The lights of the Ferris wheel reflected on the Pacific: that is the postcard image of Los Angeles, and it is real, free, and waiting for you.
The Santa Monica Pier opened in 1909 and remains one of the most beloved public landmarks in California. It marks the official end of historic Route 66, and its wooden boardwalk stretches over the ocean, packed with street performers, fishing enthusiasts, and families strolling between the ocean breeze and the arcade.
It is ideal for everyone: couples watching the sunset, kids riding the solar-powered Ferris wheel in Pacific Park, and runners who come down the beach bike path. The aquarium under the pier is small, educational, and free for little ones.
Practical tip: arrive about an hour before sunset to grab a spot at the western end of the pier. Parking in the lots nearby can be pricey, so consider the Metro E Line, which ends just steps from the pier.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons / PerryPlanet
