Locals wouldn't dream of eating the fish from these waters, nor would they call this quintessential Santa Monica. But the pier is a must-do at least once and a great place to catch a Pacific view.

Concerts and film screenings are but a few of the free activities offered in the summer, but there's family fun to be had here year-round. Called "The Coney Island of the Pacific," the pier is home to Pacific Park, a small amusement park with rides and a ferris wheel; Rusty's Surf Ranch for the thirsty; the very first Hot Dog on a Stick, complete with goofy uniforms; a 50-cent carousel and a hole-in-the-wall aquarium. Vendors sell cheap souvenirs, kettle corn, bubble-makers and churros from their movable carts scattered near the base of the pier. PG-rated first dates take place on carnival rides, at the Playland Arcade, amongst skeeball and video games, and at the pier's edge, looking out at an amazing view of the ocean. (At night, the crisp ocean air offers a convenient excuse for snuggling.)