If you find yourself in Southern California, chances are you’ll want to visit Santa Monica Pier or Venice Beach. These two iconic landmarks are just a few miles from each other, yet each offers a distinct experience.
While both are popular for the laid-back, beachy vibes that define SoCal, there are notable differences to consider. We visited both in November and instantly saw how different there are – even though there are a few miles from each other.
In this article, we’ll break down what makes Santa Monica Pier and Venice Beach so special and help you decide which one you should visit (or visit first).
So, whether you’re a local looking for a fun day out or a visitor trying to maximize your time in the area, our comprehensive guide to Santa Monica Pier vs Venice Beach tells you everything you need to know!
Table Of Contents
Location: Santa Monica Pier vs. Venice Beach
Venice Beach and Santa Monica Pier are around 20 mins away from downtown Los Angeles and both offer breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
Santa Monica Pier
Santa Monica Pier is located in the city of Santa Monica in Los Angeles County, California. It is situated at the end of Colorado Avenue and boasts stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
It’s approximately 15.7 miles away from downtown Los Angeles.
Getting to Santa Monica Pier by Car
If you’re driving, the journey time is about 25 minutes via I-10 E.
There are several places to park. The closest 3 parking lots at Santa Monica Pier are:
- Santa Monica Beach Parking
- Santa Monica Pier Parking
- Lot 2 South
Getting to Santa Monica Pier by Public Transport
Alternatively, if you prefer to use public transportation to Santa Monica Pier you can opt for the bus or metro. Depending on the route, and travel time the journey takes between an hour to 1 hour and 45 minutes.
- Bus: The Big Blue Bus is one of the easiest transportation options from Downtown LA going directly to Santa Monica via Route 3 or Rapid 3.
- Metro: Metro E Line is the best service going from Downtown Los Angeles to Santa Monica.
Venice Beach
Venice Beach, on the other hand, is a famous beachfront neighborhood located in western Los Angeles. It has a distinctive neighborhood vibe, full of art galleries as well as a variety of unique shops and restaurants.
Venice Beach is approximately 16.6 miles away from Downtown Los Angeles. It’s also close to;
- Marina Del Rey (approx. 1.5 miles)
- Santa Monica (4 miles)
Getting to Venice Beach by Car
To drive from downtown LA to Venice Beach takes just over 20 minutes via the I-10 W.
The closest 3 parking lots at Venice Beach are:
- Parking Lot at 2100 Ocean Front Beach
- Public Beach Parking at 909 Ocean Front Walk
- Venice Beach Bus Parking
Getting to Venice Beach by Public Transport
There are a few ways to get to Venice Beach using public transportation. Travel times take anywhere between 1 hour and 10 minutes to an hour and a half. Here are the best travel options:
- Culver City Bus Lines(West on Washington Blvd., North on Pacific to Windward Ave. and Main St)
- Santa Monica Big Blue Bus (south on Pacific to Windward Ave)
- Metro Bus 3 or 333 (Downtown L.A. from Sprint & 6th to Main St. & Grand Ave)
Attractions In Santa Monica Pier or Venice Beach
Both Santa Monica Pier and Venice Beach have plenty of attractions and places of interest to explore. From the historic Santa Monica Pier to the bustling boardwalk of Venice Beach – you will be sure to find something new and exciting!
Plus, both of these beachfront locations offer plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities like biking, surfing, rollerblading, volleyball, and more.
Santa Monica Pier
Pacific Park: One of the main attractions at Santa Monica Pier is the Pacific Park. The amusem*nt park is home to the world’s only solar-powered Ferris wheel. At its highest point of 130 feet, you’ll have one of the best bird’s-eye views of the ocean and the beach. The park also has roller coasters, water rides, and plenty of smaller attractions for little ones.
Historical Landmarks: Santa Monica Pier is also home to several historical landmarks. The most famous is the Looff Hippodrome, which was built in 1916. It houses a carousel that dates back to 1922 and is a must-visit for anyone who loves history and vintage architecture.
You’ll can also see the Route 66 sign which marks the end of the iconic highway.
Route 66 holds great significance in American history and culture. It was established on November 11, 1926, as one of the original highways in the United States Numbered Highway System. This iconic highway stretches from Chicago, Illinois, to Los Angeles, California.
It was one of the first continuous stretches of paved highway in the United States. It served as a major route for westward migration connecting numerous rural communities along its path.
Heal the Bay Aquarium: Previously known as the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium, this oceanfront attraction is a must-see for anyone interested in marine life and conservation.
Located on the famous Santa Monica Pier, the Heal the Bay Aquarium is home to over 100 different species of marine animals and wildlife from colorful fish to fascinating invertebrates.
You can watch animal feeding demonstrations, which is a great opportunity to learn about the lives and eating habits of these creatures and the importance of conserving their habitats.
Beach Lovers Paradise: Apart from the pier attractions, Santa Monica Beach is perfect for those who want to soak up the California sunshine and enjoy the sandy shoreline. The beach is popular for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing.
Venice Beach
Funky Street Performers: Venice Beach is well-known for its diverse range of street performers, who offer entertaining shows all day long. From music to acrobatics to magic tricks, these performers are sure to keep you entertained.
World-Renowned Skate Park: Another popular attraction at Venice Beach is the world-renowned skate park. Skaters from all over the world come to this park to showcase their skills and push the limits of what’s possible on a skateboard. Even if you’re not a skater yourself, it’s definitely worth stopping by to watch these talented skaters in action.
The Vibrant Venice Beach Boardwalk: Here you’ll find a bustling 2-mile promenade featuring shops, art vendors, and privately owned restaurants. Along the way, you’ll pass by pop-up food stalls and hand-made items as well as a free speech zone.
Also, one of the most renowned beaches to visit while you’re here is Muscle Beach, which is famous for its outdoor gym and fitness enthusiasts
Which One is Better: Santa Monica or Venice Beach
Here are some important factors to consider when choosing between Santa Monica Pier and Venice Beach.
Family-friendly Beach vs Eclectic Scene
Do you have a preference for a more family-friendly atmosphere or a vibrant, eclectic scene?
- If you’re after a more family-friendly beach then we recommend Santa Monica Pier
- If you’re looking for a more eclectic experience then our recommendation is Venice Beach
Santa Monica Pier is regarded asone of Los Angeles’ top family-friendly piers. There are plenty of attractions for the whole family, whatever their age. Not only is the pier known for its amusem*nt park rides but also its iconic Ferris wheel, arcades, the aquarium, and plenty of family-friendly eateries.
In addition, Santa Monica Pier is also stroller-friendly – the pier is flat and wide. There are plenty of bathrooms located in Pacific Park with diaper-changing tables.
Venice Beach is known for its unique mix of people, culture, and activities. From the famous Venice Boardwalk, you can explore the vibrant beachfront galleries, street art, and independent vendors.
If you’re visiting with older children in tow, then Venice Beach will have plenty to keep them occupied.
Distance From Other Attractions and Neighborhoods
Do you want to visit a beach with close proximity to other attractions and neighborhoods worth exploring?
Firstly, Santa Monica Pier and Venice Beach are only a few attractions apart from each other, so you could feasibly spend time at both – which we highly recommend you do.
Both Santa Monica Pier and Venice Beach are just a short drive away from other popular destinations like Beverly Hills, downtown Los Angeles, and Hollywood.
- Santa Monica Pier is located in the heart of Santa Monica, which is an upscale and trendy area known for its shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
- Venice Beach is close to other popular beach towns like Marina del Rey and Muscle Beach.
The main attraction at Santa Monica Pier are the amusem*nt park, aquarium, and historic carousel. From the pier, you can also easily access the nearby Third Street Promenade, a pedestrian-only street filled with high-end shops, street performers, and restaurants.
In contrast, Venice Beach is known for its bohemian vibe and eclectic mix of shops, cafes, and street performers. The boardwalk is a popular spot for people-watching, and you can find everything from fortune tellers to skateboarders to artists selling their work.
Your Personal Interests
What are your personal interests? rides and games or street performers and quirky shops?
- If you’re someone who enjoys amusem*nt park rides and carnival games, then we recommend Santa Monica Pier.
- If you’re keen on experiencing a unique blend of street performers and quirky shops, then Venice Beach is the better destination for you
If you’re looking for beach fun that involves thrill rides and games, then Santa Monica Pier is your best bet. It has everything that you need for an entertaining day out by the sea.
However, if you’re seeking a more unique beach experience, then the eclectic mix of street performers, quirky shops, and artistic graffiti murals at Venice Beach makes it the ideal choice for those who want to explore the colorful and creative side of LA’s beach culture.
FAQ: Santa Monica Pier or Venice Beach
Below we’ll answer some frequently asked questions we hear about choosing to visit Santa Monica Pier or Venice Beach.
Is Santa Monica Pier or Venice Beach better?
Santa Monica Pier boasts a classic amusem*nt park, historical carousel and aquarium while Venice Beach attracts street performers, skateboarders, and artists to its eclectic boardwalk. The decision comes down to personal preference, but both locations are worth a visit.
Is the Santa Monica Pier worth going to?
Yes, the Santa Monica Pier is definitely worth visiting! Not only does it offer stunning ocean views and exciting amusem*nt park rides, but it also has a great selection of restaurants, shops, and entertainment options for all ages. Plus, it’s conveniently located near other popular attractions such as the Third Street Promenade.
Is it worth going to Venice Beach?
Venice Beach is worth visiting if you’re looking for an eclectic beach experience thanks to its vibrant boardwalk, street performers, trendy shops, and restaurants. It’s also home to a skate park and Muscle Beach which are both great sports for people watching. Venice Beach has a slightly edgier atmosphere compared to Santa Monica Pier.
How far of a walk is Venice Beach to Santa Monica Pier?
Venice Beach is approximately 1.5 miles south of Santa Monica Pier. It takes around 30-40 minutes to walk. If you don’t feel like walking there are various options for transportation, including bike rentals, electric scooters, and buses.
Should I stay in Santa Monica or Venice Beach?
Santa Monica has a more upscale atmosphere and is known for its restaurants and shopping, while Venice Beach has a bohemian vibe and is popular for its street performers and eclectic shops. If you’re traveling with young children Santa Monica is probably the easier option, however, deciding whether to stay in Santa Monica or Venice Beach depends on your preferences.
Final Thoughts: Santa Monica Pier vs Venice Beach
Both Santa Monica Pier and Venice Beach offer unique experiences and attractions that are worth visiting.
Santa Monica Pier is perfect for those who love amusem*nt park rides, games, and a more family-friendly atmosphere. On the other hand, Venice Beach is ideal for those who enjoy the beach culture, street performers, and a more eclectic vibe.
Ultimately, the choice between Santa Monica Pier or Venice Beach will come down to personal preference and interests. However, if you have the time, we highly recommend visiting both to fully immerse yourself in the unique experiences each has to offer.
Safe travels to California!
