Santa Monica Airport - Santa Monica, California

catalina C.

Have been coming here to see the airplanes land for about 12 years. It is quiet and just a great place to hang out and have a snack while you watch the planes. There’s an upper deck for better viewing or picnic tables on the lower deck. You don’t see as many jets as you used to because of neighbors complaints I think. Too bad those were great to see. There’s soccer fields in the area and an empty lot for other activities. It used to be a airplane parking lot but the neighbors complained and so it is now just empty for recreational use. I don’t think people know that because it’s always empty. But you can google the rules. Back to the airport… the cops patrolling are nice and will give kids paper gliders if they have any with them. There is a public bathroom and it’s very clean. So come and enjoy the view before this airport is closed which I believe is the plan in the coming years. This place is also great at night time with all the lights. The kids just love it. Bring your lunch, a refreshment (non alcoholic) and have a great day.

Gino S.

Santa Monica Airport has truly lost its way. What used to be a welcoming, functional space is now a bureaucratic nightmare, staffed by individuals who seem more interested in making life difficult than doing their jobs. Take Daniel Quezada, for example. In 2023, he raked in $106,131.78—an eye-popping salary for someone whose primary contribution appears to be harassing pilots for simply using the airport. Instead of fostering a cooperative and professional environment, he seems to delight in being as obstructive as possible.

The contrast with nearby airports like Hawthorne and Torrance couldn’t be more stark. Both airports are welcoming, professional, and easy to work with, making them the go-to choice for pilots who value respect and efficiency. At Hawthorne and Torrance, you’re treated like a valued customer, not an inconvenience. Staff there seem to understand that their job is to support aviation, not hinder it.

It’s honestly a shame what’s happened to Santa Monica. When the inevitable day comes and this airport shuts down, I’ll be curious to see what happens to Quezada’s “career”—if you can call it that. My guess? No more cushy government gigs. Time to step into the real world and find a job that actually requires contributing something of value.

Until then, save yourself the trouble and head to Hawthorne or Torrance. They’ll remind you of what an airport is supposed to be: functional, friendly, and free of unnecessary drama.

Christian A.

Santa Monica Airport is where I grew up and obtained my PPL. It will always have a very special place in my heart. I would spend hours at the observation deck above Typhoon when it was still there at least once a weekend with my radio just listening to ATC and plane spotting. Santa Monica Airport means so much to me that I have written it in my will to have some of my ashes spread on the grounds…

Online W.

Great airport great place & spotting destination

Orange P.

Love this airport, been coming here ever since I was little, I love the observation deck and the tables so you can eat food while watching the planes take off and land.I’m so sad it will be gone in a few years

Cengiz C.

To observe flying planes, descending and taking off was an inspiring experience for us.

Haim K.

Best place to fly to for weekend getaway, or random getaway. Good food, lots of fun,nice people, lots of smiling faces, museum,and more..Definitely worth checking it out!!!

Dave C.

Great place to come and watch the planes take off if you can find the elevator to get up to the third floor.
I have included pictures of the elevator so you know what and where to find it