Welcome to the Santa Monica Pier Tour
No trip to sunny Los Angeles is complete without a visit to the Santa Monica Pier, and no visit to the Pier is complete without this self-guided audio walking tour! As you stroll along this bustling pier, you’ll dig deep into its history, from its humble origins to devastating storms and ambitious amusement parks. Spot the historic Santa Monica Pier Carousel and Pacific Park before making your way to the very end of the pier, offering unbeatable views of the ocean and Santa Monica Beach.
About the Santa Monica Pier Tour
You’ll begin your tour by stepping onto the vibrant Santa Monica Pier, a bustling hub that marks the end of the famous Route 66. Here, the mix of seaside entertainment and historical landmarks offers a unique glimpse into Southern California’s coastal culture.
Your first stop is the Santa Monica Pier Carousel within the Looff Hippodrome, a beautifully preserved piece of Americana that has delighted visitors since its debut in 1916. Listen to the enchanting stories of the carousel’s creation and the evolution of the pier around it.
A short walk away, you’ll find the former site of La Monica Ballroom. Once the largest ballroom on the west coast, it hosted thousands during the roaring ‘20s. Find out what happened to it as you continue along this historic wooden pier.
Next, immerse yourself in the playful atmosphere of Pacific Park. This modern amusement park features a range of attractions, including the iconic solar-powered Ferris wheel which offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.
Then, uncover more of the pier’s history and keep walking until you reach the far end of the pier, boasting panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean on one side and Santa Monica Beach on the other. Your tour concludes here.
This self-guided walking tour is the perfect supplement to any LA visit!
NOTE: The wildfire situation remains dynamic (January 2025)
- Due to ongoing wildfire activity in certain areas around Los Angeles, some routes may be affected. We recommend checking local updates and road closures to ensure that your tour can proceed safely. For more information please visit: https://www.discoverlosangeles.com/info
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Where To Start?
We recommend Starting From: Santa Monica Pier Arch, 81-99 Colorado Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90401, United States
How Does It Work?
- Once you book a tour, you’ll get a text/email with instructions.
- Download the app (while in good wifi/signal) and use your unique password to access your tours. If multiple versions or entry points are available for your tour, be sure to download all the audio guides.
- Audio Setup: Connect your phone to the car stereo via Bluetooth, USB, or Aux, and bring headphones on walking tours. CarPlay and Android Auto are currently not supported; we’re working toward a solution with Apple.
- To begin touring, go to the starting point and launch the app.
- The audio starts automatically once you reach the starting point. Stick to the tour route and speed limit for the best experience.
- Please note that no one will meet you at the starting point.
Audio Story Highlights
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Welcome
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Santa Monica Pier Arch
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Amusement Park or Sewage Dump?
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Charles Looff
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Santa Monica Carouse
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Hippodrome
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Looff’s Amusement Park
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A Castle Floating Over the Ocean
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Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier
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The Pacific Wheel
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The Pacific Wheel
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Private Gondolas
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Marine Life at Santa Monica Bay
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Spotting Pete Peterson's Stomping Grounds
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Invention of the Peterson Tube
Preview The Tour
Tour FAQs
The tour highlights include the Santa Monica Pier, Third Street Promenade, Santa Monica State Beach, and the iconic Route 66 End of the Trail Sign. You’ll also explore local arts and culture by visiting the Santa Monica Arts Centre and various public art installations.
The duration depends on your pace and interest, but generally, it can take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours to cover all the main attractions comfortably.
Santa Monica is a great destination year-round, but the best time to visit is during the spring and fall months when the weather is more pleasant and the crowds are fewer compared to the busy summer season.
Starting early in the morning or later in the afternoon is ideal to avoid the midday sun and to experience local activities at their liveliest.
Absolutely! Santa Monica offers numerous family-friendly attractions and activities, including interactive public art, parks, and the aquarium at the pier.
The self-guided walking tour itself is free; however, some attractions and activities along the route may have entrance fees.
Comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, water, and a camera are essential. You might also want to bring some cash for snacks and souvenirs.
Santa Monica is generally safe for tourists, but as with any busy urban area, it’s wise to stay alert and secure your belongings, especially in crowded places.
Dogs are welcome in many outdoor areas in Santa Monica, but keep in mind that they must be on a leash, and some attractions may not allow pets.
Santa Monica offers a wide variety of dining options, ranging from quick bites at local cafés to upscale restaurants. The Third Street Promenade and Santa Monica Place are great spots to explore different culinary offerings.
Yes, public restrooms are available at major public spaces, including parks and near the beach.
There are several public parking lots and garages around downtown Santa Monica and near the beach. Rates vary, so checking the current rates and availability before your visit is advisable.
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Inclusions and Exclusions
App on your phone: A link to download the Action Tour Guide App and Password for your tours.
Easy to use: Stories play automatically via GPS, hands‑free. Assistance available all day via call, chat, or email.
Flexible schedule: Use any day, any time. Valid for multiple visits up to 1 year after purchase.
Interactive audio stories: Experience local history and culture through clear, concise narratives from experienced narrators.
At your own pace: No group. Take breaks for photos, snacks, hikes. Go at your own pace.
Offline use: No cell signal or wifi required. Offline GPS Map & route. Stop-to-stop direction.
Don’t miss a thing: Enjoy a full itinerary, travel tips, narrated videos, text guides, and hidden gems.
Transportation, parking fees, food, and drinks.
Entry tickets or reservations for any attractions along the route.
Car Rental: Please arrange a rental car at the closest airport or train station.
