Tongva Park
About
Tongva Park is a stunning 6-acre urban oasis just steps from Santa Monica Pier, offering a refreshing alternative to the busy beach scene. With its unique hillside slides, climbing wall, and innovative roller slide, this award-winning park combines natural beauty with exciting play features that keep kids entertained while parents enjoy ocean breezes and gorgeous landscaping.
Highlights
- ✓Exciting hillside slides built into the natural terrain
- ✓Challenging climbing wall suitable for various skill levels
- ✓Unique roller slide that kids ride again and again
- ✓Beautiful native gardens and winding pathways perfect for exploration
- ✓Stunning ocean views and proximity to Santa Monica Pier for extended adventures
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive early on weekends (before 10am) to enjoy the park before it gets crowded with tourists heading to the pier
- 2.Bring cardboard or a plastic sled for the hillside slides - kids go much faster and the slides can be rough on clothing
- 3.Pack a picnic to enjoy in the shaded garden areas - there are beautiful spots tucked throughout the park with ocean views
- 4.The climbing wall is unsupervised, so stay close with younger climbers; older kids love the challenge
- 5.Wear sunscreen and bring hats - while there are shaded areas, much of the park is exposed to full sun
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings (8-11am) offer the most peaceful experience with fewer crowds and cooler temperatures. Late afternoons can be lovely for sunset views, but expect more visitors. Avoid summer weekend afternoons when tourist traffic from the pier is heaviest.
What to Know
The park is completely free and easily accessible with stroller-friendly pathways throughout. Parking is available in nearby paid lots on Ocean Avenue or the civic center structure (expect $3-5/hour). There are clean restrooms on-site and water fountains, but no food vendors within the park itself.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round with mild weather making it enjoyable in all seasons. Spring brings beautiful blooming native plants. Summer can be foggy in the mornings (typical June gloom) but afternoons are perfect. The park is especially magical during the winter holidays when nearby Third Street Promenade is decorated with lights.
Nearby Eats
Santa Monica Place shopping center (2 blocks away) has a family-friendly food court with options like True Food Kitchen and Loteria Grill. For a casual meal, walk to Blue Plate Taco on Ocean Avenue, which offers a kids menu and quick service perfect for hungry little ones after park play.
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