Santa Monica Pier, CA

COASTAL SAFETY, WIND, & SUN

Live AI Coastal Briefing

Thursday, August 27, is shaping up to be a beautiful day at the coast, with a dominant marine layer bringing 100% cloud cover this morning. This heavy overcast will typically burn off by late morning, revealing a pleasant day for beach visitors. As the day unfolds, we can expect a fun-filled morning for surfers, runners, cyclists, and beachgoers alike, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors.



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 surfers and swimmers. 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. 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 ideal for runners and cyclists, with a gentle 4mph wind from the ENE and the marine layer providing cool overcast cover. With a low UV index of 0, there's no need for special protection just yet, but be sure to apply sunscreen as the UV builds through the morning. For sensitive individuals, please be aware that the air quality is moderate, with an AQI of 93, and limit prolonged outdoor exercise. Beach volleyball, paddleboarding, and tennis enthusiasts can take advantage of the calm morning conditions, but be aware that the onshore breeze typically picks up in the afternoon, making the morning a better time for outdoor activities.



As the day develops, we can expect the marine layer to burn off, revealing a pleasant afternoon with plenty of sunshine. Although the pressure is slightly low at 29.80 inHg, indicating unsettled possible conditions, the overall outlook is for a beautiful day at the coast. By midday, the sun will be shining, and as the afternoon develops, we can expect a gentle breeze to pick up. Heading into this evening, the conditions will remain pleasant, making it an excellent day to get outdoors and enjoy all that the coast has to offer. So, grab your board, your bike, or your sunscreen, and make the most of this wonderful day at the coast.



Briefing issued 6:25 AM, Thursday, August 27. Live conditions update continuously above.

About This Coastline

Jutting into the Pacific at the end of Colorado Avenue, Santa Monica Pier is the city’s defining landmark. Opened in 1909 and expanded through the following decades, it combines maritime history, amusement culture and public waterfront space in a single wooden structure.

The Vibe

The atmosphere is lively, democratic and constantly changing. Families head for the rides, anglers line the rails, musicians and performers add sound, and visitors pause for photographs against the bay. Early morning reveals the working structure and ocean more clearly; by afternoon, the pier becomes a concentrated expression of Southern California tourism.

Despite its fame, it still functions as a genuine public promenade. People come simply to walk over the water, watch the surf, feel the sea breeze or see the coast light up after dark.

The Local Anchor

Pacific Park, with its solar-powered Ferris wheel and oceanfront roller coaster, provides the most recognisable silhouette. The historic Looff Hippodrome, now housing the carousel, preserves an earlier generation of pier entertainment and is recognised as a National Historic Landmark.

Below the deck, Heal the Bay Aquarium interprets the marine life of Santa Monica Bay. The symbolic Route 66 “End of the Trail” sign adds another layer, connecting the pier to the mythology of the American road trip.

The Landscape

The pier crosses a broad sandy beach before extending above the water. From its outer sections, the view sweeps along the curve of Santa Monica Bay, from Malibu and the mountains in the north to the South Bay and Palos Verdes in the distance.

The structure also changes the local seascape, creating shadow, shelter and strong visual lines through the surf zone. Behind it, the bluff rises to Ocean Avenue and Palisades Park. The result is one of California’s clearest meetings of ocean, city and popular culture.