Santa Monica Pier is one of the most recognised landmarks in California — a 100-year-old wooden pier stretching over 500 feet into the Pacific Ocean, topped with an amusement park, an aquarium, a Ferris wheel, and some of the best ocean views in Los Angeles. It's the final stop on our LA City Tour and consistently one of the most loved by guests. Here's everything to know before you visit.
📍 Address: 200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA 90401. Visited on our LA City Tour from Los Angeles and Anaheim — hotel pickup from 250+ hotels.
The History of Santa Monica Pier
Santa Monica Pier was built in 1909 — making it one of the oldest piers in California. Over a century, it's survived earthquakes, storms, and ocean surges, and has appeared in hundreds of films and TV shows. Most famously, it marks the western terminus of Route 66 — the legendary highway that stretches from Chicago all the way to Santa Monica. A small plaque at the foot of the pier commemorates the end of the Mother Road.
Pacific Park — The Amusement Park on the Pier
Sitting on the pier itself is Pacific Park — a full amusement park with rides, games, and food, right over the ocean. The centerpiece is the iconic solar-powered Ferris wheel, 130 feet tall and visible from miles away. It's one of the most photographed landmarks in Los Angeles.
- Pacific Wheel — the famous Ferris wheel, the only solar-powered Ferris wheel on the planet
- West Coaster — a rollercoaster that rides out over the ocean — yes, actually over the water
- Games and prizes — classic boardwalk carnival games along the pier
- Food stands — corn dogs, funnel cakes, churros, and all the boardwalk classics
Best Photo Spots at Santa Monica Pier
The Entrance Arch
The classic shot — the iconic "Santa Monica" arch at the entrance to the pier with the ocean behind it.
Under the Pier
From the beach below, looking up at the wooden structure and out to sea — beautiful at golden hour.
The Ferris Wheel
From the beach, looking north — the Pacific Wheel against the blue sky is the quintessential Santa Monica image.
End of Route 66 Sign
The small historic plaque marking the end of the legendary highway — a great travel photo.
Looking Back at the Shore
From the end of the pier looking back toward the Santa Monica Mountains — a perspective most visitors miss.
Sunset Views
If you're there in the late afternoon, the sun sets directly over the ocean — one of the best sunsets in California.
Santa Monica Beyond the Pier
The area around the pier has plenty more to explore:
- Santa Monica Beach — one of the cleanest and most beautiful urban beaches in the country
- 3rd Street Promenade — a pedestrian shopping street three blocks from the pier with stores, restaurants, and street performers
- Palisades Park — a clifftop park above the beach with incredible ocean views and free public access
- Heal the Bay Aquarium — a small but excellent aquarium built under the pier, featuring local marine life from the Santa Monica Bay
Practical Information
📋 Santa Monica Pier — Key Facts
- Address: 200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA 90401
- Hours: Open daily. Pacific Park hours vary seasonally
- Admission: The pier itself is free. Pacific Park rides require tickets
- Parking: Expensive and limited — $30–40 for the day. Come by tour instead
- Best time to visit: Afternoon (after the marine layer has cleared)
- Nearest beach: Santa Monica State Beach, directly adjacent
Visit Santa Monica Pier on Our LA Tour
Santa Monica Pier is a stop on every LA City Tour — along with Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Venice Beach, Farmers Market, and Griffith Observatory.
Book LA City Tour Tour DetailsFrequently Asked Questions
Is Santa Monica Pier worth visiting?
Absolutely. Even if you're not interested in the rides, the pier offers some of the best ocean views and photo opportunities in Los Angeles. The energy of the boardwalk, the historic charm, and the end-of-Route-66 significance make it genuinely special.
How long do you spend at Santa Monica Pier on the tour?
Approximately 25–35 minutes — enough to walk the pier, take photos, and enjoy the views. If you want more time, you can always return independently in the evening.
Is the pier accessible?
Yes — the pier is wheelchair accessible with ramps from the beach level to the pier deck.