Santa Monica Pier at Sunset
Opened in 1909, the Santa Monica Pier today is a much-loved landmark that attracts over four million visitors a year. The Pier shops are a great place to pick up souvenirs, postcards and novelties. Oceanside dining is also a treat at restaurants such as Surf View Café and Mariasol Cocina Mexicana. Attractions at the Pier include the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium, Playland Arcade and historic Carousel.
Perhaps the most popular attraction is Pacific Park, LA's only admission-free amusement park and home to the only oceanfront steel roller coaster on the West Coast. The park also features adult rides such as the Pacific Plunge and Sea Dragon, while children enjoy the Crazy Submarine and Frog Hopper. Likely the one of the most popular rides, if not the most recognizable, is the new Pacific Wheel. The world's only solar-powered Ferris wheel, the Pacific Wheel offers panoramic views of the coast at 130 above the pier. At night, the wheel lights up to 160,000 LED lights.
Santa Monica Pier is the perfect place for a fun, memorable event in a spectacular setting. Both the Pier Deck and Carousel are available for events. Pacific Park has several spaces for private events, including its Seaside Cabana for up to 300 people. Several of the Pier's restaurants can also host private parties.
The Santa Monica Pier itself is open 24 hours a day. Admission is free. Schedules and prices of other attractions vary. During the summer season from late May to August, Pacific Park is open Sunday through Thursday from 11 AM to 11 PM and Friday and Saturday from 11 to 12:30 AM. From mid-January to late May and from September to December, the park is in limited operation Monday through Friday from noon to 6 PM and full operation from 6 PM to 12 AM; full operation Saturday from 11 AM to midnight; and full operation from Sunday from 11 AM to 9 PM. Unlimited ride wristbands are $10.95 for guests under 42 inches tall and $19.95 for guests over 42 inches tall. For more information on Santa Monica Pier: 310-458-8900
For more information on Pacific Park: 310-260-8744
