Located at the foot of Colorado Avenue in Santa Monica, California, the historic Santa Monica Pier offers you a scenic seaside experience within the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area. The site actually combines two adjoining piers originally built in 1909 and 1916. Today, you can explore Pacific Park, a family amusement park featuring a brightly lit, solar-paneled Ferris wheel that can be seen from a distance.
Take a step back in time inside the Looff Hippodrome—listed on the National Register of Historic Places—where you will find a 1922 carousel boasting 44 hand-carved wooden horses and calliope music. Beyond the rides, you can visit the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium operated by Heal the Bay, test your skills at the video arcade, try a trapeze school, or watch street entertainers. The pier also features concession stands, shops, pubs, restaurants, and host venues for outdoor concerts and movies.
If you love fishing, make your way to the pier's west end, which serves as a popular spot for anglers. From historic architecture to ocean views, the pier provides a versatile coastal getaway.
What to see at Santa Monica Pier
- Pacific Park amusement park and its solar-paneled Ferris wheel
- Historic 1922 carousel with hand-carved wooden horses inside the Looff Hippodrome
- Santa Monica Pier Aquarium operated by Heal the Bay
- Popular fishing spots located at the pier's west end
- Family attractions including a video arcade, trapeze school, and outdoor concerts
Visiting tips
Be mindful of environmental advisories if you plan to fish from the pier, as health agencies note elevated levels of mercury and PCBs in local catches.
How long: 2-3 hours · Best time: Daytime or evening
How to get there & what’s nearby
Santa Monica Pier is easy to reach on Santa Monica’s public transport. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Santa Monica travel guide.
See the full Santa Monica travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.