Santa Monica Pier

Walk Santa Monica Pier for a free coastal date with ocean air, street life, and optional paid rides or food. The pier itself is open daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.; individual attractions and restaurants keep their own hours.

Free public access is the base plan, with carousel, arcade, amusement park, and dining as spend-if-you-want layers. Spontaneous walkability makes it easy when you do not want a reservation-heavy evening.

Meet at the pier entrance, keep the first hour free, and only buy rides if the mood stays playful.