Latest News


Bay Street Boards YEARLY ANNIVERSARY PARTY IS GOING UP!

Join in on Saturday June 28th for a mega celebration! Food, drinks, music, and everything you have come to expect at a Bay Street function… a mad good time! PULL UP!

Bay Street Boards
3216 Santa Monica Blvd,
Santa Monica, CA 90404

For more info, Click Here.

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


Main Street, Santa Monica's iconic Summer Soulstice returns on June 21! Live music, vendors, beer garden, activities for kids & more. FREE! Saturday, June 21 · 12 - 7pm

Summer Soulstice 25th Annual Main Street tradition, attracting thousands of residents and visitors. Join us as we close the street to cars and transform it into a FREE vibrant community festival filled with live music, fun activities, delicious food, drinks and more!



Get ready to kick off summer! Mark your calendars for the annual Summer Soulstice Festival on Main Street – a FREE, car-free celebration that transforms the street into a pedestrian paradise.



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


On June 5, 2025, at approximately 9:30 PM, Santa Monica Police Officers responded to a call of a woman screaming for help near the intersection of 6th Street and Wilshire Boulevard.

Upon arrival, Officers located an 84-year-old Santa Monica resident who appeared to be in distress. The victim reported that she was approached and grabbed from behind by a male suspect who then dragged her into a nearby alley and attempted to sexually assault her.

Multiple witnesses at the scene came forward and corroborated the victim’s account. They also observed the suspect flee northbound from the area. Officers quickly located and detained the suspect near 5th Street and California Avenue.

The suspect was identified as 39-year-old Pape Tall (pictured above), a resident of Long Beach. On June 9, 2025, the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office filed felony charges against Tall, including kidnapping with intent to commit rape (209(b)(1) PC), assault with intent to commit rape (220(a)(1) PC), and violation of probation. Tall remains in custody of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department without bail with a court appearance scheduled for July 9, 2025.

The Santa Monica Police Department encourages anyone with additional information about this incident to contact Detective Maricela Orta at (310) 458-229


Kick off Summer at the Venice Summer Fest

The Venice Summer Fest is your go-to celebration for the first day of summer — a free, all-ages community event that brings together the best of the Westside in one unforgettable day! Enjoy live music, outdoor yoga, wellness experiences, local artisan vendors, delicious eats, and good vibes under the sun.

We’re dog-friendly, offering free water all day, and creating a fun, inclusive space for the whole community to come together. Whether you're shopping, stretching, dancing, or just soaking it all in, Venice Summer Fest is the perfect way to welcome summer in true SoCal style.

Get ready for an incredible lineup of the most amazing local bands and musicians performing throughout the day — a true celebration of the Westside's vibrant creative spirit.

Saturday, June 21st, 2025
12 PM – 7 PM
12257 Venice Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90066

Explore the Fest Grounds as you enjoy a day filled with Local Bands, Activities for the Entire Family, Shop Local Artists & Designers, Dog Adoptions, Yoga, Games, Food trucks, Beer Gardens, Classic Cars & so much more! ☮️🎶

The Fest will be located in between Centinela & Inglewood Blvd. The city has closed Venice Blvd. for this event. The event will be held in the street. This is a free community event.



For more info, Click Here

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


Backed by $40,000 in total prize money, a free skate contest was held on Saturday June 14th, at Venice Beach Skate Park by Super Patch. $25,000 being given to 1st Place, $10,000 to 2nd Place, and $5,000 to 3rd Place.

Skaters take back the culture Super Patch Revolution is a movement created by skaters, for skaters, to reclaim skateboarding for the culture and community. It’s a shift away from the large corporate monopoly on the skate scene and community and a return to the park and the people who live, bleed and die for skate.


More problems with the Venice Boardwalk safety barricades as one of the poles will not lower down to allow the emergency vehicle to pass through as they are supposed to. And they were having trouble trying to unlock the second barricade, so they have to go down the neaby alley and walk a block to reach the person needing emergency medical aid.


Thousands of protesters take to the streets of Santa Monica on Saturday to rally againt President Donald Trump and I.C.E. in a peaceful No Kings Protest at Palisades Park.

Santa Monica Police watched over as people protested up and down Ocean Avenue, with no major incidents reported, the event went on into the afternoon with the street being closed off to traffic for a couple hours only.



Due to the riots, where multiple Waymo vehicle have be destroyed , Waymo is stopping service everywhere in Los Angeles.



Nick’s fearless passion for surfing paved the way for many, and this event honors his legacy by celebrating diversity in surfing and bringing the community together for a day of stories, surf, and shared experiences at Tower 24 in Santa Monica. Hosted by Black Surfers Collective, The Bay Foundation, Heal the Bay, Surf Bus Foundation, One With The Ocean, Supervisor Holly Mitchell’s Office, Dr. Alison Jefferson, and Santa Monica Conservancy


The Santa Monica Police Department has issued an official statement regarding the upcoming No Kings Protest planned for this weekend:

"To our Santa Monica community,

As we approach the scheduled “No Kings” rally in Santa Monica on Saturday, June 14, the Santa Monica Police Department wants to reassure our community that your safety remains our top priority.

We recognize that events like these can understandably bring feelings of uncertainty, especially in light of what our city experienced in 2020 and we have not forgotten the impact it continues to have.

Our department is fully prepared to protect our community citywide, not just in the areas associated with the rally. We are committed to upholding everyone’s right to peacefully demonstrate.

All sworn personnel have been placed on tactical alert, meaning the full strength of the Santa Monica Police Department is ready and available to respond quickly and decisively, wherever needed. Our mission is clear: to keep Santa Monica safe, secure, and peaceful, for business owners, residents, and visitors alike.

✅ Peaceful protest is protected.

To those who plan to protest peacefully, know that we are here to safeguard your rights.

❌ Criminal behavior, including vandalism, theft, or violence, will not be tolerated.

To those who may come with the intent to engage in thievery, disrupt or cause harm, we will act decisively and within the law to prevent violence and protect our community.

We’ve implemented a comprehensive operational plan that includes enhanced patrols, rapid-response teams, and the strategic use of technology to maintain situational awareness. We are working closely with regional partners to ensure a coordinated approach should additional support be needed.

We also want to reiterate what we’ve stated before: the Santa Monica Police Department does not participate in civil immigration enforcement and does not inquire about immigration status. We serve and protect everyone who lives in, works in, or visits Santa Monica—without exception.

We urge the community to stay informed, stay safe, and reach out to us with any questions or concerns.

Non-Emergency Dispatch: 310-458-8491
Emergencies: 9-1-1
Community Engagement Team: 310-458-8474

Together, we can uphold our shared values of safety, inclusion, and respect—on June 14 and every day.

Thank you,
Chief Ramon Batista"



Full video of the Lil Wayne Tha Carter VI Venice Beach Skatepark Takeover, held on Saturdau June 7th, where there was a wild cash for tricks contest, giveaways of merch, and a huge crowd.


The Santa Monica Police Department has issued an official statement regarding the unrest over recent federal immigration action in downtown Los Angeles:

"Dear Santa Monica Community,

The Santa Monica Police Department (SMPD) is dedicated to serving and protecting all community members, regardless of immigration status. In light of recent federal immigration actions and executive orders, we want to reassure our residents that our department will not participate in immigration enforcement operations. Our long-standing policy remains unchanged: immigration enforcement is solely the responsibility of federal law enforcement agencies under Title 8 of the United States Code.

We do not and will not conduct independent sweeps, raids, or other concentrated efforts to detain individuals based on their immigration status. Moreover, the Santa Monica Police Department will abide by California Law SB54 / The California Values Act (2017).

Public safety is built on trust, cooperation, and mutual respect. The U.S. Constitution guarantees equal protection under the law to all individuals within its jurisdiction, including those who call Santa Monica home. We understand that for law enforcement to be effective, everyone, regardless of immigration status, must feel safe when seeking our assistance.

One of the primary reasons SMPD does not enforce immigration violations is to ensure that undocumented community members who are victims or witnesses of crime feel assured and confident in coming forward. No one in our community should fear that reporting a crime or calling for help will lead to deportation. By maintaining this policy, we foster a safer city where everyone can participate in keeping our community secure. We will not allow anyone to feel they can criminally victimize our immigrant community. Through our relationship with the community, we will follow up and investigate reported crimes.

While SMPD does not engage in federal immigration enforcement, we remain steadfast in holding all individuals accountable for criminal behavior, regardless of their immigration status.

Our mission is to uphold public safety for all residents. We will continue to work tirelessly to build trust and strengthen relationships with our diverse community. Santa Monica is a place of inclusion, dignity, and respect, and we remain dedicated to ensuring that every individual feels protected and valued.

If you have any concerns or questions, please do not hesitate to contact the Santa Monica Police Department. We are here to serve everyone in our community who needs our help.

Thank you,
Chief Ramon Batista"



School officials estimate the damage to be in the tens of thousands of dollars. Campus video cameras show the incident occurred between 11 p.m. and 2 a.m. Tuesday night.

"Overnight, Malibu High School experienced significant vandalism, allegedly perpetrated by a group of 40 or more current seniors and former students. This act resulted in tens of thousands of dollars in damage, including locks superglued rendering 20 classrooms inaccessible today. Additionally, a golf cart was pushed down the stairs and overturned, exterior clocks were pulled down and damaged, spray paint was used with explicit messages and inappropriate images, and tables and seating were broken, to name some of the damage." Dr. Antonio Shelton, Superintendent wrote in a letter to parents.

"This behavior is completely unacceptable and negatively impacts the entire Malibu community. We expect our students to act as responsible members of our community, including in the week leading up to graduation.

We understand that incidents like this can be concerning for all parents, and we want to assure you that the safety and health of every student is our absolute top priority. We are taking this matter extremely seriously. Our District is committed to fostering a safe and secure learning environment, and we are continuously reviewing and enhancing our school security measures to prevent such incidents and ensure the protection of our campuses and, most importantly, our students and staff.

Unfortunately, senior vandalism has occurred for more than 15 years at MHS. This is not a rite of passage. This is a crime that has consequences to all involved. It will not be tolerated.

We are collaborating closely with the Malibu / Lost Hills Sheriff’s Station in an ongoing investigation and to identify those responsible. All individuals found to be involved will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law and education code. This may include, but is not limited to, restitution for damages and the loss of senior privileges. We also believe it's vital to address the underlying issues that may contribute to such behavior and reinforce the importance of respect for property and community."

School officials estimate the damage to be in the tens of thousands of dollars. Campus video cameras show the incident occurred between 11 p.m. and 2 a.m. Tuesday night.


Everything that you need to know about the U.S. Open of Freestyle Skateboarding.



Where is it?

The Venice Beach Roller Dance Plaza 1800 Ocean Front Walk, Venice, CA 90291

When is it?



9am - 6pm, June 28th and 29th, 2025

Registration

Registration is limited to 40 skaters. The fee for early registration is $30usd. Online pre-registration ends on May 30th, 2025. The fee for in-person registration is $40 usd. Click HERE to pre-register. Divisions

The Pro-Am open division will take place on June 28th, 2025 between 9am And 6pm The Rookies Division will take place on June 29th, 2025 between 10am and 1pm. The Rookies competition is intended to be a mellow introduction to freestyle skateboarding and our vibrant community.

Format

Each rider will have two 90-second runs. The highest score will be counted. In the event of a tie, the lower scores will be used as a tie breaker.

The Rookies division will include two 45-second runs.

Prizes

For the First Annual U.S. Open, prizes will include skateboard decks, wheels, trucks, stickers, bearings, and trophies

For more info, Click Here

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


4 rehabilitated sea lion pups, named Peachick, Spiderling, Sprinkles, and Brownie, who were affected by the recent algal bloom were released back to the ocean by the Marine Mammal Care Center this morming during a huige press conference at the Venice Pier.

Officials say sea lions have been affect by Red Tides and Domoic Acid Toxicity.

The Marine Mammal Center states "Domoic acid is produced during certain harmful algal bloom events by a type of algae called Pseudo-nitzschia australis. This neurotoxin accumulates in small fish, like sardines and anchovies, which are then eaten by marine mammals like sea lions in large quantities.

Domoic acid attacks the brain and the heart causing seizures and heart failure. If left untreated, it usually causes permanent brain damage. The toxin will naturally flush from an animal’s system over time, but sea lions repeatedly exposed to the toxin will suffer longer-lasting and more serious effects."


Santa Monica Pier 360 Beach Festival celebrates the best of beach life with an awesome, FREE, all-ages festival! With ocean sports competitions, live music, food and drinks, interactive games, sampling by some of your favorite brands and so much more, Santa Monica Pier 360 offers a peek into iconic SoCal beach culture and brings together thousands of guests for a day of good vibes. Whether you're hanging with the family, competing on land or at sea, or partying with your friends–Santa Monica Pier 360 Beach Festival has got it all! The action on the beach starts at 8:00am and the Pier Festival is open at 10:00am.

Santa Monica Pier 360 Beach Festival celebrates the best of beach life with two days of all ages experiences.

The Santa Monica “Pier 360” Beach Festival, the ultimate celebration of SoCal beach culture, returns June 28-29, 2025, for two epic days of competition, entertainment, and good vibes along the iconic Santa Monica shoreline.

Celebrate the best of beach life with an awesome, FREE, all-ages festival! With ocean sports competitions, live music, food and drinks, interactive games, sampling by some of your favorite brands and so much more. Whether you’re hanging with the family, competing on land or at sea, or partying with your friends–Santa Monica Pier 360 Beach Festival has got it all! The action on the beach starts at 8:00am and the Pier Festival is open at 10:00am.

Pier 360” Main Attractions



· Paddleboard Races (June 29) – Celebrate 90 years of paddleboard racing with the One-Mile Short Course ($30), Mike Vaughan Memorial 5-Mile Distance Race ($40), and high-speed Sprint Racing ($40). Open to paddlers of all levels.

· Ocean Swims (June 29) – 500m and 1-Mile open water swim events with wetsuit/non-wetsuit divisions and age group awards. Check-in begins at 7:30 a.m., with Hawaiian blessing.



· CBVA Beach Volleyball Tournaments (June 28 and 29) – Men’s & Women’s Open competition for a $4,000 prize pool plus the Santa Monica Beach Volleyball Hall of Fame Legends Exhibition.

· Santa Monica Classic (June 28 and 29) – High-octane strongman contest featuring over 80 male and female athletes competing across multiple weight classes.

· AAU Invitational (June 29) – Top 18:U girls teams compete in a Triple Crown showdown.

· Lifeguard Competitions (June 28) – Including the historic Pete Peterson Surfboat 1-Mile Dory Race and Junior Guard events.



· Skate Experience (June 28 and 29) – An energetic celebration of skateboarding and athleticism with demos, clinics, and competitions on custom ramps with L.A.’s top skaters.

· POP SK8 Roller Rink (June 28 and 29) – Community themed pop-up roller rink on the Pier deck open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (skates available on site).

· Beer & Spirits (June 28 and 29) – Chill with cold brews and vodka seltzers thanks to Michelob Ultra in the “Ocean Brews & Bites Garden.”



· All-Day Music & Polynesian Dance (June 28 and 29) – Kick off each day with vibrant Polynesian performances and live music throughout the afternoon.

· Museum of Beach Life (June 28 and 29) – A free, hands-on exhibit curated by local legends explores the history of surf, Muscle Beach, and paddleboard racing.

· Youth Zone (June 28 and 29, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.) – Arts, crafts, and giant games for kids. An adult must accompany children under 18.

For more info, Click Here.

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



LA’s beloved grassroots LGBTQ+ Pride celebration returns with *FREE* party in the street!

Be who you are at the Venice Pride Block Party presented by L.A. County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath on Saturday, June 7, 2025 from 4 PM to 11 PM at the Venice sign. Featuring DJ Victor Rodriguez & Friends, community booths, food trucks, queer market, and more! Celebrate Pride at the beach, it’s open to the public—and ALL ages!

For more info, Click Here

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


SAIL, ROW, PADDLE OR SINK YOUR WAY INTO SUMMER! Be a part of the 13th Annual Cardboard Yacht Regatta! Saturday, June 14th.

Have you ever dreamed of setting sail across the waters in your very own yacht? Now you can build your own cardboard yacht and test its seaworthiness in a race across the Beach House Pool. Build a yacht using just corrugated cardboard and duct tape, decorate it, cross your fingers and hope you can make it to the other side.

Two people must be in the yacht during the race. All boats must be human-powered (no motors).People's Choice Awards will be given in a variety of categories, including "Most Likely to Sink", "Best Use of Theme", and "Most Spirited". The Beach House Courtyard will open for yachts to be on display beginning at 9am. Races will launch beginning at 11am. Please read attached information sheet for more details on the Cardboard Yacht Regatta, including appropriate yacht building materials, regatta rules and an event timeline.



Annenberg Community Beach House
415 Pacific Coast Highway
Santa Monica, CA 90402

For more info, Click Here.

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