The very popular Pacific Ocean beach at the west end of I-10, where motorists continue up the Pacific Coast Highway (CA-1) or on the beaches and the Santa Monica Pier! At the ‘Pier, the beach is a one stop drop (beach towels) hop (in the water) and flip flop (up to the pier). It is one of the most frequented places to go to around Los Angeles County, especially when it’s hot in LA! Those who are adventurous, may continue taking the stroll from the pier to Palisades Park, Tongva Park, Santa Monica Place Mall and the 3rd St. Promenade. Simply put, planning for this location can be for an all day stay. It can involve parking, sunbathing, swimming in the ocean, bicycle riding along the bike path, sand sports (volleyball), pier and beachfront walking, shopping and dining! In the tradition of Dogtown, skateboarding and, as of lately, motorized scooters are taken along the Beachfront Walk as far as it goes to the north, and down thru Venice Beach. They can be rented at many locations, visible along the ‘Walk. Surfing can be ok on some days. With mild surf sets, avid surfers may opt to hang elsewhere, tho it’s still a good beginners beach! Also, since the spot is a popular family frequented location, bodyboarding seems to be the prerequisite. Lifeguards are vigilant, keeping a safety lookout from the pier, from nearby tower stations and mobile unit trucks! Parking is served by the huge lot on the north side of the pier, as well as to the south side and on the pier when it’s not too busy. To avoid unnecessary complications of traffic, it would always be nice to live close to here or stay at a nearby hotel! Arrival and departure by vehicles can be difficult on weekend and holiday times, as the gridlock potential then is to be expected! Having a place on the beach, near the shore, is also on a first come, first serve basis. Getting there early (before 11:00 am) and leaving early (before 1:00 pm) or late (after 6:00 pm) can avoid the jams. Weekdays may be very slow (traffic), if departing via the eastbound I-10 Freeway after 3:00pm. Then also taking the 405 Freeway after 3:30 pm north or south, may be extremely slow going! As an alternative, I’ve parked at a Metro station a few stops back and took the Metro Expo Rail to the last stop near the pier. There’s also city bus service from less trafficked parking locations. The bottom line is the best use of time! If just wanting to go to the beach with a vehicle during the busiest times, when coming and going is gonna be slow and a spot on the sand is slim pickings…I’d opt for another beach off the beaten path… Though if also wanting to see the one of a kind Santa Monica Pier, stroll the waterfront walks, and do some shopping, then it may be well worth the effort, riding it out with a...
Read moreSanta Monica Beach - The Perfect Getaway for Sun, Sand, and Surf!
If you're looking for a place to relax, soak up the sun, and enjoy the ocean breeze, then Santa Monica Beach is the perfect destination for you! This place is truly one of a kind, and it deserves every bit of the 5-star rating that I'm giving it.
The first thing that strikes you about Santa Monica Beach is its stunning beauty. The ocean stretches out as far as the eye can see, and the sand is soft and inviting. The beach is spacious, and there's plenty of room for everyone to spread out and enjoy the sunshine. The service provided by the staff is top-notch, making sure that visitors have a great experience.
The ambiance is fantastic, and the vibe is truly electric. The energy of the place is contagious, and you can't help but feel relaxed and happy here. The facilities are well-maintained, and there's a wide range of activities to keep everyone entertained, from surfing and paddleboarding to volleyball and beach soccer.
What sets Santa Monica Beach apart from other beaches is its unique features. The iconic Santa Monica Pier is a must-visit, with its carnival rides, games, and delicious food. There are also plenty of restaurants and cafes nearby, so you can grab a bite to eat or a drink whenever you need to.
If there's one area where Santa Monica Beach could improve, it's the availability of parking spots. Sometimes, it can be challenging to find a spot, especially during peak season. However, this minor inconvenience is worth it for the unforgettable experience you'll have here.
Overall, I highly recommend Santa Monica Beach to anyone looking for a fantastic beach day. The place is truly exceptional, and it left a lasting impression on me. I would definitely come back here again and again, and I encourage others to do the same. Thank you to the staff and management for maintaining such a beautiful and unique...
Read moreSanta Monica Beach is truly one of the most beautiful coastal gems in California, if not the entire world. From the moment you set foot on its soft, golden sands, you’re greeted with breathtaking views that seem to stretch endlessly in every direction. The beach perfectly captures the essence of Southern California with its vibrant atmosphere, stunning scenery, and iconic landmarks.The ocean here is a mesmerizing shade of blue that sparkles under the warm California sun. Whether you’re walking along the shoreline, dipping your toes in the water, or just sitting back and soaking up the sun, it’s impossible not to feel a sense of peace and tranquility. The gentle sound of the waves crashing against the shore creates a soothing soundtrack that instantly relaxes you.One of the highlights of Santa Monica Beach is the famous pier, which adds a touch of nostalgia and fun to the experience. The Ferris wheel, with its colorful lights, is especially enchanting at sunset, offering panoramic views of the coastline that are simply unforgettable. The pier is also a great spot for people-watching, with a lively mix of locals, tourists, street performers, and vendors.What I love most about Santa Monica Beach is how it caters to everyone. Whether you’re looking to surf, swim, play volleyball, or just enjoy a quiet moment, there’s something here for you. The nearby shops, cafes, and restaurants offer plenty of options for when you need a break from the sun, each one adding to the beach’s lively charm.In conclusion, Santa Monica Beach is a must-visit for anyone in the area. Its natural beauty, combined with the vibrant atmosphere and endless activities, makes it a perfect destination for both relaxation and adventure. You can’t help but fall in love...
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