Palisades Park Santa Monica
A picturesque coastal park offering stunning ocean views, vibrant sunsets, and art installations along Ocean Avenue.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Unbeatable sunset views
Palisades Park Santa Monica
Best Time
Unbeatable sunset views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A picturesque coastal park offering stunning ocean views, vibrant sunsets, and art installations along Ocean Avenue.
"Palisades Park is where every sunset feels like a dream, offering unbeatable seaside vistas."
🌅 Catch the Golden Hour
Arrive before sunset to secure a prime spot for breathtaking ocean views and vibrant sky colors.
🚗 Parking Tips
Street parking along Ocean Ave can be tough. Try parking further down near San Vicente Blvd for more options.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Ocean Views
Along Ocean Avenue
Breathtaking vistas of the Pacific Ocean, Santa Monica Pier, and coastline. Perfect for sunset gazing.
Sculpture Garden & Art Installations
Throughout the park
Discover unique art pieces and sculptures scattered amidst the greenery, adding a cultural layer to your visit.
Picnic Spots with a View
Various locations
Find the perfect spot to relax, enjoy a meal, and soak in the coastal ambiance. Ideal for a leisurely afternoon.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Sunsets
Parking and Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Catch the Golden Hour
Arrive before sunset to secure a prime spot for breathtaking ocean views and vibrant sky colors.
🚗 Parking Tips
Street parking along Ocean Ave can be tough. Try parking further down near San Vicente Blvd for more options.
🎶 Enjoy Live Music
Check out the Sun Canyon Band playing Sundays 3-6 PM for a delightful afternoon of music and relaxation.
🚶♀️ Stroll the Paths
Explore the paved walking paths for scenic views and a refreshing coastal walk.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Catch the Golden Hour
Arrive before sunset to secure a prime spot for breathtaking ocean views and vibrant sky colors.
🚗 Parking Tips
Street parking along Ocean Ave can be tough. Try parking further down near San Vicente Blvd for more options.
🎶 Enjoy Live Music
Check out the Sun Canyon Band playing Sundays 3-6 PM for a delightful afternoon of music and relaxation.
🚶♀️ Stroll the Paths
Explore the paved walking paths for scenic views and a refreshing coastal walk.
🎨 Discover Art
Keep an eye out for various art installations and sculptures dotted throughout the park.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Palisades Park for its absolutely stunning ocean views and spectacular sunsets, making it a must-visit for anyone in Santa Monica. The park's well-maintained paths, art installations, and picnic areas add to its appeal as a relaxing and beautiful public space. Some visitors note that parking can be challenging during peak times.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Palisades Park is located along Ocean Avenue in Santa Monica, CA. You can reach it by car, with street parking available along Ocean Avenue and nearby streets. Public transportation options also serve the Santa Monica area, with bus stops near the park.
Yes, street parking is available along Ocean Avenue. However, it can be competitive, especially during peak times. Visitors suggest looking for parking further down near San Vicente Boulevard for potentially better availability.
The park is easily accessible from Ocean Avenue. You can enter from various points along the avenue and explore the paved pathways that run the length of the park.
Absolutely! Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are a convenient way to get to Palisades Park. You can set your drop-off location to any point along Ocean Avenue.
Yes, Palisades Park is conveniently located near many Santa Monica attractions, including the Santa Monica Pier, Third Street Promenade, and the beach. It's a great starting point for exploring the city.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Palisades Park is a public park and does not require tickets for entry. It's free to visit and enjoy the scenic views and amenities.
Palisades Park is generally open from sunrise to sunset. There are no specific closing times posted, allowing visitors to enjoy the park throughout the day and into the evening for sunset views.
There is no admission fee to enter Palisades Park. It is a free public space for everyone to enjoy.
Palisades Park does not offer reservations for general access. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis for seating and picnic areas.
Yes, Palisades Park occasionally hosts events. For example, there have been art festivals and live music performances, like the Sun Canyon Band on Sundays. Check local listings for current event schedules.
📸 📸 Photography
The bluffs overlooking the ocean offer the most iconic photo opportunities, especially during sunset. Look for the various art installations and the palm trees framing the coastline for unique shots.
Yes, photography is generally allowed in Palisades Park for personal use. However, be mindful of other visitors and any specific event regulations if applicable.
The 'golden hour' just before sunset provides the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photography. The soft, warm light enhances the ocean views and creates stunning silhouettes.
While not explicitly stated for Palisades Park, drone usage in public parks often has restrictions. It's advisable to check with the City of Santa Monica Parks and Recreation department for current regulations regarding drone operation.
For professional photoshoots, it's recommended to inquire with the City of Santa Monica Parks and Recreation department about any necessary permits or guidelines.
🎫 🌳 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy scenic walks, have picnics, admire art installations, watch the sunset, and simply relax while taking in the ocean views. Live music is often featured on Sundays.
Yes, Palisades Park offers several areas suitable for picnics, with benches and open grassy spaces. It's a popular spot for a leisurely meal with a view.
Absolutely! The paved pathways along the bluffs are perfect for walking, jogging, or a leisurely stroll, offering continuous ocean views.
Restroom facilities are available within Palisades Park, making it comfortable for longer visits.
Yes, Palisades Park is family-friendly. While it doesn't have playgrounds, the open spaces are great for kids to run around, and the views are captivating for all ages.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Consider bringing a frisbee or a ball for some outdoor fun. The gentle slope of the park towards the ocean can be exciting for kids, and the chance to spot boats or even dolphins can be a highlight. Remember to bring sun protection and plenty of water, as the California sun can be strong.
📸 Photographers and Sunset Enthusiasts
+1Beyond sunsets, the park's art installations provide interesting subjects for photography enthusiasts. The combination of natural beauty and artistic elements makes for a diverse portfolio. Early mornings offer a quieter experience with softer light, ideal for capturing the serene coastal landscape before the crowds arrive.
🚶♀️ Walkers and Joggers
+1The length of the park offers a good distance for a workout, and you can easily turn around at any point to adjust your route. It's a popular spot for morning jogs when the air is cool and the crowds are minimal, or for an evening walk to unwind and enjoy the coastal scenery.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Ocean Avenue Promenade
This elevated vantage point provides a unique perspective of the coastline, including the iconic Santa Monica Pier in the distance. It's a popular spot for both locals and tourists to relax, people-watch, and capture stunning photographs, especially during the 'golden hour' before sunset. The presence of various art installations adds an element of cultural discovery to the natural beauty.
+1While the park is known for its natural beauty, it has also been the site of community events and discussions. Some social media content has highlighted its role in local gatherings and even brought attention to local issues. Despite these aspects, its primary draw remains its unparalleled seaside scenery and tranquil atmosphere.
+1Sunset Spectacles and Evening Ambiance
+1Beyond the visual spectacle, the evenings in Palisades Park offer a serene and romantic ambiance. The sound of the waves crashing below, combined with the soft glow of the setting sun, creates a truly magical experience. On some Sundays, you can even enjoy live music from local bands like the Sun Canyon Band, adding a delightful soundtrack to your sunset viewing.
While the sunset is a major draw, the park remains a pleasant place to visit after dark, offering a peaceful escape with the city lights twinkling in the distance. However, it's important to be aware of your surroundings, as with any public space after dark.
Art, Culture, and Community
The park has also been a venue for community events, such as art festivals celebrating cultural heritage. For instance, an event celebrating National Hispanic Heritage Month featured art-making, performances, and vendors, showcasing the park's role in fostering community spirit.
These events highlight the park's versatility, serving not only as a recreational space but also as a platform for cultural expression. While the park is generally a peaceful place, it's worth noting that, like many public spaces, it can sometimes be a focal point for local discussions and activism. Some social media posts have touched upon community concerns related to the park's surroundings, underscoring its significance in the local dialogue.
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Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit