The Summer Beach Bus can ease drivers’ stress of the crowds, the parking and the traffic when heading to Santa Monica Beach.

By Mary O’KEEFE

Between parking and gas prices, a trip to the beach can cost about $35. Not to mention Los Angeles traffic that must be traversed with drivers cutting other drivers off, some driving too fast while some are driving too slow. By the time beach-goers get to the sand the frustration level is high and, though they sit on the beach and let the sound of the waves soothe their souls, all the while they know the time will come to climb back into the car to face it all again.

If only there were a way to sit with friends and talk and laugh while someone else deals with the traffic, the parking and the cost of gas. And if there were a way for people to also lessen their carbon footprint that would truly be a spirit-lifting experience. Worry not for there is a way; it’s the LA County Beach Bus.

Back in 1983, then-Los Angeles County Supervisor Michael Antonvich wanted to provide residents with more recreational options. The beach bus is suitable for all ages and ticket fees of $3 have not been affected by typical LA inflation.

“It is one of the services appreciated by all the riders,” said John Wong of LA County Public Works.

The fees have stayed reasonable in an effort to attract riders of all ages, allowing them to get to the beach in a safe and economical way.

For a group of teens from La Cañada and Crescenta Valley high schools, Saturday was their first trip on the beach bus.

“It’s pretty cheap,” said one of the teens regarding the ticket prices.

The group hadn’t gone to the beach very often due to a lack of time and transportation, so the beach bus was a great solution for them.

For La Crescenta resident Brianna Beck, the beach bus is a fun way to get to the shore.

“I love [going on] the beach bus. We don’t have to worry about who will be driving or coming up with gas money,” she said.

She and friends gathered at the Two Strike Park pickup area to all ride together.

The beach bus travels through Sept. 3 on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturday and also on Labor Day. Pick up points in La Cañada/La Crescenta/Montrose are: Two Strike Park at 5107 Rosemont Avenue at 9:15 a.m., La Crescenta Library on Foothill Boulevard at La Crescenta Avenue at 9:25 a.m., Montrose Avenue and Ocean View Boulevard, southeast corner, at 9:35 a.m., Foothill Boulevard at La Cañada Boulevard, northwest corner, at 9:45 a.m. The bus arrives at Santa Monica Beach by the pier at 10:45 a.m. The bus picks up riders at Santa Monica Beach, inside the pier parking lot, at 3:30 p.m. Times may vary depending on traffic.

Round trip tickets are $3 for children and adults, persons with disabilities $1.50 and senior citizens over 60 with proper identification $1.50.

Riders are advised to be at their chosen stop at least 10 minutes prior to departure. Service is subject to change due to weather and road conditions.

All children under 12 years old must be accompanied by an adult. And it is very important to make reservations to ensure riders have a seat. Reservations can be made up to 10 days in advance. For reservations and more information, visit www.LAGoBus.com or call (626) 458-3909.

  Mary Okeefe