Santa Monica Beach and Pier is one of my favorite places when I visited Los Angeles. How can you ever have a bad day with the beach glistening under the sunshine and blue sky?
The Santa Monica Pier marks the end of trail sign for Route 66. Route 66 was originally built to connect Chicago to Los Angeles in 1926, but was decommissioned by the Federal Government in 1985.
I was so awe-struck when I first saw the sand and the ocean upon arrival. The sand is so refined. The water is so clean and blue. I've only been to beaches in Vancouver and they are less sandy and much smaller than this. Vancouver beaches are incomparable to this gorgeous beast.
The lifeguard towers on this beach screams California to me....maybe it's from all the American TV shows I've watched. In my mind, it's an iconic landmark on its own.
Santa Monica Beach and Pier 
200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica
★★★★
$

It's hard to think anyone will have a bad time here. This famous amusement pier has over 100 years of history and is a popular gathering for food, drinks, and fun. The city hosts a lot of live music events and festivals here. Since this beach is popular with both local beach-goers and tourists, it can get really crowded. Go early. Parking can also get expensive. The secret is to park at Parking Structure 8 (271 Colorado Ave). The first 90 min is free. It's a short walk to the Santa Monica Pier and the Third Street Promenade.