Santa Monica, California

Tours

Our most recommended things to do in Santa Monica, California

Los Angeles: Half-Day Best of LA Tour

Los Angeles: Half-Day Best of LA 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. 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.  See views of the affluent Bel-Air neighborhood and the Getty. Stop at Santa Monica Pier and Beach for an hour to explore the famous boardwalk, shop along the 3rd Street Promenade, and see why Southern California is famous for its beaches.  Head back to the bus to take in Culver City and Museum Row. Get insider tips on the best restaurants and museums. Have an hour lunch break at the Grove/the Original Famers Market which is known for some of LA's best dining and shopping.  Continue past Fairfax, Melrose, Paramount Studios, the Greek Theatre, and Griffith Park. Take in sweeping views of the Los Angeles Basin from the Griffith Observatory. Capture pictures of views of Downtown Los Angeles, the ocean, and the Hollywood sign.  As you head back to the Hollywood Walk of Fame to end your tour, see the Capitol Records Building and explore more of Hollywood Blvd.

Los Angeles: Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus with Audio Guide

Los Angeles: Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus with Audio Guide

Welcome to the ultimate adventure through the City of Angels, where the magic of Los Angeles awaits you. Are you a movie buff, beach lover, or history enthusiast? We've got you covered! Explore the magic of Los Angeles hassle-free with CitySightseeing Hop-on, Hop-off Tour. Three diverse routes, one unbeatable price: Three Routes in One Price: - Red Route: Dive into Hollywood and Beverly Hills' glamour. - Purple Route: Immerse in Downtown LA's culture. - Yellow Route: Enjoy coastal bliss in Santa Monica and Venice Beach. Freedom to Explore: Hop-on and hop-off 40+ stops with buses every 45 minutes to 1 hour. Each route is approximately 2 hours long, offering ample time to discover. Pass Options: - 1-Day Classic: Quick and immersive LA experience. - 2-Day Adventure: Leisurely exploration at your pace. - 3-Day Premium: Best value for an extensive adventure. Two Routes Daily: Please note: You can explore a maximum of two routes in one day, ensuring you have quality time at each stop. Audio Commentary: Enjoy prerecorded audio commentary in nine languages, adding depth to your journey.

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: 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.

Los Angeles: Group Surfing Lesson

Los Angeles: Group Surfing Lesson

Meet your guide at Venice Beach, one of the most famous and lively beaches in California. Take part in a 2-hour group surfing lesson which is ideal for everyone from beginners (even first timers!) to upper intermediate levels.  Start the lesson by getting geared up with the wetsuits and surfboards. Head down to the sand with your group of 5-6 fellow students. Spend the first 30-40 minutes training on the beach and learning all the important aspects of surfing. Your professional certified instructors will teach you how to pop up on the board, educate you about the ocean and end the land lesson with the most important part - safety. After that, enjoy 40 minutes with an instructor(s) in the ocean getting coaching and helpful pushes. The remaining time will be yours to practice your skills and have fun in the water. After the class, an instructor will lead you to an outdoor public shower where you will be able to rinse off. Don't worry about your belongings, as you will be able to leave everything locked in the surf school van. 

LA: City and Beach Highlights Tour with Transfer Options

LA: City and Beach Highlights Tour with Transfer Options

Enjoy a stress-free tour of LA with expert tour guides who will ensure you have an entertaining and educational day. Begin the tour in Santa Monica where you'll have the opportunity to explore the Santa Monica Pier. Your first stop will be Venice Beach, home of LA's skateboarding and surf culture. You will then be driven along Wilshire and Santa Monica Boulevards on your way to the ritzy Beverly Hills, where you will be given the opportunity to window shop for 30-minutes on Rodeo Drive.  Enjoy lunch at the Farmers' Market at The Grove (1 hour) - with hundreds of options to please everyone from the adventurous foodie to kids. You will then be whisked to Griffith Park where you will receive VIP curbside service and experience the best views of LA and the Hollywood Sign. Finally, try to spot the stars of your favorite Hollywood celebrities as you walk down the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

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 between 8-8:30 AM. 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.

San Diego: Night Date Glow Pedal Boat with Downtown Views

San Diego: Night Date Glow Pedal Boat with Downtown Views

Go for a ride in San Diego Bay in an illuminated pedal boat. Take in views of the city skyline, listen to music, and relax on the water. Meet the crew down at the docks, check in, and go through a basic safety orientation before going out on the water. Be guided through San Diego Bay by the crew (in a separate boat) and enjoy the sights. Start at Cup Harbor and pedal your way out to San Diego Bay. Admire stunning nighttime views of downtown San Diego, listen to some music, and cruise around the bay.

Santa Monica: Full Day Bike Rental

Santa Monica: Full Day Bike Rental

Rent a bike for the day and see Santa Monica from a very special perspective. Choose between a comfort bike or a city bike and follow the famous Santa Monica beach bike path. Enjoy unparalleled views of the west coast and take in this unique atmosphere.  See this top beach destination at your own comfortable pace and enjoy views of Santa Monica Pier. You are free to use the bike from the time the store opens to the time it closes. For your safety and security, you will be provided with helmets and locks. The high-quality bikes are kept up-to-date so you know you will be riding a bike that is safe and comfortable.

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Frequently asked questions about Santa Monica, California

What top attractions are a must-see in Santa Monica, California?

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What are the most popular museums and exhibitions in Santa Monica, California?

These are the most popular museums and exhibitions in Santa Monica, California:

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Top Attractions in Santa Monica, California

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Other Sightseeing Options in Santa Monica, California

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