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170 Available Tour Excursions in Santa Monica
Kapowui, was awarded best surf school in Venice beach for the last 5 years in a row. Kapowui is a family run business and and an icon of southern California. We live, eat, and dream surfing and teach surfing because we want to share our love and stoke for the sport. This is a life choice for us and what gives our lives meaning. All of Kapowui's instructors are imbued with the Aloha spirit, live within blocks of the beach (4 of them live in surf vans), surf every day and have many years teaching experience. When we are doing a lesson with you, we are 100% focused and in the moment with you. At Kapowui we truly care about your experience. Whether surfing is a one time bucket list item or a new sport you want to pick up, we will have you up riding waves, 100% guaranteed! Additionally you will be immersed in the surf culture, giving you the opportunity to feel the true surfer vibe, while learning a skill you can use forever.
Price: $145.00
Duration: 2 hours
This 7 and a half hour private tour is a fantastic way to spend the day exploring Los Angeles, Venice Beach, Santa Monica, Beverly Hills and Hollywood. Your tour guide will narrate your day-long trip so you can pick up some facts and impress your friends and family members with your knowledge of the LA area. You’ll get to spend up to 45 minutes at every stop, so you can have a hands-on experience. This tour offers free hotel pickup and drop-off within the Los Angeles area. With over 3,500 5-Star reviews on TripAdvisor, Yelp and Google – you simply can’t go wrong!
Price: $999.00
Duration: 7 hours
Most surf schools will get you to stand up your first time surfing. They all say so. And for your typical surf instructor, it’s easy to get someone on their feet. Here at our Surf School, we teach you how to actually read & ride a wave, starting from your very first lesson. Reading waves and knowing where to be are the most crucial aspects of surfing. Fostering the knowledge of the ocean is how you truly develop the ability to become a real surfer. That being said, if surfing is something you want to kick off the bucket list or to do on vacation with friends or family, no one on our team has taught this sport for less than 5 years. Our focus is getting you to surf not just anywhere on the wave, but on the best, most fun part of the wave. We are 100% the only surf school that custom-makes their boards (made in California) specifically for optimal learning as a beginner or intermediate. We have the warmest, cared for wetsuits, and we're all American Red Cross certified!
Price: $285.00
Duration: 2 hours
Discover Los Angeles like never before. Our tour offers insider access to exclusive sites, personalized itineraries tailored to your interests, and a deep dive into the city's vibrant culture. With seamless logistics and a passionate guide, we promise an unforgettable and authentic experience that goes beyond the ordinary. Book now and embark on a journey that will leave you with lasting memories of the City of Angels.
Price: $365.00
Duration: 3-4 hours
Let us do the work by joining our Santa Monica and Venice Bike Tour, letting you relax and enjoy the quintessential L.A. pastime, cycling the area on a Beach Cruiser. That way you can experience the famous boardwalk and canals, go to some hidden spots that only locals like us know of and learn about the history of the famous neighborhoods you’re passing through. We’ll have your bicycles ready when you arrive for the Santa Monica and Venice Bike tour, then we’ll head down to the beach. The tour passes by famous Santa Monica Pier, before stopping at Muscle Beach. Then we cycle to the beautiful canals. There’s a stop on hip Abbot Kinney Boulevard for juice or coffee, before we head up Main St. Our final stop is Santa Monica City Hall and Tongva Park. * Tour starts 10am daily * Bicycle hire included in price * Children under 5 y.o. can go in a child’s seat (at own expense)
Price: $95.00
Duration: 2 hours
Experience Los Angeles in comfort on a private luxury sightseeing tour in a 2024 Cadillac Escalade with a professional chauffeur. This is premium private transportation (not a narrated guided tour). Relax while we handle navigation, parking, and traffic, with flexible photo stops along the way. Choose 7 or 9 hours and tailor the day to your interests. After booking, tell us your goals (iconic landmarks, beaches, celebrity neighborhoods, shopping, viewpoints) and we’ll suggest an efficient route and stop plan. Follow the recommended itinerary or adjust it anytime. Popular stops may include Hollywood Sign viewpoints, Hollywood Walk of Fame, Sunset Strip, Beverly Hills & Rodeo Drive, Santa Monica Pier, Venice Beach, and Griffith Observatory (sunset when possible). The extended option can include Malibu for a scenic coastal drive. Stops may vary based on traffic and the time you choose at each location; we’ll adjust the route in real time within your selected duration.
Price: $1,200.00
Duration: 7-9 hours
Ideal for families or small groups up to 6 guests who wish to explore Hollywood, Beverly Hills and West Hollywood in the comfort of a large SUV. Complementary bottled water. Pickup included from your Hotel or Airbnb in Venice, Santa Monica, Century City, Beverly Hills, Hollywood, West Hollywood and Downtown Los Angeles.
Price: $499.00
Duration: 4 hours
Explore the vibrant essence of Los Angeles on this 7-hour open-air bus tour that captures the city's most iconic sights. Visit four must-see locations including the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Beverly Hills' Rodeo Drive, the historic Original Farmers Market, and the stunning Griffith Observatory for panoramic views. With a live guide sharing expert insights, this is the perfect way to experience LA's landmarks without the hassle of navigation. Ideal for first-time visitors, this tour combines culture, entertainment, and culinary delights in a single day. - Full-day open-air bus tour featuring Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and Santa Monica - Four one-hour stops at top attractions for in-depth exploration - Enjoy lunch at the original Farmers Market - Live expert guide providing insights throughout the journey
Price: $76.00
Duration: 7 hours
Experience the excitement of surfing with one of the top rated surf schools in Los Angeles! With our private surf classes, you will get the best quality surfing lesson. All our lead instructors are certified and have years of experience teaching worldwide. The lessons are held in the remote part of Venice Beach - one of the most re-known and iconic Californian beaches. Our private classes are great for students of all levels. If it's your first time surfing or you just recently started, our instructors will provide you with a detailed land lesson and make sure that you are comfortable with the surfboard before taking you in the water. If you are already experienced and are looking to advance your skills, you can go straight to the lineup with the instructor coaching and supervising you throughout the entire lesson. Quality and your safety are our top priorities. We guarantee you the best surfing experience possible!
Price: $99.00
Duration: 2 hours
Our private, 6-hour, Hollywood Tour of LA will transport your private party (up to 12) to some of LA's most popular attractions - Downtown's Disney Hall and Cathedral, Universal CityWalk, breathtaking views from the Griffith Observatory grounds and the world famous Hollywood sign, Rodeo Drive/Beverly Hills area, and The Grove and LA's oldest Farmer's Market.
Price: $1,350.00
Duration: 8 hours
Explore Malibu with its 21 miles of famous coastlines. Start the day driving up to the Malibu Colony with its coveted ocean access and beach-side mansions. We’ll walk along the semi-private beach enjoyed by the many celebrities who live in the Colony: Tom Hanks, Woody Harrelson and Bill Murray, among others. Then we'll continue north to find Malibu's most pristine beaches, including the wild cliffs of El Matador beach. Returning, we'll stop at Point Dume Natural Preserve with its stunning Ocean view and at an ocean park with panoramic views where whales and dolphins can be spotted (only Dec-Marc). Following, we'll explore the Adamson house, (inside house tour not incl) the first beach mansions in Malibu and its stunning architecture and location. At the end of the tour we can drop you at the world famous Getty Villa Museum, a replica of a Roman Mansion of 2000 years ago. We try to keep the price low for this PRIVATE tour so a good TIP at the end of the tour is highly suggested.
Price: $399.00
Duration: 4 hours
Enjoy a Private Chauffeur Tour of Los Angeles (6–8 hours) fully dedicated to you and your group. Travel in comfort while a professional chauffeur drives you through the city’s most famous attractions and sightseeing locations. Hotel pickup in Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, Hollywood, LAX Airport, and Disneyland Resort Our chauffeurs are professionally dressed, experienced, and knowledgeable about Los Angeles, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for you and your family. Ride in our luxury fleet of late-model vehicles (no older than 5 years) that are meticulously maintained for safety and comfort. We operate premium Tesla, Chevrolet, Cadillac, and Volvo vehicles, offering a refined and comfortable ride throughout your private tour. This is a relaxed private experience with no rush take your time at each stop, enjoy the views, and explore Los Angeles at your own pace. English and Portuguese-speaking chauffeurs available. Satisfaction guaranteed.
Price: $750.00
Duration: 6-8 hours
If you’re looking to fit the most Los Angeles photo ops into the shortest time, this private photo session was made for you. You’ll be awe-struck by the amazing views and panoramic vistas in Santa Monica. You won’t believe the memories you packed into just 2 hours! For art, architecture, culture, great food and nature, there’ s no contest in all California. Get that classic postcard picture of Southern California and experience the charm of a beachside city of Santa Monica. • Marvel at the Santa Monica Pier and Palisades Park • Meditate at the idyllic and well-designed Tongva Park • Take in the stunning views of the ocean and Santa Monica Mountains • Fall in love with the picture-perfect L.A.’s coastline and Third Street Promenade • Enjoy personalized attention and a tailored itinerary • Ideal for Instagrammers, bloggers, and all photo lovers • A private experience so you can customize your experience and schedule • 50 professionally captured and edited photos
Price: $165.00
Duration: 2 hours
We are a surf school based on Venice Beach. Our goal is for you to have an excellent surfing experience, whether it's your first time trying surfing or you are trying to advance your skills. For the first 30–40 minutes, we will be training on the beach, and then it’s one hour with the instructors in the ocean. The remaining time is yours to practice your skills and have fun with the surfboards that we provide.
Price: $69.00
Duration: 2 hours
Enjoy the best of Los Angeles with this two hour guided e-Bike tour that begins in Santa Monica near the famous Santa Monica Pier! You must be at least 16 to ride our pedal assist e-Bikes. Take in the ocean breezes, visit the historic Venice Canals, ride through Marina del Rey, take pictures with the Art Walls, and explore Muscle Beach. You’ll be able to visit all of the main highlights that the area has to offer, while learning fun facts, seeing beautiful views, and more! This guided tour takes about 3 hours, including various stops near essential attractions while our guides provide in-depth narration and stop for photo opportunities at famous sights and hidden gems throughout the tour.
Price: $93.71
Duration: 3 hours
Join us and experience the highlights of Los Angeles in the comfort of a large SUV on a private tour! You may customize this tour in any way you wish within the time-frame booked.
Price: $649.00
Duration: 6-7 hours
Happiest Ours Yacht Charters offers exclusive private yacht cruises and luxury charters in Los Angeles. Cruise north to Santa Monica and Malibu or south to Manhattan Beach and Hermosa Beach, or embark on a day or overnight trip to Catalina Island. Our yacht is privately owned by two business partners with over 30 years of boating experience in Marina del Rey. The interior design was crafted by a renowned LA designer with over 25 years of experience in high-end home design. Custom pieces, including exclusive items featured by Neiman Marcus, ensure a sophisticated and luxurious environment. Whether for corporate events, special celebrations, or a relaxing getaway, Happiest Ours delivers a personalized experience with top-tier amenities. We focus on providing you with an exceptional and unforgettable yachting experience on the waters of Southern California. For booking and more information, contact us today to plan your perfect charter.
Price: $2,563.08
Duration: 4 hours
Named one of National Geographic's “Top 10 Beach Cities in the World," immerse yourself in Santa Monica's pristine beauty, as you assist a motley group of Super Heroes in saving the world from a sinister supervillain threat. Your journey will take you to locations featuring some of the most picturesque views of the pacific ocean, and famous white sandy beaches. As you solve challenges, the story unfolds and exact directions on your phone will guide you to the next location. Ready for an adventure? Highlights include: • Explore Santa Monica Pier, Looff Hippodrome, Palisades Park and lesser-known places. • Take in the amazing scenery, vibrant culture, and lively pulse of Santa Monica! After your booking you will receive an email with instructions on how to download and play the game on your phone. We recommend that each user purchases a ticket for an optimal experience, although several people can share a phone.
Price: $5.92
Duration: 1-1 hours
Key Info for Visitors
- Currency: USD
- Languages: English, Spanish
- Climate: Mediterranean
- Timezone: America/Los_Angeles
- Population: Approximately 90,000 residents
- Best Time to Visit: best time to visit is from May to October for warm, sunny weather.
- Visa Requirements Visitors to Santa Monica generally follow the United States visa policies. Citizens from visa waiver countries such as most EU countries, the UK, Canada, Australia, and Japan can enter the US for tourism without a visa for up to 90 days under the ESTA program. Other travelers may require a tourist visa (B-2). Visa on arrival is not available. US citizens do not need a visa. It is advisable to check current US visa policies before travel.
About Santa Monica
Santa Monica is a vibrant coastal city known for its iconic beach, lively pier, and laid-back California charm. It offers a unique blend of natural beauty, urban sophistication, and cultural attractions. Visitors are drawn to its wide sandy beaches, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and surfing, alongside the historic Santa Monica Pier which features an amusement park, aquarium, and restaurants. The city’s bustling Third Street Promenade is a pedestrian-friendly shopping and dining district filled with street performers and local boutiques. Santa Monica’s Mediterranean climate ensures pleasant weather year-round, making it an ideal destination for outdoor activities. Its proximity to Los Angeles also makes it a convenient base for exploring Southern California. The city’s commitment to sustainability and wellness is reflected in its numerous parks, bike paths, and organic eateries. Whether you seek relaxation on the beach, cultural experiences, or vibrant nightlife, Santa Monica offers a compelling mix that appeals to a wide range of travelers.
Santa Monica Tours & Experiences
- Top Attractions: Highlights of California
- Duration Range: Half-day or Full-day
- Group Size: Small groups (up to 15 people)
- Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
- Recommended For: The best time to visit is from May to October for warm, sunny weather. Pack casual beachwear, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes. Respect local customs such as tipping around 15-20% in restaurants. Stay aware of your belongings in crowded areas. Use contactless payment methods where possible. Santa Monica is generally safe, but standard urban precautions apply. Hydrate well and be prepared for occasional coastal breezes.
Average Tour Price: $75
Lowest Price Tour: $39
Highest Price Tour: $200
1. Choose Your Tour
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2. Check Details
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3. Book Online
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4. Enjoy Your Experience
Join the tour and create unforgettable memories in Santa Monica.
Important Tour Information
- Bring comfortable walking shoes and appropriate clothing
- Check tour cancellation and refund policies
- Arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes early
- Carry valid identification and tour booking confirmation
Top Attractions
1. Santa Monica Pier – A historic landmark featuring an amusement park, aquarium, restaurants, and stunning ocean views. 2. Third Street Promenade – A lively pedestrian shopping and dining street with street performers and unique boutiques. 3. Palisades Park – A scenic park along the bluffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean, perfect for walking and picnics. 4. Santa Monica State Beach – A wide, sandy beach ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. 5. Annenberg Community Beach House – A public beach facility with a pool, playground, and cultural events.
Popular Activities
Visitors can enjoy surfing, paddleboarding, and swimming at the beach. Biking along the beachfront bike path is popular, as is rollerblading and jogging. Cultural experiences include visiting local art galleries, attending live music events, and exploring farmers markets. Shopping and dining on Third Street Promenade offer a lively urban experience. Outdoor yoga classes and wellness activities are common. For adventure seekers, nearby hiking trails in the Santa Monica Mountains provide scenic views and nature exploration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Local Food & Cuisine
Santa Monica’s food scene emphasizes fresh, organic, and locally sourced ingredients with a focus on Californian cuisine. Signature dishes include fresh seafood, fish tacos, avocado toast, and gourmet salads. The city is known for its vibrant farmers markets and health-conscious eateries. Noteworthy restaurants include The Lobster, famous for its oceanfront seafood dining, and Rustic Canyon, known for its seasonal American dishes. Dining customs are casual but attentive, with many restaurants offering outdoor seating to enjoy the coastal ambiance.
Getting Around
Santa Monica is accessible via Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) located about 15 miles south. Local transportation includes buses, bike rentals, and ride-sharing services. The city is very walkable, especially around the beach and downtown areas. The Big Blue Bus system provides affordable public transit. Parking can be limited and expensive in busy areas, so using public transit or biking is recommended. Taxi and shuttle services are also available.
Travel Tips
The best time to visit is from May to October for warm, sunny weather. Pack casual beachwear, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes. Respect local customs such as tipping around 15-20% in restaurants. Stay aware of your belongings in crowded areas. Use contactless payment methods where possible. Santa Monica is generally safe, but standard urban precautions apply. Hydrate well and be prepared for occasional coastal breezes.
Culture & Customs
Santa Monica reflects a relaxed, health-conscious, and environmentally aware culture. Social interactions are friendly and informal. Locals value sustainability, outdoor activities, and wellness. Important events include the Santa Monica Film Festival and the Twilight Concert Series. Etiquette includes respecting beach rules, recycling, and being polite to service staff. Casual dress is the norm, and punctuality is appreciated for appointments and tours.
About The Author
Calvin has loved travel and adventure since first visiting Los Angeles with a suitcase in 1992 at the age of 20. He ditched the suitcase and got a backpack pretty fast.
He hates leaving after any trip and has to console himself by writing and sharing articles on it. You can find and connect with him on linked in here.
Likes
Travel, Gaming, Scuba Diving, Skiing and anything to do with water.
Dislikes
Exact luggage sizing police and being tired in an airport and many more..