Santa Monica Pier

Updated by Sasha Yanshin on March 14 2024

Iconic Seaside Amusement and Cultural Landmark in Los Angeles.

Address: 200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA 90401, United States

Santa Monica pier, California at sunset with the pier and fairground lit up and the sky reflecting in the sea. — Santa Monica Pier looks beautiful at sunset.
Larry Gibson/Shutterstock.com

💲 Free entry to Pier

👩‍🦽 Wheelchair accessible

🍽️ Dining options

🚽 Public Restrooms

Where can I find Santa Monica Pier?

At the foot of Colorado Avenue in Santa Monica, this historic pier offers entertainment, dining, and shopping, overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

Why should I visit Santa Monica Pier?

The Santa Monica Pier is a beloved destination for its classic amusement park rides, including the Pacific Wheel, eclectic oceanfront dining, and vibrant atmosphere.

Visit here and you'll be able to soak up the Southern California beach culture.

What are the opening hours at Santa Monica Pier?

General opening hours

Monday - 6am - 10pm

Tuesday - 6am - 10pm

Wednesday - 6am - 10pm

Thursday - 6am - 10pm

Friday - 6am - 10pm

Saturday - 6am - 10pm

Sunday - 6am - 10pm

Closures and holidays

Although Santa Monica Pier is open throughout the year, hours can be seasonal so make sure to check the official website before visiting.

View of the rollercoaster and ferris wheel at Pacific Park, Santa Monica at sunset — Make sure to take a ride on the iconic ferris wheel.
Andriy Blokhin/Shutterstock.com

Where should I park when visiting Santa Monica Pier?

Parking is available in the Pier Deck lot and nearby city lots, with varying rates.

The beach parking lot can be found along 1550 Appian Way and is open from Monday to Thursday.

Is Santa Monica Pier accessible by public transportation?

Santa Monica Pier is accessible by multiple bus lines and a short walk from the Downtown Santa Monica Metro E Line station.

The Metro Expo Line runs from 7th/Metro Center in Downtown Los Angeles to the Downtown Santa Monica Station, located at 4th and Colorado Ave.

There is also access to the Pier on Bus 8 Downtown Santa Monica / UCLA. The stop is at Ocean and Colorado.

When is the best time to visit Santa Monica Pier?

Daytime visits are perfect for families seeking fun.

Sunset is also a great time to visit, when you can enjoy stunning ocean views.

What are the best things to see near Santa Monica Pier?

There are plenty of great places close to Santa Monica Pier to also explore. Here are some favorites.

Third Street Promenade - Premier shopping and dining, just a few blocks away.

Venice Beach - Famous for its eclectic boardwalk and Muscle Beach, a short bike ride south.

Pacific Park - The Pier's amusement park, offering rides and games for all ages.

Santa Monica State Beach - Expansive, picturesque beaches adjacent to the Pier.

View of iconic Muscle Beach, with visitors working out along the Venice Beach Boardwalk — Check out the famous Muscle Beach at Venice Beach.
Walter Cicchetti/Shutterstock.com

Common questions about Santa Monica Pier

Home to the world's only solar-powered Ferris wheel and offering panoramic views of the Los Angeles coast, you'll have a blast at Santa Monica Pier. Here is what else you can expect.

Is Santa Monica Pier accessible to those with lower mobility?

✔️ Yes, Santa Monica Pier is accessible to visitors with mobility challenges.

Is Santa Monica Pier free to enter?

✔️ Yes, entry to the Santa Monica Pier is free; individual attractions may charge from $5-$15.

Is Santa Monica Pier pet-friendly?

✔️ Yes, pets are allowed on Santa Monica Pier but must be kept on a leash.

Is Santa Monica Pier child-friendly?

✔️ Yes, Santa Monica Pier is a family-friendly destination with numerous attractions for children.

Is Santa Monica Pier a year-round attraction?

✔️ Yes, Santa Monica Pier is open year-round..

Are refreshments available at Santa Monica Pier?

✔️ Yes, Santa Monica Pier has a variety of dining options.

Are there restrooms at Santa Monica Pier?

✔️ Yes, public restrooms are available for visitors on Santa Monica Pier.

What else is useful to know before I visit Santa Monica Pier

Check the official website for special events that might affect hours or access to attractions at Santa Monica Pier.

Staying on late? Make sure to bring a jacket for cooler evening breezes off the ocean.

Boardwalk towards Santa Monica Pier from Venice Beach — Soak in the stunning ocean views.
mimithian/Shutterstock.com

Where to stay near Santa Monica Pier

There are plenty of great hotel options in Los Angeles to head back to visiting Santa Monica Pier. Here are our favorites.

Arroyo Vista Inn - A delightful Bed & Breakfast, charming, historic, and with stunning mountain views from many of the rooms and outdoor terrace.
citizenM Los Angeles Downtown - This trendy hotel serves as a convenient gateway to the Broadway Theater District and Little Tokyo, and many other great LA top attractions.
Ambrose Hotel - At Ambrose Hotel and you can expect stylish accommodation, fit for all the family, in the heart of Santa Monica.