Magnificent Palisades Park sits high above the beach itself. Running along Ocean Avenue at the top of Santa Monica’s famous sandstone cliffs, this public park offers a breathtakingly gorgeous view, public art and a surprisingly wonderful venue for a little meditative serenity. The park also features a unique visitor attraction: the Camera Obscura—a life-size, walk-through pinhole camera. A cushioned crushed-asphalt running path has also increased the park’s popularity as a jogging venue.

The view from Palisades Park is spectacular, and it offers a fabulous vantage point from which to take in the beach, the Pier, Pacific Coast Highway and an ocean panorama reaching from Malibu to Palos Verdes. On a clear day, Catalina Island is visible in the distance. There is also a marker honoring historic Route 66—and it’s easy to see why no one would have felt the need to venture any farther.

The unparalleled ocean view, towering palm trees, lush green lawn and well-maintained walkways make Palisades Park an exceptionally popular filming location for movie and TV companies.

Palisades Park is also home to the Santa Monica Visitor Information Kiosk (310-393-7593; open daily 10 am—5 pm in summer, 10 am—4 pm in winter). Visitors can stop by for free maps, information and help in planning their day (the full-service walk-in Visitor Information Center is located at 1920 Main Street, Suite B.).