In the western part of Los Angeles County, California, 50 minutes from downtown Los Angeles, there is a small but very cozy city of Santa Monica. Due to the subtropical Mediterranean climate, this city attracts the attention of everyone who wants to spend their time in warm conditions. Summers are very dry, but the Pacific coast is a life-saving oasis for all holidaymakers. A fresh sea breeze gently blows all holidaymakers on the coast of Santa Monica.
The heart of the city is 3 Street Promenade, something like a small gallery of shops, where musicians, artists and mimes perform on the street opposite cafes and restaurants.
Santa monica pier
The world famous Santa Monica Pier is actually two piers in one. The longer section, with its shop and restaurant, was built in 1909 and is similar to most southern California piers. Visitors are attracted by a shorter, adjacent pier, built in 1916. Occasionally, from Santa Monica Pier, fur seals can be seen swimming close enough to the shore to bask in the sun on buoys, and dolphins playing in the water.
The pier is the remainder of a shipyard that was once demolished and the city decided to make it a popular tourist destination here. The raised plaza linking the two piers houses an old-fashioned amusement park with a vintage rollercoaster, wooden carousel and one of Los Angeles’s most recognizable landmarks, the solar-powered Ferris wheel. Each night, the wheel is illuminated with a unique LED show.
Everyone who has been here will always remember what stunning beauty the view from the pier to the beach and the city itself opens up. On the pier there is the Cirque du Soleil Chapito.
Aquarium “Santa Monica Pier”
Aquarium “Santa Monica Pier” (Santa Monica Pier Aquarium) is located on the pier of the same name in Los Angeles off the coast of the Pacific Ocean. It was opened in 1996 as an oceanarium, and since 2003 has been operating as a non-profit organization.
Annually the aquarium is visited by about 65 thousand people, one fifth of which are students.
It hosts activities to improve environmental education, dedicated to the protection of the marine environment and the prevention of pollution of the oceans.
The exposition presents about 100 species of marine fauna and flora, including those from the Bay of Santa Monica: sharks, sea bass, rare species of fish, molluscs and octopuses.
The coastline is equipped with sun loungers, showers and changing cabins. There are also several volleyball courts and water transport rental offices. An integral part of the coastal zone are cozy cafes and eateries, where you can taste various cuisine and refresh yourself with refreshing drinks. During the summer months, concerts and entertainment are not uncommon on the beach.
You can grab a bite to eat on the promenade or the pier – many restaurants offer seafood dishes, burgers and soft drinks. On Saturdays and Sundays, it is advantageous to go somewhere for brunch – the unlimited buffet will cost from $ 5 to $ 12. Please note that the bar (in particular cocktails and alcohol) is often not included in the price of the brunch and must be paid separately.
Last updated: 20/12/2022
