Tips to Plan Your Trip to Santa Monica Pier | Visit Santa Monica (2024)

FAQs

Is it worth it to go to Santa Monica Pier? ›

In short, if you visit the area and miss the pier, you haven't missed anything special. If you go to Santa Monica you have to go to the pier. It is the end of Route 66 full of shops, restaurants and even a small themed park with rides and a Ferris wheel.

Visiting the Santa Monica Pier can be a half day or whole day activity. It depends on your mood and how much you enjoy people-watching. We would definitely recommend at least two hours for the Pier and surrounding area. On a beautiful day, maybe even longer and plan to have some lunch there.

The pier is one of the many things to do in Santa Monica. Packed with family-friendly activities, vibrant street performers, restaurants and shops, the Pier also offers stunning views and over a century of history.

Is there a charge for walking on the pier or do... - Santa Monica Pier. No charge for entry to the pier, attractions do charge. There are bands playing, vendors selling different items.

The best time to visit the pier is at night. Seeing all the shimmering lights against the ocean backdrop can be quite nostalgic as the pier is a historic landmark and one of the recognizable images of Santa Monica and Los Angeles in general.

You do not have to pay to go on the pier. You will pay for parking and any ride you go on.

The distance between Santa Monica Pier and Venice Beach Boardwalk is 3 miles. How do I travel from Santa Monica Pier to Venice Beach Boardwalk without a car? The best way to get from Santa Monica Pier to Venice Beach Boardwalk without a car is to line 33 bus which takes 14 min and costs $2.

Fun on the Pier

Enjoy the rides like the West Coaster and the Pacific Wheel, carnival games, and food at Pacific Park. Purchase a seashell necklace from one of our vendor carts, catch a show from one of our many street performers, or treat yourself to a thick and creamy milkshake.

Can you walk Santa Monica Pier at night? ›

What are the hours for the Santa Monica Pier? The Santa Monica Pier is open Daily from 6AM to 10PM.

How Much Is Cost of Living in Santa Monica? According to PayScale, the cost of living in Santa Monica is a whopping 113% higher than the national average. California is the #3 most expensive state in the US, and the cost of living in California is 38.04% higher than the national average.

Venice Beach vs Santa Monica Beach—Both Are Winners

Venice Beach is a vibrant beach locale that's perfect during the day, whereas the larger Santa Monica provides a wider range of things to do and a much more happening nightlife.

So, whether you're seeking a relaxed or a more fast-paced lifestyle, the choice between Santa Barbara and Santa Monica ultimately comes down to your personal preference. Both cities possess their unique charm and qualities that make them among the top choices to live in California - you can't go wrong with either one!

The most popular and vibrant beaches in Los Angeles are Santa Monica and Venice beaches, so they must be on the list. The seawater quality and color are not that impressive, but the beach is quite joyful and picturesque. The popular Baywatch towers are there.

However, Santa Monica will cost you more and is a bit classier, whilst Venice Beach is bohemian and romantic (and a bit cheaper overall.) Finally, Santa Monica works better for families with kids as it has an amusem*nt park right there, whilst Venice, with its beautiful canals and boardwalk, is perfect for couples.

Restaurants and shops are open as well. Currently rides stop at 9pm from Friday – Sunday night and at 7:30pm Monday – Thursday. Subject to change. The Santa Monica Pier is open year round and admission to the pier is always free!