Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica

4.1

#1 of 74 in Things to do in Santa Monica

Must see · Pier / Boardwalk · Historic Walking Area

Create an itinerary including Santa Monica Pier

Experience the vibrant, timeless energy of southern California with a walk down Santa Monica Pier. The 100-year-old wooden wharf serves as the area's hub of entertainment and culture. This spot is home to the Pacific Park amusement park, the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium, an array of shops and eateries, and plenty of street artists. Rent bikes and spend the afternoon exploring the carnival-like atmosphere while enjoying the oceanside scenery. Kids love visiting the Playland Arcade, which has more than 200 games and attractions. The pier also is home to California's only over-water Ferris wheel. For Santa Monica Pier and beyond, use our Santa Monica trip itinerary planner to get the most from your Santa Monica vacation.

Create a full itinerary - for free!

Tours to Santa Monica Pier

FROM $89 BOOK WITH VIATOR Small Group Electric Bicycle Tour of Santa Monica and Venice Beach Small Group Electric Bicycle Tour of Santa Monica and Venice Beach

5.0

Duration: 3 hours

Tours from $89 ›

FROM $80 BOOK WITH VIATOR Santa Monica & Venice Bike Tour Santa Monica & Venice Bike Tour

5.0

Duration: 2 hours

Tours from $80 ›

Santa Monica Pier reviews

Rate this attraction

TripAdvisor traveler rating

19,182 reviews

Google

4.6

By Danny K

Fun atmosphere. It was a little chilly in March. Bring your hoodie due to the wind. BEWARE OF THE TRAVELOCITY SCAM! If you click the bargain fare, they won't give you any flight details until you...

Fun atmosphere. It was a little chilly in March. Bring your hoodie due to the wind. BEWARE OF THE TRAVELOCITY SCAM! If you click the bargain fare, they won't give you any flight details until you... more »
By SteveRainville99

Took a group of 40 students there, and they all had a great time! The weather wasn't the best, but they made the most out of it. There are plenty of eateries, including Bubba Gump, as well as gift...

Took a group of 40 students there, and they all had a great time! The weather wasn't the best, but they made the most out of it. There are plenty of eateries, including Bubba Gump, as well as gift... more »

See more on TripAdvisor ›

Google

By Sandy B

Had a great time here! Be ready for the crowds of people that come here and bring your jacket because it can get pretty cold. There are many great spots to take pictures and spend time with family and friends here. We enjoyed the views entering the pier area and leading down to the actual pier. There are a variety of food options and many vendors providing custom gifts. We had some amazing funnel cakes and bought souvenir pictures for our group. This is a great spot for a day or night experience.

more less
By Maria J

We went on a Sunday. Beautiful weather and plenty to do. It was just a day trip, so we only spent a couple hours there. I can't wait to go back so we can take our time and experience more. Great place to spend the day. Very kid friendly, we took our 10 year old. The beach is clean and wasn't too crowded. It was really nice and worth seeing, even with limited time.

more less

See more on Google ›

Plan your trip to Santa Monica

Get a personalized trip

A full day by day itinerary based on your preferences

Customize it

Refine your trip. We'll find the
best routes and schedules

Book it

Choose from the best hotels and activities. Up to 50% off

Manage it

Everything in one place. Everyone on the same page.

Know more