About Private Beach House
The name "Private Beach House" in Santa Monica appears to refer to the city’s Annenberg Community Beach House at 415 Pacific Coast Highway . This 5-acre waterfront venue was once Marion Davies’ lavish 1920s estate (the Ocean House, designed by Julia Morgan) . After decades as a private club and then vacancy, a $28 million renovation (funded by Wallis Annenberg) reopened it on April 25, 2009 . Today it is an inclusive community landmark combining Gold Coast-era glamour with modern beach amenities: it features the restored 7,000 sq ft Marion Davies Guest House, a 110-ft Italian marble pool, sprawling lawns, a splash pad, playground and beach courts, plus free Wi-Fi and an on-site café . The site accommodates groups as small as ten up to roughly 280 people (intimate business meetings to large celebrations) . Its oceanfront setting and Hollywood legacy make it a uniquely charming venue in Santa Monica.
Events and Programming
The Beach House hosts a wide range of community and cultural events year-round. Notably, the city’s "Beach=Culture" series stages free art exhibitions, performances, workshops and residencies on-site . In summer 2024 the schedule included “Ocean of Sound” underwater listening sessions and a cardboard yacht regatta in the historic pool . Weekly signature events like adults-only “Sunset Swim” DJ parties (ages 18+) and themed community picnics also draw crowds . The venue regularly marks holidays and local celebrations (e.g. Pride family day, solstice picnics), and offers free fitness and beach classes (yoga, paddleboard, volleyball) for all ages . Outside promoters have even held private pool parties and dance events here – for example, a “Beach House Pool Party” takeover with top DJs, a private chef and high-end sound system was staged at the poolside . Most Beach House events are free to the public (often RSVP-only); the notable exception is a small registration fee for certain competitions (for instance, the annual Cardboard Regatta charged $20 per two-person team in 2024 ). The facility also serves as a backdrop for weddings, corporate outings and filming – providing guided tours of the historic guest house and reservable indoor/outdoor spaces.
Tickets and Booking
Unlike a typical concert hall, there is no main box office at the Beach House. Most public events are free, but often require advance RSVP via online links (City of Santa Monica’s site or Eventbrite). For example, a summer beach picnic event was announced with a “RSVP Here” link on Eventbrite . When tickets or fees are needed (such as for special programs or competitions), they’re handled through the event organizer’s registration system . For private bookings (weddings, corporate retreats), the Beach House has an on-site events team – call (310) 458-4934 or submit a request form as directed on the Santa Monica website . Popular summer events can fill up quickly, so it’s wise to watch the city’s official events calendar or sign up for announcements. In general, expect that cultural programs at the Beach House are low-cost or complimentary (with any minimal charges and RSVP links clearly stated in advance).
Seating and Layout
The Beach House property includes both indoor and outdoor spaces, but its common areas are mostly lawn and open-air. There are no fixed theater seats – most audiences sit on grass or standing-room. Events can be arranged cocktail-style on the lawns, or banquet-style under rented tents. Indoors, the main venues are the historic Sand & Sea Room and Event House attached to the guesthouse, each equipped with audiovisual systems (projector and screen) and seating for up to about 120 people under one roof . In combined layout (indoor + covered courtyards + outdoor), the site handles larger gatherings (city sources mention up to 280 total attendees) . Because most performances and ceremonies are by the sea, acoustics can be affected by wind and ambient beach noise – organizers often use sound systems for clarity. Wheelchair-accessible seating areas are provided in all event rooms and open spaces (the entire venue is listed as wheelchair accessible) . Best viewing spots depend on the setup, but the pool deck and north lawn often serve as “front-row” areas for beachside stages or ceremonies. In general, attendees should be prepared to bring portable chairs or blankets for outdoor seating since standard seats are not built into the grounds.
Getting There and Parking
The Beach House sits at 415 Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), just west of Ocean Avenue . If driving, enter at Beach House Way off PCH (watch for directional signs). An on-site lot (about 65 spaces) is available year-round on a first-come, first-served basis . Pay-and-display kiosks require payment up front (cash or card) and proof of payment on your dashboard . Disabled parking placards and local senior beach permits are valid and park free ; otherwise State Park beach passes are *not* accepted here . When the main lot fills (especially on busy summer weekends), overflow is nearby: Santa Monica’s Lot 8 & 9 to the south or street parking by Will Rogers State Beach to the north (a short walk) . Rideshares and taxis should drop passengers at the Beach House entrance off PCH (Beach House Way). Public transit options are limited – the Big Blue Bus #9 that once served this corner has been rerouted . Nearest active routes are along Colorado Avenue or up Ocean Ave; the Downtown Santa Monica Metro station is an 10–15 minute walk west (or a brief bus ride) from the Beach House area. Bicyclists can use the Marvin Braude bike path that runs beside the site. In all cases, plan extra travel time when beach traffic is heavy; city signage advises early arrival since parking is limited .
Inside the Venue
Upon entering the gated Beach House premises, visitors find a relaxed beachside atmosphere. The restored Marion Davies Guest House (with history exhibits) greets guests on one side, while the main courtyard, shaded lawns and freeform pool dominate the view ahead. There is no cloakroom or formal entry screening for typical visitors – you walk in and can head straight to open areas or the café. The Back on the Beach Café (an on-site restaurant with ocean views) serves food and drinks; note that pets are not allowed anywhere on the site . Restrooms (including gender-neutral and ADA-accessible stalls) and water fountains are available near the guest house and pool . Free public Wi-Fi covers all seating areas , and device charging (including EV charging in the parking lot) is provided. There is no venue-wide coat check – for outdoor events, guests typically manage their own gear. For connectivity, cell reception is generally strong (being right at the beach). Merchandise booths may appear only during special events; otherwise, limited shopping is available. Overall, the vibe inside is casual and scenic: imagine a backyard beach party with plenty of lounge spots, picnic tables, and palm-tree shade. Staff (event coordinators or lifeguards for the pool) roam the grounds and can assist with questions or accommodations.
Nearby Amenities
The Beach House is centrally located on Santa Monica’s oceanfront, with dining and lodging close at hand. The luxury hotels Shutters on the Beach and Casa del Mar sit just north (Jones and Ocean Ave) offering upscale restaurants and bars. In particular, Casa del Mar’s on-site restaurant Orla by Michael Mina is about a 3-minute walk away . For casual meals, Big Dean’s Ocean Front Café (on the Santa Monica Pier) is about a 7-minute walk and serves seafood and burgers . Coffee shops (Dogtown Coffee, Starbucks) and beach snack stands are also within a few blocks . If you venture inland, the Third Street Promenade (shopping street) and Main Street are 5–10 minute walks to the northeast, filled with restaurants and nightspots. Nearby hotels include Casa del Mar, Shutters (both beachfront), Loews Santa Monica, and the Shore Hotel – all a short drive or a few blocks away. If you’re staying offshore, Santa Monica’s main Amtrak/Metrolink station (11th Street) and downtown bus depot are about a 15-minute bus ride or 20-minute walk east. For late nights, rideshares are plentiful along PCH; a short carfare up PCH or Ocean Ave will also get you to Santa Monica Place / Third Street area (for nightlife or hotels) within 5 minutes once beach traffic subsides.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Beach House’s unique charm comes from its blend of history, architecture and setting. Architecturally, it features the only major Julia Morgan design in Santa Monica: a grand Georgian-Revival guest house with colossal columns and harbor views . Its 110-foot marble swimming pool (also a Morgan design) is the city’s only Hearst-era pool . Historically, this spot was famous as Marion Davies’ and William Randolph Hearst’s Gold Coast estate, where Hollywood legends (Gable, Chaplin, Lombard, Churchill and more) flocked to lavish oceanfront parties . The Santa Monica Conservancy notes that even though the main mansion burned/was demolished, the surviving guesthouse and pool still "evoke a remarkable couple, … the numerous celebrities who were entertained here, and the Gold Coast at its zenith" . In modern times, its revival as a public beach club is itself notable: Wallis Annenberg’s gift transformed a once-forgotten private club into a welcoming community landmark. Today, both locals and performers cherish it. Artists love its Mediterranean architecture and ocean panoramas, and guests relish the beachfront atmosphere that mixes “historic Hollywood glamour” with laid-back California style (as one city release quips, “Flip flops or high heels?” suits any event here ). The venue has also appeared in films and TV (e.g. Beverly Hills 90210 and NCIS:LA) which adds to its lore. In short, the Beach House is special because it’s a living time capsule – a once-private waterfront mansion reborn as a vibrant public space where each sunset in Hollywood’s backyard feels cinematic.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The Beach House is fully wheelchair-accessible (with ramps, restrooms and an elevator) . Disabiliity placards allow free parking and wide paths lead to all major areas. Staff are trained to assist visitors. What to bring: Check the day’s weather – summer days are warm and sunny, so sunscreen, hats, and swimwear (if using the pool) are advisable. Bring towels and water bottles. There are no coat checks, so bring a sweater if you plan to stay after sunset. Prohibited items: Outside food/drinks (apart from baby formula) are not allowed ; plan to buy drinks or meals at the cafe or event kiosks. Pets (dogs, etc.) are prohibited everywhere on the Beach House grounds (only service animals are exempt). Smoking is limited to designated outdoor areas per city rules. Dress code: There is no official dress code – the space is casual. In fact, event materials playfully ask “Flip flops or high heels?” to emphasize flexibility . For evening concerts or cocktails, smart-casual attire works; for daytime pool/picnic events, beachwear is fine. Arrival: Allow extra time for parking on busy weekends – the lot fills quickly. The Beach House’s official site suggests early arrival since parking is first-come . Pool use: The outdoor pool is open seasonally (typically mid-June through Labor Day ). [Check the Beach House website for exact hours.] Child amenities: We have a knee-high splash pad, playground and open fields, which kids love. Swimming in the pool and family events are common. Wi-Fi and charging: Free Wi-Fi covers the site ; bring power banks if you need extra charging on the lawn. Cell signal: Generally good (you’re right on the coast near city towers). Crowds: Events can attract families and fitness groups by day, and partygoers by night. Peak times are summer holidays and Saturday nights. If attending concerts or fitness classes, be sure to register in advance as spots may be limited. Finally, check Santa Monica’s Beach House calendar close to your visit – festivals, private events, or maintenance closures (rarely) can affect access. Overall, the Beach House is very visitor-friendly, but as with any beachfront venue, plan for sun, sunglasses and a bit of sand underfoot to enjoy its laid-back magic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a ticket to visit the Private Beach House?
No – the Beach House is a free public site, so general admission is always free. Tickets or RSVP are only needed if you’re attending a special event. Most Beach House programs (concerts, classes, picnics) are complimentary but often require online RSVP. Only a few activities charge a fee (for example, the annual cardboard boat regatta had a $20 entry per team ). Check the official event listing to see if an RSVP or fee is needed.
How do I buy tickets or reserve a spot for an event at the Beach House?
There is no central box office – tickets and reservations are handled online. Typically, the City of Santa Monica’s events calendar or community groups provide a link for RSVP or registration. For example, summer activities often direct you to Eventbrite or the city’s ActiveNet portal . Follow the Beach House website or the City’s culture programs for “RSVP here” instructions. If you need help booking a private event or tour, you can also call (310) 458-4934 or submit an inquiry to the Beach House events team .
What are the parking options and costs at the Beach House?
Parking is available in the dedicated Beach House lot (enter via Beach House Way off PCH) on a first-come, first-served basis . It’s pay-on-entry: use the pay-and-display machines and leave the receipt on your dashboard . Disabled placard holders and local senior pass holders park for free , but note that general state beach day-use passes are not accepted here . If the main lot is full, Santa Monica Lots 8 & 9 (just south) and Will Rogers State Beach parking (a short walk north) are the nearest alternatives . There is no overnight parking allowed (it’s open 7am–9pm daily ).
Are there good public transit routes to the Beach House?
Public transit options to the Beach House are limited. The closest bus lines run along Colorado Avenue or Ocean Avenue, but none stop inside the Beach House lot. (Note: Santa Monica’s Big Blue Bus #9 used to serve this corner but has been rerouted .) The downtown Metro terminus (4th/Colorado) is about a 15-minute walk east. From the Expo Line downtown Santa Monica Station, you can take a short bus/ride or walk (~10–15 minutes) to PCH and then Beach House Way. In practice, most visitors arrive by car or bike. Rideshare or taxi drop-offs should be requested at Beach House Way (the main entrance) for easiest access.
Where should I sit or stand during an outdoor concert or event at the Beach House?
There are no assigned seats; most outdoor events are general admission on the grass or pool deck. Bring a blanket or low chair if you want seating on the lawns. Good spots are usually near the stage or poolside (depending on set-up). The Beach House provides “open seating” and picnic areas , so you can choose a comfy spot. For indoor parts of an event, the front rows of the Sand & Sea Room are standard seating. If accessibility is a concern, accessible seating areas are available per the venue’s wheelchair-accessible design . In any case, arriving early helps you get a prime location for the show.
Is the Beach House wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The entire Annenberg Beach House is designed for accessibility. The outdoor grounds are level and paved in key areas, and indoor spaces have ramps and an elevator. The venue lists “Wheelchair Accessible” as a feature . The parking lot includes ADA spaces (with placard) right by the entrance , and restrooms are wheelchair-friendly (even gender-neutral facilities are provided ). Staff can assist visitors with mobility needs if requested.
Can I bring food or drinks into the Beach House?
Outside food and beverages (other than bottled water or baby formula) are not permitted at the Beach House . This is a city-operated site, so all catering must be provided by approved vendors. However, the on-site Back on the Beach Café offers a variety of meals, snacks and drinks (including beer and wine outdoors) . During public events you will often find food trucks or concession stands. Plan to purchase any picnic meals or beverages at the cafe or event vendors rather than bringing your own bulky picnic basket.
Are pets or dogs allowed at the Private Beach House?
No. The entire Beach House site is off-limits to pets. City rules ban dogs on this public beach area, and even the cafe explicitly warns that dogs are prohibited (service animals are the only exception). This applies to both outdoor and indoor areas. So please make other arrangements for your pets when visiting the Beach House.
Is there an admission fee for general visitors?
No. Entry to the Beach House site is always free for drop-in visitors, unless you are attending a ticketed event. No general admission tickets are sold. You only pay if you sign up (online) for a special activity or private tour that has a fee. Otherwise, you can simply walk in (during open hours) and enjoy the site at no charge .
Can I swim in the beach house pool, and is there a separate fee?
Yes, the historic pool is open for public recreation, typically daily from mid-June through Labor Day (exact dates and hours are posted each summer). General swim time is first-come; a small entry fee covers pool maintenance. Lifeguards are on duty. (Outside summer months, the pool is closed.) There are also separate youth swim lessons and adult swim sessions available by registration. Check the Beach House’s official site or city pool schedule for seasonal details and pricing.
What should I wear to a Beach House event or wedding?
Dress varies by event, but comfort is key. For concerts or fitness programs, casual beach or athletic wear is fine. Evening events are often “smart casual.” A city brochure humorously asks “Flip flops or high heels?” to suggest the mix of casual California style and historic elegance . In practice, many people wear sundresses or slacks with sandals in daytime and upgrade to nicer attire at night. Since the venue is partly outdoor, be mindful of sun (bring a hat or jacket for cooler evenings). Regardless, no strict formal dress code is enforced.
Are children allowed at all events?
Yes, most Beach House events are family-friendly and free for all ages. There is no overall age limit for general access. In fact, the venue offers many kid-oriented programs (splash pad days, family picnics, youth swim classes) and playground areas. However, certain special events have age restrictions – for example, some evening pool parties require attendees be 21 or 18+ (this will be clearly noted in the event details) . Always check the specific event listing. As a general policy, children of any age can explore the Beach House and its grounds during open hours.
What should I bring or avoid bringing?
Bring sun protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses) and comfortable beachwear if you plan to enjoy the pool or lawn. Towels and beach blankets are useful for poolside or sitting on grass. A light jacket is wise for evenings by the ocean. Good walking shoes or sandals are recommended for the grounds. Leave valuables locked in your car – there’s no secure storage for personal items. Visitors should avoid bringing prohibited items: no outside food/drink (see above), no pets, no alcohol (unless purchased on site), and no glass containers. Also, no large coolers or barbeques by rule. Remember that sand can get everywhere, so a change of clothes is handy after pool or ocean dips. Finally, your ID is required if attending 18+ or 21+ events.
How early should I arrive before an event?
It’s a good idea to arrive early, especially in summer. Traffic on PCH can be heavy and the Beach House lot fills quickly on popular days. The city advises arriving at least 30 minutes ahead on busy weekends, since parking is first-come . Early arrival also lets you claim a good spot on the lawn or pool deck. For ticketed events, lines may begin forming well before start time. In short, plan for extra transit time (or parking hunt) in peak season so you’re not rushed.
Is there a dress code or age restriction due to its “private” name?
Despite the nickname "Private Beach House," there is no formal dress code and no blanket age restriction. The venue is public access, so anyone of any age can visit (petite kids to seniors). Dress is generally casual – beachwear or smart casual suits most situations . Only specific events (like adult-only pool parties or alcohol-serving evenings) limit age (18+ or 21+). Unless otherwise noted, feel free to come in comfortable, warm-weather attire.
