Santa Monica Beach

The beach of Santa Monica is located on the coast of the Pacific Ocean in the US state of California. In addition to parks, playgrounds and lots of sand, there is also the Santa Monica Pier.

The Santa Monica Pier is one of the most important landmarks of the city. The pier is composed of two piers joined together. The first long narrow Municipal Pier was opened on September 9, 1909, followed by the Pleasure Pier for seven years alter.

Santa Monica beach with people and mountains in the background.
Person sitting on a beach pier overlooking the ocean and beach with mountains in the background.
Overhead view of white capped waves in the Santa Monica ocean.

The pier accommodates the Pacific Park amusement park, on which among other things a carousel and a ferris wheel are. Due to its proximity to Hollywood, it often served as a location for film productions, the pier also marks the end of Route 66.

Ferris wheel against a blue sky.
Person in hat standing on a pier overlooking a California beach and city skyline.
Roller coaster track and Ferris wheel gondolas against a blue sky.
Santa Monica Pier Ferris wheel with Pacific Park sign.
Amusement game with rows of colorful glasses and plush toys above.
Santa Monica Pier amusement park game with plush prizes.
Santa Monica pier pilings and waves.
Beach lifeguard stand on sandy beach.
Hot Dog Stick stand in California at sunset.
Three palm trees against a blue sky.
Ocean street sign against a blue sky.
Three strings of outdoor lights against a twilight sky.
Couple on bike and skateboard crossing a crosswalk at sunset in California.
Santa Monica harbor entrance sign at sunset, silhouetted against palm trees.
California beach with tire tracks in the sand, buildings in the background, and a lifeguard station.
Santa Monica beach sunset with waves gently lapping the shore.
Silhouette of Santa Monica Pier at sunset.
Silhouette of a pier structure at sunset in California.
Sunset over the ocean in Santa Monica.