Tongva Park Santa Monica CA

Tongva Park, located in Santa Monica, California, is a 6.2-acre urban park named in honor of the indigenous Tongva people, who have inhabited the Los Angeles area for thousands of years. The park was developed on a site that was once a flat, nondescript parking lot, transforming it into a vibrant green space that pays tribute to the region's original inhabitants. The design, created by James Corner Field Operations, was inspired by the natural arroyo (wash) landscape that historically underlaid the area, incorporating sculpted hills, winding paths, and native and drought-tolerant plantings to reflect the local ecosystem.

The park features distinct areas including Observation Hill, Discovery Hill, Garden Hill, and Gathering Hill, each designed to offer unique experiences while emphasizing sustainability and community engagement. It includes an amphitheater, playground, picnic areas, restrooms, and an overlook providing scenic views of the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Monica Pier.  Notable elements include the "Three Amigos," three large Rusty Fig trees relocated 550 feet to the park, and "Morty," a prominent Moreton Bay Fig Tree.

The park's design integrates the existing natural topography and preserves mature trees, contributing to its ecological value and sense of place. It serves as a living testament to the Tongva people's deep connection to the land, with its landscape and plant palette reflecting the region's natural heritage. The park officially opened on October 13, 2013, and has since become a cherished community asset and a model for sustainable urban park design.