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Santa Monica Statue, Westside Travel Guide

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Discover the iconic Santa Monica Statue in Palisades Park: a symbol of history, art, and stunning coastal views.

The Santa Monica Statue, an Art Deco sculpture by Eugene Morahan, stands in Palisades Park overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Dedicated in 1935, the 18-foot cast-cement statue honors Saint Monica, the city's namesake and a symbol of motherhood. It's a peaceful spot offering reflection and beautiful ocean views.

A brief summary to Santa Monica Statue

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Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Santa Monica Statue.

  • Take a stroll through Palisades Park to enjoy the ocean views and other public art installations.
  • Visit during sunset for a particularly stunning view of the Pacific Ocean behind the statue.
  • Bring a picnic to enjoy on the park's lawns while admiring the statue and the surrounding scenery.

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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Third Street Promenade, walk west towards Ocean Avenue. Cross Ocean Avenue and enter Palisades Park. The Santa Monica Statue is located within the park, offering views of the ocean. It's a short walk with clear pathways.

  • Public Transport

    Several Big Blue Bus lines serve the area near Palisades Park. From downtown Santa Monica, take any bus that stops along Ocean Avenue. Get off at a stop near Wilshire Boulevard and walk north into Palisades Park. The statue will be visible on the west side of the park. A single ride on the Big Blue Bus costs $1.

  • Driving

    From Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1), exit onto California Avenue and head west. Turn left onto Ocean Avenue. Palisades Park will be on your right. Metered parking is available along Ocean Avenue near the park. Parking rates typically range from $1-3 per hour, with time limits. Parking structures are also available near the Third Street Promenade, a few blocks east.

Discover more about Santa Monica Statue

The Santa Monica Statue, also known as Saint Monica, is an iconic Art Deco sculpture located in Santa Monica's Palisades Park. Created by Eugene Morahan in 1934 as part of the Public Works of Art Project, it was dedicated on May 4, 1935. The statue, standing at 18 feet tall, is a cast-cement sculpture of Saint Monica of Hippo, the mother of St. Augustine, and symbolizes love, strength, and patience.Legend says that Santa Monica was named after Saint Monica because a priest with Spanish soldiers saw springs that reminded him of her tears for her son. The statue itself was even completed with the help of Gutzon Borglum, the sculptor of Mount Rushmore.Today, the Santa Monica Statue offers visitors a serene place for reflection with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. The surrounding Palisades Park provides a beautiful setting for leisurely strolls, picnics, and enjoying the California sunshine. The statue serves as a reminder of the city's history and artistic heritage, making it a must-see destination for tourists and locals alike.
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