The park serves as a primary access point for the Santa Monica segment of the Marvin Braude Coastal Bike Trail.
The location is positioned on the edge of the coastal bluff, providing a distinct elevation advantage for viewing the shoreline.
It is managed under the jurisdiction of the Santa Monica Department of Community and Cultural Services.
The park's site was historically integral to the development of the Ocean Park neighborhood's coastal public space network.
Ocean View Park is a public recreational facility located on the bluffs overlooking the Santa Monica State Beach. The park features a large multi-purpose grassy lawn frequently used for picnics, stretching, and informal gatherings. Its athletic facilities include dedicated basketball courts and children's play equipment. The park is situated at the terminus of Barnard Way, providing direct pedestrian access to the beach bike path below. The layout provides panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Monica Bay coastline. It serves as a connector between the residential neighborhood of Ocean Park and the coastal promenade.
The western edge of the grassy lawn looking out over the ocean toward the Santa Monica Pier.
Visit during a weekday morning to secure a basketball court without waiting.
Bring a windbreaker or layers, as coastal breezes can make the temperature significantly cooler than in inland areas.
Use the pedestrian ramp at the end of the park to safely descend the bluff to reach the sand level.
Do not attempt to hike down the steep, non-designated slopes of the bluff; use the paved, marked ramps.
Athletic footwear is recommended for court use; standard public park behavior applies regarding noise and litter.
