Visit
Santa Monica Pier
Santa Monica Pier, Los Angeles
“A little bit vintage, a little bit magical, and all kinds of fun.”
First Impressions
Santa Monica Pier has that classic California charm—the kind you’ve seen in postcards and movies. From the moment I stepped onto the wooden boardwalk, with the salty ocean breeze in my hair and the sound of laughter in the air, I felt like I was part of a sun-soaked daydream. It’s cheerful, kitschy in the best way, and full of little surprises.
Getting There
I took a rideshare from my hotel in West Hollywood, but the Metro E Line drops you right near the beach if you’re coming from Downtown LA. Everything is walkable once you’re here, and you’ll want to explore at a slow, wandering pace.
Tip: Arrive in the late afternoon—stay for sunset, then watch the lights on the pier come alive.
My Experience
I strolled past street musicians, artists painting seascapes, and families crowding around cotton candy stands. I couldn’t resist a ride on the Pacific Wheel—that glowing Ferris wheel you’ve seen a hundred times. From the top, the ocean stretched out forever on one side, and the golden L.A. hills shimmered behind me on the other.
I played a few nostalgic arcade games, dipped my toes in the water, and treated myself to some seriously good funnel cake. It’s not just a place to visit—it’s a place to feel playful again.
Good to Know
Open: Daily (most shops 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM, rides until 9:00 PM)
Entry: Free to explore; rides, food, and attractions cost extra
Best Time: Late afternoon into evening for the perfect glow-up
Visit Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours (or longer if you’re lounging by the beach)
Facilities: Public restrooms, souvenir shops, food stands, parking nearby
Snack Break
There are plenty of food options—from fried seafood and hot dogs to ice cream and churros. I grabbed a scoop of sea salt caramel gelato and watched the surfers from the edge of the pier. Simple, sweet, and perfect.
Personal Tips
Bring a light sweater—it gets breezy by the ocean in the evening
Try to catch a sunset ride on the Ferris wheel
Walk down to Muscle Beach or rent a bike to cruise along the coast
Keep an eye out for pop-up performances—they’re everywhere!
Why I Loved It
⭐ 4.7/5 — “It made me feel like a kid again. Joyful, relaxed, and completely present. I laughed, I took silly photos, and I watched the sky turn pink over the Pacific. Absolute bliss.”
What You’ll Want to Capture
The lit-up Ferris wheel against the ocean at dusk
Colorful carnival signs and food stalls
Candid boardwalk shots with friends or solo smiles
Sunset reflections over the water—pure California gold
