Douglas Park, CA

The Lawn Bowling, Feed the ducks at the toddler-friendly park

Live AI Coastal Briefing

Thursday, August 27, is shaping up to be a beautiful day along the coast, with a dominant marine layer bringing 100% cloud cover this morning. This heavy overcast will typically burn off by late morning, giving way to a lovely day for beach visitors. As the day unfolds, we can expect pleasant coastal conditions, making it ideal for a variety of outdoor activities, from surfing and swimming to running and cycling.



The surf conditions are looking great for longboarders, with waves at 2.8 feet, or knee to waist high. With the water temperature at a warm 74°F, boardshorts will be the perfect attire for catching some waves. 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.



This morning's conditions are perfect for runners and cyclists, with a gentle 5mph wind from the NE and the marine layer providing a cool, overcast cover. With a low UV index of 0, there's no need for special sun protection just yet, but be sure to apply sunscreen as the UV builds throughout the morning. For those with sensitive respiratory systems, please be aware that the air quality is moderate, with an AQI of 93, and consider limiting prolonged outdoor exercise. Beach volleyball, paddleboarding, and tennis are all great options for the morning, before the onshore breeze picks up in the afternoon.



As the day develops, we can expect the marine layer to burn off, giving way to a pleasant afternoon and evening. With slightly low pressure at 29.62 inHg, there's a possibility of unsettled conditions, but overall, it's shaping up to be a wonderful day to enjoy the coast. So, grab your board, your bike, or your racket, and make the most of this beautiful day. With no rain expected and warm water conditions, it's the perfect time to get out and enjoy all that the coast has to offer. Have a great day, and we'll see you out there!



Briefing issued 6:40 AM, Thursday, August 27. Live conditions update continuously above.

About This Coastline

Douglas Park is a long-established neighbourhood park on Wilshire Boulevard, several blocks inland from the coast. Its mix of lawns, paths, tennis courts and lawn bowling creates a traditional community setting within Santa Monica’s busier urban grid.

The Vibe

The atmosphere is relaxed, sociable and multigenerational. Children use the playground, players gather on the courts, and walkers follow shaded paths through the site. The lawn bowling green adds an unusual, measured rhythm that contrasts with the faster movement of Wilshire Boulevard outside.

This is not a visitor landmark, but it is precisely that everyday quality that gives the park value. It reflects how local residents use open space between the beach, shops and residential neighbourhoods.

The Local Anchor

The lawn bowling green is the park’s most distinctive feature, supported by tennis courts, picnic areas and children’s recreation. Santa Monica identifies Douglas Park as a varied neighbourhood facility rather than a single-purpose sports ground.

Its location on Wilshire places it near local businesses and a direct route west toward Palisades Park. The park also sits close to the Montana Avenue district, reinforcing its role as a green meeting point for the city’s north side.

The Landscape

Mature trees and broad lawns create a sheltered interior, while paths divide the park into active and quiet zones. The terrain is flat, and surrounding buildings remain visible through the planting. Unlike the bluff parks, the ocean is not the visual focus.

Nevertheless, coastal light and mild temperatures support year-round outdoor use. Douglas Park shows a different layer of Santa Monica’s landscape: not dramatic sea views, but carefully maintained green space that makes dense residential life more comfortable and connected.