If you’re searching for a good place to take a day trip with your family or friends, or maybe even by yourself, the Santa Monica Pier may be a wise choice. The Pier boasts a vibrant ferris wheel, a rollercoaster, and a carousel, with many other great activities.

Many tourists and California residents head to the Santa Monica Pier to enjoy themselves. “I went with my cousin, my sister, and my best friend. My overall experience of the pier was really great!” said junior Felicia Tang. Her only complaint, regarding this experience, was that she felt there were too many tourists.

Located at the beginning of Colorado Avenue in the city of Santa Monica, the pier has many quixotic attractions, which make it a great place for a quick and fun getaway. Santa Monica’s first pier was built in late 1909 and contained no activities or amenities. This changed when the new pier was built, which even has a merry-go-round.

Candice Hill, a senior at Beckman, said that she attended the Pier with friends and family. Hill also said that she would definitely go back. Lastly, Candice also added that the prices for things at the Pier were priced quite fairly.

The weather of the Santa Monica Pier is typically very nice year-round, especially during the hot California summer months. The temperature tends to stay about 10 to 20 degrees less than that of the inland communities. Just recently, in April 2008, the ferris wheel at the pier was completely rebuilt and redesigned. The old wheel went up for auction on the popular auction site, eBay, with proceeds going to the Special Olympics.

Just about an hour and a half away from Orange County, the Santa Monica Pier is a great place to take a break and get away, all without breaking your budget.