Santa Monica Pier: Iconic Landmark, Amusement Park & Ocean Views

Santa Monica Pier: Where Route 66 Meets the Pacific

Opened 1909, this 1,000-ft concrete pier is a National Historic Landmark and the western terminus of Route 66. It blends nostalgia, amusement, and raw ocean beauty.

🎡 Pacific Park (Pier-End Amusement Park)

• Solar-powered Ferris wheel (iconic, 130 ft, 8-person gondolas).
• Historic Looff Hippodrome (1922) – hand-carved carousel, National Historic Landmark.
• West Coaster (steel roller coaster), Sea Dragon, arcade, games.

🎪 Entertainment & Culture

• Trapeze School New York (TSNY) Santa Monica – Flying trapeze lessons over the water.
• Street performers: musicians, magicians, acrobats (daily).
• Concerts, movie nights, festivals (Twilight Concert Series, summer).

🌊 Views & Nature

• 360°: Pacific horizon, Santa Monica Bay, Malibu coast, Palos Verdes, LA basin.
• Sunsets: Legendary; crowds gather nightly.
• Marine life: Dolphins, sea lions, pelicans, occasional whales.

🍽️ Dining & Shopping

• The Albright – Upscale seafood, sunset views.
• Pier Burger / Mariasol Cocina Mexicana – Casual, outdoor.
• Snack stands: funnel cake, cotton candy, frozen lemonade.
• Souvenir shops: local art, beachwear, Route 66 merch.

🎣 Fishing

No license needed on public pier. Common: mackerel, perch, halibut, rays, sharks. Cleaning stations provided.

🚗 Access

• Parking: Pier Deck (1,300 spaces, paid), nearby structures, street (metered).
• Transit: Metro E Line (Expo) to Downtown Santa Monica Station (3 blocks).
• Bike: Marvin Braude Coastal Trail runs under pier.

Free, open 24/7 (park hours vary). It's not just a pier—it's LA's living room on the ocean.