Tongva Park Los Angeles
A modern urban oasis in Santa Monica, Tongva Park blends stunning landscape architecture with native flora and family-friendly play areas.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Tongva Park Los Angeles
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A modern urban oasis in Santa Monica, Tongva Park blends stunning landscape architecture with native flora and family-friendly play areas.
"Tongva Park is a modern escape with beautiful design, perfect for families and relaxation."
🚗 Parking Strategy
Avoid the main pier lot; explore Palisades Park for potentially free parking and a scenic walk.
💧 Splash Pad Fun
Bring swim diapers and towels for kids to enjoy the splash pad on warmer days.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Modern Architectural Design
Throughout the park
Explore the park's unique, contemporary landscape architecture with winding paths and varied levels.
Splash Pad & Playground
Children's play area
A fantastic spot for kids to cool off and play, featuring interactive water features and engaging play structures.
Native Plant Gardens
Various sections
Discover the beauty of California's native flora, thoughtfully integrated into the park's serene environment.
Planning Your Visit
Parking Pointers
Embrace the Green Escape
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Strategy
Avoid the main pier lot; explore Palisades Park for potentially free parking and a scenic walk.
💧 Splash Pad Fun
Bring swim diapers and towels for kids to enjoy the splash pad on warmer days.
🌳 Shady Retreat
Tongva Park offers ample shade, making it a great spot to escape the heat.
🚶♀️ Proximity to Pier
Just a short walk from the Santa Monica Pier, perfect for a combined visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Strategy
Avoid the main pier lot; explore Palisades Park for potentially free parking and a scenic walk.
💧 Splash Pad Fun
Bring swim diapers and towels for kids to enjoy the splash pad on warmer days.
🌳 Shady Retreat
Tongva Park offers ample shade, making it a great spot to escape the heat.
🚶♀️ Proximity to Pier
Just a short walk from the Santa Monica Pier, perfect for a combined visit.
🌿 Native Plant Beauty
Appreciate the park's well-designed native plant gardens and serene landscaping.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Tongva Park's stunning modern design, abundant native plants, and family-friendly amenities like the splash pad and playground. It's praised as a peaceful urban oasis just steps from the Santa Monica Pier. Some find parking to be a bit of a hassle and expensive, but the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive.
"It turns out that the best time to visit a park is around 5-6pm in summer time.
The afternoon sunlight shines through the trees and scatters around, interweaving with the flowers and streams to create an artistic feeling like a fairyland.
I loved the white squill (or another name watering lily). This flower is slender and has cute and gentle yellow flowers.
Amaryllis (or naked ladies) are now popular in so many parks. The large pink and white flowers have slender roots that emerge from the soil. They are particularly eye-catching on the ground and add a touch of fairyland to the grass.
Whenever closing to nature just feels like a recharge to my body and soul. They are free to us, they are pleasing our eyes, they produce oxygens to the environment. Aren’t they like angles? We really don’t need much to survive better. There are so many free things that are so precious."
Aitana Blose
"Tongva Park in Santa Monica is a beautifully designed urban oasis that offers a variety of amenities for visitors of all ages. The park is divided into four main sections: Observation Hill, Discovery Hill, Garden Hill, and Gathering Hill. 
One of the park’s standout features is the Observation Hill, which provides stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the iconic Santa Monica Pier. The playground at Discovery Hill is a hit among children, featuring modern climbing structures and slides that keep them engaged. Garden Hill showcases a diverse array of native and drought-tolerant plants, reflecting California’s coastal ecology. Gathering Hill offers open spaces perfect for picnics and community events.   
The park’s design incorporates curving pathways that wind through sculpted landscapes of hills and ravines, creating a sense of exploration and tranquility. Water features and art installations add to the park’s aesthetic appeal, making it a pleasant place to relax and unwind. 
While the park is generally well-maintained, some times there is the presence of homeless individuals in the area. However, many feel safe during daytime visits and appreciate the park’s cleanliness and amenities.
Overall, Tongva Park offers a serene escape in the heart of Santa Monica, blending natural beauty with thoughtful design. Whether you’re looking for a place to relax, play, or enjoy scenic views, this park is worth a visit."
Nutri Steph
"Tongva park , This park Here in Santa Monica California has lots of native plants here and kids playground and no washrooms , its also a chilled park type , thier are rental scooters here , its got good viewing balconies on the upper park level overlooking Santa Monica beach ⛱️"
Louise Boilevin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Tongva Park is located at 1615 Ocean Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90401. It's easily accessible by car, public transport, or even a pleasant walk if you're near the Santa Monica Pier.
Parking can be a challenge and expensive. While the pier lot is an option, consider parking at Palisades Park for potentially free spots and enjoy a scenic walk to the park.
Yes, several Santa Monica Big Blue Bus lines serve the area near Tongva Park. Check their schedule for routes and stops closest to 1615 Ocean Ave.
Absolutely! Tongva Park is just a 5-minute walk from the Santa Monica Pier, making it a convenient addition to your pier visit.
While specific bike racks aren't always highlighted, you can typically find places to secure your bike around the park's perimeter or near entrances.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Tongva Park is a public park and entry is completely free for all visitors.
Tongva Park is generally open daily from sunrise to sunset. It's always a good idea to check local listings for any specific holiday hours or event closures.
Yes, Tongva Park is open year-round, offering a beautiful green space in Santa Monica regardless of the season.
The playground and splash pad are free amenities within Tongva Park, available for all visitors to enjoy.
For larger events, you may need to inquire with the City of Santa Monica Parks and Recreation department about permits or reservation options.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Tongva Park offers a modern playground, a splash pad for kids, beautiful native plant gardens, winding pathways for strolling, and plenty of benches for relaxing.
Yes, it's very family-friendly! The splash pad and playground are major draws for children, and parents can relax in shaded areas.
Dogs are generally allowed in Tongva Park but must be kept on a leash at all times. Please be mindful of other visitors and clean up after your pet.
Yes, Tongva Park has several benches and open grassy areas that are perfect for a picnic. Remember to bring your own food and dispose of trash properly.
The park features a significant number of native California plants, showcasing the region's natural beauty and biodiversity.
📸 📸 Photography
The park's modern architecture, winding paths, and lush native gardens offer numerous picturesque opportunities. The elevated areas provide great views.
Yes, the western orientation and open spaces make Tongva Park a lovely spot for sunset photography, especially with the Santa Monica cityscape in the background.
Drone usage is typically restricted in public parks to ensure safety and the enjoyment of all visitors. Check with the City of Santa Monica for specific regulations.
Early mornings offer soft light and fewer crowds, while late afternoons provide beautiful golden hour light.
General photography for personal use is usually permitted. However, commercial photography or videography may require permits.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pro-tip: Bring towels and a change of clothes for the splash pad, and consider packing a picnic to enjoy on the grassy areas. The park's accessibility makes it easy to navigate with strollers.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Pack your own snacks and water to avoid purchasing from nearby vendors, and enjoy a beautiful day in a well-maintained public space without spending a dime on admission.
📸 Photographers & Instagrammers
Golden hour (late afternoon) is particularly magical here, casting a warm glow over the park. The splash pad and playground also offer vibrant, candid shots of families enjoying the space.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Tongva Legacy
Understanding the park's name adds a layer of appreciation for the land's heritage. While the park itself is a modern creation, its existence on Tongva ancestral territory is a reminder of the deep historical roots of the area.
This connection to the Tongva people is a significant aspect of the park's identity, offering visitors a chance to reflect on the history of the land they are enjoying.
Navigating the Landscape Architecture
Visitors will find a variety of distinct zones within the park, from the playful splash pad and playground area to more tranquil spots perfect for contemplation. The elevated sections offer impressive views of the surrounding Santa Monica cityscape and the Pacific Ocean, making it a visually stimulating place to explore.
The park's innovative design has been recognized for its ability to transform an urban space into a vibrant, multi-functional public amenity. It’s a place where art, nature, and community converge, offering a unique urban escape.
Family Fun at Tongva Park
Parents can relax in the ample shaded areas while keeping an eye on their children. The park's layout allows for easy supervision, and the soft, natural landscaping provides a safe and inviting environment for little ones to explore.
Beyond the play areas, the park's open spaces and gentle slopes are great for running around or enjoying a family picnic. It’s a wonderful place to combine a visit to the nearby Santa Monica Pier with some dedicated playtime for the kids.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit