Santa Monica Beach

All-Day Seaside Fun

Santa Monica Beach is a quintessential Southern California destination, renowned for its expansive sandy shoreline, iconic pier, and vibrant atmosphere. The beach stretches for 3.5 miles, offering ample space for sunbathing and beach activities. You can find gymnastics equipment available along the beach, adding an extra layer of fun and fitness. The historic Santa Monica Pier is home to the Pacific Park amusement park, a charming carousel, an arcade, and more, providing endless entertainment for visitors of all ages. Additionally, the oceanfront walkway and bike path invite active exploration, while nearby shops and restaurants serve up a delightful array of local cuisine and unique finds. Whether you’re looking to relax under the sun, enjoy family-friendly attractions, or take in the stunning coastal views, Santa Monica Beach offers a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement.

About this Destination

Location

Santa Monica, California

Hours

Operating dates and hours vary by venue

Recommended Ages

All ages

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Things to Do

Beach

Unwind on the sandy shores, take a refreshing dip in the ocean, cruise along the scenic bike path, visit the iconic Original Muscle Beach, and explore the vibrant nearby restaurants and shops.

Overlooking Santa Monica Beach

Pacific Park amusement park

Experience the variety of timeless amusement park rides that line Santa Monica Pier, including a towering Ferris wheel, a fun roller coaster, and many other captivating attractions.

Sign welcoming visitors to Pacific Park seaside amusement park on Santa Monica Pier

Santa Monica Pier Carousel

Visit the historic carousel attraction and ride atop a charming collection of wooden animals.

The historic Santa Monica Pier Carousel
Image: Visit Santa Monica

Playland Arcade

Play both classic and contemporary games at Playland Arcade, featuring over 200 arcade games such as PacMan and Dance Dance Revolution.

Playland Arcade on Santa Monica Pier

Heal the Bay Aquarium

Experience hands-on presentations and interactive exhibits crafted to educate, inspire, and empower you to become environmental stewards.

Heal the Bay Aquarium at Santa Monica Beach
Image: Santa Monica Pier Aquarium
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Sign displaying available activities on Santa Monica Pier

Santa Monica Pier

The historic Santa Monica Pier is home to the Pacific Park seaside amusement park, shops, restaurants, and more.

Outdoor gym at Santa Monica Beach, equipped ropes, parallel bars, swings, and more
Image: Santa Monica Travel & Tourism

The Original Muscle Beach

Opened in the 1930s, Santa Monica’s Muscle Beach boasts vintage gym equipment, including parallel bars, rings, and ropes.

Select images on this page are the property of Visit Santa Monica, Santa Monica Pier Aquarium, and Santa Monica Travel & Tourism.