🇺🇸 | 📍Santa Monica 🌅 The Gentle Glow of a California Evening

Santa Monica Beach is the endpoint of historic Route 66 and one of California’s most iconic beaches 🏖️. It’s not only a perfect spot to watch the sunset but also offers plenty of fun pier attractions like the Ferris wheel 🎡 and roller coaster 🎢 — amazing for capturing that golden “sunset coaster” moment and creating unforgettable memories! 🚗 Getting Here: Metro: Take the E Line to Downtown Santa Monica Station, then it’s just a short walk to the beach. Parking: Parking Structure 6 (📍431 2nd St): Free for the first 1.5 hours, then $2/hr. Just two traffic lights away from the beach 🚦. Beach Parking Lot 1 North (📍1550 Pacific Coast Hwy): Right next to the sand — $15 for all day. 📷 Photo Spots You Can’t Miss: Sunset Roller Coaster: Ride during golden hour! $15 for two rides 🎢 — perfect for videos. Pro tip: film on the second ride to avoid getting noticed by staff. Route 66 End Sign: Located near the pier, the “End of the Trail” marker is a must-shot for that classic Cali vibe 🛣️. Santa Monica Pier Sign: The arched entrance sign looks best from a distance 📸. Pacific Wheel: The Ferris wheel against a sunset sky makes a dreamy backdrop — try low-angle shots! 🎡 🎢 Sunset Coaster Tips: Aim to arrive 30 mins before sunset (around 6:30 PM). The coaster is moderately thrilling — back rows offer the best experience! Travel light: lockers are small, and large items must be left in public areas. 👗 What to Wear & Bring: Sandals or beach shoes are ideal for comfortable strolls. Bright-colored outfits stand out beautifully in photos, especially against sunset or ride backgrounds! 🎡 More Fun on the Pier: Already tried the wheel and coaster? Why not get a fun headshot souvenir, enjoy ocean breezes from the Ferris wheel, or visit during a carnival event for extra games and rides! #SantaMonica #CaliforniaSunset #SunsetCoaster #LATravel #LAWeekends #SantaMonicaBeach #TravelGuide #PhotoTips #OOTD #GoldenHour