Join Heal the Bay from 10 AM – 12 PM, April 20, 2024, at the Santa Monica Pier on Santa Monica Beach!

We are celebrating the transformative power of reusable alternatives to single-use plastics at our Beach Cleanup this Earth Month! Every gloved hand on the sand, every advocate trained, and every dollar raised brings us closer to a plastic-free future.

Whether you participate in a beach cleanup or contribute to our online fundraiser, you'll be directly helping to rid our beaches of harmful plastic pollution and advocate for impactful, lasting change for the Los Angeles community.

Join us on the sand, explore all the ways you can make a difference this month, and share this page with your loved ones! We're grateful for your support and excited to celebrate with you.

This event's onling registration is getting very full!

Walk-up volunteers may still join us in the sand even if our online reservations sell out.

10 AM - 12 PM @ Santa Monica Beach, Northside of the Pier

FREE ADMISSION TO THE HEAL THE BAY AQUARIUM

11 AM - 4 PM @ the HtB Aquarium Under the Pier

The Heal the Bay Aquarium, will be FREE to all cleanup volunteers and open for an extra hour.

This event is held rain or shine, barring lightning or beach closure.

For more info and register for the event, Click Here.

Find out about more upcoming local events, Click Here for the Event Calendar.

Join us on April 18th for the very first Art Mart at Locals' Night!

Experience the magic as over 20 incredible artists unveil their homemade goods, reworked fashion, and stunning art. It's a night filled with creativity and community - don't miss out! See you there! ⁠

For more info, Click Here

Find out about more upcoming local events, Click Here for the Event Calendar.

Shop local small businesses and take free fitness classes in Downtown Santa Monica on Third Street Promenade!

Join us on April 6th from 9am-6pm to meet local designers, brands and new businesses.

Sign up for beach clean ups with Venice Community Clean Up and buy a coffee from locals in front of Patagonia
Learn about eco-friendly brands and city initiatives!
Shop small businesses to build our local economy
Free fitness classes in front of Adidas

SHOP SMALL BUSINESSES with CONSCIOUS MARKET

Beso del sol - Esther - Bone Bags - Yadama Shop - Farm Fresh To You - Jessie And Sky - Brownhaze Jewelry - Recyclicious - Vintage MENU ART - Verde Antequera - Blonde Peacock - F|R Jewelry - Kazmik Grace - Kodenko Denim - Angelina's Jewelry - VOL Co - Little Chimes - Lvly and Jane - Textured Planet - Made By Me Wendy C - NOHO Candle - Las No Paleras - Big Apple Society - Blurry Recreation

FITNESS SCHEDULE: Bring your yoga mat and wear sneakers for cardio workouts and classes with local studios and teachers!

9AM Workout with Erica Hood leading her signature class, HOOD FIT!

Dance & Tone with Hoodfit Get ready to move and groove with Hoodfit's signature Dance & Tone class! Join us for a heart-pumping 45 minute workout that will challenge and inspire you to new heights. Our fun and energetic dance cardio combos will have you breaking a sweat and feeling amazing, while our toning sequences will build your core strength and leave you feeling stronger than ever before. And with a killer playlist of EDM and hip hop music, you'll be jamming out while getting fit! Don't miss this epic class - sign up now!

And much, much, more..... Click Here

Find out about more upcoming local events, Click Here for the Event Calendar.

The City of Santa Monica Community Recreation Division offers two action packed weeks at The Cove Skatepark.

Learn to skate The Cove Skatepark in this 3 hour and 50 minute half day skateboarding camp for beginner and intermediate skaters. This camps will consist mostly of group instruction with an opportunity to free skate and practice new skills. All protective gear (mask, helmet, elbow pads, knee pads, and wrist guards) are required to participate in the camp.



During non-camp hours all participants must have a Cove Skatepark Membership in order to use the skatepark. Cove Skatepark membership can be attained at the Memorial Park Gym office located next to the Cove Skatepark (1401 Olympic Blvd. Santa Monica, 90404). PARENTS OR LEGAL GUARDIAN MUST BE PRESENT TO SIGN COVE SKATEPARK WAIVER. For questions regarding membership and office hours please call (310) 458-8237.



Apr 1, 2024 - Apr 5, 2024

For more info, Click Here.

Find out about more upcoming local events, Click Here for the Event Calendar.

𝗦𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗦𝗲𝘅 𝗢𝗳𝗳𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿 𝗦𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝟴 𝗬𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘀 𝗪𝗵𝗶𝗹𝗲 𝗦𝗮𝗻𝘁𝗮 𝗠𝗼𝗻𝗶𝗰𝗮 𝗣𝗗 𝗦𝗲𝗲𝗸𝘀 𝗣𝘂𝗯𝗹𝗶𝗰 𝗛𝗲𝗹𝗽 𝗶𝗻 𝗥𝗲𝗰𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗔𝘀𝘀𝗮𝘂𝗹𝘁

Serial sex offender, Anthony Pittman, was recently sentenced to eight years in state prison after pleading no contest to a series of sexual assaults targeting homeless women in August and September of 2022.

In February, Anthony Pittman, currently homeless, pled no contest to a series of sexual assaults he committed between August and September 2022.

On September 27, 2022, at approximately 4:00am, a female experiencing homelessness was sleeping near the Santa Monica Library when she awoke to a male suspect attempting to remove her blankets. She attempted to run from the suspect but was tackled to the ground where he sexually assaulted her. A few hours after the incident, she walked to the Santa Monica Police Station and made an official report. Incident: 220098142



The other 2022 incidents occurred in LAPD’s Northeast and Wilshire Divisions. Pittman was linked to his victims, who were all homeless female adults, through DNA evidence.

Pittman, a previously convicted sex offender, was sentenced to eight years in state prison for Forced Sodomy and Assault with Intent to Commit a Felony.

We encourage anyone with information related to this individual to contact Detective Sergeant Goodwin at Chad.Goodwin@santamonica.gov, or the Watch Commander (24 hours) at 310-458-8427.

𝗦𝗲𝗽𝗮𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗢𝗻𝗴𝗼𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗜𝗻𝘃𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗴𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻

While the 2022 case has been resolved, SMPD is actively investigating a separate sexual assault that occurred on March 1st, 2024, at approximately 8:15 PM near the 1700 block of Ocean Park Boulevard. A lone female victim was attacked while waiting for transportation. Investigators have obtained an image of the suspect from nearby security cameras. Click Here for more informatiuon on this case.

March 27, 2024

The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health cautions residents who are planning to visit the below Los Angeles County beaches to avoid swimming, surfing, and playing in ocean waters:

BEACH AREA WARNINGS:

· Santa Monica Canyon Creek at Will Rogers State Beach. Near Will Rogers Tower 18

100 yards up and down the coast from the creek.

· Santa Monica Pier in Santa Monica

100 yards up and down the coast from the pier.

· Pico-Kenter storm drain at Santa Monica Beach. Santa Monica South Tower 20

100 yards up and down the coast from the storm drain.

· Escondido Creek at Escondido State Beach

The entire swim area.

· Marie Canyon Storm Drain at Puerco Beach

The entire swim area.

· Malibu Pier in Malibu

The entire swim area.

· Mothers Beach in Marina Del Rey

The entire swim area.

These warnings have been issued due to bacterial levels exceeding health standards when last tested.

Use the map below to obtain the current water quality status of your favorite beach location. Use your mouse wheel to zoom into a particular location. Click on the marker to identify the sampling location. This map is updated as conditions change.

From Santa Monica Close Up:

"A collision involving a private vehicle and a tour bus on Ocean Avenue led to the arrest of a man on suspicion of driving under the influence (DUI) on Monday, March 25, 2024. According to reports, the incident occurred in the early evening, drawing immediate response from law enforcement.

The initial investigation has shown that the man, whose identity remains undisclosed while further inquiries are conducted, reportedly lost control of his vehicle, leading to a collision with a tour bus. Authorities have confirmed that the incident did not result in any injuries.

Following the crash, authorities conducted on-scene evaluations, which led to the arrest of the driver on suspicion of DUI. It was reported that there was another individual in the vehicle at the time of the accident. This person, after undergoing a brief assessment by the police, was permitted to drive the vehicle away from the scene following the arrest of the driver.

The Santa Monica Police Department is continuing its investigation into the incident. "



Santa Monica Close Up is a photo blog by Santa Monica based Photojournalist/Press photographer Fabian Lewkowicz. Fabian is the former staff photographer for the Santa Monica Daily Observer Press, Santa Monica Mirror, Santa Monica and the Santa Monica Corsair.

High surf and hazardous ocean conditions through Monday. Widespread gale force winds with large steep seas across inner and outer waters.

Also expect scattered showers and a slight chance of thunderstorms through Sunday, with potential for brief heavy downpours, gusty winds, and small hail. In addition, there will be gusty W-NW winds 30-50 mph, strongest across coasts, mountains, and deserts.



A cold low pressure system will bring scattered showers and a slight chance of thunderstorms through Sunday. Any thunderstorms that develop will have the potential to produce brief heavy downpours, gusty winds, and small hail. There will be gusty west to northwest winds across the region through Sunday, strongest in the mountains, coasts, and deserts with gusts in the 30 to 50 mph range.

The Santa Monica Police Department (SMPD) will conduct a Bike & Pedestrian Safety Enforcement Operation with focused enforcement efforts on primary collision factors involving motorists, pedestrians and bicyclists.

The Police Department identifies locations where pedestrian and bike collisions are prevalent, along with the violations that led to those collisions. Traffic officers will be on duty patrolling areas where bike and pedestrian traffic and collisions occur in an effort to lower deaths and injuries. Officers will be looking for violations committed by drivers, bike riders and pedestrians alike that can lead to life changing injuries. These violations include speeding, making illegal turns, failing to yield or provide right of way to bicyclists or pedestrians, or failing to stop for signs and signals.

These extra enforcement efforts will take place on Saturday, March 23, 2024 between the hours of 6:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m.

“We all have places to be and not everyone gets there by car. Bicyclists and pedestrians have the same rights to the road but face even more risk without the protections vehicles have. We should all be looking out for one another.”

Pedestrians

· Be predictable. Use crosswalks, when available.

· Take notice of approaching vehicles and practice due care.

· Do not walk or run into the path of a vehicle. At 30 mph, a driver needs at least 90 feet to stop.

· Be visible. Make it easy for drivers to see you – wear light colors, reflective material and carry a flashlight, particularly at dawn, dusk or at night.

· Be extra careful crossing streets or entering crosswalks at night when it is harder to see, or when crossing busier streets with more lanes and higher speed limits.

Drivers

· Follow the speed limit and slow down at intersections. Be prepared to stop for pedestrians at marked and unmarked crosswalks.

· Avoid blocking crosswalks while waiting to make a right-hand turn.

· Never drive impaired.

Bicyclists

· Obey traffic laws, use hand signals, use lights at night (front white light and rear red reflector), and wear a helmet.

· Bicyclists must travel in the same direction of traffic and have the same requirements as any slow-moving vehicle.

· Avoid the door zone: do not ride too closely to parked cars.

· If there’s a bike lane, use it, unless making a left turn, passing, or approaching a place where a right turn is allowed.

· Yield to pedestrians. Bicyclists must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians within marked crosswalks or within unmarked crosswalks at intersections. 

From Nate, "The clocks have shifted forward again and beach season is in full swing. "

Embark on a journey through the vibrant tapestry of Westside Los Angeles culture at “West End Chronicles”.

Join us on March 21st during Locals Night as we celebrate the boundless creativity of SAMOHI Legacy artists, alongside talents from Venice High School alumni and Malibu.



From graffiti legends to renowned muralists, influential photographers to notable tattoo artists, immerse yourself in diverse mediums and unique styles that encapsulate the essence of our community. Don’t miss this unforgettable celebration of art, heritage, and the indomitable spirit of the Westside.

This will happen at the Santa Monica Pier Locals' Night on Thursday, March 21st.

Find out about more upcoming local events, Click Here for the Event Calendar.

Locals' Night returns on March 21st. The Santa Monica Pier will be rolling out the red carpet for Santa Monicans for a curated series for locals, by locals. Gather your friends and family and head down to the Pier for amazing entertainment including youth activities, a car show, local DJs and live music from local bands, art exhibits, and so much more! You really won’t want to miss this incredible and unique outdoor setting to unwind, all while celebrating Santa Monica.

Inside the Merry-Go-Round building:

Activities for Kids -

📚 3:30 & 4:30pm
Books & Cookies bring their cherished children's storytime to the Pier! Dive into a world of reading, dancing, singing, and musical instrument jams for a night filled with joy. This family-friendly event is the perfect chance for kids to come together, explore, and create lasting memorie.

6-9pm
Disco Renegade's Silent Disco is shaking up the dance scene, offering a unique party experience where you control the beats with wireless headphones. Born out of a love for music and a rebellion against the ordinary, this silent revolution lets you curate your own dance adventure. Join the movement, break free from the norm, and let the silent beats of Disco Renegade's Silent Disco be your guide to unforgettable nights!

On the Parking Deck & Main Stage:

Live music, classic car show, merch booths & more.

Prepare for a visual feast as several prominent Westside car clubs, including The WestSide Crew and the WestSide Volkswagen Club, make a triumphant return for Locals' Night. The Pier deck will transform into a showcase of automotive artistry as these enthusiasts bring their meticulously maintained and stunning vehicles to the event. From classic cruisers to customized Volkswagens, attendees will have the chance to gaze in awe at the diverse array of automobiles that these passionate clubs proudly present. It's not just a night of dancing and music; it's an opportunity to appreciate the craftsmanship and dedication that goes into keeping these wheels rolling in style. So, gear up for a night of not only rhythm and beats but also the visual spectacle of Westside's finest automobiles.

5:00-5:45pm
Olivia Prado, a versatile R&B Pop artist hailing from the Bay Area and now thriving in the vibrant scene of Los Angeles, embodies the essence of contemporary music as a singer, songwriter, and dancer. Since embarking on her independent journey in 2019, Olivia has been a consistent presence in the industry, captivating listeners with her unique blend of soulful vocals and charismatic songwriting. Olivia’s first full length album is set to release this Spring.

7:00-8:00pm
Born & Raised in Santa Monica, CA. Manny B. The Kid is the new wave. Putting on for the side of Santa Monica that not many know of. The Southside. Pico Neighborhood. With his debut release produced entirely by 5AM (Also an SM, Pico Neighborhood representative), these 2 go together like some Mariscos & Chelas on a Sunday. After all, they are from The City By The Beach & that is as West as it gets. Tap in & get familiar! This is just the beginning for the 2 who are redefining what it is to be a Latino in Hip-Hop.

8:00-10:00pm
In 2007, amidst the mainstream frenzy of Kanye vs. 50 Cent, Blu and Exile emerged with their own classic album, "Below the Heavens." Blu's introspective rhymes meshed seamlessly with Exile's soul-infused production, garnering praise from hip-hop tastemakers and finding a place on numerous year-end lists. Their collaboration stemmed from Exile's admiration of Blu's talent, leading to the creation of their debut album after a fruitful studio session. "Below the Heavens" not only solidified their status in West Coast underground hip-hop but also resonated with listeners for its raw honesty and nostalgic vibe.

Following the success of "Below the Heavens," Blu and Exile pursued solo endeavors while maintaining their collaborative spirit. Blu's inclusion in the 2009 XXL Freshman Class further elevated their profile, while subsequent projects like "Give Me My Flowers While I Can Still Smell Them" showcased their evolving styles. Despite an eight-year hiatus, the duo returned with a double album titled "Miles" in 2020, featuring a blend of established and emerging artists. Now, on the brink of their fourth full-length release, Blu and Exile continue to cultivate their musical journey, leaving an indelible mark on the hip-hop landscape

And much, much, more..... Click Here

Find out about more upcoming local events, Click Here for the Event Calendar.

On March 1, a sexual assault occurred of a lone female who was waiting for a ride in the 1700 block of Ocean Park Boulevard. At about 8:15 PM, the male suspect approached the victim as he was pulling down his pants and making lewd statements. The victim turned to leave the area when the suspect grabbed her from behind and began touching the victim inappropriately over her clothing. The victim struggled with the suspect and was able to free herself and flee the area. The suspect was caught on surveillance camera leaving the location.

The Santa Monica Police Department urges anyone with any information about this incident or individual to contact SMPD Detective Tavera at Ismael.Tavera@santamonica.gov, Detective Sergeant Goodwin at Chad.Goodwin@santamonica.gov, or the Watch Commander (24 hours) at 310-458-8427.

Safety Alert and Request for Assistance- SEXUAL ASSAULT

On March 1, a sexual assault occurred of a lone female who was waiting for a ride in the 1700 block of Ocean Park Boulevard. At about 8:15 PM, the male suspect approached the victim as he was pulling down his pants and… pic.twitter.com/KVunMu7XT2

— Santa Monica Police (@SantaMonicaPD) March 15, 2024

March 14, 2024

The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health cautions residents who are planning to visit the below Los Angeles County beaches to avoid swimming, surfing, and playing in ocean waters:

BEACH AREA WARNINGS:

· Walnut Creek at Paradise Cove

The entire swim area.

· Escondido Creek at Escondido State Beach

The entire swim area.

· Santa Monica Pier in Santa Monica

100 yards up and down the coast from the pier.

· Pico-Kenter storm drain at Santa Monica Beach. Santa Monica South Tower 20

100 yards up and down the coast from the storm drain.

· Windward storm drain at Venice Beach

100 yards up and down the coast from the storm drain.

These warnings have been issued due to bacterial levels exceeding health standards when last tested.

BEACH AREAS NOW CLEARED:

Warnings have been lifted for the following beach areas where recent sample results identified water quality levels within State standards:

· Santa Monica Canyon Creek at Will Rogers State Beach Near Will Rogers Tower 18

· Mothers Beach in Marina Del Rey

*Some ocean water quality testing results are not yet available following the rain advisory.

Use the map below to obtain the current water quality status of your favorite beach location. Use your mouse wheel to zoom into a particular location. Click on the marker to identify the sampling location. This map is updated as conditions change.

A 6 year old girl was sucker punched in the face by a homeless man on Sunday. She was walking with her her parents down Main Street in Santa Monica when the assault happened. The Santa Monica Police has finally issued a statement regarding this horrible event:

We have received several media requests related to an incident that occurred at about 7pm on Sunday, March 10th, in Santa Monica. A male (not confirmed as homeless) was sitting on a bus bench at Main Street and Marine Avenue acting erratically. A 6-year-old child and her parents were walking northbound on Main Street behind the bench when the suspect spun around and struck the child causing her to fall to the ground. Thankfully, the child was not seriously injured. The suspect, described as a male, Black, approx. 6-01, 30-35 years old, wearing a black jacket and blue jeans, fled the location northbound on Main Street and out of sight. He was not apprehended.

“An incident like this one is an affront to public safety and will not be tolerated. Even more so that a child was involved. Any crime committed in Santa Monica is a crime too many; our department stands strong in the face of anyone who chooses to victimize those who are in this city. Our detectives are working hard to uncover more details of the incident and identify and apprehend the suspect.

We appreciate our partnership with our community, relying on our residents, business owners and visitors to provide us with information about criminal behavior. We continue our specialized uniformed deployments on Main Street and in our Downtown area. Our goal is to be proactive and present, providing safety and security to our residents and visitors.

In addition, we are deploying our Homeless Liaison Program Team of police officers and a mental health clinician to provide much needed resources to those experiencing homelessness. Our efforts, combined with the Therapeutic Transport Team and the Salvation Army, provide us a platform to redouble our efforts to connect individuals with treatment and shelter.” -Chief Rámon Batista

We encourage anyone with information related to this individual or incident to contact Detective Diaz and Daniel.Diaz@santamonica.gov, Detective Sergeant Goodwin at Chad.Goodwin@santamonica.gov, or the Watch Commander (24 hours) at 310-458-8427.

Even though the SMPD stated the suspect is not homeless, witnesses have reported he is.

A member of the Marine Mammal Care Center rescues a lost sea lion pup from underneath the Santa Monica Pier.

Eric Dressen started skating at age 8 and went pro at age 12.

Throughout the 80s and 90s, Eric would have some of the best selling boards, invent the salad grind and define expectations for a video part with “Speed Freaks”.

Eric still is inspiring skaters of all ages for over 40 years, including Lil Revolution’s Pancho and Weeman. For the last 20 years, He’s built a career as a professional tattoo artist. He channels the same discipline, passion and energy to tattooing that he does to skating. Studying under the best, he’s sure to become a legend in this field too.

Join us at Tower 20 in Santa Monica from 10am-12pm! We will be connecting with our environmentally-minded community to collect trash from our beloved California shorelines. All cleanup equipment is provided- including gloves, grabbers, reusable trash bags, sunscreen, and a water refill station- just remember to bring a reusable water bottle!



Sun, Mar 24, 2024
10:00AM-12:00PM PDT
Santa Monica, CA 90405 (sign up to see exact location)

For more info, Click Here.

Find out about more upcoming local events, Click Here for the Event Calendar.

Celebrate the Easter season at Third Street Promenade with fun, games, and FREE photos with the Easter Bunny!

On Sunday, March 24th from 12-4PM, celebrate the Easter season at Third Street Promenade!



There will be fun activities for all ages including:
📸 Photos with the Easter Bunny (pets welcome!)
🎪 Live Childrens’ music + entertainment
🎨 Arts & crafts + games
🎈 Balloon twisters + face painters
🐣 First 200 kids get a free surprise treat!

Photos with the Easter Bunny will be first-come, first-served.



Event will be on the 1200 Block of Third Street Promenade (between Arizona & Wilshire)



For more info, Click Here.

Find out about more upcoming local events, Click Here for the Event Calendar.

The Santa Monica Police Department (SMPD) will conduct a Bike & Pedestrian Safety Enforcement Operation with focused enforcement efforts on primary collision factors involving motorists, pedestrians and bicyclists.

The Police Department identifies locations where pedestrian and bike collisions are prevalent, along with the violations that led to those collisions. Traffic officers will be on duty patrolling areas where bike and pedestrian traffic and collisions occur in an effort to lower deaths and injuries. Officers will be looking for violations committed by drivers, bike riders and pedestrians alike that can lead to life changing injuries. These violations include speeding, making illegal turns, failing to yield or provide right of way to bicyclists or pedestrians, or failing to stop for signs and signals.

These extra enforcement efforts will take place on Thursday, March 14th and Friday, March 15th, 2024 between the hours of 6:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m.

“We all have places to be and not everyone gets there by car. Bicyclists and pedestrians have the same rights to the road but face even more risk without the protections vehicles have. We should all be looking out for one another.”

Pedestrians

· Be predictable. Use crosswalks, when available.

· Take notice of approaching vehicles and practice due care.

· Do not walk or run into the path of a vehicle. At 30 mph, a driver needs at least 90 feet to stop.

· Be visible. Make it easy for drivers to see you – wear light colors, reflective material and carry a flashlight, particularly at dawn, dusk or at night.

· Be extra careful crossing streets or entering crosswalks at night when it is harder to see, or when crossing busier streets with more lanes and higher speed limits.

Drivers

· Follow the speed limit and slow down at intersections. Be prepared to stop for pedestrians at marked and unmarked crosswalks.

· Avoid blocking crosswalks while waiting to make a right-hand turn.

· Never drive impaired.

Bicyclists

· Obey traffic laws, use hand signals, use lights at night (front white light and rear red reflector), and wear a helmet.

· Bicyclists must travel in the same direction of traffic and have the same requirements as any slow-moving vehicle.

· Avoid the door zone: do not ride too closely to parked cars.

· If there’s a bike lane, use it, unless making a left turn, passing, or approaching a place where a right turn is allowed.

· Yield to pedestrians. Bicyclists must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians within marked crosswalks or within unmarked crosswalks at intersections.