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Palisades Park
4.7 ★★★★★ 8,100 Google reviews · Running trail in Santa Monica, California · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Palisades 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.
This sizable strip of grass, palm trees & walking trails features expansive ocean views.
What runners say about Palisades Park
“I was pleased how well maintained the area is.”
“The park offers amazing ocean views, beautiful greenery, and scenic walking paths, making it a perfect spot for capturing romantic moments.”
“The palm trees and coastal vibe add a special touch to any photo session, creating a relaxed and peaceful atmosphere that’s great for couples.”
Palisades Park is a beautiful spot right next to the Santa Monica Pier. It’s perfect for a relaxing walk or a peaceful picnic while enjoying the ocean breeze and stunning coastal views. As a portrait photographer, I highly recommend Palisades Park.
Great place to work out. Next to the famous pier. Close to the beach, shopping centers, lots of restaurants, great nightlife, and after all the excitement, you can wind down in a luxury hotel or take a ride down pch and let the wind run through your hair. Oh, and bring your dog so they'll meet lots of new friends.
As a local wedding photographer in Los Angeles, I highly recommend Palisades Park in Santa Monica for wedding photos or casual portraits. The park offers amazing ocean views, beautiful greenery, and scenic walking paths, making it a perfect spot for capturing romantic moments.
I truly enjoy residing just a few blocks away from this magnificent park. It offers a breathtaking vista of the Pacific Ocean and Malibu, along with scenic walking trails and secluded spots featuring benches and open spaces, ideal for practicing yoga with friends.
Trail conditions & character
“The park offers amazing ocean views, beautiful greenery, and scenic walking paths, making it a perfect spot for capturing romantic moments.”
“Whether you prefer to bring your beloved dogs or your cherished children, bicycles or a delightful picnic lunch, this park caters to all preferences.”
“Parking is ample but it's a crowded area (lots of parking spot turnover so just drive around till one opens up).”
“The palm trees and coastal vibe add a special touch to any photo session, creating a relaxed and peaceful atmosphere that’s great for couples.”
“It’s right next to the Santa Monica Pier and offers beautiful natural light, ocean views, and a peaceful atmosphere — perfect for lifestyle or couple photoshoots.”
Plan your run at Palisades Park
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- 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.
- LightingRunners report lights on the path — useful for pre-dawn and after-work miles. Lighting and opening hours are separate things, so check both.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms, water — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Websitesmgov.net
- Phone+1 310-458-8300
Hours
| Monday | 5:30 am–11 pm |
| Tuesday | 5:30 am–11 pm |
| Wednesday | 5:30 am–11 pm |
| Thursday | 5:30 am–11 pm |
| Friday | 5:30 am–11 pm |
| Saturday | 5:30 am–11 pm |
| Sunday | 6 am–11:30 pm |
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