Last Updated on Sep 15, 2025
The Santa Monica Beach Bike Trail, part of the famous Marvin Braude Bike Trail, offers a stunning coastal ride filled with unforgettable sights and experiences. One of the top reasons to ride it is the spectacular ocean views that stretch from the iconic Santa Monica Pier to Venice Beach and beyond. The trail provides a safe, flat, and well-paved route perfect for all levels of riders, whether you’re out for leisure or exercise. Along the way, you'll pass muscle beach gyms, art murals, beachfront cafes, and vibrant boardwalk scenes. Riders can stop to enjoy street performers, shop at local vendors, or relax on the sandy beaches. The trail also offers easy access to bike rentals, public restrooms, and green spaces for picnicking or relaxing. Whether you're a tourist or a local, riding the Santa Monica Beach Bike Trail is a fun, scenic, and energizing way to explore some of the most iconic spots along the California coast.
The Strand Bike Path, officially part of the Marvin Braude Bike Trail, is a beloved stretch of paved pathway that winds along the scenic beaches of Los Angeles County. Known for its lively atmosphere and stunning ocean views, The Strand connects several iconic coastal destinations, including Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, and Redondo Beach. This Class I bike path provides a car-free, leisurely ride with plenty of opportunities to soak in the sun, stop at vibrant piers, and explore charming beach towns. Popular among cyclists, skaters, and pedestrians, The Strand embodies the quintessential Southern California beach lifestyle, offering a seamless blend of recreation and relaxation.
Begin your Santa Monica biking journey at Will Rogers State Beach in Pacific Palisades, where the trail offers stunning ocean views and passes popular surf breaks along Santa Monica State Beach. Pedal underneath the iconic Santa Monica Pier and by the historic Original Muscle Beach before continuing into Venice Beach, a hub of eclectic energy and culture. The path briefly diverges inland at Washington Boulevard near Marina del Rey, requiring cyclists to navigate a section shared with motorists before reconnecting with the coastal trail in Playa del Rey. For those seeking an extended adventure, the path continues through the charming beach cities of Venice, El Segundo, Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, and Redondo Beach, culminating in a picturesque finish at Torrance County Beach. This ride is a quintessential Southern California experience, combining vibrant urban vibes with serene coastal landscapes.
