Santa Monica’s most worthwhile tours combine outdoor adventure with local culture. I’m especially fond of the Marina Del Rey yacht excursion – a practical 2-hour cruise that reliably delivers dolphin sightings and postcard-perfect coastal views. The city’s Amazing Race-style scavenger hunt cleverly mixes sightseeing with local history, while bike tours (both traditional and electric) offer an efficient way to cover the highlights. For travelers seeking flexibility, private catamaran and custom city tours make good sense. These experiences consistently earn high marks for their practical planning and knowledgeable local guides. Let’s explore the best tour options for your visit.
Key Points
-
The Santa Monica Shuffle Amazing Race offers an immersive scavenger hunt experience to explore the city’s history and culture, with a 4.5-star rating from 50 reviews.
-
The Marina Del Rey Yacht Experience provides a luxurious 2-hour cruise with views of Venice Beach, Santa Monica Pier, and Malibu, along with the flexibility of free cancellation.
-
The Santa Monica & Venice Beach Bike Tours provide guided or private bike/eBike tours covering iconic landmarks, with a minimum age requirement of 13 for eBike riders.
-
The Private Half Day City Tour Overview offers a personalized 4-hour experience to explore Los Angeles’ iconic landmarks and renowned neighborhoods, with free hotel pickup within 10 miles of LAX and Hollywood.
-
The Private Catamaran Tour in Marina del Rey provides a 2-hour scenic sailing experience for up to 6 people, with an affordable price of $99 per group of up to 3 people.
Los Angeles, Hollywood, & Beverly Hills Highlights Tour
Offering a comprehensive tour of Los Angeles’ iconic landmarks, the “Los Angeles, Hollywood, & Beverly Hills Highlights Tour” provides a memorable experience for visitors. Priced at €212.96 per person, this private tour lasts 5-9 hours and grants guests the flexibility to customize their itinerary.
The tour covers must-see sights like the Hollywood Sign, Griffith Observatory, Hollywood Walk of Fame, Beverly Hills, and Rodeo Drive, allowing travellers to enjoy sightseeing, photo opportunities, and optional activities.
With 19 convenient pickup locations throughout the region, the tour offers seamless transportation and a professional driver/guide. While reviews highlight the tour’s value and transportation quality, there are some concerns about program consistency.
Read our full review: Los Angeles, Hollywood, & Beverly Hills Highlights Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Marina Del Rey: Luxury Yacht Experience – Guided Tour – BYOB
Situated in the heart of Marina del Rey, the “Luxury Yacht Experience – Guided Tour – BYOB” offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the picturesque Southern California coastline from the comfort of a private yacht.
This 2-hour luxury cruise, limited to just 10 participants, provides an intimate and personalized experience with a live English-speaking guide. Guests can enjoy stunning views of Venice Beach, Santa Monica Pier, Malibu, and the Southern California coast, as well as the chance to spot dolphins and other marine life.
The cruise includes welcome refreshments, and participants are welcome to bring their own food and drinks. While the experience isn’t suitable for children under 5 or those with mobility issues, it has received excellent reviews, with one customer praising the “beautiful evening with many sea lions and great sunset pictures.”
With a flexible arrival policy and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, the “Luxury Yacht Experience” provides a memorable way to explore the Marina del Rey area.
Read our full review: Marina Del Rey: Luxury Yacht Experience – Guided Tour – BYOB Review
Book now: Check availability
Santa Monica Shuffle Amazing Race & Tour
The “Santa Monica Shuffle Amazing Race & Tour” takes participants on an exhilarating scavenger hunt through the vibrant coastal city. Rated 4.5 stars from 50 reviews, this 5.5-hour small group tour allows visitors to explore Santa Monica’s hidden gems and see the city’s top attractions.
Guided by local experts, groups work together to solve challenges and uncover the unique history and culture of the area. Highlights include visiting the iconic Santa Monica Pier, strolling down the scenic promenade, and discovering lesser-known landmarks.
Adventurous participants can even try their hand at surfing lessons or bike rentals to fully enjoy the Santa Monica experience. With options for pickup and drop-off, this tour provides a seamless and engaging way to see the best of this beloved California destination.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local looking to rediscover your city, the “Santa Monica Shuffle Amazing Race & Tour” offers an unforgettable adventure.
Read our full review: Santa Monica Shuffle Amazing Race & Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Marina Del Rey : 2 Hour Private Catamaran Marina Tour
Visitors can embark on a leisurely 2-hour private catamaran tour of Marina Del Rey‘s picturesque harbor. This unique experience allows guests to sail along the tranquil waters, taking in the sights of the largest man-made small-craft harbor in the United States.
Participants can marvel at the stunning yachts, sailboats, and other vessels docked in the marina while learning about its history and natural surroundings.
The tour is perfect for those seeking a relaxing and scenic activity in the heart of Los Angeles. Guests can choose to actively participate in sailing the catamaran or simply sit back and enjoy the ride.
With a maximum capacity of up to 6 people, the tour offers an intimate and personalized experience. Priced at $99 per group of up to 3 people, the Marina Del Rey: 2 Hour Private Catamaran Marina Tour provides an excellent value for those looking to explore the city’s coastal charm.
Read our full review: Marina Del Rey : 2 Hour Private Catamaran Marina Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
La: Santa Monica & Venice Beach Guided Bike or Ebike Tour
This 3-hour guided bike or eBike tour takes visitors on a 7-8 mile journey through the iconic beachfront neighborhoods of Santa Monica and Venice Beach.
The tour starts at the famous Santa Monica Pier and highlights key landmarks like the Venice Canals, Muscle Beach, and the vibrant art walls. Riders can choose between a standard bike or an electric bike for easier pedaling.
Along the way, the live English-speaking guide shares fun facts and historical insights to bring the local culture and history to life. The tour is suitable for all ages, with a minimum age of 13 for eBike riders.
Participants are advised to arrive 15 minutes early with a valid ID and credit card. The tour includes the bicycle, helmet, and bike bag, though food and drink aren’t provided.
With flexible booking and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this is an excellent way to explore the beautiful California coastline.
Read our full review: La: Santa Monica & Venice Beach Guided Bike or Ebike Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Private Santa Monica and Venice Beach Bike Tour
Setting out on a private Santa Monica and Venice Beach bike tour provides a personalized exploration of these iconic California coastal neighborhoods.
The 2-3 hour tour allows up to 4 participants to experience the sights at their own pace, starting from the Santa Monica Pier and venturing through the historic Venice Canals, Muscle Beach, and Marina del Rey.
Along the way, the knowledgeable guide shares fun facts and local secrets, ensuring an engaging and immersive experience.
Riders can choose to upgrade to electric bikes for easier pedaling.
The tour includes use of a bike, helmet, and bag, as well as the guide’s gratuity.
However, it’s not suitable for individuals over 300 lbs or pregnant women.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and no upfront payment required, this private bike tour offers a convenient and flexible way to discover the highlights of Santa Monica and Venice Beach.
Read our full review: Private Santa Monica and Venice Beach Bike Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Los Angeles; Private Full-Day Guided Sightseeing Tour
A private full-day guided sightseeing tour in Los Angeles offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the city’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems. Priced at $899.00 per group (up to 6 participants), the tour lasts 7-8 hours and includes pickup from hotels/rentals within 10 miles of LAX/Santa Monica.
Guests can customize the flexible itinerary to accommodate weather, traffic, and pickup location. Highlights include a photo stop at the Hollywood Sign, visits to the Hollywood Walk of Fame, TCL Chinese Theatre, and Dolby Theatre, and lunch at the lively Original Farmers Market.
The tour also takes guests through Beverly Hills, including the famous Rodeo Drive, and to Santa Monica Pier and Venice Beach. An air-conditioned vehicle with bottled water and soda provides comfortable transportation, and parking fees are included.
While gratuities are not, the standard tip in the U.S. is 15-20%. Smoking, alcohol, and drugs are prohibited, and additional surcharges may apply for pickup locations beyond the free 10-mile range.
Read our full review: Los Angeles; Private Full-Day Guided Sightseeing Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Romantic Luxury Duffy Boat Tour With Wine, Cheese, Sealions
For those seeking a more intimate and luxurious experience in Marina Del Rey, the Romantic Luxury Duffy Boat Tour with Wine, Cheese, and Sea Lions offers an enchanting escape.
Priced from €144.89 per person, this 2-3 hour cruise features a cozy Duffy boat with complimentary wine, cheese, and charcuterie. Guests will enjoy a scenic tour, spotting sea lions and other wildlife in the tranquil marina.
The knowledgeable captain provides historical insights about the area. This experience is ideal for special occasions like birthdays, anniversaries, or romantic dates.
The tour includes 2 glasses of wine or non-alcoholic drinks, a charcuterie board, and captain service. Amenities such as a small fridge, ice chest, dining table, pillows, and blankets ensure a comfortable journey.
Optional add-ons like surprise dinners or extra wine are available. With an overall rating of 4.9/5 based on 19 reviews, this tour promises an unforgettable luxury outing in Marina Del Rey.
Read our full review: Romantic Luxury Duffy Boat Tour With Wine, Cheese, Sealions Review
Book now: Check availability
Los Angeles: Private Half Day City Tour
Ideal for those seeking an immersive exploration of Los Angeles, the Private Half Day City Tour offers a comprehensive introduction to the city’s iconic landmarks and renowned neighborhoods. Priced at $599 for up to 6 participants, this 4-hour private tour provides a flexible and personalized experience.
Highlights include strolling along Hollywood Boulevard’s Walk of Fame, marveling at the handprints of celebrities at TCL Chinese Theatre, and capturing breathtaking views of the Hollywood Sign. Participants will also cruise down Rodeo Drive, home to luxury boutiques, and take a photo at the famous Beverly Hills sign.
Included in the tour are private transportation, complimentary beverages, and parking fees. Visitors can take advantage of the free hotel pickup service within 10 miles of LAX and Hollywood.
With a 5-star rating based on 3 reviews, the tour earns high praise for its knowledgeable guide and insightful commentary. Flexible booking and a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance further enhance the convenience of this comprehensive Los Angeles experience.
Read our full review: Los Angeles: Private Half Day City Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Best Times of Day to Visit These Tours?
The best times of day to visit these tours vary, but generally early mornings and late afternoons are optimal to avoid crowds and maximize enjoyment. Timing also depends on the specific tour and its operating hours.
Are There Any Discounts or Packages Available for These Tours?
Many tour operators offer discounts and packages to make their tours more affordable. Visitors should check for bundle deals, student/senior discounts, or special promotions when booking their tours. Some companies also provide combo tickets for multiple attractions.
How Accessible Are These Tours for Individuals With Disabilities?
Many tours in the area accommodate individuals with disabilities, offering accessible transportation and facilities. Visitors should inquire about specific accessibility features when booking to ensure their needs are met. Companies typically aim to provide inclusive experiences for all.
What Are the Cancellation and Refund Policies for These Tours?
Cancellation and refund policies vary by tour operator, but many offer flexible options. Customers should review the policy prior to booking to ensure it meets their needs. Refunds may be available for cancellations made within a certain timeframe, often with a fee.
Can I Customize or Personalize Any of These Tour Experiences?
Many tour companies allow customers to customize or personalize their experiences. Travelers can often request special accommodations, alter tour itineraries, or add personalized elements to their tours. However, availability and fees for customization may vary across different tour providers.
The Sum Up
Santa Monica offers a variety of exciting tours that cater to different interests. From guided bike tours and luxury yacht experiences to private sightseeing tours, visitors can explore the city’s iconic landmarks and attractions. Whether you’re looking for a romantic adventure or a fun-filled day with family and friends, Santa Monica has a tour that will suit your needs.