Santa Monica

Santa Monica's expansive beaches and pier, where the iconic Ferris wheel and roller coaster greet everyone, attract children, tourists, and people who adore them. Sunbathing and swimming are two obvious activities to enjoy this 3.5-mile expanse of beach, but the pier is the primary draw. It is dominated by the rollercoaster, arcades, and carnival games of Pacific Park Amusement Park. An aquarium and a historic carousel are nearby. The pier is most picturesque when it is framed by a California sunset and when it comes to life in the summer with free concerts and outdoor movies.

The Original Muscle Beach, located south of the pier, is where the Southern California fitness craze got its start in the middle of the 20th century. A new generation of fitness enthusiasts are being attracted by new equipment.

You can get to Venice Beach by following the South Bay Bicycle Trail, a paved bike and walking trail, south for about 1.5 miles (or about 20 miles to get to LA's South Bay beaches). On the pier and at beachside shops, you can hire bicycles or inline skates.

• Location: Ocean Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90401