Let’s settle this debate once and for all! Venice Beach and Santa Monica Pier are around 20 mins away from downtown Los Angeles and both offer breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.

Sharael Kolberg, Contributor, Travel West of downtown Los Angeles, Santa Monica ... along with Venice, Manhattan, Hermosa and Redondo beaches. Many beachgoers say the Santa Monica Pier is a ...

the Santa Monica Pier is the beach's most recognizable landmark. Not only will you see it in countless photos of the city, but you'll also catch a glimpse of it in several films, including ...