Santa Monica Pier, Boardwalk, and Beach Trail

Santa Monica, California

4.0/5

based on 2 reviews

Save

View all 4 photos

All 4 photos

Save Review Directions Add Photo

Details

Distance

3.33 miles

Elevation Gain

20 ft

Route Type

Loop

Description

Added by The Outbound Collective

The Santa Monica Pier, Boardwalk, and Beach Trail in Santa Monica, California, offers a unique blend of coastal and urban hiking. The trail is a flat, paved 3.33-mile loop that is suitable for all skill levels. It starts at the Santa Monica Pier, a historic landmark known for its Ferris wheel and aquarium. The trail then leads to the bustling Santa Monica Boardwalk, where hikers can observe local artists, street performers, and a variety of shops and restaurants. The trail continues along the sandy beach, providing views of the Pacific Ocean and the distant mountains. The trail also features the Original Muscle Beach, an outdoor gym that has been a popular fitness spot since the 1930s. Hikers can take a break here to watch gymnasts and acrobats practice their skills. For a successful hike, it's recommended to start early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds. Don't forget to bring water, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes. Despite its urban setting, the trail offers a unique opportunity to enjoy the beach, observe local culture, and get some exercise.

Download the Outbound mobile app

Find adventures and camping on the go, share photos, use GPX tracks, and download maps for offline use.

Get the app

Download GPX File

Features

Mountain Biking

Running

Surfing

Hiking

Beach

Dog Friendly

Family Friendly

Scenic

Wildlife

Santa Monica Pier, Boardwalk, and Beach Trail Reviews

Margaret L

Santa Monica Pier, Boardwalk, and Beach Trail

10/21/22

I love the beach trails and barred rock around the pier. The pier can get kind of crazy with all the people on the weekends and during the summer. So I recommend going off-season and during the week. avoid the traffic and cost of parking by either using public transportation, or the mini bike paths that lead to the pier.

4.0

Margaret L

Santa Monica Pier, Boardwalk, and Beach Trail

10/21/22

4.0

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Spend a Day at the Santa Monica Pier

*Unlimited photography options with the ferris wheel, beach, ocean, and sunsets *Abundant people watching opportunities *Plenty of ways to get a workout in including swimming, volleyball courts, running, or riding a bike There is a bike and walking path that runs along the coast. One of my favorite things to do is walk the path and look at the beach houses to the north, or head south and chec...

Run the Santa Monica Concrete Stairs

The concrete Santa Monica Stairs are a great way to get in some intense leg burning cardio. There are around 170 steps that are wider and easier than the Santa Monica wooden staircase.This place has been a hot spot in the Santa Monica fitness scene for some time so it is also a good place for meeting new, like-minded people, but because of this parking can be challenging. Best advice is to go e...

Run the Santa Monica Wooden Stairs

The wooden Santa Monica Stairs are a great way to get in some intense leg burning cardio. There are around 120 steps that are steeper then the Santa Monica Concrete Stairs, which can provide a deep burn on the intended muscles!This place has been a hot spot in the Santa Monica fitness scene for some time so it is also a good place for meeting new, like-minded people but because of this parking ...

Beach Volleyball at Will Rogers State Beach

At PCH and West Channel there is a tunnel that goes underneath the highway leading you directly onto the beach. In the tunnel take a left up the stairs onto the bike path. Head south 250 feet and you will hit the first set of courts but be aware you will need lines for these courts! If you want courts that have lines continue heading south to the Annenburg community center. It is an eight minut...

Explore the Venice Canals

The canals are a fun and quiet place to relax away from the hectic Venice boardwalk. Take a stroll through the canals or even get in a run! The reflections in the water are the main attraction and are great for photography. Spring, after some rain, is the best time to go as the water levels are going to be the highest!

Kayak the Marina Del Rey Harbor

The Marina Del Rey harbor covers 1.5 square miles making it the world’s largest small-craft harbor. Located southwest of Los Angeles, it is the homeport to nearly 6,500 local boats, ranging from small fishing boats, large private yachts, and even a multitude of unique houseboats. The harbor is easily accessed via Admiralty Way, one street west of Lincoln Blvd. Renting a kayak in the harbor is e...

Santa Monica Pier, Boardwalk, and Beach Trail

Details

Description

Download the Outbound mobile app

Features

Santa Monica Pier, Boardwalk, and Beach Trail Reviews

Leave No Trace

Nearby

Spend a Day at the Santa Monica Pier

Run the Santa Monica Concrete Stairs

Run the Santa Monica Wooden Stairs

Beach Volleyball at Will Rogers State Beach

Explore the Venice Canals

Kayak the Marina Del Rey Harbor

Discover

Community

Company

Follow Us

Mobile Apps