Known as LA’s beachside city, Santa Monica, CA feels like California’s quintessential playground — hugged by the ocean with a pedestrian pathway that follows the beach past eclectic eateries, artists’ galleries, clothing stores and, of course, the occasional surf shop. You can take your bike along the gently winding beach path or rent one from the famous Santa Monica Pier (a frequent backdrop in many TV shows and movies).
Locals call the 22-mile multi-use path, which goes through the uber-popular Muscle Beach, “The Strand.” But cyclists aren’t limited to the beach. Santa Monica residents use dedicated bike lanes to make their way through town – so much easier then trying to find a parking spot – and to venture into the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and other back-country spots.
– Livability.com, August 13, 2018
