Santa Monica’s dining scene combines ocean views with world-class cuisine. The standout experiences include a sunset dinner cruise that glides along the Pacific for 2.5 hours – perfect for special occasions and memorable photos. We love this cruise for its fresh seafood and unbeatable views of the coastline at dusk.
Walking food tours offer an intimate look at local favorites, with stops at family-run restaurants and hidden gems. The private tour format means you can customize your tastings and pace.
For seasonal charm, the Marina Del Rey holiday cruise serves up a festive buffet with carolers and decorations – it’s particularly magical on Christmas Eve.
Let’s explore these top-rated dining experiences in detail.
Key Points
- Scenic dinner cruises along the coastline and marina offer multi-course meals with locally sourced ingredients and stunning sunset views.
- Private tours of Santa Monica’s vibrant neighborhoods provide a personalized dining experience with live commentary from local guides.
- Holiday-themed dinner cruises, such as the Christmas Eve buffet cruise, enhance the dining experience with festive entertainment and ambiance.
- Dining experiences emphasize the use of locally sourced ingredients, with a variety of beverage options available for purchase.
- Many dining experiences offer convenient pickup and drop-off services, while some may not be wheelchair accessible, so it’s important to check accessibility before booking.
Los Angeles Premier Dinner Cruise From Marina Del Rey
Embarking on the Los Angeles Premier Dinner Cruise from Marina del Rey offers a scenic and high-end dining experience. The 2.5-hour cruise takes travelers along the coastline and marina at sunset, providing stunning views.
Guests are welcomed with a glass of sparkling wine before enjoying a multi-course menu featuring locally sourced ingredients prepared fresh on board. The menu includes a starter, two main options (pan-seared salmon and captain’s beef short ribs), and a dessert.
Unlimited coffee, tea, and water are included, while cocktails, wine, and beer are available for purchase. Along with the dining experience, the cruise features DJ entertainment, allowing guests to relax or dance.
With a maximum capacity of 150 travelers, the activity isn’t wheelchair accessible. While the cruise has generally positive reviews, some guests have reported issues with cleanliness, service, and menu discrepancies.
The activity is priced starting at $124.84 per person, with a lowest price guarantee and recommended reservations.
Read our full review: Los Angeles Premier Dinner Cruise From Marina Del Rey Review
Book now: Check availability
Santa Monica Private Tour With Restaurant and Bar Stops
Typically, the Santa Monica Private Tour with Restaurant and Bar Stops provides visitors with a comprehensive exploration of the iconic coastal city.
Starting from the meeting point on Main Street, the tour takes groups of up to 14 people on a journey through Santa Monica’s vibrant neighborhoods.
With a live commentary from a local guide and professional driver, participants can learn about the city’s history and culture while visiting notable restaurants and bars along the way.
The tour includes pickup and drop-off, bottled water, and all taxes and fees, making it a convenient and inclusive experience.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it accommodates children and service animals, and infant seats are available.
With a 5-star rating based on a positive review, the Santa Monica Private Tour offers a unique and personalized way to discover the city’s culinary and social scene.
Read our full review: Santa Monica Private Tour With Restaurant and Bar Stops Review
Book now: Check availability
Marina Del Rey Christmas Eve Buffet Dinner Cruise
Santa Monica’s Marina Del Rey Christmas Eve Buffet Dinner Cruise offers a festive and memorable way to celebrate the holiday season. The 2.5-hour cruise takes guests along the picturesque Marina del Rey waterfront, complete with a winter holiday dinner buffet and live DJ entertainment.
The cruise includes a guaranteed table for your party, unlimited coffee, hot tea, and iced tea, and gratuities are covered. Guests can also purchase cocktails, wine, and beer onboard.
The cruise is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and service animals are allowed. Up to 200 travelers can participate in this experience.
Conveniently located near public transportation, the cruise departs from and returns to the Fisherman’s Village Marina at 13755 Fiji Way. Booking confirmation is received within 48 hours, subject to availability.
This Christmas Eve cruise provides a unique and enjoyable way to savor the holiday atmosphere while taking in the scenic views of Santa Monica‘s renowned Marina del Rey.
Read our full review: Marina Del Rey Christmas Eve Buffet Dinner Cruise Review
Book now: Check availability
Recap
For the best dining experiences in Santa Monica, visitors can’t go wrong with a premier dinner cruise from Marina Del Rey, a private tour with restaurant and bar stops, or a Christmas Eve buffet dinner cruise. These options provide scenic views and delightful cuisine, making for a memorable dining experience in the coastal city.