Santa Monica Pier

Santa Monica Pier extends over the Pacific Ocean from the foot of Colorado Avenue at 200 Santa Monica Pier in Santa Monica, California. The wooden pier opened in 1909 and is among the best-known landmarks on the Southern California coast. Entry to the pier is free and it is open around the clock. At the end of the pier, Pacific Park offers a solar-powered Ferris wheel, a small roller coaster, carnival rides and midway games; rides are priced individually or with an all-day wristband. The Santa Monica Pier Aquarium, run by Heal the Bay, sits beneath the pier near the beach and presents local marine life including sea stars and other tide-pool species. The historic Looff Hippodrome carousel building, an arcade and food stands selling funnel cake, hot dogs and seafood add to the carnival feel. Street performers and anglers share the boards, and sea lions and pelicans are sometimes seen near the pilings. The adjoining beach is wide and sandy, and the Marvin Braude bike path connects the pier with Venice and beyond. The pier's iconic arched sign marks the end of historic Route 66, a popular photograph spot. A typical visit takes two to four hours, longer with ride time and beach time. Crowds peak on summer weekends and holiday afternoons; weekday mornings and off-season visits are calmer. Late afternoon and sunset bring good light and a golden sky, though ocean breezes can be cool. Metro E Line trains reach Downtown Santa Monica station, from which the pier is a ten-minute walk. Parking structures nearby charge hourly fees that can be steep in summer.