The Santa Monica Pier is a family amusement park with a large ferris wheel. It also has a carousel from the 1920s, an aquarium, shops, entertainers, an arcade, a pub, and restaurants. At the end of the pier, anglers may pursue their hobby. Each Thursday night throughout the summer, its "Twilight Dance Series" attracts over 10,000 people to concerts that feature popular performers in every musical genre.

there are rides and restaurants everywhere, and you are on the beach. The drive down PCH (HWY 1) is beautiful and worth the drive.

For the quintessential Southern California experience, go to the Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier. It has carnival games, a roller coaster over the ocean, and incredible artists. It doesn't get any more California than this. This is the inspiration for Disney's California Adventure's Paradise Pier.

Fun for an afternoon on the beach checking out Southern Cali culture

See where Jack, Chrissy & Janet strolled through the opening credits. It's one of those places perfect to take a picture in front of.