Family Friendly Travel Activities in California- Santa Monica Pier
The Santa Monica area offers many family friendly activities; many which are reasonably priced.
The Santa Monica Pier- Corner of Ocean and Colorado Avenues, Santa Monica 310.458.8900
www.santamonicapier.org
COST: FREE
HOURS: Daily- 24 hours
This is a fun place to walk on a beautiful day, especially if you love to people watch. Along the way you will find numerous vendors and entertainers. Walk down from the pier and enjoy a walk on the beach. The beach area has a walkway that goes about halfway to the water
(makes for easier walking). At the end of the walkway is a 'feet washing area' which is a great way to clean little feet before putting their shoes on (remember to bring a towel!). We found this beach to be clean and not overly crowded, though I'm sure a summer day would bring crowds.
Also located on the pier is the Pacific Park Amusement Park. There are several rides available in that area including a large ferris wheel and other typical carnival rides. You can buy tickets to pay for the rides or purchase an unlimited rides bracelet.
Another fun activity is:
The Santa Monica Pier Aquarium- 1600 Ocean Front Walk, Santa Monica 310.393.6149
www.healthebay.org
COST: $2 minimum for adults (they request $5 but accept $2) / free for children under 12 with paying adult
HOURS: Tues - Fri 2 pm - 5 pm / Sat and Sun 12:30 pm - 5 pm
This small aquarium is conveniently located on the beach level of the Santa Monica Pier. The location is much smaller than other aquariums we have visited and it was quite crowded, but for the price it was a nice experience. The aim of this aquarium is educating young people regarding marine conservation. There are numerous museum volunteers available to answer questions. The kids especially liked the touch tanks. There is also a Kid's Corner with puzzles and games.
Parking for the above activities is available at an adjacent lot for $6 (prepaid). When this lot is full, there are signs directing you to alternative parking locations.
For more tips, activity reviews and listings of kids eat free restaurants, visit our website at www.familyfriendlyamerica.com
The Santa Monica Pier- Corner of Ocean and Colorado Avenues, Santa Monica 310.458.8900
www.santamonicapier.org
COST: FREE
HOURS: Daily- 24 hours
This is a fun place to walk on a beautiful day, especially if you love to people watch. Along the way you will find numerous vendors and entertainers. Walk down from the pier and enjoy a walk on the beach. The beach area has a walkway that goes about halfway to the water
(makes for easier walking). At the end of the walkway is a 'feet washing area' which is a great way to clean little feet before putting their shoes on (remember to bring a towel!). We found this beach to be clean and not overly crowded, though I'm sure a summer day would bring crowds. Also located on the pier is the Pacific Park Amusement Park. There are several rides available in that area including a large ferris wheel and other typical carnival rides. You can buy tickets to pay for the rides or purchase an unlimited rides bracelet.
Another fun activity is:
The Santa Monica Pier Aquarium- 1600 Ocean Front Walk, Santa Monica 310.393.6149
www.healthebay.org
COST: $2 minimum for adults (they request $5 but accept $2) / free for children under 12 with paying adultHOURS: Tues - Fri 2 pm - 5 pm / Sat and Sun 12:30 pm - 5 pm
This small aquarium is conveniently located on the beach level of the Santa Monica Pier. The location is much smaller than other aquariums we have visited and it was quite crowded, but for the price it was a nice experience. The aim of this aquarium is educating young people regarding marine conservation. There are numerous museum volunteers available to answer questions. The kids especially liked the touch tanks. There is also a Kid's Corner with puzzles and games.
Parking for the above activities is available at an adjacent lot for $6 (prepaid). When this lot is full, there are signs directing you to alternative parking locations.
For more tips, activity reviews and listings of kids eat free restaurants, visit our website at www.familyfriendlyamerica.com
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