The Santa Monica Pier has reopened to pedestrians.
Entrances and exits to the pier are now on Ocean Front walk to manage the number of people accessing the structure and capacity will be limited to adhere to county rules that require physical distancing in public spaces.
“We know that the community has long awaited the reopening of our beloved Santa Monica Pier. This slow, phased reopening is structured to ensure the health and safety of all who visit,” said Interim City Manager Lane Dilg. “As we reopen, it’s important for the public to remember that face coverings and physical distancing are required. We look forward to businesses reopening on the Pier and are committed to do all we can to support their efforts.”
The Pier has been closed for the past three months to prevent the spread of coronavirus. In the past few weeks, health officials have released guidelines for reopening public spaces that has allowed cities to increase economic activity. Locally, Santa Monica has been reopening beach parking lots since June 12 but the Pier's parking lots will remain closed. The parking area on the pier itself will be temporarily repurposed to allow for expanded pedestrian uses.
The Pier will be open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. with limited and monitored access points to ensure capacity allows for proper physical distancing and safety.
Rules for accessing the pier include:
- Those who are sick, have COVID-19 symptoms or diagnosis, or have been exposed to someone with symptoms or diagnosis within the last 14 days should stay home.
- Guests are required to wear a face covering at all times while visiting the Santa Monica Pier and must try to maintain six feet of distance between individuals who are not from the same household.
- To help ensure physical distancing, the Pier will have limited capacity and controlled access.
- Increased frequency of cleaning and disinfecting public areas and surfaces will be conducted, focusing on high-touch areas.
- Guests should also wash hands regularly and utilize the hand washing stations provided on the Pier.
- New guidelines for dining and amusement on the Pier will be implemented once the City moves into the next phase of Pier reopening.
Pier restaurants and businesses, including Pacific Park and the historic Carousel remain closed.