Audio Guide of Santa Monica Pier

Santa Monica Pier is generally open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, allowing constant access to the pier. However, the individual shops, restaurants, and attractions on the pier have their own operating hours. For example, Pacific Park, the amusement park on the pier, usually opens at 11:00 AM and closes between 8:00 PM and 11:00 PM, depending on the day and season.

Good news! Admission to Santa Monica Pier is completely free. You can walk along the pier and enjoy the views and atmosphere at no cost. What does cost extra are specific attractions, such as the rides at Pacific Park, the Ferris wheel, the roller coaster, and of course, food and shopping.

For a full visit to Santa Monica Pier, we recommend setting aside between 2 and 4 hours. That gives you enough time to stroll along the pier, enjoy key attractions like Pacific Park, visit the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium, grab something to eat, and simply soak up the atmosphere. If you only want a quick walk, one hour is enough.

Santa Monica Pier is much more than an amusement area; it is a historic landmark. It was the first pier on the West Coast built entirely of concrete and opened in 1909. It symbolizes the end of historic Route 66, and it has been a center of entertainment and a gathering place for locals and visitors for more than a century, evolving from a working pier into a global icon of leisure and beach culture.

The best time to visit Santa Monica Pier is during spring (April-May) or fall (September-November), when the weather is mild and there are fewer crowds. If you visit in summer, I suggest going early in the morning to avoid the crowds and enjoy a calmer atmosphere, or at sunset to watch the Ferris wheel lights glow over the Pacific, which is a beautiful sight.

Yes, Santa Monica Pier is designed to be accessible. The pier surface is mostly flat, and there are ramps at the access points. Many of the attractions, facilities, and most restaurants are wheelchair accessible. For specific accessibility information at Pacific Park, you can check its Guest Services section.

There is plenty to see nearby! Right next to the pier, you have the famous Santa Monica beaches, perfect for a walk or a day in the sun. You can also explore the Third Street Promenade, a lively pedestrian street with shops, restaurants, and entertainment. A short distance away, you will find Palisades Park, which offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and outdoor activities.

Of course, here are a few tips: 1) Arrive early on weekends to find parking more easily and avoid crowds. 2) Dress in layers, as the ocean breeze can feel cool even on sunny days. 3) Consider buying an unlimited ride pass for Pacific Park if you plan to go on several attractions. 4) Do not leave without trying a hot dog or a funnel cake—they are pier classics! And do not forget your camera to capture the iconic Route 66 sign.