Santa Monica Pier

The Santa Monica Pier is one of the most recognizable landmarks on the Southern California coast. Stretching out over the Pacific, it is home to Pacific Park — a small amusement park with the solar-powered Pacific Wheel Ferris wheel — along with an aquarium, arcades, restaurants, and a historic carousel.

The pier also marks the symbolic western end of historic Route 66, commemorated with a sign near the entrance. It connects to the wider Santa Monica beachfront, the Pacific coast bike path, and the pedestrian-friendly Third Street Promenade just a few blocks inland.

Free to enter and open year-round, the pier is a relaxed, family-friendly destination that pairs well with a day at the beach, a sunset stroll, or a ride along the oceanfront path toward Venice Beach.

The Santa Monica Pier sits at the foot of Colorado Avenue on the Santa Monica coast, about 8 miles north of Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) — typically a 25-minute drive, though coastal and weekend traffic can add time. Hollywood Burbank (BUR) is another option, roughly 35 minutes away.

Parking is available in the beachfront lots and nearby structures, but spaces fill quickly on warm days and weekends. The Metro E Line (Expo) terminates in Downtown Santa Monica, a short walk from the pier, making transit a practical alternative to driving.

Beach parking near the pier can be limited and pricey on busy days, and the surrounding streets get congested. Pre-booking a ride with RideYeah is a convenient way to arrive and leave without circling for a spot — your driver drops you near the entrance and you can be picked up when you are ready.

For travelers arriving at LAX, a short, pre-arranged transfer is an easy way to reach the coast directly, especially if the pier is your first or last stop before a flight.