Civic Auditorium
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Old Rte 66,