Santa Monica is famous for its sandy beaches, lively pier, and laid-back California vibe. What makes it especially appealing for walking tours is the compact size and the rich mix of sights packed into a walkable area. Whether you’re interested in learning about its early settlers, snapping photos of the Pacific, or hunting for hidden treasures, Santa Monica offers options that fit different interests and styles. Exploring on foot gives you a chance to really soak in the atmosphere, see the details, and enjoy the fresh ocean air, all while learning a bit about the city’s evolution from a quiet beach town to a world-renowned resort.
While many cities offer guided tours, Santa Monica’s walking options stand out for their focus on authentic experiences—whether that’s uncovering art deco architecture, mastering photography, or playing a city-wide game. These tours are perfect for those who appreciate a relaxed pace and want to get beyond just the usual sightseeing. Ready to discover Santa Monica through local stories, photo techniques, or a fun scavenger hunt? Read on to find the tour that suits your style.
1. Santa Monica Downtown Walking Tour
At number 1 on our list is the Santa Monica Downtown Walking Tour, which has earned a perfect 5.0 rating from a single review. For $40 per person, you get about 2 hours of engaging storytelling that covers Santa Monica’s early development and modern attractions. This tour is especially appealing if you’re curious about how the city grew from explorers and visionaries to the bustling seaside resort it is today.
What makes this tour stand out is the diverse range of stops. You’ll learn about Santa Monica’s beach culture, see Original Muscle Beach, and visit the end point of Route 66—a piece of Americana that still draws visitors. The tour also takes in the most popular outdoor shopping center, a striking Art Deco hotel with a hidden speakeasy, and the statue of Saint Monica, which offers stunning ocean vistas. Plus, you’ll explore an early attraction that helped shape the city and a 2013 city park, showing Santa Monica’s ongoing growth.
Tour guide Rachel has a knack for storytelling, making history come alive while keeping a comfortable pace. Reviewers praise her knowledge and engaging manner, with one calling it a “great trip” and recommending it for anyone wanting a well-rounded introduction. The tour is perfect for first-timers wanting a rundown in a limited time.
Bottom Line: If you want an informative, well-paced introduction to Santa Monica’s history and highlights, this tour offers excellent value and a friendly guide.
2. Santa Monica Walking Photo Class
Number 2 is the Santa Monica Walking Photo Class, which costs $50 for about 2.5 hours. This tour is ideal if you’re eager to improve your photography skills while enjoying Santa Monica’s scenic views. The class begins at the Camera Obscura Building, where you’ll learn the basics of DSLR camera operation, visual theory, and composition from a professional commercial photographer.
What makes this experience unique is the focus on practical skill-building. After the classroom component, the group heads out to practice on the beach and pier, applying what they’ve learned in a real-world setting. The instructor offers personalized feedback to help you better understand how to capture the best shots—whether that’s nailing your aperture, ISO, shutter speed, or just framing a compelling scene.
While reviews are mixed—some find it too basic or rushed—the overall impression is positive, with participants appreciating the instructor’s humor and clarity. One reviewer said they’ve been practicing since and feel more confident in their photography.
Bottom Line: A great choice if you want to combine sightseeing with a hands-on photography lesson. It’s especially suitable for beginners or those wanting to refine their skills in a beautiful setting.
3. Santa Monica Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game
For those seeking a more playful approach, the Santa Monica Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game offers a fun, interactive way to explore. Priced at $24.50 per person and lasting about 2 hours, this tour transforms sightseeing into a city-wide puzzle. While it currently has no reviews, the concept is straightforward: you follow clues through the bustling 3rd Street Promenade, enjoy the lively shops and restaurants, and make your way to the beachfront and the Santa Monica Pier.
What makes this option appealing is its flexibility—you can explore at your own pace and engage with Santa Monica’s urban charm while solving riddles and completing challenges. It’s perfect for families, groups of friends, or anyone who prefers an active, game-based experience over traditional guided tours.
Since this is a self-guided style adventure, it offers good value for budget travelers who want to customize their day and combine sightseeing with fun. Just be prepared for some walking and a bit of puzzle-solving.
Bottom Line: If you’re looking for a casual, entertaining way to see Santa Monica with a group, this scavenger hunt is a lively and affordable option.
How to Choose Your Santa Monica Walking Tour
Choosing the right walking tour depends on your personal interests, budget, and the kind of experience you want. If you’re keen on learning about Santa Monica’s history and seeing landmarks, the Downtown Walking Tour offers an in-depth look and engaging storytelling. For a more creative and hands-on experience, the Photo Class is perfect if you want to improve your photography skills while capturing the city’s seaside charm. Those who prefer a lighthearted, interactive adventure might enjoy the Scavenger Hunt, especially if traveling with family or friends.
Consider your budget—the scavenger hunt is the most affordable, while the photo class provides a more instructional experience. Think about your interest level—history, photography, or fun exploration—and your fitness level, as all tours involve walking but vary in duration and activity style.
Booking early is wise, especially in peak seasons, to secure your spot and ensure you get your preferred time. For the photo class, check the weather and bring your camera gear; for the walking tours, be prepared for a mix of sightseeing and storytelling.
Final Thoughts
Santa Monica offers a variety of ways to see and experience its highlights on foot. The Santa Monica Downtown Walking Tour is excellent for history lovers and first-time visitors who want a thorough overview. If photography sparks your interest, the Photo Class combines learning with scenic views. For a playful, budget-friendly outing, the Scavenger Hunt adds a fun twist to exploring.
Each offers a unique perspective on Santa Monica, so think about what suits your travel style and interests best. Regardless of your choice, booking in advance will help you make the most of your time in this iconic California destination. Happy exploring!