Original Muscle Beach Santa Monica — Attraction in Santa Monica

Absolutely amazing. I'm a 19 year old athlete/fitness nut, but this place is perfect for everyone. I went on a Saturday afternoon, and while crowded, it wasn't too bad. The grassy area has couples doing yoga and acro, very cool just to watch. I hit up the climbing ropes next, which are about 30 feet high. I got all the way to the top, but if you don't want to go that high, there's no pressure. There is a kids area with smaller versions of the gymnastic rings and chin up bars. There are adult sized chin up bars everywhere too. The best part, though, are the adult rings. When I went, there was a group of locals about my age doing the rings. They were quite friendly, and loaned me some chalk for my hands. When they did it, it was like watching a dance, they were so graceful and seemed weightless. I tried it, and if you have decent upper body strength, it really feels like you're flying. In conclusion, though, this a great place for anyone athletic, or anyone who wants to try it, or anyone who just wants to watch. People are very friendly, there is no pressure or shame. Definitely a...

I love this place. It's like my home away from home. The traveling rings are a lot of fun, and even though they take time to master, everyone there is ready to help you out and give you tips how to get better. I think the best part of Santa Monica is how friendly and helpful everyone is. They're always willing to help you figure out anything. I've seen guys do something cool on the p bars and just walk over to them and ask them how to do it. They gave me a whole lesson right then. The people are awesome and the equipment is awesome. Best place to just spend a day hanging out with chill people and get in a solid workout while having fun at the same time.

Tip for parking: don't park by the pier, there is a closer lot a little further down way closer to muscle beach. I think it's 7 bucks for the whole day. And unless it's a really busy day, they've always got empty spots.

Oh, and bring...

Yes! Get here! This is my most favorite place in the planet. (From where I've been.) The weekends are especially fun. People doing acrobatics on the grass lawn. Some doing tight rope walking, it's actually called slack line, and if you ask they will let you try. Everyone is super friendly and supportive. There are rings, parallel bars, pull-up bar, balance beams, ropes to climb, swings, these huge monkey bars that are 6 feet apart, so you have to swing and throw your body over to the next, and of course, my personal favorite, the traveling rings. These are a set of rings, about 8 or 10, that are spaced by about 6 feet, so you need to swing like a monkey to get from one to the other. Tap into your primal instincts and enjoy the ride. The locals do twists and flips that display power and grace. There are sizes for both adults...