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Park · Santa Monica, California
Palisades Park
A narrow park atop the cliffs overlooking the Pacific, along Ocean Avenue, with palm trees, benches and viewpoints for Santa Monica Bay, the pier and the Malibu mountains.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Palisades Park
Palisades Park occupies a long, narrow strip on the top of the Santa Monica bluffs, along Ocean Avenue, facing the ocean. Paths run among palm trees and lawns, with benches turned toward the sea and viewpoints from which you can see the whole bay, from the pier to the Malibu mountains.
The park includes landmarks such as the Camera Obscura, an optical device installed in a small building, and sculptures along the route. The bluffs are fragile: do not go down them, and access to the beach is via boardwalks and stairs at designated points.
The route is flat and can be done on foot in a short walk, combined with the downtown area, which begins one block away, and with the pier at the park's southern end.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Best time
Late afternoon, to watch the sunset over the Pacific when the sky is clear.
How to get there
Along Ocean Avenue, one block from the Third Street Promenade and a few minutes on foot from the metro terminal (E Line).
Tip
Use the California Incline boardwalk or the marked stairs to go down to the beach; do not attempt to climb down the bluffs.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Palisades Park
What is in Palisades Park?
Paths among palm trees atop the bluffs, benches and viewpoints for the ocean, plus landmarks such as the Camera Obscura.
Is Palisades Park good for watching the sunset?
Yes, the viewpoints face west over the Pacific; the view depends on sky conditions.
How do you go down from Palisades Park to the beach?
By boardwalks and marked stairs along the park; the bluffs must not be used as a path.