Santa Monica Pier

[Twinprincesses]

We are thinking about going to the Pier but wanted to know who much rides cost and how much there actually is to do there. Also how much time should we allow there.

 

[vwlamy]

Hi, We were just there in April for the first time. IMO, Its a half day visit. Get there at 8 AM, leave by 1 PM or so after you eat lunch. There's a ferris wheel and some other smaller type rides. You should go up in the ferris wheel for sure, you can see for miles. Its a few bucks per person, i forget exactly. The main attraction is the pier itself, salt air, a guy there with a bunch of parrots that he will sit on your kids shoulder's, stuff like that. Its worth seeing, nice crowd, absolutely beautiful area. Definately go S/M pier instead of Venice Beach, which is an absolute pit, but thats another discussion!

 

[Twinprincesses]

Can you tell me a little about Venice Beach, is it really nasty??

 

[WebmasterMaryJo]

I would call Venice Beach more funky than nasty. It's a different atmosphere than Sta Monica.

 

[hamellr]

I would call Venice Beach more funky than nasty. It's a different atmosphere than Sta Monica.

And better in my opinion, although not as kid friendly over all. Parking nearby is easier, more and better food options right off the pier. Although Santa Monica has better food options if you walk a few blocks inland.

 

[Tanzanite]

the best thing is to buy a wristband its cheaper than individal rides.

 

[ludari]

Okay, I grew up in Venice so watch the comments before they get out of control.
I'll accept that Venice is different than Santa Monica and we are proud of that fact, nevertheless Venice Beach is a place everyone should experience just once in their lives. If you want to stay around the Santa Monica pier area that is fine it's a good place for the family and kids. If you stay around the SM pier area you might want to consider walking or driving three blocks east of the pier to 3rd street Promenade. They are numerous resturants, shops, musicians and entertainers as well.

 

[Twinprincesses]

I think we are going to start the day at Venice and move our way to Santa Monica.

 

[june@imsarc.com]

Ludari--Tell me more about Venice Beach. We will be in SoCal next week and plan to stop there, but I have no idea what to really expect. Our kids are 20, 16, and 12.

Can you recommend some places to eat?

Is there parking?

I heard you don't really go to the beach and sit/sun there, so what do you do, just stroll the boardwalk?

How is it connected to the pier?

Is there an actual gym where people work out, or is that just a tourist attraction?

Thanks, much! And feel free to ask me anything you want about Pittsburgh!

 

[DisneyCaliCouple]

If you like seafood, go to Bubba Gumps. It's amazing.