You'll instantly recognize it from film and TV: the neon-lit arch of the Santa Monica Pier. Feel the ocean breeze as you stroll past snack shacks, a game arcade, lively entertainers, and anglers to the far tip where the entire arc of the Santa Monica Bay, from Malibu to Palos Verdes unfolds before you.
Kids get their kicks at Pacific Park, with its solar-powered Ferris wheel, kiddy rides, and midway games. Near the pier entrance, nostalgic souls and their offspring can ride the colorfully hand-painted horses on the vintage merry-go-round. Just below the carousel is Santa Monica Pier Aquarium, where sea stars and sea urchins can be scooped up and petted.
And then there's the wide and long sandy expanse that is Santa Monica Beach. Here you’ll find sunbathers, families, volleyball players, and roller skaters. This is also the spot of the Original Muscle Beach, which still draws fitness fanatics. The South Bay Bicycle Trail, a paved bike and walking path, takes you straight to Venice Beach.
Santa Monica is west of downtown Los Angeles. Parking is plentiful, especially on Main Street and 2nd and 4th streets, between Broadway and Wilshire Boulevard. The electric Tide Shuttle makes a loop from downtown Santa Monica to the beach every 15 minutes. The town of Santa Monica itself is worth a visit for its excellent shopping and dining.
