The park's name, 'Tongva,' honors the indigenous people who originally inhabited the Los Angeles Basin.
The design includes 700 new trees, many of which are native species like coast live oaks.
The park incorporates a 'green' water filtration system that captures and treats storm runoff before it reaches the ocean.
The sculptural metal light structures in the park are designed to mimic the appearance of tall, slender flora.
The site was specifically designed to transition from the active urban grid of Santa Monica to the natural bluff edge.
Tongva Park is a 6-acre public space designed by James Corner Field Operations, the same firm behind New York City's High Line. The park occupies a site that previously served as a parking lot for the Santa Monica Civic Center. It is divided into four distinct sections: Observation Hill, Discovery Hill, Garden Hill, and Gathering Hill. The landscape features drought-tolerant plants and a sculptural, ribbon-like pathway system. Water features include a splash pad and a fountain, while children’s areas incorporate climbing structures and slides. Public restrooms and seating areas are integrated throughout the site. The park overlooks the Pacific Ocean and serves as an urban connection between the downtown area and the coastline. It utilizes sustainable irrigation and native California landscaping to manage local water usage.
The top of the Observation Hill peak provides a panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Monica Pier.
Visit on a weekday to avoid weekend crowds and noise.
Pack a light jacket as the coastal breeze can drop temperatures significantly in the late afternoon.
Check the park website for scheduled community events or closures before visiting.
Do not attempt to park in the restricted nearby private lots; use the designated public parking structures nearby.
No smoking, no dogs off-leash, and please stay on designated pathways to protect the native plantings.
