Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier
Pacific Park: Santa Monica Pier's Thrill Center
West Coaster: Thrills on the Santa Monica Pier
Experience the thrill of the West Coaster, the only oceanfront steel roller coaster on the West Coast, at Santa Monica Pier's Pacific Park.
The West Coaster is a steel roller coaster located at Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier. Opened in 1996, this iconic ride offers thrills and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, making it a must-do for visitors to the pier.
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A brief summary to West Coaster
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
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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. Pacific Park and the West Coaster will be on your right. The walk is approximately 10 minutes.
Public Transport
Take the Big Blue Bus Route 8 to the Santa Monica Pier. The bus stops at Ocean and Colorado, a short walk from the pier entrance. A single ride fare is $1.25.
Ride Share
Use ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft and set your destination to 1550 Appian Way to avoid traffic on Ocean Avenue. From the drop-off point, take the stairs or ramps to access the pier deck. A short ride from Downtown Santa Monica will cost approximately $10 - $15.
Driving
If driving, approach the pier via Pacific Coast Highway and enter Lot 1 North. Parking rates vary, typically ranging from $7 to $18 per day, depending on the season and day of the week. Alternatively, parking is available in downtown Santa Monica, with the first 90 minutes often free in city-owned lots.
Local tips
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For the best views and photos, ride the West Coaster during sunset.
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Check height requirements before queuing to avoid disappointment; the minimum height is 42 inches.
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Consider purchasing an unlimited ride wristband if you plan to experience multiple rides at Pacific Park.
Discover more about West Coaster
The West Coaster is a signature attraction at Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier, offering a unique roller coaster experience right over the Pacific Ocean. Since its debut in 1996, this steel coaster has become an iconic part of the Santa Monica skyline, frequently appearing in films, TV shows, and commercials.
Reaching a height of 55 feet and traveling at speeds up to 35 mph, the West Coaster provides riders with exhilarating thrills and panoramic views of the Santa Monica Bay. The ride's layout features a double-helix track, a gentle first drop, and a couple of bunny hops, ensuring a fun experience for the whole family. The West Coaster is the only West Coast, oceanfront, steel roller coaster located on a pier.
As you climb to the top, take in the sweeping views of the Los Angeles Bay before plummeting around the first helix. The train dips down to the Pier deck right before returning to the station. The West Coaster runs with 4-5 cars that each seat 6 people.
The West Coaster has left its mark on popular culture, even inspiring an indie film and appearing in the video game Grand Theft Auto V.
A brief summary to West Coaster
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