This is a self-guided tour of the iconic piers that dot the coastline from the Mexican border to San Simeon Bay. Each pier has history and a place in the culture of southern California. As you research the location of each pier and plan your trip, take the time to read a little about these incredible structures and the rolls they played in a rapidly developing California. Take a stroll to the end of one of these marvels that connect land to the endless blue ocean, gaze to the horizon and you can’t help but feel the need for adventure.
The recent club survey indicated a good percentage of the members that participated in the survey would like weekday rides. Here is your chance. Hook up with other club members and take on this new ride challenge.
There are 32 piers to ride to between April 1st, 2024 and October 31st 2024. Complete the registration paperwork, get your ride number and document your visit to each pier with the required photos and information. This is a fun ride so take your time, enjoy the scenery and absorb some local flavors along the way.
DOWNLOAD AND START RIDING!
THE IDEA
The idea behind this ride challenge is to get you riding your motorcycle. You probably don’t require too much nudging to make that happen but here is a fun way to cover some miles and discover some history of Southern California Coastal Piers. Research the pier locations and put together your own trip. This challenge can be spread over several months or completed in a single long trip. Think of the great rides you can plan around this challenge. You have from April 1st through October 31st to visit all 32 piers and complete the challenge. Hook up with another club member, ride alone or put your own small group together.
Day rides, camp out or stay in hotels, this is your adventure to plan and enjoy. The piers are spread from the Mexican border, north along more than 400 miles of Southern California coastline. Are you ready to take on the “South Coast Piers" Ride Challenge? Complete the entry requirements and you will be issued a ride number to be used in your proof of visit photo documentation.
BACKGROUND
Piers for recreational purposes are deeply ingrained in the coastal way of life. Many of these structures in the United States are in California. However, not all piers had a start with public recreation in mind. A lot of them were designed as working structures or wharves. Many of them still have multiple purposes. Take a moment to take a closer look at the many piers that jut out into the Pacific — and the many historic relics that surround them.
Together, they tell stories of turn-of-the-last century recreation, seaside disasters and the evolution of beach-based sports and the athletes who've made their mark. The Los Angeles area alone has lost many of its historic piers to decline, demolition and destruction — but their memories live on in a number of tributes, homages and even reproductions and replicas.
Today, piers are an integral part of beach town culture. They’re a focal point for surfers, fishermen and sightseers in search of a quintessential Southern California experience. Scores of tiny exclamation points on the map that say something unique is here, come take a look.
So strap on your riding boots, grab the handlebars and set out to experience first-hand some of the pier-related history that's hiding in plain sight and today's pier attractions that offer history in-the-making.