Life in LA: Santa Monica Pier

The Santa Monica Pier is a tourist trap. Loads of people go there who clearly are not from the area. But, it's a tourist trap for a reason.

For me, there are a few things I love about the Pier.

1) The view

Call it what you will, but the view on the Pier is absolutely lovely. Whether it is cloudy, or windy, or sunny, being right above the ocean gives me a sense of peace I find exhilarating. Yes, there are a lot of people, more so in the summer, but I love to people watch there. Today, for example, there was an artist who was filming his music video there. I really admire his ability to not give any care and just perform for the camera. I love watching the kids scream in the carnival rides on the pier and I love the artists who perform on the pier for people to listen. The music, the dancing, et al, really add to the energy that surrounds the pier.






2) The shopping

Third Street Promenade is close by and I really like how there are so many shops that are close to the ocean. I particularly enjoy looking at the window displays of brands like Louis Vuitton with their constantly changing artwork. I also love how they have stand-alone stores like Aesop but they also have stores like Uniqlo and H&M.












3)  Pokemon Go

If you play this seriously addictive AR (alternative reality) game, *this* is the place to go. With constant lure, you will catch loads of water Pokemon which is really nice. I love to take a quick loop and see what Pokemon I catch.

By car, there are public parking lots. The closer to get to the pier, the harder it is to find parking and also, more expensive. There is also a lot of traffic. I like to park a bit further out and then just walk. I justify it as exercise.









Eats
When you're actually *on* the pier, I love eating a Japadog.  Made famous by Psych, the Japanese-inspired hot dog is your best bet when you are on the pier. There is a Coffee Bean on the pier if you're looking for some coffee. There are other sit-down restaurants, like Bubba Gump Shrimp, but I really like Japadog because you can get the hot dog and then eat it whilst people watching. Japadog is a bit expensive (I paid USD $7.75 for one) but I still think it's the best bet for the pier.

Not the best looking but so so good!

If you are on the Promenade, there are loads of restaurants you can try. Many of them, however, are not my cup of tea, as there are a lot of chain restaurants, but you won't be without.









If you do end up going to the Pier, I would love to hear about your experience. And, if you have any recommendations for me, do let me know in the comments and I will try and give it a go.

xo Jane