In 1934, at the same time the new breakwater and harbor were being finished, the Municipal Pier was refurbished. 125 new piles were placed to enlarge the pier’s ‘T’ to 140-feet, a new lower deck was built for boat landings, and the pier’s top was resurfaced.
The Depression years of the thirties were rough years for the local amusement piers although visitors had their choice of pier fishing, Sportfishing from boats, amusements on the Looff Pier, water taxis to the fishing barges (and later to the gambling ships), and boating activities in the harbor. In the summer of 1934, Security First National Bank foreclosed on the Santa Monica Amusement Company. Later that year the city leased the La Monica Ballroom and converted it into a convention center and offices. By the spring of 1935 the amusement company filed for bankruptcy. In 1936 the bank, city and old amusement company were all in the courts and no one seemed to have a clear cut case for solution of the pier’s bills or various leases. So, off and on for a number of years, the bank would find itself in control of the pier. One result was conversion of the ballroom in 1937 into a roller rink.
1938 saw a new Sportfishing operation begin with the arrival of Bob Lamai and Preacher Scott Hume. Their boats included the Faith, Freedom and Pali, a small barge, Miss Dianna, and a charter boat Chi-Camoi.
In 1939 a new group of investors took over the Looff Pier. They were granted a 25-year lease by the city and began to order changes for the pier with the most drastic being a new carousel. By 1940 this group too would find the pier unprofitable, default on their mortgage and the bank would once again gain control of the franchise.
1939 was the year that construction of the 650-foot bridge connecting Colorado Avenue to the Municipal Pier began. It was opened on June 17, 1940. That same spring the pier was redecked as a WPA project. In 1941 the Santa Monica Pier Businessmen’s Association installed the arched neon sign at the entrance to the bridge that still welcomes today’s visitors.
Santa Monica — 1940
In 1940 Charles Arnold reopened his fishing barge. It was a sort of reverse osmosis when he bought the ex-gambling ship Texas. He soon gave it the same name as his former barge, Star of Scotland. However, the 261-foot-long boat sank off the pier during World War II.
The war years saw reduced activity at the pier although the mackerel fleet remained active in providing food for the war effort. However, in 1943, winter storms wrecked a number of fishing boats including the Sportfishing boat Palisades.
That same year also saw the bank sell the Santa Monica Pleasure Pier to Walter Newcomb the man who had taken over management of the pier at the start of the war. It now became the Newcomb Pier. At the time there were fifty-five businesses on the pier. In the spring of 1944, the La Monica Auditorium reopened as the Palisades Dance Hall but it soon closed. It could never gain the following of the La Monica Ballroom.
A frequent visitor to the pier was Johnny Weissmuller (Tarzan in the movies) who had been a lifeguard and enjoyed spending his afternoons paddleboard racing. His most memorable visit was on August 6, 1943, when he leaped from the pier and rescued a fifteen-year-old boy who was drowning.
The La Monica Ballroom finally reopened to large crowds at the end of the war when Spade Cooley the “King of Western Swing” rented it for his popular country-western band and began to use it for his live television program. By 1950 his show was the second most popular Los Angeles television program and he continued at the pier until 1954.
In 1946 Newcomb brought his 1922 Philadelphia Tobaggan carousel, PTC #62, to the pier after the Venice Pier closed. After renovation, it opened on June 27, 1947. 1946, also saw the first Santa Monica Fiesta at the Municipal Pier. Events included a Miss Santa Monica bathing beauty contest, paddleboard races, swimming exhibitions, acrobatics and gymnastic exhibitions. The latter had been held annually at Muscle Beach each Memorial Day weekend since 1935. In 1947 the event was enlarged with a large parade, and a Muscle Matinee complete with Mr. Santa Monica and Miss Muscle Beach titles.
Sportfishing operations at the Municipal Pier remained strong in the late ’40s and early ’50s. In 1948 Bob Lamia forced out his partner Preacher Scott Hume, but continued to operate the Sportfishing boats Palisades, Resista, Ramona, Sea Biscuit, Mardi Gras, W.K., and the fishing barges Tradewinds and North Wind.
In 1954 Lamia left and soon after Versal Schuler’s Santa Monica Sportfishing began to operate its fleet from the end of the pier. Schuler had previously operated out of the Ocean Park Pier. His boats included the Bright 1, Indiana, Maiden 1 & 2, Delaware, Jesabel, Pegasus and Kiaora.
Overall, the ‘50s seemed to generally be an era of decline for the piers, especially the Newcomb Pier after Walter Newcomb died in 1954. His widow continued to run the pier but few new attractions were added and some of the most famous features had lost their appeal. In 1955 the La Monica Ballroom became the Hollywood Autocade housing over 100 unusual cars. In 1963 the building was demolished.
$653,000 in repairs to the Municipal Pier (including replacing fifty-eight pilings, new decking, lighting, handrails and a new restroom were made in 1957. Then, in January of 1959 storms wrecked much of the remaining harbor and part of the pier; in May an additional storm damaged the Newcomb Pier.
In 1973 the city council voted to demolish both piers (since they were in need of expensive repair and seemingly had few amusements). It was a mistake by the council. A “Friends of the Santa Monica Pier” group was formed by merchants on the pier. They were soon joined by a citizens group, “Save Santa Monica Pier Citizen’s Committee.” The groups joined forces to defeat three of the council members who had voted against the pier and they were able to get the council to change its vote. Santa Monica took over operation of the Newcomb Pier in June of 1974. That same year saw a fire on the Newcomb Pier and a city authorization of $280,000 for Municipal Pier repairs. In 1975 voters passed a proposition that assured both piers would be preserved and on May 18, the Santa Monica Pier was dedicated as an official L.A. County Historical Landmark on Pier Day.
In January of 1976 work on restoration of the Newcomb Pier began (including replacing many of the pilings). Plans for several new restaurants were announced and the city bought the merry-go-round. But the late ’70s saw many of the plans put on hold due to delays caused by the Coastal Commission and the high interest rates of those years. Although the city spent $3.1 million on the pier between 1975 and 1980, plans were announced in 1981 to spend an additional $7.9 million for repairs and new attractions.
Unfortunately, a huge storm struck on January 27, 1983, which destroyed the northwest corner of the Municipal Pier and caused an estimated $2.5 million in damage to the pier. A second and more powerful storm then struck on March 1, a storm that did even more damage. 40 MPH winds, fifteen foot high waves, and the highest tides of the year combined their forces and by midnight the entire west end of the Municipal Pier had been destroyed and 45,000 square feet of the adjacent Newcomb Pier. Less than two-thirds of the 1,200-foot-long pier remained. Everything west of Moby’s Dock was gone and 20 percent of the pier’s total area was swept into the sea. Damage was estimated at $8.5 million. Included in the wreckage was the pier’s tackle shop and the boat landing and it would spell forever the end of Versal Schuler’s Santa Monica Sportfishing.
After the earlier mentioned talk and debate, construction on the new Newcomb Pier started in November of 1987. That project was completed in August of 1988. The new Municipal Pier opened on April 6, 1990 and just ten minutes after opening Robert Khourney, an eighteen-year-old angler, caught a thirteen-inch bass.
Since the earliest days, businesses have come and gone on the pier but it has retained enough elements of those bygone days to still attract a newer, less familiar generation of visitors. Today’s attractions include Pacific Park, a 12-ride carnival-style amusement park that helps Santa Monica retain the “pleasure pier” status that it has enjoyed for so long a time. Whatever the changes, the various businesses and attractions seem to work and a risorgimento of sorts has taken place. Today more than three million visitors a year visit the pier and it is one of the most visited piers in the state as well as an icon for the entire Los Angeles region. That’s true even though the nine-story-high Pacific Wheel, a Ferris wheel that was a centerpiece of the park, was auctioned off on eBay in 2008. The Ferris wheel, converted to solar power as one part of a program to turn Santa Monica into the nation’s first “Solar City,” was perhaps a little too tame for today’s visitor.
Of additional interest (I think) is Muscle Beach, the area south of the pier. It was originally named for the mussels that were attached to the pier pilings. In the early ’30s, the federal Work Progress Administration decided to build a weight lifting platform on the beach. The project’s dual purpose was to provide jobs for workers and provide a recreation area for Depression-era teenagers. Undoubtedly, someone, somewhere, felt that idle youth should be kept busy before their boredom turned to mischief—kind of like today’s Midnight Basketball Leagues. Eventually the area became home to circus performers, weight lifters, and unfortunately some of the seedier and more dangerous vagrants on the beach. A murder in 1956 and a rape in 1958 resulted in removal of the equipment although eventually Beach Park #4 was given some adult gymnastic equipment. Over time, the name was changed from Mussel Beach to Muscle Beach. Today, more people associate Muscle Beach with the beach area near the Venice Pier.
Santa Monica was named for holy Monica, the mother of Saint Augustine.
Santa Monica Pier Facts
Hours: Open 24 hours a day.
Facilities: There are lights, benches, fish-cleaning facilities and restrooms on the pier. Multi-level balconies allow anglers to fish closer to the water and they were designed to be wheelchair accessible. There is a bait and tackle shop by the end of the pier. There are several snack shops and restaurants on the shore half of the pier and the Mariasol Mexican food restaurant out toward the end. There is parking on the pier in a lot; the cost is $5-7 a day. There is metered parking on streets above the pier. Free concerts are held on the pier Thursday evenings in the summer months. For those worried about visiting the pier at night, a police station is now open near the entrance of the pier..
Handicapped Facilities: Handicapped parking but non-handicapped restrooms. The pier surface is cement and the rail height is 41 inches. Posted for handicapped.
Location: 34.0095897345215 N. Latitude, 118.49714040756226 W. Longitude
How To Get There: From I-405 take Santa Monica Blvd. west to Ocean Ave. Turn left, and go to Colorado Ave., and turn right onto the pier.
Management: City of Santa Monica.
Santa Monica brings back some good memories, especially when I would go with my younger nephew fishing under the restaurant at the end. Always caught something, even if the day sucked for other fishermen. Under the Mariasol, I have caught my fair share of black, walleye, shiner( not common) and rainbow perch alongside sargo, black croaker, sand and calico bass. Have also caught Bonito, mackerel, halibut, turbot, sharks and rays, and the odd eel or octopus and crabs. That pier has a lot depending on the season, though I have had some good luck with Corbina and yellowfin croakers on the north side in front of the arcade facing the breaker waves. Sand crabs and mussels are key. If you fish the middle part of the pier under the pilings on either north or south sides in the spring, one can get some solid sargo action off mussels, bloodworms, or ghost shrimp.
I’m trying to find out the average height above the water for Santa Monica Pier.
?
Dating online has taught me that being intentional with how you approach it really matters. One thing that helped me was using platforms that actually focus on connecting people nearby—like access the local hookup directory now. It saved time and made it easier to meet people who were genuinely available to link up. I started by filling out my profile honestly, keeping things simple but real, and it made a difference. These platforms offer tools to match based on preferences, but it’s still important to stay safe and trust your instincts. Conversations can move quickly, so it’s smart to take a few moments before deciding to meet. Dating today is definitely more digital, but when you combine technology with a grounded, clear mindset, it can lead to some great moments—and sometimes even something meaningful.
[…] games and rides, the Santa Monica Pier is a great place to catch fish. The fishing platform is in its own spot at the end of the Pier. Young people and old people love to watch the views and […]
Such a amazing and best blog so keep it up thanks!
My favorite recollections of Santa Monica are of going fishing with my younger nephew beneath the restaurant at the end of the day.
My Dad Robert Hirschmann and Versal Schuler were boy hood friends. My Dad worked for Versal on the commercial fishing boats in the 1950-s
We would go on the boat called the Scotty There was Chuck and Smoky who worked on the boat also
It was great times and lots of fun. Versal had a daughter her name was Kathy
The very good old days.
This is a fantastic start to the article! I especially appreciate the detail that no fishing license is required for public piers in California. Knowing you can rent rods and buy bait right at places like Redondo Pier makes trying out pier fishing seem easy and accessible.
Some of my fondest moments in Santa Monica are those quiet evenings spent fishing with my younger nephew under the restaurant at the end of the pier.
This post brings back great memories of my last trip to Santa Monica Pier! The fishing is so relaxing, and the surrounding attractions make it the perfect spot for a full day of fun. Highly recommend it!
Santa Monica Pier is such an iconic spot! From the vibrant boardwalk to the stunning ocean views, it’s a perfect blend of fun, relaxation, and classic seaside charm. Always a must-visit for locals and tourists alike.
The Santa Monica Pier beautifully captures the essence of California’s coastal charm. Its vibrant atmosphere, rich history, and diverse community create an unforgettable experience for visitors. Whether fishing or enjoying the lively entertainment, the pier remains a cherished landmark that embodies the spirit of Southern California. Truly a gem!
That pier has a lot depending on the season, though I have had some good luck with Corbina and yellowfin croakers on the north side in front of the arcade facing the breaker waves. Sand crabs and mussels are key.
Cleaning companies use technologies that make cleaning safe and fast. Steam cleaners, high-powered vacuum cleaners, and disinfectants help eliminate dirt, bacteria, and unpleasant odors. I was interested in maid services in Bothell, WA. These methods are especially in demand in medical and childcare facilities, where cleanliness directly affects people’s health.
ToothfairyAI provides expert AI agents in Australia, helping businesses identify, plan, and implement intelligent AI solutions with confidence. Our advisors guide organizations through AI strategy, workflow automation, and customer experience optimization to drive measurable growth and productivity. We deliver scalable, future-ready AI advisory tailored to your business goals. Partner with ToothfairyAI today to turn AI potential into real business impact—book a consultation now.
yellowfin croakers on the north side in front of the arcade facing the breaker waves. Sand crabs and mussels are key.
Fantastic write-up—love the mix of pier history and practical fishing notes. The mid-December session story (7 fish in under two hours) and the species list make it feel very real. Any updated tips on best baits/lures here now that live bait isn’t sold on the pier?
This captures Santa Monica Pier perfectly—tourist energy, street performers, and anglers all sharing the same space. The notes about what you can realistically catch (and not just trophy talk) are super helpful. Would you recommend fishing closer to the pilings vs the end for beginners?
Really enjoyed this write-up—love that you mix a bit of pier history with practical, on-the-ground fishing notes. The reminder that it’s a public pier (no license required) and that you can still rent tackle/buy bait on-site makes it much easier for first-timers. Any updated “best time + bait” tips for avoiding the heaviest tourist crowds?
Great read on the Santa Monica Pier experience very detailed and helpful! While planning our trip, I also started looking into Invisalign offers in London to fix my smile before heading out. If anyone knows good deals or providers, please share! Thanks for the informative post, excited to explore more here.
Раздел
предлагает список онлайн казино в азербайджане с актуальной информацией. Онлайн казино азербайджан собраны в одном месте для удобства сравнения. Указаны ключевые параметры и особенности платформ. Это практичный ресурс для анализа.
Estaba en casa revisando cosas en el portátil y pensé en probar algún casino online para cambiar un poco la rutina. Quería algo sencillo, sin demasiadas complicaciones desde el inicio. Como estoy en España, buscaba que funcione bien aquí. Probé luckycapone y me pareció bastante claro todo al entrar. Tiene varios juegos, promociones y también algunos consejos básicos que ayudan bastante si no sabes mucho. No es complicado de usar. Me gustó porque me entretuve un buen rato sin esfuerzo.
Really enjoyed your write-up on “Santa Monica Pier”. I especially liked the point about The angling piers of California are unique. At Redondo you find a little shop at the … Very helpful and easy to follow.
Great guide! I didn’t realize Santa Monica Pier doesn’t require a fishing license—that’s a nice perk for casual anglers. Have you noticed seasonal differences in what bites best there? I’m planning a trip and would love to know the best time to visit for decent catches.
Great guide! I’ve always wondered what fish you can actually catch off Santa Monica Pier. The fact that you don’t need a license is a huge plus—makes it so accessible for beginners. Have you noticed seasonal differences in what bites best? Would love to know the best times of year to visit.
What a delightful dive into the history of Southern California’s fishing piers! It’s fascinating to see how even after nearly a century, the spirit of fishing, especially at Santa Monica Pier, endures. Charles Frederick Holder’s vivid descriptions truly bring the past to life! Thank you for sharing this nostalgic glimpse.
What a fantastic dive into the history of Southern California’s fishing piers! It’s incredible to read Charles Frederick Holder’s vivid description from 1914 and then see how your 2013 experience at Santa Monica Pier connects to it. Despite the changes, the spirit of pier fishing clearly endures. It makes me want to visit and drop a line myself!
This is a fantastic dive into the history and enduring charm of Southern California’s fishing piers! It’s fascinating to see how much the Santa Monica Pier, in particular, has maintained its spirit over a century. The vivid descriptions, especially Mr. Holder’s 1914 account, really bring the experience to life. It makes me want to visit and cast a line myself!
It’s really interesting to read about the debate over rebuilding the pier after the 1983 El Niño storms. I can’t imagine Santa Monica without it now, so it’s wild to think some people actually argued against bringing it back. Glad they pushed through with the renovation!
Great post on “Santa Monica Pier”—clear and practical. I especially liked the point about The angling piers of California are unique. At Redondo you find a little shop at the .
Really enjoyed your write-up on “Santa Monica Pier”. I especially liked the point about The angling piers of California are unique.
This was a strong read on “Santa Monica Pier”. I especially liked the point about The angling piers of California are unique.
Loved this article—concise and useful. I especially liked the point
Great tips on fishing spots along the pier! I’ve always had mixed luck near the bait shop, but I’ll definitely try the deeper water by the end of the pier next time. Do you have any advice for avoiding snags when the tide is coming in?
It’s wild to think about the 1983 El Niño storms and how much damage they did to the pier. I can’t imagine anyone arguing against rebuilding it, especially seeing how much of an icon it is today. So glad they pushed through with the renovations!
It’s crazy to think about how much the pier has changed since 1914, but also how some things, like the joy of fishing there, have stayed the same. The description of the big scoop net for live bait back then is wild! I can’t imagine seeing that today.
This is a really clear and fun explanation of how Glowing Smiles Dental is a dentist in Narre Warren in treatments designed to correct chips, gaps, and discoloration—giving you a radiant, natural-looking smile in just one visit.
Great read! I’ve been thinking about trying pier fishing in California, and Santa Monica seems like a good starting point. Do you recommend any specific bait for catching mackerel there in the fall?
Great read! I’ve been thinking about trying pier fishing for a while, and your tips on bait selection for Santa Monica are really helpful. Do you find that mornings or evenings work better for catching something decent there?
This is such
Sau vài hôm dùng thử xn88 link , mình thấy giao diện tải khá nhanh. TONY07-20
Great read! I tried pier fishing at Santa Monica last summer and had decent luck with mackerel near the end of the pier. Do you have any tips on the best times of day for surfperch there?
The contrast between California’s piers is what makes this piece interesting, especially the way Santa Monica sits apart from the more commercial feel of Venice or Long Beach. I also liked the detail that you can fish from the pier without a license, which makes it feel much more open and approachable.
Crazy how much that pier has changed since 1914, though seven fish in two hours is still a solid day regardless. You definitely had better luck than most people who just go there for the carnival rides.
Después de leer esta publicación sobre Film App, me pareció interesante la forma en que está organizada la información. El texto es sencillo, las explicaciones son claras y cada apartado tiene un propósito. Es una lectura cómoda para quienes prefieren contenido directo y fácil de comprender.
I like the comparison between Santa Monica, Redondo, Long Beach, and Venice piers, especially the detail about bait shops and tackle rentals at the entrances. The note that California public piers don’t require a fishing license is also useful for casual visitors who might not know that.
Bookmark your favorite PPFocus calculator for quick daily access. b3f80277.