Santa Monica’s best tours pack a lot of sightseeing into a few hours. The city’s standout options include a practical 3-hour bike tour along the Pacific – perfect for active travelers who want both exercise and local stories. The private limo tour, while pricey, delivers 6 hours of comfort and flexibility, ideal for small groups or families. I’m a big fan of the bike tour for its combination of fresh air, coastal views, and local character. The self-guided walking tour stands out for budget travelers who prefer exploring at their own pace.
Let’s explore these recommended tours in detail.
Good To Know
The Santa Monica and Venice Beach Bike Guided Tour offers a highly-rated 3-hour bike ride with experienced guides and scenic views, catering to groups up to 15 people.
The Super Custom Dual Bar Limo Tour provides a luxurious 6-hour private tour for up to six guests in a Lincoln Town Car limousine with an open bar and a knowledgeable driver.
The Self-Guided Tour of Santa Monica offers a budget-friendly, wheelchair-accessible walking tour with a downloadable PDF guide, allowing for flexible exploration of the city’s dining options.
The tours offer a range of experiences, including scenic views, informative guides, customizable options, and intimate group sizes, with flexible booking and cancellation policies.
Visitor feedback highlights the popularity and value of the bike and limo tours, with the bike tour praised for its guides and routes, while the self-guided tour received less favorable reviews.
3-Hour Santa Monica and Venice Beach Bike Guided Tour
The Santa Monica and Venice Beach 3-Hour Bike Guided Tour offers visitors a comprehensive and enjoyable way to explore the iconic beachfront neighborhoods. With a 4.8-star rating from 14 reviews and a 93% traveler recommendation, this tour is a popular choice for those looking to experience the best of Santa Monica and Venice Beach.
The tour includes the use of a bicycle, a guided bike ride, a bike bag, and a mandatory helmet. The meeting point is at Unlimited Biking, located on Ocean Avenue, with the tour starting at 10:00 am and returning to the same location.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate, and the maximum group size is 15 people.
Reviewers praise the informative and friendly guides, the enjoyable ride along the beach, and the beautiful sights. However, some have noted concerns about time limits, suggesting that the overall experience could be enhanced.
Nonetheless, this 3-hour bike tour provides a fantastic way to explore the lively and picturesque beachfront communities of Santa Monica and Venice Beach.
Read our full review: 3-Hour Santa Monica and Venice Beach Bike Guided Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Super Custom Dual Bar Limo With Tour Guide 6-Hour Los Angeles Private Tour!!
This 6-hour private tour of Los Angeles offers a luxurious and customizable experience for up to six guests.
Explore Hollywood, Beverly Hills, the LA coast, and other sites of your choice in a Lincoln Town Car limousine. Your driver is a former celebrity driver and bodyguard with deep local knowledge, ensuring an informative and accommodating tour.
The tour includes an open bar with alcoholic beverages, door-to-door service from any location in Los Angeles, and wheelchair and stroller accessibility.
Priced at $1,490 per group, this tour provides excellent value with its positive reviews highlighting impeccable planning and service.
Booking is flexible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience and the option to reserve now and pay later.
With a 5-star rating from past guests, this private tour is an excellent way to discover the highlights of Los Angeles in style.
Read our full review: Super Custom Dual Bar Limo With Tour Guide 6-Hour Los Angeles Private Tour!! Review
Book now: Check availability
Self-Guided Tour of Santa Monica in Los Angeles With Fun Facts and Photo Ops
Although a self-guided tour, this walking exploration of Santa Monica offers a comprehensive way to discover the city’s top attractions at your own pace.
The tour includes a downloadable PDF with a written guide, allowing you to navigate the area on your own schedule. The meeting and end point is the conveniently located Santa Monica Place, providing a central starting and finishing point.
The tour is accessible to all, with wheelchair and stroller compatibility, as well as accommodations for service animals. Most travelers can participate, making it an ideal choice for a wide range of visitors.
While food and drinks aren’t included, the self-guided nature of the tour allows you to stop and explore the area’s dining options at your leisure.
With a single review and a 1-star rating, this tour may not be the most popular choice, but it provides a budget-friendly and flexible way to experience the highlights of Santa Monica.
Read our full review: Self-Guided Tour of Santa Monica in Los Angeles With Fun Facts and Photo Ops Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the Tours Wheelchair Accessible?
The tours are generally wheelchair accessible, with most providers offering accommodations for visitors with mobility challenges. It’s best to inquire about specific accessibility details when booking to ensure the tour meets your needs.
Do the Tours Include Snacks or Refreshments?
Most guided tours include complimentary snacks and refreshments. This enhances the overall experience, allowing guests to stay hydrated and energized throughout the tour. However, it’s always best to check the specific tour details beforehand.
Can I Bring My Own Bike for the Guided Tours?
Yes, you can typically bring your own bike for guided tours. Many tour providers allow participants to use their own bicycles, as long as they’re in good working condition and suitable for the tour route.
How Do I Redeem My Tour Voucher?
To redeem your tour voucher, simply bring it to the tour provider’s office or meeting location on the day of your scheduled tour. The staff will check your voucher and get you checked in for the guided experience.
Are Pets Allowed on the Tours?
Pets are generally not allowed on guided tours. Most tour companies have policies that prohibit bringing pets along, as they can disrupt the experience for other participants. Participants should check with the specific tour operator before attempting to bring a pet.
The Sum Up
Santa Monica and Venice Beach offer a variety of guided tours to suit different interests and budgets. Visitors can explore the area on a bike, in a private limo, or through a self-guided tour. These options provide opportunities to see the sights, learn about the history, and capture memorable photos. Regardless of the tour chosen, travelers can expect an enjoyable and informative experience in these vibrant coastal communities.