North Beach

A Serene Coastal Escape

Stretching north from the Santa Monica Pier up to the border with Pacific Palisades, North Beach offers a stark contrast to the bustling energy of the areas immediately surrounding the pier. This expansive stretch of golden sand is characterized by its quieter atmosphere, making it a favorite among locals, families, and anyone looking to escape the crowds while still enjoying the quintessential Southern California beach experience.

The beach here is noticeably wider, providing ample space to spread out a large blanket, set up a sunshade, and enjoy a full day by the water without feeling encroached upon by neighbors. The gentle slope of the sand into the Pacific Ocean creates ideal conditions for wading and swimming, though visitors should always remain aware of ocean conditions and swim near manned lifeguard towers.

The Annenberg Community Beach House

One of the crown jewels of North Beach is the Annenberg Community Beach House. Located at 415 Pacific Coast Highway, this unique public facility sits on the former estate of Hollywood actress Marion Davies, built for her by William Randolph Hearst. Today, it operates as a public beach club with no membership required.

Visitors can enjoy the historic marble-lined swimming pool (reservations highly recommended during summer months), a splash pad that's perfect for young children, beach volleyball courts, and a charming courtyard. The Beach House also offers cultural events, gallery viewings, and docent-led tours of the historic Marion Davies Guest House, providing a glimpse into the glamorous Gold Coast era of Santa Monica's history.

Activities and Recreation

While relaxation is the primary draw of North Beach, there is no shortage of activities. The Marvin Braude Bike Trail (often referred to locally as The Strand) runs right along the edge of the sand. This 22-mile paved path is perfect for cycling, rollerblading, or a scenic jog. Several rental shops near the pier and along the path offer beach cruisers by the hour or day.

Volleyball enthusiasts will find numerous courts set up in the sand. These are generally available on a first-come, first-served basis, though they can fill up quickly on summer weekends. For surfers, the breaks here are typically mellower than those further south or in nearby Malibu, making it a decent spot for beginners or longboarders on smaller days.

Connecting to the Palisades

Just above North Beach lies Palisades Park, a 26-acre ribbon of green space perched on the coastal bluffs. A walk up one of the pedestrian bridges or staircases rewards you with panoramic views of the bay, stretching from Malibu down to the Palos Verdes Peninsula. It's arguably the best spot in the city to watch the sunset over the Pacific.

Nearby Dining & Businesses

North Beach FAQs