The Santa Monica Pier is one of Southern California’s most iconic attractions. Stretching into the Pacific Ocean at the end of Colorado Avenue, this historic pier has welcomed visitors for more than a century. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for another beach day, there’s far more to do than simply ride the Ferris wheel. From historic landmarks and classic amusement rides to famous corn dogs, oceanfront dining, and Route 66 photo opportunities, you could easily spend an entire day exploring the pier.
Here are 15 fun things to do during your visit including a few ghost stories!
1. Learn the History of the Santa Monica Pier
Before jumping on the rides, take a few minutes to learn about the fascinating history of the Santa Monica Pier.
The original municipal pier opened in 1909 and was built to carry sewer pipes beyond the ocean’s breakers. A few years later, amusement entrepreneur Charles I.D. Looff added a pleasure pier complete with attractions, games, and a beautiful carousel, transforming the area into one of Southern California’s favorite seaside destinations.
Looff was a master carousel carver and he created pleasure pier amusements parks including The Pike in Long Beach, the Boardwalk in Santa Cruz, a the carousel in Griffith Park that inspired Walt Disney to create Disneyland!
Read More: 15 Fun Things to Do at the Santa Cruz Boardwalk
Read More: Visit Walt Disney’s Office and Tour Walt Disney Studios in Burbank, California
Over the decades, the pier survived powerful storms, changing tourism trends, and even demolition proposals during the 1970s before local residents rallied to save it. Today, it remains one of California’s most beloved historic landmarks.
One of the best places to learn more about the pier’s history is at the very end of the pier near The Last Stop Shop, where you’ll find informational display panels filled with historic photographs, timelines, and stories about the pier’s past.
2. Ride the Pacific Wheel
The Pacific Wheel is the most recognizable attraction on the pier, located inside Pacific Park. As the world’s only solar powered Ferris wheel, it offers incredible panoramic views of Santa Monica Beach, the Pacific Ocean, Malibu, and even Catalina Island on especially clear days.
For an unforgettable experience, ride once during the day and again after sunset when the wheel lights up with colorful LED displays.
3. Spend Time at Pacific Park
Pacific Park is a classic seaside amusement park featuring rides, midway games, and family friendly fun.
In addition to the Ferris wheel, you can ride the West Coaster roller coaster, Sea Dragon swinging ship, bumper cars, Inkie’s Air Lift, Frog Hopper, and several other attractions. Since there is no admission fee, you can simply purchase individual ride tickets or an unlimited ride wristband.
The park features:
- Pacific Wheel, the world’s only solar powered Ferris wheel
- West Coaster roller coaster
- Sea Dragon swinging pirate ship
- Inkie’s Scrambler
- Bumper cars
- Shark Frenzy
- Several family friendly rides and carnival midway games
4. Ride the Historic Looff Merry Go Round
One of the pier’s greatest treasures is the historic Looff Hippodrome, home to a beautiful Merry Go Round carousel. Looff originally built the Moorish-style Hippodrome to house one of his carousel’s – the last one he ever built. However, that carousel was later sold. The current carousel in its place has been there since 1954 when it was moved from the Venice Pier.
The Hippodrome also houses a Soda Fountain and serves ice cream and sundaes!
5. Take a Photo at the End of Route 66
No visit is complete without posing beside the famous “End of the Trail” Route 66 sign!
You’ll find the famous “End of the Trail” Route 66 sign near the entrance to the pier. Although the original highway officially ended a few blocks inland, the Santa Monica Pier has become the symbolic finish line for travelers completing one of America’s greatest road trips. It is one of the most photographed spots in Santa Monica and a must for anyone who has completed the iconic road trip.
Read More: Cruising California’s Route 66 (Coming Soon!)
6. Visit the Last Stop Shop
Route 66 fans will love browsing The Last Stop Shop. This colorful store is filled with Route 66 souvenirs, vintage inspired gifts, apparel, artwork, and road trip memorabilia that celebrate America’s Mother Road.
7. See the Robert Waldmire Tribute
While visiting The Last Stop Shop, don’t miss the tribute to legendary Route 66 artist Robert Waldmire.
Known for his detailed maps, colorful artwork, and cross-country travels in his famous Volkswagen bus, Waldmire helped preserve the culture, nostalgia, and spirit of the historic Route 66 highway. The tribute at the shop honors his lasting influence on generations of road trippers.
He was also inspiration for the character Fillmore (the VW bus van like the one Waldmire drove) in the movie Cars. Fun fact, the character was to be named Waldmire, but Robert Waldmire was vegan and did not approve of his name on a character being sold inside Happy Meals at McDonalds, so the name was changed to Fillmore.
Read More: The Real Life Places Along Route 66 That Inspired the Disney Movie Cars
8. Explore Heal the Bay Aquarium
Located beneath the carousel building, Heal the Bay Aquarium introduces visitors to the marine life living just offshore.
Interactive exhibits, tide pool touch tanks, and educational displays make this a fun stop for both kids and adults.
Visitors can:
- Touch sea stars and other tide pool creatures
- Learn about local sharks and rays
- Explore interactive exhibits
- Discover how conservation efforts help protect Santa Monica Bay
9. Grab a Corn Dog at the Original Hot Dog on a Stick
No visit to the Santa Monica Pier feels complete without stopping at the original Hot Dog on a Stick.
Founded in 1946, this California classic has become famous for its hand dipped corn dogs and fresh squeezed lemonade. The colorful uniforms and old fashioned beach atmosphere make it one of the most nostalgic dining stops at the pier!
Read More: Must Try Foods Along California Highway 1
10. Restaurants on the Santa Monica Pier
Whether you’re looking for seafood, burgers, or casual snacks, there are several places to eat while enjoying the ocean views.
Popular options include:
The Albright
One of the pier’s most popular seafood restaurants, The Albright serves fresh fish, lobster rolls, clam chowder, oysters, shrimp, fish and chips, and local craft beer. Outdoor seating overlooks the Pacific Ocean.
Pier Burger
Pier Burger serves burgers, fries, milkshakes, and classic American comfort food just steps from the beach.
Maria Sol Mexican Cocina
This colorful restaurant, Maria Sol Mexican Cocina, at the end of the pier offers tacos, enchiladas, fajitas, margaritas, and oceanfront patio seating.
You’ll also find plenty of snack stands offering cotton candy, churros, ice cream, kettle corn, funnel cakes, and other classic boardwalk treats.
11. Watch the Street Performers
One of the most enjoyable parts of visiting the Santa Monica Pier is watching the talented street performers.
Depending on the day, you may see:
- Musicians
- Magicians
- Acrobats
- Break dancers
- Living statues
- Comedy performers
- Pigeon ladies
Many visitors find themselves spending far longer on the pier than expected simply enjoying the entertainment.
12. Fishing on the Pier
Fishing is allowed from the Santa Monica Pier without a California fishing license, making it a popular spot for both beginners and experienced anglers.
Common catches include perch, mackerel, halibut, and other local species.
13. Catch a Beautiful Sunset
Few places in Los Angeles offer a better sunset than the Santa Monica Pier.
As the sun sinks into the Pacific Ocean, the sky often turns brilliant shades of orange, pink, and purple while the Ferris wheel begins glowing in the background.
14. Seasonal Events Throughout the Year
Throughout the year, the Santa Monica Pier hosts outdoor concerts, movie nights, fitness classes, holiday celebrations, surf festivals, and community events.
Check the event calendar before your visit to see what’s happening during your stay.
The Santa Monica Pier hosts numerous events including:
- Twilight concerts
- Outdoor movies
- Yoga classes
- Holiday celebrations
- Surf festivals
- Fitness events
- Car shows
- Trapeze classes
The calendar changes throughout the year, so it’s worth checking upcoming events before your visit.
15. Take a Ghost Tour and Learn About the Pier’s Haunted History
If you enjoy ghost stories and local legends, consider adding a ghost tour to your Santa Monica itinerary. While there aren’t tours that focus exclusively on the Santa Monica Pier, several walking ghost tours of downtown Santa Monica include the pier and share eerie tales from the area’s past.
The Santa Monica Pier has long been the subject of local folklore. Some visitors and employees have reported hearing unexplained footsteps after closing, seeing mysterious shadows near the historic Looff Hippodrome, or experiencing strange sounds on quiet evenings. Some local ghost enthusiasts believe the century old Hippodrome may have lingering spirits connected to its long history, while others point to the many accidents and tragedies that have occurred in the surrounding ocean over the decades.
If ghost tours aren’t your thing, consider taking an evening stroll along the pier after sunset. With the crashing waves below, the historic buildings, and the glowing lights of Pacific Park, it’s easy to see how these legends have endured for generations.
Tips for Visiting the Santa Monica Pier
- Arrive early if visiting on weekends or during summer.
- Parking fills quickly, especially in the afternoon.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes.
- Stay through sunset for beautiful ocean views.
- Bring a light jacket since temperatures often cool down in the evening.
- Consider riding the Ferris wheel both during the day and after dark for two completely different experiences.
Pro Tip: Arrive before 10:00 a.m. on weekends to find easier parking and enjoy the pier before the largest crowds arrive. If possible, stay through sunset for one of the best views on the Southern California coast.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Santa Monica Pier
Is the Santa Monica Pier free to visit?
Yes. Admission to the Santa Monica Pier is completely free. Visitors are welcome to stroll the pier, enjoy the ocean views, watch the street performers, and browse the shops without paying an entrance fee. Individual attractions, amusement rides, games, restaurants, and the Heal the Bay Aquarium charge separate admission or purchase prices.
What are the Santa Monica Pier hours?
The pier itself is generally open daily and accessible 24 hours a day, although individual businesses, restaurants, Pacific Park rides, and the aquarium all have their own operating hours. It’s a good idea to check their websites before your visit if you have a specific attraction in mind.
How much does parking cost at the Santa Monica Pier?
Several paid parking lots are located near the pier, including the large beach parking lots directly beneath it. Parking rates vary depending on the season, day of the week, and special events, so expect to pay more during busy weekends and summer months. There are also meters along Ocean Blvd – always read parking signs from the top down!
How long should I plan to spend at the Santa Monica Pier?
Most visitors spend between two and four hours exploring the pier. If you plan to ride several attractions, visit the aquarium, enjoy a meal, and explore nearby attractions like Third Street Promenade or the beach, you could easily make it a full day.
What is the best time to visit the Santa Monica Pier?
Weekday mornings typically offer the smallest crowds. Sunset is one of the most popular times to visit because you can watch the sun set over the Pacific Ocean before enjoying the illuminated Ferris wheel after dark.
Is the Santa Monica Pier good for kids?
Absolutely. Families will find plenty to do, including Pacific Park rides, the historic carousel, Heal the Bay Aquarium, arcade games, street performers, and sweet treats like ice cream and funnel cakes.
Are dogs allowed on the Santa Monica Pier?
Yes. Leashed dogs are generally welcome on the pier itself. However, pets are not allowed on the adjacent Santa Monica State Beach, except in designated areas or service animals. Individual restaurants and businesses may have their own pet policies.
Can you fish from the Santa Monica Pier?
Yes. One of the unique benefits of fishing from a California public pier is that no California fishing license is required. Visitors can fish from designated areas while following all applicable state fishing regulations.
Is the Santa Monica Pier worth visiting?
Definitely! The Santa Monica Pier combines history, amusement rides, hot dogs on sticks, Route 66 landmarks, oceanfront dining, shopping, entertainment, and beautiful Pacific views all in one location. Whether you’re spending an hour or an entire day, it remains one of Southern California’s most iconic attractions.
Things to Do Nearby
The Santa Monica Pier is just one part of a great day exploring Santa Monica.
Nearby attractions include:
- Brentwood Country Mart
- Third Street Promenade
- Palisades Park
- Santa Monica State Beach
- Marvin Braude Bike Trail (The Strand)
- Original Muscle Beach
- Camera Obscura Art Lab
- Tongva Park
- Downtown Santa Monica shopping and dining
You can also rent bikes and ride south to Venice Beach or north toward Pacific Palisades for even more coastal scenery.
Read More: Brentwood Country Mart in Santa Monica, California
Read More: Santa Monica City Guide
Read More: Checking Into The Georgian Hotel in Santa Monica, California
Final Thoughts
The Santa Monica Pier is much more than an amusement park. It is a living piece of California history! Whether it is your first visit or your fiftieth, the Santa Monica Pier continues to capture the carefree spirit of Southern California and remains one of the state’s most iconic destinations.
Shop My Travel Essentials!
Copyright Notice
All images and content are copyright-protected. Please do not use any images without prior permission. If you would like to share this story, please only use one image, use proper credit, and link directly back to this post and linking with my post title. Thank you!
Land Acknowledgement
Salty Canary wants to acknowledge that we live, operate, gather, and benefit every day on the traditional stolen lands of several Indigenous peoples and nations including the Tongva (Gabrieleno), Kizh (Gabrieleno), Chumash, Popeloutchom (Amah Mutsun), Ohlone, Awaswas, and Fernandeño Tataviam peoples who have stewarded the lands and waterways throughout their many generations in what is now the state of California. I wanted to personally acknowledge these Indigenous people and nations and both their commitment and current contributions to the land with a donation to the American Indian College Fund because acknowledgment without action does not begin to address the systemic issues facing Indigenous people. If you feel as though you benefit from the land you’re living on or traveling to and you have the means, I kindly ask that you donate to a Native-led organization such as the Native American Rights Fund or the American Indian College Fund.