The only time i go to the Santa Monica Pier is when i have friends or relative from out of town who want to go sight seeing. The Pier is nice if you haven't seen it before. there is a Vintage Carousel, a small amusement park with a few rides and some shops and eateries. It's great to take a few photos and maybe grab something to eat at Bubba Gumps, but that's about it. Going to the Pier at night is alot better then in the day time. The Ferris wheel is lit up and the cool ocean breeze feels alot better. Just be aware of your surrounding and try not to wander around the dark areas under the pier, not trying to scare people, but there are alot of weirdos out there.

Santa Monica is one of the most beautiful places in LA, and visiting the Pier is great way to spend some time.  Located on the beach, the Pier has several arcades and carnival like rides that you can enjoy with the fresh salt twinged air around you and the ocean at every vista.  Only a couple of blocks from the Promenade, shopping, eating and movie-going are all quite accessible.  

The beautiful Santa Monica Pier offers a variety of entertainment, dining and shopping experiences, including the thrill rides of Pacific Park; a historic Carousel, and an interactive aquarium. You also can enjoy lively street performers-- from musicians to artists. And the sunset along the California coast is something you should not miss.

As a local southern californian I never get tired of strolling down 3rd street promonade and heading down to the pier on a sunny summer day. One thing though, do not go in the water down there. Not the best beach in LA. But still fun to hang out on the sand and check out the shops nearby.

The beach is quite impressive for a European like me ;) I´ve never seen a rollercoaster or other rides on a pier so far. Though it´s expensive. And, by the way, I saw Hanna Montana shooting a video there. But guess it was more exciting for the kids to see her!