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Beach · Santa Monica, California
Santa Monica State Beach
A wide stretch of sand about 5.6 km long on both sides of the pier, with lifeguard stations, volleyball courts, the beachfront bike path and the Original Muscle Beach, where the outdoor-gym culture was born.
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 Santa Monica State Beach
Santa Monica Beach stretches about 5.6 km, from the boundaries of Pacific Palisades in the north to Venice in the south, with the pier roughly in the middle. It is a California state beach managed by the city, with wide sand, lifeguard stations, restrooms and wooden walkways that help people with reduced mobility get closer to the water.
South of the pier is Original Muscle Beach, created in the early 1930s with mats and gym bars; it became one of the birthplaces of outdoor fitness culture and still has rings, bars and ropes. Nearby are beach volleyball courts and a chess park.
The Marvin Braude bike path runs along the waterfront for about 35 km, linking Pacific Palisades to Torrance via Venice. Pacific water is usually cold even in summer, and surfing and stand-up paddleboarding are common along the beach.
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 half a day to a full day.
Best time
From June to October, when the sea is usually less cold and the morning fog clears earlier.
How to get there
The metro (E Line) ends in downtown Santa Monica, a few blocks from the beach. There are paid parking lots along the waterfront.
Tip
Rent a bike and follow the bike path to Venice: the route is flat and runs alongside the sand for most of the way.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Santa Monica State Beach
Can you swim at Santa Monica Beach?
Yes, there are lifeguards at several stations. Pacific water is usually cold, and many people wear wetsuits outside of summer.
What is Original Muscle Beach?
An outdoor gymnastics area south of the pier, created in the 1930s, with rings, bars and ropes for public use.
Can you bike from Santa Monica to Venice?
Yes, via the Marvin Braude bike path, which follows the sand and connects the two beaches in a few minutes.