The Santa Monica Pier is an iconic landmark offering a variety of attractions for visitors of all ages. From thrilling rides to scenic ocean views, Santa Monica Pier with kids has something for everyone. Back in 2012, Jamie and I would visit this pier almost daily when we lived in the area. Now, visiting with our kids brings a whole new perspective and set of experiences.
We visited on a weekend and it was EXTREMELY crowded which can be very overwhelming for anyone but especially those with small kids. Keep your kids close and enjoy the chaos. Know that you can always venture away from the pier at any time to come back up for air. Although, not an ideal time to visit, we still enjoyed our time albeit a short walk up and down the pier to experience the sights and views. It is one of those things that you should experience at least once if you are visiting Santa Monica for the first time.
Interested in another California Pier? See our visit to Stearn’s Wharf in Santa Barbara here.
Location
200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA 90401
Parking:
There are plenty of parking options for the Santa Monica Pier but we opted for some great parking on 2nd Street.
City of Santa Monica Parking: 1433 2nd St, Santa Monica, CA 90401
This was new to us since a decade ago we could just walk here from our apartment.
Attractions at the Santa Monica Pier With Kids
The Santa Monica Pier is brimming with attractions that cater to a wide range of interests and ages. At the heart of the pier is Pacific Park, an amusement park featuring the iconic Pacific Wheel, a solar-powered Ferris wheel that offers breathtaking views of the coastline. The West Coaster roller coaster provides thrills with its twists and turns above the ocean. For those looking for a classic carnival experience, there’s a historic carousel, midway games, and an array of rides for younger children.
The Santa Monica Pier Aquarium, located beneath the pier, offers an educational experience with exhibits on local marine life and interactive displays. Fishing enthusiasts can cast a line off the end of the pier, while others might enjoy the various shops and food stalls selling everything from seafood to churros. Street performers and artists add to the vibrant atmosphere, ensuring there’s never a dull moment. Lastly, the pier hosts special events and concerts throughout the year, making each visit a unique experience.
For more on attractions. Visit the Pier website here.
What To Eat?
We didn’t eat here on this trip but Jamie and I always loved visiting Mariasol Cocina Mexicana. Touristy and pricy, yes… and kind of what you’d expect for a tourist destination but you won’t be able to beat the views and the atmosphere from here. For a complete list of food on the pier check Santa Monica Pier Restaurants here.
Surviving the Santa Monica Pier with Kids
The Santa Monica Pier is home to a range of attractions that make it a must-visit destination. Among these, my personal favorites are the roller coaster and the Ferris wheel. The roller coaster offers an exhilarating ride with stunning views of the coastline, while the Ferris wheel provides a more relaxed but equally breathtaking perspective of the Pacific Ocean.
On this particular trip, we did not partake in any of these attractions. We had just visited Universal Studios the day before and we really didn’t need any more thrills or need to spend any more money! On previous trips, our kids
While it’s easy to get sucked into the tourist traps and spend a fortune on games and souvenirs, the best way to experience the pier is simply by walking along it, observing the bustling activity, and soaking in the sights and sounds. The carnival booths and touristy shops can be fun, but the real charm of the pier lies in its atmosphere and views. You probably will be tempted by your kids to splurge on some souvenirs or some rides. If you simply can’t resist, our choice for the whole family would be the Ferris Wheel. You’ll get amazing views of the ocean and Santa Monica and it should be fun for the whole family.
Visiting Muscle Beach
After exploring the pier, we headed to the famous Muscle Beach, located just a short walk away. Muscle Beach Santa Monica has a rich history as a hub for fitness enthusiasts and bodybuilders. Established in the 1930s, it quickly became a popular spot for athletes to showcase their strength and skills, making it a legendary site in the fitness world.
Our kids loved trying out the rings, swinging on the swings, and playing in the sand. Muscle Beach is an excellent spot to enjoy the sunset and let the kids run around and burn off some energy. The combination of playground equipment and the beach setting provides a perfect backdrop for family fun.
After or before your visit
After wrapping up our time at Muscle Beach, we walked back up the pier and considered our options for continuing our day. You can easily visit Third Street Promenade for some shopping and dining or take a relaxing stroll through Tongva Park.
The Santa Monica Pier and its surrounding attractions offer a fantastic blend of excitement and relaxation for families. Whether you’re riding the roller coaster, enjoying the Ferris wheel, or watching your kids play at Muscle Beach, this area provides a memorable experience for visitors of all ages.
