Santa Monica Stairs
Iconic outdoor stair workout with ocean breezes and scenic views, a local gem for fitness enthusiasts.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better parking
Santa Monica Stairs
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic outdoor stair workout with ocean breezes and scenic views, a local gem for fitness enthusiasts.
"The Stairs win by miles. There’s just something uniquely fresh about the air in this part of Santa Monica."
👟 Wear Proper Shoes
Comfortable athletic shoes are a must for this challenging workout. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Hydrate Well
Bring plenty of water, as the closest restroom is a walk away. :droplet:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Stair Climb Challenge
Adelaide Drive
Conquer the iconic wooden and concrete steps for a serious cardio and leg workout with ocean breezes.
Pacific Ocean Views
Top of the stairs
Enjoy breathtaking glimpses of the Pacific Ocean and the lush greenery of Pacific Palisades.
Vibrant Fitness Community
Along the stairs
Experience the energetic atmosphere of locals and visitors pushing their fitness limits.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for a Better Workout
Parking & Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Are the Santa Monica stairs open?
👟 Wear Proper Shoes
Comfortable athletic shoes are a must for this challenging workout. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Hydrate Well
Bring plenty of water, as the closest restroom is a walk away. :droplet:
Visiting Santa Monica Pier alone - is it safe/worth it?
Locals, what are your favorite/unique things to do in Santa Monica?
🅿️ Parking Strategy
Look for free street parking on Adelaide Drive, but read signs carefully. :parking:
🤫 Respect Residents
Be mindful of noise and keep the area peaceful for local residents. :pray:
How do people get around in Santa Monica?
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Proper Shoes
Comfortable athletic shoes are a must for this challenging workout. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Hydrate Well
Bring plenty of water, as the closest restroom is a walk away. :droplet:
🅿️ Parking Strategy
Look for free street parking on Adelaide Drive, but read signs carefully. :parking:
🤫 Respect Residents
Be mindful of noise and keep the area peaceful for local residents. :pray:
🚶♀️ Walk to Palisades Park
Enjoy the ocean views and find restrooms at Palisades Park after your climb. :parkwithtree:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Santa Monica Stairs as a fantastic outdoor workout spot with invigorating ocean breezes and rewarding views. While parking can be a challenge and restrooms are a walk away, the intense cardio and scenic beauty make it a highly recommended destination for fitness enthusiasts and those seeking an active experience in Santa Monica.
"The Santa Monica Stairs are a fantastic workout spot and a local gem for fitness enthusiasts.
Nestled in a beautiful neighborhood, the wooden and concrete staircases offer a challenging cardio session with scenic views of the surrounding area. The vibe is lively, with a mix of serious athletes and casual exercisers, which creates a motivating energy. Parking can be tricky, especially during peak hours, but the effort is well worth it.
Whether you’re looking to burn calories or enjoy the outdoors, the Santa Monica Stairs are a must-visit for fitness fans in LA."
Aitana Blose
"If I’ve got 30 minutes and have to pick between a Stairmaster at the gym or hitting the Santa Monica Stairs, it’s a no-brainer. The Stairs win by miles. There’s just something uniquely fresh about the air in this part of Santa Monica. The ocean breeze wraps around you, cool and invigorating, making the workout feel so much lighter and more enjoyable.
It’s peaceful here, with only the soothing sounds of crashing waves and your own breathing keeping you company. The views are amazing too. You get a gorgeous glimpse of the Pacific Ocean on your way down, and the lush greenery of Pacific Palisades right across.
Sure, I hit the gym sometimes if I’m tight on time, but nothing beats the idyllic charm and effectiveness of training outdoors here. A little heads-up for first-timers: if you’re hydrating properly, you’ll probably need a restroom sooner or later. The closest public restroom is about a 10-minute walk away at Palisades Park. It’s super easy to find once you reach the park (free and conveniently located). Pro tip: If you jog, you can cut that restroom trip down to just 3 or 4 minutes. Plus, Palisades Park itself is a fantastic spot to chill afterward, soaking in the views as a nice reward post-workout.
Just remember to respect the local residents around the stairs… they’re already dealing with plenty of visitors, so let’s keep it quiet and peaceful for everyone. I’m grateful they allow us to enjoy such an incredible spot.
Huge recommendation whether you’re a local or just visiting Santa Monica. Definitely check it out!"
Thomas Forschbach
"It’s a 15 minute walk from the beach. Parking can be tricky, but there’s free parking around the corner. Just read the signs.
Coming from Miami, which is sea level, it’s a nice little workout for the legs. It wasn’t too crowded because it was a weekday about 4 to 5 people but once you get to the top and you go to the right, you will have a beautiful view that’s worth it."
Mike Hirooka
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Santa Monica Stairs are located in a residential neighborhood. The most common access point is from Adelaide Drive. If you're driving, look for street parking in the vicinity. Public transport options are limited directly to the stairs, but you can take a bus to nearby Santa Monica and then walk or take a short ride-share.
Parking can be tricky, especially during peak times. Free street parking is available on Adelaide Drive and surrounding streets, but always check the signs for restrictions. Some visitors suggest arriving early on weekdays to secure a spot.
Yes, you can easily use ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft to get dropped off near the base of the stairs on Adelaide Drive. This can be a convenient option if you're concerned about parking.
While there isn't direct public transport to the stairs themselves, you can take a bus to the Santa Monica Pier area and then walk or take a short ride-share to Adelaide Drive. Check local transit schedules for the most convenient routes.
The Santa Monica Stairs are primarily accessed from Adelaide Drive. Using a GPS or mapping app with 'Santa Monica Stairs' or 'Adelaide Drive, Santa Monica' should guide you to the general area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Santa Monica Stairs are a public outdoor space and do not require any tickets or admission fees. You can access them freely at any time.
The Santa Monica Stairs are an outdoor public area and are generally accessible at all hours. However, it's advisable to visit during daylight hours for safety and better visibility.
There is no entrance fee to use the Santa Monica Stairs. It's a free community resource for exercise and enjoying the outdoors.
To avoid crowds, aim for early weekday mornings. Weekends and late afternoons can get busy with locals and fitness groups.
No, there's no need to book a time slot. The Santa Monica Stairs are open to the public on a first-come, first-served basis.
🎫 💪 Onsite Experience
The Santa Monica Stairs offer a challenging cardiovascular and leg workout. You can ascend and descend the stairs multiple times to increase intensity. It's a great alternative to a Stairmaster.
There are no restrooms directly at the stairs. The closest public restroom is about a 10-minute walk away in Palisades Park.
The Santa Monica Stairs consist of both wooden and concrete steps, offering a varied surface for your workout.
The Santa Monica Stairs are generally considered safe, especially during daylight hours when many people are exercising. However, as with any outdoor activity, it's always good to be aware of your surroundings.
From the top, you can enjoy beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding residential areas. It's a rewarding sight after your climb.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture action shots of people climbing the stairs, panoramic views from the top, and the unique architecture of the staircases themselves. The ocean backdrop adds a scenic element.
Early mornings offer softer light and fewer people, ideal for photography. Late afternoons provide a golden hour glow with potential for stunning sunset views over the ocean.
Drone usage may be restricted in residential areas and near parks. It's best to check local regulations and be mindful of privacy before flying a drone.
Try shooting from the bottom looking up to emphasize the scale of the stairs, or from the top looking down for a sense of perspective. Candid shots of people working out can also be dynamic.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the full staircase and the expansive views. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details or capturing distant ocean scenes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pairing a visit to the stairs with a trip to nearby Palisades Park can make for a more complete family experience. The park offers open spaces for kids to run around, playgrounds, and beautiful ocean vistas. It's also where you'll find the closest restrooms, which is essential when traveling with children. The walk from the stairs to the park is manageable and offers pleasant scenery.
🏋️ Fitness Enthusiasts
To maximize your workout, consider doing multiple laps or incorporating interval training. The varied terrain of wooden and concrete steps adds a unique challenge. Remember to hydrate well and wear supportive athletic shoes. The energy of other exercisers can be highly motivating, making it a great place to push your limits.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Bring your own water bottle to save money on purchasing drinks. You can also pack a light snack to enjoy at Palisades Park afterward. This activity offers a great workout and scenic views without breaking the bank, making it a perfect addition to an affordable Santa Monica itinerary.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Santa Monica Stairs Workout Experience
Many reviewers highlight the effectiveness of the workout, comparing it favorably to using a Stairmaster at the gym. The natural incline and repetitive motion are excellent for building endurance and toning leg muscles. The surrounding environment, with its lush greenery and proximity to the coast, adds to the appeal, making it a more pleasant and scenic way to get fit. It's a popular choice for those looking to incorporate a high-intensity interval training (HIIT) session into their fitness routine.
While the stairs themselves are the main attraction, the surrounding area offers additional benefits. A short walk leads to Palisades Park, which provides restrooms and beautiful vantage points for relaxing after your workout. This park is also a great place to cool down, enjoy the ocean views, and reflect on your accomplishment. Remember to be respectful of the local residents who share their neighborhood with this popular fitness destination.
Navigating Parking and Amenities
When it comes to amenities, the most notable point is the lack of restrooms directly at the stairs. The nearest public restroom facilities are located in Palisades Park, which is about a 10-minute walk from the base of the stairs. This is a crucial piece of information for anyone planning an extended workout or who might need facilities during their visit. Some visitors note that if you're jogging, you can cut down the walk time to the park.
Despite these logistical considerations, most visitors find the effort worthwhile due to the unique workout experience and the scenic rewards. The advice from locals and frequent visitors emphasizes planning ahead for parking and being prepared for the walk to the restroom facilities. This practical advice helps ensure a smoother and more enjoyable visit to this popular Santa Monica fitness spot.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit