The Santa Monica Pier serves as a famous Los Angeles landmark that draws millions of visitors throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy Pacific Ocean panoramas while playing arcade games and riding amusement park rides and shopping at stores and eating at restaurants at this oceanfront attraction. Group planning for the pier trip guarantees that everyone will experience every activity available.

Getting There With Your Group

Visitors can easily find the Santa Monica Pier at the intersection of Colorado Avenue in downtown Santa Monica through Pacific Coast Highway (CA-1). The Big Blue Bus and Metro buses operate directly in front of the pier entrance so you can easily reach the area without driving. Multiple parking facilities located near the pier provide affordable daily rates for people who use cars to reach the destination. A roomy LA limo service should be considered for moving your entire group comfortably.

Summer weekend days and Memorial Day and July 4th national holidays create the busiest periods at the pier. Mid-week visits combined with off-season timing will help you avoid heavy crowds at the location. The Twilight Concert Series on Thursday nights and Pier 360 Beach Festival in October are among the most popular annual events that attract numerous visitors to the pier.

Thrilling Amusement Park Rides

Visitors must experience the Pacific Park amusement park at the Santa Monica Pier because it features the one-and-only solar-powered Ferris wheel in the world. The Pacific Wheel Ferris wheel and West Coaster rollercoaster await adventurous groups who want to experience views of the coastline and thrilling rides.

The amusement park features two rides for groups: Sea Planes that create water-based spins and classic bumper cars for friendly racing. Unlimited ride wristbands provide access to everything you wish to experience.

Playland Arcade for Friendly Competition

Right next to Pacific Park, the legendary Playland Arcade has been entertaining Santa Monica Pier visitors since the 1970s. Play an array of classic arcade games like Skee-Ball, air hockey and pinball with your friends. 

See who can win the most prize tickets for bragging rights. There’s also modern arcade games, from racing and shooting games to virtual reality experiences. With over 200 games, Playland Arcade is perfect for hours of group fun.

Learn About Marine Life at the Aquarium

Under the carousel building on the pier is the Heal the Bay Aquarium run by marine conservation group Heal the Bay. It’s the perfect indoor activity for groups to enjoy while escaping the summer heat or winter winds outside. 

Friendly aquarium staff lead insightful group tours every 30 minutes, taking you through eye-opening exhibits on local marine habitats. Learn how we can help protect sea creatures like sharks, rays, octopus and starfish that call Santa Monica Bay home.

Take a Flying Trapeze Class Together

For adventurous groups looking for a truly unique experience, head to Trapeze School New York Los Angeles on the pier. Established in 2002, it’s the only oceanfront trapeze school in California. 

Take a group flying trapeze workshop for an unforgettable time. Expert instructors make sure everyone feels safe while trying tricks like hanging upside down by the knees and catching your partner mid-air. No experience is required, making trapeze an exciting group bonding activity.

Dining Options for Groups on the Pier

The Santa Monica Pier offers diverse eateries to satisfy any group’s tastes. Restaurant choices range from seafood spots like The Albright that can accommodate large parties, to casual order-at-the-counter eateries like Big Dean’s Oceanfront Cafe with its beachfront patio seating. 

Other group-friendly options include Mexican food at Mariasol Cocina Mexicana, classic American diner food at Harbor House Cafe, and sweet treats like caramel apples from Scoops.

There’s also several grassy areas and picnic tables ideal for groups who want to bring their own food. Pack a picnic lunch or dinner to enjoy al fresco on the beach right by the pier. It’s a quintessential California experience.

Live Entertainment and Events

From concerts to festivals, the Santa Monica Pier offers endless entertainment options for groups throughout the year. On summer Thursday evenings, head to the Twilight Concert Series on the pier for live music acts under the stars. 

Previous performers have included indie darlings like MGMT and Passion Pit. October brings the popular Pier 360 Beach Festival, spanning three days of live music, art, food and wellness activities.

There’s also street performers like musicians, magicians and dancers along the pier boardwalk year-round. Don’t miss the quirky Starlight Dance Stage on pilings under the pier, where anyone can dance by the sea. Locals’ Night every Wednesday in summer offers discounts on rides and games too.

Nearby Attractions to Explore

The Santa Monica Pier is just steps from the lively Third Street Promenade packed with shops, restaurants and movie theaters. After playing games and riding rides, walk five minutes north to browse the three-block outdoor mall. Have a group meal along the pedestrian walkway or catch a movie together at AMC theaters.

Just south of the pier lies Venice Beach, another quintessential stop for groups visiting LA. Rent bikes and ride down the Venice Beach boardwalk to see the colorful murals, street performers and funky shops. Play beach volleyball, people-watch or shop the Venice Beach artisan markets on weekends. Exploring both areas makes for an awesome group experience.

Tips for an Enjoyable Group Visit

Planning ahead helps groups make the most of their Santa Monica Pier visit. Reserving group activities like flying trapeze classes or aquarium tours ensures availability for your party size. Making dining reservations secures seating together at popular pier restaurants.

 

Many amusement park rides, games and eateries offer group discounts for parties over a certain size. Be sure to ask what deals might be available to save money. It also helps to have a plan for people who may have accessibility needs in your group. The Santa Monica Pier’s website details the accessibility features like wheelchair ramps, accessible restrooms and more.

Conclusion

With its dazzling seaside setting overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the Santa Monica Pier offers endless options for fun group activities all year long. From thrill rides and arcade games to dining, shopping and beaches nearby, it has something to delight every member of your crew. 

Planning your group trip ahead helps you experience all the attractions at this iconic LA landmark. Gather your favorite people to make unforgettable memories at the one-of-a-kind Santa Monica Pier.