The recently restored Annenberg Community Beach House has it all: historical value (it was once owned by actress…More Marion Davies); a pool that's accessible to the public; private party spaces; regularly rotating art exhibits; and large, bright areas used for community discussions.</p> <p>Practitioners and fans of yoga, volleyball, soccer and aquatics all congregate here on a frequent basis, and with the beach only a couple of steps away, it's no wonder.</p>

Stretching 3.5 miles, Santa Monica Beach lies between Venice and Malibu and is one of the most popular attractions…More in Los Angeles. In 2008, the American Planning Association bestowed its Great Places in America honor upon Santa Monica Beach. Marriage services are performed here, too.</p> <p>Lifeguards are on duty year-round between sunrise and sunset, and the lifeguard headquarters is open around the clock.</p> <p>A boardwalk runs along the waterfront, as well as the South Bay Bicycle Trail, which stretches for 22 miles. Fishing is open to the public, with no license required. Surfing is also allowed depending on the amount of beach traffic and weather conditions. Volleyball courts are open to the public for no charge, while boogie boards and additional beach equipment is available for rent.</p> <p>Ballplaying is only allowed in permitted areas at Santa Monica Beach. Tents, sleeping and camping are banned, as are glass containers, percussion instruments and vendors. Audible electronic devices cannot be played between 10pm and 8am.</p> <p>In an effort to ensure water quality, Santa Monica has teamed with Heal the Bay, which provides weekly water-quality reports at HealTheBay.org.</p> <p>In addition to the Santa Monica Pier, the beach is also home to the restored Annenberg Community Beach House, which reopened in April 2009. Once owned by Marion Davies, the primary mansion was demolished decades ago, but many of the original guest houses, the swimming pool and the tennis court have been preserved. The pool is open to the public and available for use from 10am to 6pm; the rest of the establishment is open from 8:30am to 8:30pm. Community meetings are often held at the house, and tours are provided as well. The Annenberg Foundation is primarily responsible for the restoration of the landmark.</p>