Santa Monica Beach, Westside Travel Guide
Experience the sun-soaked shores and vibrant atmosphere of Santa Monica Beach, a must-visit destination on California's stunning coastline.
Santa Monica Beach is a stunning coastal destination in California, renowned for its beautiful sandy shores, vibrant atmosphere, and iconic pier. With a variety of activities, dining options, and picturesque views, it's a perfect getaway for tourists seeking sun, fun, and relaxation.
A brief summary to Santa Monica Beach
- Santa Monica, California, 90401, US
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Santa Monica Beach.
- Visit early in the morning to secure the best parking spots and enjoy a quieter beach experience.
- Check the local event calendar for free concerts and activities happening at the beach or pier.
- Bring your own beach gear such as umbrellas and chairs to save on rental costs.
- Explore the nearby bike path for a scenic ride along the coast, which offers beautiful views.
- Don't miss the iconic sunset views; they are perfect for photography and relaxation.
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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.
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Explore More of Westside
Looking beyond Santa Monica Beach? Discover Westside for broader travel guides, local hot-spots, and regional highlights.
Explore Westside
Discover the historic End of Route 66 at Santa Monica Pier, a must-visit tourist attraction blending nostalgia, ocean views, and vibrant local culture.
Experience the quintessential Southern California beach lifestyle at Santa Monica Beach, where sun, sand, and iconic attractions create unforgettable memories along the Pacific Coast.
