Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier

Pacific Park is an amusement park on the Santa Monica Pier at 380 Santa Monica Pier in Santa Monica, California, about 15 miles (24 km) west of downtown Los Angeles. The pier is a historic landmark at the end of Colorado Avenue, and the park's best-known attractions are the solar-powered Pacific Wheel, the West Coaster roller coaster and a collection of arcade-style and family rides. The Metro E Line terminus is a five-minute walk from the pier, making it one of the easier Los Angeles attractions to reach without a car. Park entry is free, and visitors pay for rides either individually, from about $5 to $10, or with an all-day wristband costing roughly $40 to $50.

The activity is a casual one rather than a skilled adventure. Rides are rated by height and, in some cases, age, so children and adults need to meet posted height requirements, and riders with certain health conditions, such as heart or back problems or pregnancy, are advised not to ride the coaster. Fitness demands are minimal. Visitors typically spend two to four hours, mixing rides with games, food and views of the ocean and the Santa Monica coastline.

No equipment is needed beyond closed-toe shoes and sun protection. Loose items such as phones, hats and sunglasses should be secured before the coaster and other fast rides, and lockers or staff-supervised areas may be available. Safety on rides is managed by trained operators, restraint checks, posted rules and regular inspections under California amusement ride regulations administered by the state. Guests are expected to follow instructions, stay seated and keep arms inside the vehicle. First aid and emergency response are provided by park staff and Santa Monica emergency services, and lifeguards patrol the beach below.

The park operates year-round, with extended hours in summer and on weekends, and some rides can close for wind, rain or maintenance. Evenings are particularly appealing, since the Pacific Wheel and pier are lit from sunset. Summer weekends and holidays are the most crowded, and early weekday visits give shorter lines. Parking near the pier is paid and often full, so the train, bus or bicycle are practical options.