Santa Monica
Tours

Our most recommended things to do in Santa Monica

Los Angeles: Half-Day Best of LA Sightseeing Tour

Los Angeles: Half-Day Best of LA Sightseeing Tour

Check out the BEST Los Angeles has to offer on this half-day interactive sightseeing experience! Take a seat on one of our Climate Controlled Buses as your fun & entertaining driver-guide gives you an insider look at LA culture, history, landmarks, and hot spots. Stop at The Santa Monica Pier, The Grove/Original Farmer's Market for shopping & lunch, The Hollywood Sign, and the Griffith Observatory. Now offering departures from both Hollywood and Santa Monica! When booking, simply enter your preferred date and check availability to select your departure location. Hollywood Departure: Meet your guide on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Climb aboard the bus and head straight to Santa Monica. On the drive, listen to entertaining stories and take in Hollywood, the Sunset Strip, West Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and Rodeo Drive. At your first stop the Santa Monica Pier, enjoy 45-minutes explore the famous boardwalk, and see why Southern California is famous for its beaches. Then, continue past Culver City and Museum Row, with insider tips on the best restaurants and museums. Santa Monica Departure: Meet your guide in Santa Monica and start your journey with stunning ocean views. Before heading to the next stop, enjoy a drive through Hollywood to take in the Walk of Fame, Sunset Strip, Beverly Hills, and Rodeo Drive. You'll have a 45-minute stop in Hollywood to explore iconic landmarks and take photos before continuing the tour. Have a 75 Minute lunch break at The Grove & The Original Farmers Market, known for some of LA’s best dining and shopping. Then, continue past Fairfax, Melrose, Paramount Studios, the Greek Theatre, and Griffith Park. Enjoy 45-minutes to take in sweeping views of the Los Angeles Basin from the Griffith Observatory, capturing stunning pictures of Downtown LA, the ocean, and the Hollywood Sign. (Griffith Observatory is closed on Mondays. If you join us on a Monday you will still have access to outside of The Observatory but not inside. The driver will add in time at other locations to make the best use of time.) Once you leave the Griffith Observatory the driver will take a scenic route back to where your tour began in either Hollywood or Santa Monica!

Los Angeles: City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off with 4 Routes

Los Angeles: City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off with 4 Routes

Discover Los Angeles with the freedom to explore. Ride an open-top double-decker bus across 4 scenic routes and over 40 famous stops — from the Hollywood Walk of Fame and Sunset Strip to the beaches of Santa Monica and the vibrant streets of Downtown LA. Enjoy panoramic views of Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and the Los Angeles skyline. Hop on at any stop, and hop off whenever you’re ready — no maps, no stress, just pure LA adventure. Routes Included:   • Red Route (2hr): Hollywood, Walk of Fame, Sunset Strip, Beverly Hills   • Purple Route (2.5hr): Downtown LA, The Broad, Walt Disney Concert Hall   • Yellow Route (2hr): Santa Monica, Venice Beach, 3rd St. Promenade   • Universal CityWalk™ Route (1hr): Hollywood to Universal Studios Hollywood ⭐ Want to See Where the Stars Live? Upgrade your experience with a 2-hour Celebrity Homes Tour through the Hollywood Hills and Beverly Hills. Discover homes connected to stars like Michael Jackson, Madonna, and Elvis Presley — with amazing skyline views included. It’s the perfect add-on to complete your LA story. Celebrity Homes available in English or Spanish ✨ Chosen by millions of visitors — and even celebrities — for the most iconic Los Angeles sightseeing experience. ONE PASS. FOUR ROUTES. 40+ STOPS. THE ULTIMATE LA EXPERIENCE.

Los Angeles: Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Tour by Open-top Bus

Los Angeles: Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Tour by Open-top Bus

Experience the glittering allure of Los Angeles, all from the comfort of an open-top double-decker bus. This tour is an invitation to see LA's most stunning vistas, without the worry of driving or navigating public transport. Marvel at the majestic Hollywood Sign, the star-studded Walk of Fame, the opulent Beverly Hills, and the radiant Sunset Strip. The Big Bus tour is your passport to the heart of LA, offering unparalleled views of the city's iconic landmarks. With your ticket, you can explore two unique sightseeing routes, each accompanied by captivating digital commentary painting the vivid picture of LA's culture and history. Uncover the secrets of Hollywood on the Red Route, or soak in the coastal beauty of Santa Monica on the Blue Route. Hop on or off as often as you like, allowing you to curate your LA adventure. Explore Universal Studios, discover the magic of Warner Bros, or indulge in a shopping spree on Rodeo Drive – Big Bus will be right there when you're ready to resume your journey. Upgrade your ticket with the 2-hour Celebrity Homes & Lifestyle Tour for a glimpse into the glamorous lives of Hollywood's elite. This tour transports you into the luxurious realms of stars like Michael Jackson, Madonna, and Elvis Presley as you journey through posh neighborhoods like the Hollywood Hills and Rodeo Drive. Top Sights Hollywood Walk of Fame TCL Chinese Theater LA County Museum of Art Warner Bros Studio Rock Walk Sunset Strip West Hollywood Rodeo Drive Museum Row La Brea Tarpits Santa Monica Pier Paramount Studios ...and more!

Los Angeles: LA Grand Tour

Los Angeles: LA Grand Tour

Embark on a captivating tour of Los Angeles that starts on the iconic Sunset Boulevard. As you travel west, immerse yourself in Hollywood’s vibrant history with sights of legendary venues like Whiskey A Go Go, Chateau Marmont, and the Laugh Factory. Glimpse the Dolby Theatre and the famed Sunset Strip, known for its bustling nightlife and historic filming locations. Your first stop brings you to the scenic Santa Monica Pier, where the Pacific breeze and lively boardwalk set the perfect backdrop for picturesque moments. Take in the expanse of the ocean and the vibrant energy of street performers and local artisans. This is the perfect spot to capture the essence of Southern California's beach culture. Continue your journey to the Farmer’s Market, a culinary haven where you can sample fresh local produce and gourmet treats. This bustling marketplace is also an ideal spot for a lunch break, offering a variety of food stalls that cater to every taste and preference. Enjoy the flavors of freshly prepared meals and the opportunity to mingle with locals and tourists alike. The allure of glamour escalates as you head to Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills, a hub of luxury boutiques and potential celebrity sightings. Stroll among opulent shops and soak in the extravagant atmosphere. Feel the pulse of high fashion and perhaps treat yourself to a luxury item from one of the world-renowned designer stores. The tour culminates at the Griffith Observatory, offering breathtaking views of the Los Angeles skyline and the iconic Hollywood sign. Explore the exhibits inside the observatory, including a look at the stars through the famed Zeiss telescope. This vantage point provides a sweeping panorama of the city, making it a memorable end to your tour. The adventure concludes back at your original meeting point, conveniently located near the Walk of Fame. Here, you can spend the rest of your time exploring the storied sidewalk, discovering the names of celebrities past and present, and perhaps catching a glimpse of Hollywood magic in the making. Nearby, iconic landmarks such as the TCL Chinese Theatre, Dolby Theatre and the El Capitan Theatre add to the allure, inviting you to delve deeper into the cinematic history of this legendary city. This tour is an essential experience for anyone eager to discover the highlights of Los Angeles.

Los Angeles: Surfing Lesson in Venice Beach

Los Angeles: Surfing Lesson in Venice Beach

Skim the crest of a wave beneath the Californian sun with a surfing lesson for both beginners and intermediate surfers. Benefit from the support and guidance of your instructors as you take on the waters of Venice Beach. Meet your instructor and suit up in your wetsuit. Feel free to store your belongings in the equipment van during the activity. When you're ready, pick up a surfboard and head down to the sand with your fellow students. Spend the first 30-40 minutes training on the beach and get familiar with the fundamentals of surfing. Practice how to pop up on the board, learn more about the ocean, and end the land lesson with the most important part: safety. Next, enjoy 40 minutes of hands-on training with your instructor in the ocean. The remaining time will be yours to perfect your skills and have fun on the board. After the class, your instructor will lead you to an outdoor public shower where you can rinse off.

From Anaheim: LA Highlights Sightseeing Tour

From Anaheim: LA Highlights Sightseeing Tour

This full-day narrated sightseeing tour is your ticket to experiencing the best of LA. Begin your tour with a pickup from your Disneyland area hotel 8AM. Sit back and relax in your air-conditioned van and get ready to discover some of LA's must-see attractions. Dive into the heart of the city, where you'll discover the eclectic mix of historic architecture and modern skyscrapers, including the Staples Center and the iconic Walt Disney Concert Hall. Get up close to the world-famous Hollywood Sign and enjoy breathtaking views of the city from Griffith Observatory, a backdrop to countless films. Cruise down the legendary Sunset Strip, known for its music history, and then experience the luxury of Rodeo Drive, where upscale shopping and celebrity sightings await. Savor local flavors and shop for unique treasures at the Original Farmers Market, a historic Los Angeles landmark. Stroll along the iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame, where the stars underfoot honor the entertainment industry's brightest talents. Feel the coastal breeze at Santa Monica Pier and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the beach, with its inviting waters and bustling boardwalk. Explore the eclectic culture of Venice Beach, from its street performers to the famous Muscle Beach outdoor gym. Conclude your adventure with a visit to Marina del Rey, one of the largest man-made small-boat harbors in the world. At the end of the tour, get dropped off back at your pickup point.

Los Angeles: All-Inclusive Pass including Universal Studios

Los Angeles: All-Inclusive Pass including Universal Studios

The Los Angeles All-Inclusive Pass by Go City gets you into over 40 top attractions in the city for one low price. Save up to 50%* on admission compared to buying individual tickets and pay nothing at the gate. Visit the Aquarium of the Pacific, Dolby Theatre, Madame Tussauds Hollywood, Universal Studios, and many more of the best things to do in L.A., Hollywood, and beyond. You can take up to 2 weeks from when you first use the pass to use the remaining calendar days on your pass. The free digital guide helps you decide what to do, where to go, how to get there and how to make reservations in advance when required. Simply show your pass straight from your phone (or printed) at the gate or ticket office to get in. Your Los Angeles All-Inclusive Pass offers entry to popular attractions, tours, and activities including: (any activity with an "R" means you need to reserve in advance) • Single Admission to Universal Studios Hollywood (R) • Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood (R) • Madame Tussauds Hollywood • LEGOLAND California** (R) • Big Bus Celebrity Homes & Lifestyle Tour (R) • Big Bus Hop-on Hop-Off Discover Tour • San Diego Zoo** • Knott's Berry Farm • Aquarium of the Pacific (R) • The Original Hollywood Sign Walking Tour (R) • Whale Watch & Dolphin Tour - Beautiful Newport Beach (R) • TCL Chinese Theatre Tour or Movie with Drink • SoFi Stadium Tour (R) • LA Zoo • Hollywood Museum • And more! Check your included digital guide for an up-to-date attraction line-up including opening times and instructions on how to access each attraction with your pass before you go. *Savings based on sample itineraries on the Go City website. **LEGOLAND California and San Diego Zoo can only be visited on different days with your All-Inclusive Pass.

San Diego: Night Date Glow Pedal Boat with Downtown Views

San Diego: Night Date Glow Pedal Boat with Downtown Views

Glow Boat Night Rides in San Diego Bay – A Unique Experience for Couples and Families Discover one of the best things to do in San Diego at night with a glow boat ride through San Diego Bay. Perfect for date nights, family outings, and fun activities with kids, this affordable experience offers stunning views of the San Diego skyline while you pedal and enjoy music. Meet our crew at the docks for check-in and a safety briefing before heading out. Guided by our team in a separate boat, you’ll start at America’s Cup Harbor and cruise into the bay. Each boat fits up to 3 adults and 1 child, featuring Bluetooth speakers and blankets for comfort. Book now for a memorable night on the water!

Los Angeles: City Group Tour with Hollywood & Beverly Hills

Los Angeles: City Group Tour with Hollywood & Beverly Hills

You will be picked up directly from your hotel in : Long Beach, San Pedro, LAX area, Marina Del Ray, Hawthorn, or El Segundo. During the tour, you'll visit Downtown Los Angeles, Los Angeles Colosseum, Hollywood Walk of Fame, Hollywood Sign, Griffith Park Observatory, Sunset Plaza, Beverly Hills, Rodeo Drive, Wilshire Blvd, Santa Monica Beach, and Venice Beach. There will be free time at each of the stops and you'll be able to get out of the tour van to take pictures, shop, and explore. For lunch, there will be an hour-long stop at Mel's Diner on Sunset Boulevard, a popular 1950s-style diner. After the tour, you'll be dropped back at your hotel between 4:30 and 5:00 PM.

Santa Monica: Los Angeles Open-Air Van Tour with Stops

Santa Monica: Los Angeles Open-Air Van Tour with Stops

Head to the meeting point and check in for your tour before boarding a custom-made, open-air van. Start your tour in West Lost Angeles and learn about the history of the city on your way to Beverly Hills. Here, you'll make your first of four stops on the tour. Enjoy half an hour of free time to shop, take photos, and explore on your own before hopping back aboard the van. Your tour continues as you drive through West Hollywood. See the Sunset Strip, the legendary Whiskey a Go Go, the Viper Room, the Roxy, and more. Then, take advantage of some more free time, this time to visit the Original Farmers Market. Spend a full hour exploring LA's world-famous market. Visit trendy stores and gourmet grocers or grab a quick bite to eat at one of the market's many restaurants. From here, your tour takes you to the heart of Hollywood. See celebrity homes, movie studios, and famous filming locations before stopping once more, this time to take a stroll along the Hollywood Walk of Fame. And of course, no LA sightseeing tour would be complete without visiting the Hollywood Hills and stopping to take photos of the iconic Hollywood Sign. Finally, travel along the famous Mulholland Drive as you make your way back to Santa Monica where your tour comes to an end.

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What people are saying about Santa Monica

Overall rating

4.4 out of 5 stars
4.4
4.4 out of 5 stars
(2,548 reviews)
5 out of 5 stars

Great fun day, great first day in LA for a first timer. Was a good way to get around most of the prime tourist hot spots. Shame we didn't go anywhere dear Down Town. Host was a comedian in the making, was good that he kept strictly to time, very knowledgeable. Organisation at the pick up location worked well with those arriving first being called to board the bus first.

5 out of 5 stars

Our guide, Mike, was extremely knowledgeable and was clear and easy to understand. The variety of places we stopped was excellent and offered a glimpse of many of the great places the LA area has to offer. Great tour, overall!

5 out of 5 stars

Tour guide was great, informative, funny, interesting. This was really good choice.

5 out of 5 stars

The fact it was stop and go, you could take each sight at your own pace. stunning

5 out of 5 stars

Very informative and a fun guide too. Chad was amazing!