Santa Monica Pier Santa Monica Pier: Everything You Need to Know The Santa Monica Pier is one of the most iconic landmarks in Southern California — a century-old wooden pier stretching over 1,600 feet into the Pacific Ocean at the foot of Colorado Avenue. Built in 1909, the pier is home to Pacific Park, an amusement park featuring the world’s only solar-powered Ferris wheel, a roller coaster, carnival games, and a carousel that dates back to 1922. The pier also marks the historic western terminus of Route 66, making it a must-see destination for road-trip enthusiasts from around the world. Open year-round, the pier offers free public access 24 hours a day, though individual attractions have their own hours and fees. Attractions include the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium (operated by Heal the Bay), street performers, seafood restaurants, and stunning panoramic views of the Santa Monica Mountains and Malibu coastline.150
