Santa Monica Pier has been a popular destination for local residents and tourists for many years. The original Municipal Pier was built in 1909. Municipal Pier is the one that is very long and narrow. The Newcomb Pier was built in 1916. Newcomb pier is home to attractions like the Looff Hippodrome, which houses the famous carousel. The Hippodrome is listed as a National Historic Place. Santa Monica Pier offers attractions for everyone, whether you currently live in a Santa Monica luxury condo, or are just visiting and staying in a local hotel. Let’s take a closer look at some things to do around Santa Monica Pier.
Pacific Park
The main attraction at Santa Monica Pier is probably Pacific Park. Pacific Park is a family amusement park located right on the pier. Pacific Park is non-gated and they don’t charge an admission fee. Individual rides charge a fee to ride. Their slogan is, “LA’s only admission-free amusement park.” They feature the world’s only solar powered ferris wheel, called The Pacific Wheel. From the top of the ferris wheel you can see way out over the Pacific Ocean. Another famous ride at Pacific Park is The West Coaster, a steel roller coaster that runs around the perimeter of the park.
Playland Arcade
The Playland Arcade has been a family-owned attraction on the Santa Monica Pier for over 50 years. They feature over 200 new and classic arcade games. All of their machines use actual quarters, so you won’t have to worry about having a bunch of tokens that can only be used at the arcade. The Playland Arcade is great fun for kids and adults alike.
Santa Monica Pier Aquarium
The Santa Monica Pier Aquarium is located on the beach level, right underneath the pier. It is operated by the nonprofit organization, Heal The Bay. They feature a shark / ray tank, octopus tank, 3 touch tanks, and many other exhibits displaying local sea creatures. In 2009 an octopus managed to open the drain on a water tank, and flood the aquarium with hundreds of gallons of water!
Ocean Front Walk
The Ocean Front Walk is a paved pathway leading south from Santa Monica Pier. The walkway runs right along the beach, and is lined with stores and restaurants. Children will have fun with the walled in sandbox to play in, which features a Viking ship in the middle. Public volleyball courts are also along the path, which can be used on a first-come, first-served basis.
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