Santa Monica guide
Best Sightseeing Tours in Santa Monica
Here's our pick of the best Sightseeing Tours in Santa Monica, ranked by traveler rating. No sponsored spots, just what's actually worth booking.
Honest prices and ratings, never a sponsored spot
Checked against live availability and pricing, last updated October 7, 2026.
How we build thisThis guide includes real bookable activities from our booking partners. Travinora may earn a commission if you book through a link here, at no extra cost to you.
Our top pick for a sightseeing tour in Santa Monica is Los Angeles Private Tour. Travelers rate it 5.0★, and it's the highest-rated option right now. Watching your budget? Santa Monica Pier Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour is a lovely, well-rated option from just $10. Want it just for your group? Private Custom 4.5-Hour Tour of Los Angeles in English or German is a private tour, so you can go at your own pace.
Our picks
Best overall
Best value
Best familyPrivate Los Angeles Photoshoot in Sunny Santa Monica with Personal Photographer
Best premiumWhat to check before you book
- Shared or private
- Private tours cost more but move at your own pace.
- Duration
- Check the real time commitment against the rest of your day.
- Group size
- Smaller groups generally mean more personal attention.
- What's included
- Confirm entry fees, transport, and food are covered where relevant.
- Cancellation policy
- Free cancellation gives you flexibility if plans change.
Compare every option
| Tour | Rating | Duration | Format | Price from |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Los Angeles Private TourBest overall | ★ 5.0 | 3.5 hr | Private | $365 |
| ★ 5.0 | 4.5 hr | Private | $499 | |
| ★ 5.0 | 4.5 hr | Private | $399 | |
| ★ 5.0 | 2 hr | Private | $165 | |
| ★ 5.0 | 4 hr | Private | $2,563 | |
| ★ 5.0 | 3.5 hr | Private | $195 | |
| ★ 5.0 | 5 hr | Private | $455 | |
| ★ 5.0 | 2 hr | Private | $400 | |
| ★ 5.0 | 45 min | Private | $10 | |
| ★ 5.0 | 3 hr | Private | $441 |
What you'll pay
Budget
$10
average · 1 option
Mid-range
$83
average · 3 options
Premium
$483
average · 16 options
Practical advice
- Some of these offer free cancellation, which is worth checking before you commit to one that doesn't.
- A few of these tend to sell out fast, so if your dates are set, it's worth booking a few days ahead.
- Plan for anywhere from 45 min to 5 hr, depending which one you pick, and factor that into the rest of your day.
See every real, bookable experience in Santa Monica in one place.
Browse Santa Monica experiencesFrequently asked questions
What's the best sightseeing tour in Santa Monica?
Los Angeles Private Tour is our top pick. Travelers love it, rating it 5.0★.
How much does a sightseeing tour cost in Santa Monica?
Prices here range from $10 to $2,563 per person, depending on the operator and what's included. You'll see the exact total when you book.
Are there more Sightseeing Tours in Santa Monica than just these?
Yep, we found 20 in Santa Monica in total. We're showing you our top 20, ranked by traveler rating.