Located along Pacific Coast Highway and divided by the world famous Santa Monica Pier and boardwalk. At the foot of Colorado Boulevard (and the end to Route 66) lies historic Santa Monica Pier which dates from 1909. Sandy beach volleyball courts run south of the pier, additional beach courts run along Ocean Front Walk, and the bicycle path (bicycle rentals are available) runs in both directions from the pier. Muscle Beach lies immediately south of the volleyball courts and contains athletic apparatus and small jungle gyms for children. A few steps further south is the international chess park. Santa Monica Pier Aquarium is also located at the pier and operated by Heal The Bay. Mild surf makes it a prime beach for swimming, body boarding, and body surfing. Large paid parking lots, extremely limited street parking, restrooms, showers, daily life guards, and wooden pathways for handicapped access. Water quality at the pier is monitored five days a week.

The description above was copied from or heavily based on Swim Guide, with permission.

More Information

• Swim Guide - Weather and water quality for Santa Monica Beach Pier and 8,000 other beaches.