Santa Monica Pier in Santa Monica, California

If you’ve made it to Santa Monica, California, you’ve reached the symbolic end of Route 66. While it may no longer be an official U.S. Highway, its spirit lives on, and there’s no better place to celebrate your cross-country adventure than at the Santa Monica Pier.

Built in 1909, this historic pier has served as a fishing hot spot, amusement destination, and cultural icon for over a century. While it wasn’t the original terminus of Route 66, it has become the symbolic finish line, jutting proudly into the Pacific Ocean with the iconic “End of the Trail” sign standing as a must-snap photo spot.

Start your visit by taking pics at the famous Santa Monica Pier Arch at the entrance, then head straight to 66-to-Cali, located right on the pier, to grab an official Route 66 certificate of completion. Pop into the Santa Monica Pier Bait & Tackle Shop for more quirky souvenirs and to check out the tribute to beloved Route 66 artist and preservationist Robert Waldmire, whose whimsical maps and love for the Mother Road helped keep its legacy alive. Scarf down a juicy burger at Pier Burger or satisfy your sweet tooth at Scoops Creamery or Soda Jerks Ice Cream Shop. Then, toast your journey with a celebratory seafood tower at The Albright, a pier-side eatery serving up fresh catches with unbeatable boardwalk views.

Of course, the fun doesn’t stop with Route 66. Ride the solar-powered Ferris wheel at Pacific Park, take a ride on the historic carousel, watch street performers juggle, sing, or dance, and soak in the sun, sea breeze, and sense of accomplishment by dipping your toes in the Pacific Ocean.

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Photos of the Santa Monica Pier in Santa Monica, California

Pacific Park at the Santa Monica Pier in Santa Monica, California

Route 66 End of the Trail Sign in Santa Monica, California

Carousel at the Santa Monica Pier in Santa Monica, California

Pacific Ocean at the Santa Monica Pier in Santa Monica, California

Skeeball at the Arcade at the Santa Monica Pier in Santa Monica, California

Santa Monica Pier Arch in Santa Monica, California

Soda Jerks Ice Cream Shop on the Santa Monica Pier in Santa Monica, California

The Albright in Santa Monica, California - Santa Monica Pier Seafood Shack

Santa Monica Pier Bait and Tackle in Santa Monica, California - the Last Stop Shop on Route 66

66-To-Cali in Santa Monica, California Route 66 souvenir stand on the Santa Monica Pier

Funnel cake with strawberry ice cream at Scoops Creamery on the Santa Monica Pier in Santa Monica, California

Know Before You Go

To make the most of your visit to the Santa Monica Pier in Santa Monica, California, here are some things to know before you go.

Where is the Santa Monica Pier located?

You’ll find the Santa Monica Pier at the west end of Route 66 in Santa Monica, California. It stretches into the Pacific Ocean at the intersection of Ocean and Colorado Avenues.

Is the Santa Monica Pier really the end of Route 66?

Officially, no. Route 66 once ended in downtown Los Angeles and later at Lincoln and Olympic Boulevards in Santa Monica (that’s the recognized official endpoint and you can still find an end sign and begin sign there). But symbolically, the pier feels like a much more fitting finish line, and the End of the Trail sign here has become the go-to photo spot for travelers.

Plenty! Ride the solar-powered Ferris wheel, play arcade games, grab a bite at one of the many restaurants, go fishing, or just enjoy the ocean views. Don’t forget to snap a photo with the Route 66 End of the Trail Sign and get your official Route 66 Completion Certificate at 66-to-Cali.

Walking onto the pier is free, but rides, food, games, and parking will cost extra. Think of it as an old-fashioned boardwalk where you can spend as much, or as little, as you like.

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

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.

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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.

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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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Enhance your visit to Los Angeles with a tour! Whether you love sightseeing, Hollywood movies, or family-friendly adventures, there are plenty of options for everyone.