Encore Motel
Santa Monica Pier extending over the Pacific from its Ocean Avenue approach
Marina del Rey Guide

Santa Monica Pier parking: lots, access and arrival tips

Santa Monica Pier parking includes the Pier Deck and public beach lots beside the waterfront. Here are the lot locations, the route to Lot 1 North and practical details to check before setting out.

Published 3 min read

By Umar Khan

Santa Monica Pier parking includes the Pier Deck on the west end of Colorado Avenue and public beach lots beside the waterfront. Lot 1 North sits immediately north of the Pier, while other public lots and structures provide additional parking locations around Santa Monica.

  • Closest options: the Pier Deck and Beach Parking Lot 1 North.
  • Lot 1 North address: 1550 Pacific Coast Highway, Santa Monica, CA 90401.
  • Lot 1 North hours: open daily from 6:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m.
  • Car access: the Pier ramp is at Ocean Avenue and Colorado Avenue.

Where can you park closest to Santa Monica Pier?

Where can you park closest to Santa Monica Pier?

The Pier Deck and Beach Parking Lot 1 North are the closest named parking options. The Pier Deck is on the west end of Colorado Avenue, on the Pier. Lot 1 North is immediately north of it, at 1550 Pacific Coast Highway.

To reach Lot 1 North, use Ocean Avenue to access Seaside Terrace, then follow the mapped route to enter via Appian Way. If you’re driving to the Pier itself, the car ramp is at the intersection of Ocean Avenue and Colorado Avenue.

For an overview of the waterfront and Pier, the Santa Monica Pier visitor guide can help you put the parking location in context with the rest of your visit.

What other public parking is near Santa Monica Pier?

What other public parking is near Santa Monica Pier?

Santa Monica’s public parking map identifies several beach lots south of the Pier, along with public parking at the Civic Center and on Ocean Avenue. These locations give you alternatives to the Pier Deck and Lot 1 North.

Beach lots near the Pier include Lot 1 South at 1640 Appian Way, Lot 2 South at 1670 Appian Way and Lot 3 South at 1750 Appian Way. The Civic Center Structure is at 333 Civic Center Drive, and Lot 30 is at 1665 Ocean Avenue.

The City’s tourism organization says beach parking availability can fill quickly depending on the season and time of day. If you’re considering a beach lot, keep that in mind when planning your arrival.

What fees and payment rules should you check?

What fees and payment rules should you check?

Parking prices vary by lot, season and day, so check the City of Santa Monica’s official parking information for current rates and payment rules before you leave. The City’s pricing table distinguishes between hourly charges and per-entry rates, and some lots have short-term parking rates.

For the Pier Deck, the City’s table also specifies daily maximums per entry. A 50% discount from the posted Pier Deck rate applies to vehicles displaying a current, valid disability placard. Confirm the terms and the rate for your intended lot and visit rather than assuming one price covers all nearby parking.

Where is accessible parking, and how do you reach the Pier?

Where is accessible parking, and how do you reach the Pier?

Beach Parking Lot 1 North has accessible parking. Its entrance route is via Seaside Terrace and Appian Way, reached from Ocean Avenue.

For the Pier by car, use the ramp at Ocean Avenue and Colorado Avenue. If you need accessible parking, check the City’s official parking information for current details for your visit.

When should you arrive from Marina del Rey?

Beach parking availability can fill quickly, with the timing varying by season and time of day. Allow time to follow the correct entrance route, especially if you’re heading for Lot 1 North via Seaside Terrace and Appian Way.

If you’re arranging your wider journey from the airport, LAX to Marina del Rey transport options cover the trip into the area.

The Pier is about 3.2 miles from Encore Motel.

Before you go: Lot hours, prices and access details can change, so check the official site before you go. Guests planning a visit can book a room at Encore Motel, a Marina del Rey motel.

FAQs

Which parking lot is immediately north of Santa Monica Pier?

Beach Parking Lot 1 North is immediately north of the Pier. Its address is 1550 Pacific Coast Highway, Santa Monica, CA 90401.

How do you enter Beach Parking Lot 1 North?

Use Ocean Avenue to access Seaside Terrace, then follow the mapped route to enter via Appian Way.

Where is the car ramp to Santa Monica Pier?

The Pier’s car ramp is at the intersection of Ocean Avenue and Colorado Avenue.

Does Santa Monica Pier have accessible parking nearby?

Beach Parking Lot 1 North has accessible parking. Check the City’s official parking information for current details before your visit.

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