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.