When the sun clocks out in streaks of orange, pink, and purple, Santa Monica goes from laid-back to lit up. Literally. With over 3 miles of sand, a historic pier, and the Pacific Coast Highway keeping things scenic, this beach is more than just a pretty shoreline. Let"s start with the sand. Wide, clean, and ready for volleyball or just flopping down with a good book, it"s ideal for sunbathers and sandcastle architects alike. And yes, "Baywatch" was filmed along Santa Monica Bay. Feel free to run in slow motion.