Santa Monica’s best guided tours offer practical ways to explore this vibrant coastal city. A luxury yacht excursion stands out as my favorite, giving you two hours of magnificent coastal views from a comfortable 50-foot vessel. The 3-hour bike tours deserve special mention – pedaling 7-8 miles through Venice Beach and Marina del Rey lets you experience the area like a local, with plenty of stops for photos and stories.
For visitors wanting to see it all, the full-day private Los Angeles tours are worth every penny, efficiently connecting Santa Monica’s beach scene with Hollywood’s major landmarks. Flexible scheduling and payment options make these experiences accessible for most travelers.
Let’s look at the top tour options that make the most of your Santa Monica visit.
Key Points
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The 50-foot Yacht Elu offers a 2-hour guided tour with stunning views of Venice Beach, Santa Monica Pier, and Malibu, suitable for small groups up to 10 participants.
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The 3-hour guided bike or ebike tour covers 7-8 miles through Marina del Rey, showcasing Venice Beach, Muscle Beach, and the Venice Canals.
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The private full-day sightseeing tour provides a 7-8 hour experience visiting iconic Los Angeles landmarks, including the Santa Monica Pier, with a live English-speaking guide.
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The tours have varying accessibility and restrictions, such as the yacht tour not being suitable for children under 5 or over 70, and the bike tour offering an electric bike upgrade.
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The tours offer flexible booking and payment options, with reserve now, pay later and no upfront payment options, as well as varying cancellation policies.
Marina Del Rey: Luxury Yacht Experience – Guided Tour – BYOB
A luxury yacht experience awaits visitors in Marina Del Rey. The 2-hour guided tour takes small groups of up to 10 participants aboard the 50-foot Yacht Elu.
The tour provides stunning views of Venice Beach, Santa Monica Pier, and Malibu. Activities include a safety briefing, dolphin watching, and opportunities for up-close photos with seals and sea lions.
Priced from Kč 4,893 per person, the tour offers free cancellation and a reserve now, pay later option. Guests can bring their own beverages and enjoy welcome refreshments.
The tour isn’t suitable for children under 5 or people over 70. Parking is available at Lot 11 near the meeting point behind Dear Janes by the boats.
Read our full review: Marina Del Rey: Luxury Yacht Experience – Guided Tour – BYOB Review
Book now: Check availability
La: Santa Monica & Venice Beach Guided Bike or Ebike Tour
Visitors seeking an engaging way to explore the vibrant beachfront neighborhoods of Santa Monica and Venice can opt for the La: Santa Monica & Venice Beach Guided Bike or Ebike Tour.
This 3-hour excursion covers 7-8 miles, allowing participants to ride through Marina del Rey, visit Venice Beach and Muscle Beach, and explore the historic Venice Canals.
Along the way, riders can capture photos at the Art Walls and scenic spots. The tour is led by a live guide and includes the option to upgrade to an electric bike for an easier ride.
Priced from $71.66 per person, the tour offers flexible booking and no upfront payment required.
Read our full review: La: Santa Monica & Venice Beach Guided Bike or Ebike Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Los Angeles; Private Full-Day Guided Sightseeing Tour
Travelers seeking a comprehensive introduction to the diverse sights and attractions of Los Angeles can opt for the Private Full-Day Guided Sightseeing Tour.
Priced at Kč 22,107 per group (up to 6 participants), the 7-8 hour tour covers iconic landmarks like the Hollywood Sign, Walk of Fame, and Rodeo Drive.
Guests enjoy lunch at the renowned Farmers Market and explore seaside destinations like Santa Monica Pier and Venice Beach.
The tour includes pickup from various locations, private transportation, and a live English-speaking guide.
Flexibility is offered to adjust time spent at each sight.
Smoking, alcohol, and drugs are prohibited, and gratuities aren’t included in the tour price.
Read our full review: Los Angeles; Private Full-Day Guided Sightseeing Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Dress Code for the Yacht Experience?
The dress code for the yacht experience is generally casual and comfortable. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, breathable fabrics and closed-toe shoes for safety. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator for any specific dress requirements.
Can I Bring My Own Alcohol on the Bike Tour?
No, you can’t bring your own alcohol on the bike tour. Most tour companies prohibit outside alcohol for liability and safety reasons. The guides will likely provide water and snacks, but consuming your own alcoholic beverages is typically not allowed.
Are the Tours Wheelchair Accessible?
The tours are generally wheelchair accessible, but it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand to ensure they can accommodate your needs. Some routes may have limited accessibility, so it’s important to discuss any mobility requirements in advance.
How Much Walking Is Involved in the Sightseeing Tour?
The amount of walking on a sightseeing tour can vary widely. Some tours involve minimal walking, while others may require more extensive exploration on foot. It’s best to inquire about the specific tour’s walking requirements before booking to ensure it meets your needs and abilities.
Can I Customize the Itinerary for the Private Tour?
Yes, you can often customize the itinerary for a private tour. Many tour providers offer this flexibility, allowing you to focus on the sights and experiences that interest you most during the tour.
Recap
Santa Monica offers a variety of guided tours, from luxury yacht experiences to bike tours of the beach. Visitors can choose the option that best suits their interests and budget, whether it’s an indulgent yacht cruise or an active exploration of the local sights. With these guided tours, travelers can make the most of their time in this vibrant California beach town.