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Ocean View Park
4.7 ★★★★★ 2,357 Google reviews · Running trail in Santa Monica, California · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Boardwalk
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Ocean View Park's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Busy beachfront park features paddle tennis, basketball & tennis courts, plus a grassy lawn & hill.
What runners say about Ocean View Park
“While I love this waterfront park for its quieter, less crowded location, the downside is having to find cheap and affordable nearby parking and clean restrooms.”
“Beautiful park with a grassy hill and ocean views.”
One of my favorite places filled with fond memories Rose Avenue and Venice boardwalk Venice California 90291 the culture is unique, the struggle is real, people are not always what they seem. Look in the cracks you may just find a few gems. And thank you for supporting local artists.
My favorite spot in this area. To the right is santa monica pier about 1mile and to the left is venice beach around half a mile. Sunset is the best here. Couple locals come here and just chill. Meeting point for some runners.
I love this park! It's really nice if you want ocean views without making the day too complicated. It’s a good spot to walk around, relax on the grass, sit for a bit, or just enjoy being close to the beach. I like that it feels simple but still gives you that Santa Monica view and coastal vibe.
We went there for an early morning meditation on the beach. The air was crisp, colder than I'd have liked but as the sun came out, it got warm quickly. The beach is clean. Restrooms are clean. Parking is free at that time of the day. 5:45am. There were seals in the water. One came out to rest on the sand.
Trail conditions & character
“Parking vehicles will be a consideration, with paid parking at the beach side lot or a few blocks over at Main Street Santa Monica.”
“Ocean View Park is at Santa Monica’s south beach, on the opposite side of Barnard Way.”
“While I love this waterfront park for its quieter, less crowded location, the downside is having to find cheap and affordable nearby parking and clean restrooms.”
“Many places to eat drink and be merry from ice cream, pizza hot dog on a stick to pubs with great food.”
“Several accessible gates for parental observation and children safety.”
“The drinking fountain was not working the last time we were there in January.”
Plan your run at Ocean View Park
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- SurfaceBoardwalk — flat and scenic, and slick when wet, so watch your footing
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms, water — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websitesmgov.net
- Phone+1 310-458-8300
Hours
| Monday | 6 am–11 pm |
| Tuesday | 6 am–11 pm |
| Wednesday | 6 am–11 pm |
| Thursday | 6 am–11 pm |
| Friday | 6 am–11 pm |
| Saturday | 6 am–11 pm |
| Sunday | 6 am–11 pm |
Running trails near Santa Monica
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Barnard Way Linear Park
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Narrow park above the beach featuring a walking path with water views & many benches.
Crescent Bay Park
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Clover Park
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This 17.9-acre park includes lighted ball fields & tennis courts, plus playgrounds & picnic spots.
Palisades Park
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This sizable strip of grass, palm trees & walking trails features expansive ocean views.
Santa Monica Stairs
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