Santa Monica Pier

Our experience here was ok except for the fact that there were attempted scams at every turn and no employee seemed to know what the prices were. (Well they each quoted different prices.) Here's my advice: Buy the day wrist band. Not tickets, although they will all try to talk you into 90 for 100, as in 100 dollars. Wrist bands are $19.95 for the day - unlimited rides. But look around first and see what your kids (or you) want to do. Just like any carnival you've ever been to, there are all the usual rip off games that your kids will beg you to play and subsequenty lose. Bungi jumping and rock wall are extra but way more than the signs says. Also, good idea to set limits with the kids before getting there so you won't play too many of the carny games. Good rides are roller coaster, new bumper cars in the back right by ocean. Hope this helps you have a better experience there than we did.

the pier is awesome when I was there the roller coster or ferris wheel was not yet up and it was still cool, lots of fun games food and beautiful people go there, and if you really want an attraction go to the griffith observatory at night oh my god the next best thing to landing on a plane with a view from the cockpit a must see trust me

Don't expect much from the Santa Monica Pier and you'll enjoy it a lot more. It's free to walk around, so it's not necessarily at bad value as far as that's concerned. The atmosphere is all about being by the ocean, certainly not from the attractions themselves. Just make it a portion of your trip to the area and not a destination. Otherwise, you'll be extremely disappointed. All rides and attractions can be found at any amusment park or fair. The rollercoaster is only for the meekest of thrill seekers. I was there during the day, but could see where is might attract a more unsavory crowd later on. Again, just take it for what it is - a very small amusement center by the ocean - and you'll have an ok time.

The pier is a mere tourist trap. The boardwalks of the east coast are far superior and much more entertaining! I was disappointed that it did not resemble the "hollywood" version that everyone sees on TV. It was not worth the time, money or effort to get there.

this place is overly crowded and the rides are too expensive for what they are. the food is garbage. if you like to see overweight girls in bathing suits and lots of tattoos, then it may be for you.

An essential stop. Just be sure to take a bus and not a taxi.