Insider Tips for Visiting the Santa Monica Pier

The Santa Monica Pier has a charm that combines the nostalgia of an old fashioned day at the seashore with the punch of modern day amusements. For maximum enjoyment, here are some insider tips for getting the most of a visit to the pier.

Getting There: The pier is located at the end of Colorado Avenue. Although there are parking accommodations directly on the pier, space is limited. Road access is a narrow two-lane ramp and if there is an event on the pier, you may find yourself stuck in bumper to bumper traffic. It is best to park in any of the nearby lots located on Ocean Avenue or in the municipal lots on 2^nd and 4^th Streets and walk a few blocks. Be aware, there is a rather steep incline to access the pier.

Attractions: Pacific Park is a small scale amusement park on the pier which is unusual in that it has no admission fee. You pay only for the rides and games you want. Scope out the park first and decide which amusements look inviting. Then go to the central ticket booth and purchase as many as you need. Tickets are a bargain at $2.50 each. Rides are designated as either one-ticket or two-ticket affairs. Wristbands are available for unlimited rides all day and are priced in two categories: $10.95 for visitors under 42 inches tall and $19.95 for visitors over 42 inches tall. Most of the rides at Pacific Park are geared for kids and tend to be tame. The roller coaster, called the "West Coaster," is not a white-knuckler but is loads of fun nevertheless.

Everyone should take a spin on the Pacific Wheel, the great solar powered Ferris wheel that offers a spectacular view of the environs (two tickets). Don't forget to see the charming antique carousel in the landmark building on the east end of the pier. This is where the Paul Newman character lived in the movie classic, "The Sting." Plan accordingly, as the carousel is closed on Tuesdays.

Eating: Although there are many sources for grabbing a bite, ranging from a Taco Bell outlet to the Bubba Gump Shrimp Company, the pier does not exactly have a reputation for memorable food. Have snacks, corn dogs and cocktail fare on the pier, but look for more upscale restaurants on adjacent Ocean Avenue and the 3rd Street Promenade. However, it may be hard to resist some seafood tacos ($12.95) or a "Cowabunga" Burger ($11.50) at Rusty's Surf Ranch, especially when they come with some of the best live surf music in California.

Events: If you find yourself at the pier on a Thursday during the summer months, plan to stay late, as the Twilight Dance Series presents free outdoor concerts of top notch rock, pop and world beat music.