This thesis is an examination of the pleasure piers and promenades along the Southern California coastline in the early twentieth century. A brief social history of the origins of pleasure piers and seaside architecture is provided, as well as a brief history of Southern California beach towns. There follows an evaluation and description of seaside architecture during this time period. Finally, these pleasure piers today are examined, and a presentation is made of recommendations and opportunities for the future of beach resort architecture in Southern California.