Santa Monica packs plenty of worthwhile 2-hour adventures along its famous coastline. The top experiences center around water activities, with excellent surf lessons stealing the show. I especially like the small-group surf lessons – you’ll get both beach training and real water practice without the tourist crowds. The private lessons are worth the splurge for families or nervous beginners.
Kayaking and paddleboarding tours in Marina del Rey are another smart pick, offering close encounters with local sea lions. For a more laid-back experience, the coastal sailing tours provide stunning views without getting wet.
Let’s look at our favorite Santa Monica tours that make the most of your precious vacation time.
Key Points
- Shared small group surf lessons provide an affordable 2-hour introduction to surfing for ages 12+ with basic swimming skills.
- Private surf lessons for beginners offer a tailored 2-hour experience with high-quality instruction from Badass Surf School.
- 2-hour kayak or paddleboard excursions in Marina del Rey allow beginner-friendly exploration of the scenic coastline.
- 2-hour sailing adventures in the marina provide a relaxing experience for groups of up to 10 participants.
- Private group surf lessons offer a focused 2-hour session with CPR-certified instructors emphasizing safety and ocean conservation.
Contents
- Key Points
- Shared 2 Hour Small Group Surf Lesson in Santa Monica
- 2h of Private Surf Lesson for Beginners in Santa Monica
- 2-Hour Kayak or Paddleboard With Sea Lions in Marina Del Rey
- 2 Hour Sailing Adventure From Marina Del Rey
- 2 Hour Private Group Surf Lesson in Santa Monica
- Shared 2 Hours Regular Group Surf Lesson at Santa Monica
- The Sum Up
Shared 2 Hour Small Group Surf Lesson in Santa Monica
For those seeking an adventurous and beginner-friendly introduction to surfing, the Shared 2 Hour Small Group Surf Lesson in Santa Monica is an excellent choice.
Held in the iconic beach city, the lesson promises a fun and supportive experience for up to 10 travelers. With a 4.8-star average rating from 140 reviews and a 94% recommendation rate, the lesson is led by friendly and encouraging instructors who provide effective teaching.
The 2-hour session includes both beach instruction and water practice, allowing participants to learn the basics and ride the waves. Suitable for those 12 and older with basic swimming skills, the lesson offers free cancellation and a pay later option, making it an accessible and risk-free activity.
Read our full review: Shared 2 Hour Small Group Surf Lesson in Santa Monica Review
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2h of Private Surf Lesson for Beginners in Santa Monica
The Private 2-Hour Surf Lesson for Beginners in Santa Monica offers an immersive introduction to riding the waves.
Operated by Badass Surf School, the lesson takes place in the scenic Santa Monica area and is recommended by 100% of travelers. Priced from $285.00 per person, the private session caters to first-time surfers, with all necessary equipment provided.
Participants will meet at the designated blue VW bus on Barnard Way and can opt for pickup service. The lesson is wheelchair accessible and open daily from 7 AM to 8:30 PM, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: 2h of Private Surf Lesson for Beginners in Santa Monica Review
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2-Hour Kayak or Paddleboard With Sea Lions in Marina Del Rey
Adventurers can embark on a 2-hour kayak or paddleboard excursion to spot sea lions in the serene Marina del Rey. Rated 4.8 out of 52 reviews, this beginner-friendly activity offers the chance to see marine life up close with knowledgeable and friendly guides.
The experience includes life jackets, double and single kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards, accommodating groups of up to 7 travelers. Parking is available at Lot #11, with the adventure starting and ending at Mothers Beach.
Guests have praised the relaxed pace and scenic views, with many highlighting the excitement of seeing sea lions during the tour.
Read our full review: 2-Hour Kayak or Paddleboard With Sea Lions in Marina Del Rey Review
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2 Hour Sailing Adventure From Marina Del Rey
Embarking on a 2-hour sailing adventure from Marina del Rey, travelers can enjoy the serene waters and picturesque scenery of the harbor.
This activity accommodates up to 10 participants and boasts a 3.5-star rating based on 3 reviews. The marina, located in the 90292 zip code, serves as the meeting and end point, with instructions provided via text message.
Onboard amenities include a restroom, though the vessel isn’t wheelchair accessible. Most travelers can participate, and infants must sit on laps.
Customer feedback highlights the guide’s accommodating nature and the relaxing tour of the marina with some sailing in the open water.
Read our full review: 2 Hour Sailing Adventure From Marina Del Rey Review
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2 Hour Private Group Surf Lesson in Santa Monica
A 2-hour private group surf lesson in Santa Monica provides an immersive introduction to the sport.
Instructors are highly trained, CPR-certified, and passionate about surfing and ocean conservation. Participants will learn surfing safety, etiquette, technique, tides, and ocean conditions. The lesson emphasizes the importance of ocean conservation and ways to protect the oceans.
Meeting at Lot 5 South, the group will be provided with wetsuits and surfboards. The private lesson ends back at the meeting point, ensuring a focused and personalized experience.
Priced from $170 per group, this activity requires a moderate physical fitness level and isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions.
Read our full review: 2 Hour Private Group Surf Lesson in Santa Monica Review
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Shared 2 Hours Regular Group Surf Lesson at Santa Monica
Those seeking an immersive introduction to surfing can partake in a 2-hour shared group surf lesson in Santa Monica. Priced from $69 per person, the lesson takes place at the iconic Santa Monica beach, with participants learning the basics under the guidance of experienced instructors.
The lesson includes the use of surfboards and wetsuits, with a maximum of 12 travelers per group. Basic swimming skills are required, and a moderate level of physical fitness is recommended.
With an impressive 5-star rating based on 2 reviews, this surf lesson offers an excellent value for those eager to catch their first waves in a supportive and fun environment.
Read our full review: Shared 2 Hours Regular Group Surf Lesson at Santa Monica Review
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The Sum Up
Santa Monica offers a variety of exciting 2-hour tours and experiences. From surfing lessons to kayaking with sea lions, there’s something for all. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced adventurer, these activities provide the perfect way to explore the beautiful coastal surroundings. With options to join small groups or book private sessions, you can tailor the experience to your preferences and skills.