The Initiative Is Supported by a $40,000 Grant
Santa Monica is set to complete the conversion of its beach and Pier restrooms to all-gender facilities this month, following successful upgrades at several city parks, the City announced.
The initiative is in partnership with the Santa Monica Pier Corporation and is supported by a $40,000 grant from Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors Chair Lindsey P. Horvath.
Santa Monica beaches and Pier, among the region’s top-visited destinations, will now offer restrooms accessible to all gender identities. This change also benefits those who need to assist someone of a different gender, such as caregivers or parents.
“Santa Monica embraces people of all gender identities. The all-gender signage is a significant advancement in our work to ensure our spaces are accessible to everyone,” said Deputy City Manager and LGBTQ+ Liaison Christopher Smith. “Everyone should feel welcome while enjoying our beautiful Santa Monica beaches.”
Mayor Phil Brock added, “Santa Monica is known around the world as a welcoming place where anyone can be free to be themselves. As we take this meaningful step, I encourage everyone to enjoy our Pier and beach.”
Phase I of the project, expected to be completed by August, includes new door signage on existing restrooms. Phase 2, to be completed by spring 2025, will add new wayfinding signage.
Santa Monica’s commitment to equity and inclusion is longstanding. In 2023, the city council adopted an ordinance requiring all-gender, multi-stall public restrooms for new buildings and began converting existing restrooms. The initiative builds on 2022 legislation co-sponsored by Santa Monica and West Hollywood to expand access to all-gender facilities.
“The transition to all-gender restrooms on our beaches is a meaningful act of inclusion,” said Horvath. “This investment puts Santa Monica’s values into action and is part of their commitment to equality and creating a welcoming community for all.”
