save the pier for a day in the middle of your trip when a more sedate and relaxing pace will be a welcome break.  Park right on the pier deck or in one two beach lots, and you are there.  (Parking prices are set by the City of Santa Monica and vary.)  No trams, no long walk across five other parking lots, unload the kids and start enjoying the unique atmosphere of the Santa Monica Pier.

I just love the Santa Monica Pier.  It has a carnival like feeling with out being overwhelming.  The view alone is worth the visit.  From the ocean to the Santa Monica Mountains, it’s breath taking, especially from the top of the Pacific Wheel.

There is something both refreshing and entrancing about the ocean, so take a leisurely walk along the boardwalk or bring a picnic and sit on the beach while you eat.

Pacific Park is tiny compared to the major theme and amusement parks, but that is part of its charm.  I find lack of branded commercialism is refreshing.  The rides aren’t the biggest or the most thrilling but they are fun.  There is no entrance admission, and the rides done on a ticket system, but you can get an “Unlimited ride wristband at the gate.

The Santa Monica Pier is a must when visiting Los Angeles.  Play a few arcade games, ride the carousel, sit on a bench with an ice-cream cone and admire the view.  If you’ve missed the Santa Monica Pier and the beach you’ve missed everything.