Photos of the Santa Monica Pier Arch in Santa Monica, California
Know Before You Go
To make the most of your visit to the Santa Monica Pier Arch in Santa Monica, California, here are some things to know before you go.
Where is the Santa Monica Pier Arch located?
You’ll find this neon sign at the entrance to the Santa Monica Pier, at the intersecton of Colorado Avenue and Ocean Avenue. It spans the roadway ramp that leads down onto the pier.
Is this the official end of Route 66?
No. The Santa Monica Pier is considered the unofficial end of Route 66, but it has become the place most travelers choose to celebrate finishing the journey. With food, games, rides, and that sweeping Pacific Ocean view, it’s a fitting finale to the Mother Road.
When Route 66 was established in 1926, the official western terminus was in downtown Los Angeles. In 1936, the route was realigned to end at Olympic Boulevard and Lincoln Boulevard in Santa Monica (that’s the recognized official endpoint and you can still find an end sign and begin sign there).
The Santa Monica Pier remains the symbolic finish line where most road trippers pose with the Santa Monica Pier Arch and the famous End of the Trail sign.
When is the best time to visit the sign?
Daytime is great for photos, but evenings offer a special view when the neon sign lights up. Sunset is especially popular for views of the glowing neon sign with a colorful Pacific Ocean sky in the background.
Where can you park near the Santa Monica Pier?
Parking is available right on the pier deck (limited hours, Monday–Thursday), or in nearby beach lots ($7–$18 per day) that run from sunrise to sunset. For longer visits, try the Civic Center Garage or downtown Santa Monica parking structures, which offer the first 90 minutes free. Metered street parking is also available throughout the city. If you’d rather skip driving, the Metro E Line drops you just a short walk from the pier or you can walk from any nearby hotel. Find more parking information here.
Where to Stay Near the Santa Monica Pier Arch
Complete your travel itinerary and get a good night’s rest at the beginning or end of your journey with a stay at one of these Santa Monica hotels near Route 66.
The Georgian
The Georgian Hotel has been serving the Hollywood greats since 1933 and is recognized as one the most visually stunning and iconic establishments on the California coast. Spend the night in a stylish suite with an ocean view, dine on their famed coastal cuisine, and have the beach right at your doorstep.
Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows
Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows was developed in the 1920s on the site of a 19th-century estate. Over the years this Santa Monica hotel has hosted a variety of Hollywood stars, including Greta Garbo and Marilyn Monroe. Stay in an ocean-view room or enjoy one of the charming 1930s bungalows.
Santa Monica Hotel
Santa Monica Hotel offers a good mix of location, value, and comfort. The simple motel is located one mile from Santa Monica Pier and offers free self-parking, cable TV, and WiFi in a vibrant setting.
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