Annenberg Community Beach House551

Decades in the planning, the Annenberg Community Beach House opened in April 2009 as a public facility for the people of Santa Monica to enjoy a family day at the beach.

The Annenberg Foundation, California State Parks, and the City of Santa Monica worked together to transform the five-acre beachfront property, which was originally built by William Randolph Hearst for actress Marion Davies and her parties for the luminaries of Hollywood's Golden Era. Vacant for many years, the hang-out once exclusive to Clark Gable, Charlie Chaplin, and Gloria Swanson is now available for all to use.

Amenities include a swimming pool (with lifeguard), volleyball courts, Back to the Beach cafe, a small children's play area with universal access swings, and a splash patio. The historic, art deco guest house from the Marion Davies estate is open for limited hours during the off season and every day during the summer; docents offer tours, and the seating areas have a lovely ocean view. The larger, newly constructed building next to it has space available for event rental and a room for community classes like yoga and pilates.

Very limited parking is available, and for the foreseeable future parking reservations (made and paid for in advance online) are strongly recommended. Residents are encouraged to bike (bicycle valets are available at busy times), walk, or take the Big Blue Bus Beach Ride.

Pool reservations can be made in advance during peak times; some space is set aside for walk-ups each day as well. Use of the club is free; the only charges are for pool use and parking.