Crescent Bay Park, CA

Beautiful historic 1909 pergola and romatic location

Live AI Coastal Briefing

Monday, October 12, is shaping up to be a beautiful day along the coast, with a dominant marine layer bringing 92% cloud cover and a cool, damp atmosphere. This morning, the marine layer is expected to burn off by late morning, revealing a stunning day for beach visitors. As the day unfolds, we can expect a range of activities to enjoy, from surfing and paddleboarding to running, cycling, and beach volleyball, all set against the backdrop of our picturesque coastal park with its rolling grassy slopes and panoramic ocean views.



The ocean conditions are looking great for surfers, with a wave height of 3.7 feet, which is waist to chest high, and a solid beach break. With the water temperature at a warm 73°F, boardshorts are the way to go, and you can enjoy the waves without needing a wetsuit. However, please note that rip current data is unavailable today, so it's essential to check with the lifeguard on duty before entering the water. Additionally, be sure to check the local tide chart for low and high tide times, and keep in mind that swell data is also unavailable.



For runners and cyclists, the morning conditions are ideal, with a gentle wind of 4mph from the ENE and the marine layer providing a cool, overcast cover. With the low UV index of 0, you won't need special protection just yet, but be sure to plan your sun protection as the UV builds through the morning. The moderate air quality, with an AQI of 62, means that sensitive individuals should limit their prolonged outdoor exercise. Beach volleyball, paddleboarding, and tennis are all great options for the morning, before the onshore breeze picks up in the afternoon, making it a perfect time to enjoy these activities.



As the day develops, we can expect the marine layer to burn off, revealing a pleasant coastal scene. Although the pressure is slightly low at 29.79 inHg, indicating unsettled possible conditions, the overall outlook is promising. By midday, the sun should be shining, and the afternoon should bring a gentle breeze. As the afternoon develops, the conditions will remain pleasant, making it an excellent time to enjoy the outdoors. Heading into this evening, the temperature will drop rapidly, requiring warm layers for evening visits. With a beautiful day ahead, get out and enjoy the coast, and make the most of the stunning scenery and exciting activities on offer.



Briefing issued 6:34 AM, Monday, October 12. Live conditions update continuously above.

About This Coastline

Crescent Bay Park is a compact green space near the southern edge of central Santa Monica, positioned above the beach and close to the city’s historic oceanfront hotels. It provides a quiet pause between the Civic Center district, Ocean Avenue and the sand.

The Vibe

The atmosphere is calm, observational and less programmed than many larger parks. Benches and a walking path encourage short visits, quiet conversation or a moment of shade rather than organised sport. The surrounding streets can be busy, but the park itself retains a small-scale neighbourhood feel.

Its position makes it useful for people walking between the pier, hotels and Ocean Park. It is often experienced as part of a route rather than as an all-day destination.

The Local Anchor

The park’s anchor is its relationship with the coastline. Santa Monica lists simple amenities—benches, restrooms and a walking path—allowing the ocean setting to remain the main attraction. Nearby Casa del Mar and Shutters on the Beach give the area a strong architectural identity.

The historic Civic Auditorium and modern Civic Center lie just inland, while the beach path below links north to the pier and south toward Venice.

The Landscape

Crescent Bay Park occupies gently elevated ground above a broad sandy beach. Lawns and low planting form the foreground, with the Pacific horizon visible beyond the coastal corridor. The pier rises to the north and the shoreline curves south through Ocean Park.

The park is not as high or panoramic as Palisades Park, but its lower elevation creates a more immediate connection with the sand. It feels like a small terrace between city and shore, shaped by ocean light, salt air and the constant movement of people along the waterfront.