Palisades Park is a scenic 26.4-acre coastal park stretching 1.6 miles along Ocean Avenue in Santa Monica, California. Perched atop an uplifted terrace with exposed bluffs, it offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and coastal mountains. Established in 1892 as Linda Vista Park, this historic landmark extends from the Santa Monica Pier in the south to Adelaide Drive in the north.
You will find a wonderfully rich destination filled with walking paths, lush landscaping, picnic areas, benches, pétanque courts, a rose garden, and more than 30 plant and tree species, including palms, pines, and figs. As you stroll through the grounds, you can admire historic features like the 1912 Craftsman-style Idaho Gate, a 1908 Civil War cannon, a 1926 Native American totem pole, and the Redwood Pergola. You can also discover public art such as the 1934 statue of Santa Monica, a bust honoring co-founder Arcadia Bandini de Baker, and the unique wood sculpture Gestation III.
Do not miss the historic Santa Monica Camera Obscura while exploring this peaceful coastal stretch.
What to see at Palisades Park
- Sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and coastal mountains from oceanfront bluffs
- Historic landmarks including the 1912 Craftsman-style Idaho Gate and Redwood Pergola
- Public art features like the 1934 Santa Monica statue and Gestation III wood sculpture
- Over 30 plant and tree species, a rose garden, picnic areas, and pétanque courts
Visiting tips
Respect all safety barriers along the bluffs, as the coastal cliffs are actively prone to erosion and landslides.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Daytime
How to get there & what’s nearby
Palisades Park is easy to reach on Santa Monica’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Santa Monica Pier and Pacific Park. 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.