Santa Monica State Beach

Beautiful beach with walking and biking trails. Parking was $15 and don’t worry if you forget a towel or umbrella bc there are vendor carts walking up and down beach with them for purchase. Restrooms were decent.

My favorite fun beach location in SoCal. Very clean beach with several lifeguard towers every 100 yards or so along with several public restrooms. There's lots of reasonable parking on the street or in the several parking lots along the beach. The walking and biking lanes are frequently used and run along the length of the SM beach. There's also a cafe with bicycle rentals at the mid point and the SM pier is a favorite destination with the locals and many visitors. There are a few cafes/restaurants and many fun pier rides for the whole family. It is the place to be if you're looking for a fun day at a great California beach!

Santa Monica State Beach is a great spot to spend the day. It’s a huge beach with beautiful ocean views. The iconic Santa Monica Pier adds to the experience with food, games, and fun activities, so it’s easy to spend hours just wandering around and enjoying the atmosphere.

Santa Monica State Beach is a true California gem – a perfect blend of natural beauty, classic seaside charm, and cultural history. Stretching over 3 miles along the Pacific Coast, this iconic beach has been a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike for over a century. Its history dates back to the early 20th century, when Santa Monica became a popular seaside retreat for Hollywood stars and Los Angeles residents looking for a break from city life. Over the years, it has become a symbol of the California beach lifestyle. The beach is wide, clean, and well-maintained, with soft sand and stunning views of the ocean. The famous Santa Monica Pier, built in 1909, adds a nostalgic charm with its vintage amusement park rides, small aquarium, shops, and restaurants. It’s also the historic endpoint of Route 66, making it a meaningful stop for road trip lovers. There are plenty of activities for everyone – biking, volleyball, paddleboarding, or simply relaxing by the waves. The beach paths are great for long walks, and the sunsets here are absolutely breathtaking. Whether you’re into beach fun, coastal views, or historic landmarks, Santa Monica State Beach offers an unforgettable experience. It’s more than just a beach – it’s a piece of California’s cultural and cinematic legacy.

The beach is simply beautiful. Good during the day, fun, there is plenty of things to do for everyone. You can workout and keep your body in shape, enjoy the sand and the Ocean with frieds and family, ride a bike or go to the Santa Monica Theme Park. And, of course, do not miss the sunset

Loved the Santa Monica beach - it was clean and the water was perfectly chilly 🥶 They have multiple lifeguards posted on the beach and they were attentive and helpful.

Santa Monica State Beach is an absolute gem! The golden sand stretches endlessly, meeting the sparkling blue Pacific Ocean. We spent the day soaking up the sun, enjoying the cool ocean breeze, and marveling at the stunning views of the iconic Santa Monica Pier. Walking along the shoreline, we discovered charming street performers, vibrant shops, and delicious food stands that added so much character to the experience. The bike path was a highlight too, perfect for a scenic ride or stroll while taking in the beauty of the coastline. Fun fact: Santa Monica State Beach is part of the larger Santa Monica Bay and has been a favorite destination for locals and tourists for decades. The facilities are top-notch, with clean restrooms, picnic areas, and lifeguards on duty. The only downside? It can get quite crowded, especially on weekends, so arriving early is a good idea. Overall, it was an incredible day filled with sun, sand, and unforgettable memories.

Santa Monica State Beach is a solid option if you’re looking for a classic Cali beach experience. The views are great, and the wide sandy stretch is perfect for sunbathing or a casual walk. That said, it’s very touristy and can feel overcrowded, especially on weekends. Also, be cautious with your belongings—there are occasional reports of theft, so it’s best to stay aware. Overall, a nice beach with the usual big-city downsides.