Activities, Camps and After School Classes in Santa Monica, CA

Step into Santa Monica’s adventurous side on a 2-hour, 4-mile urban walk that takes you up secret stairways, through canyon paths, and into historic neighborhoods. Along the way, discover unusual coastal trees, striking homes from Craftsman to modern, and hear colorful stories of Hollywood icons and local history. This small-group urban adventure blends movement, discovery, and culture — the perfect way to see Santa Monica from a new perspective. Activity Level: Moderate, includes stair climbs and some elevation Bring: Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and water Age: Suitable for most guests ages 12+ The Garden Safari Urban adventure departs at 10:00 a.m. on Sundays.

The Santa Monica donut tour is our first foray into sunny Southern California. This tour celebrates all things donuts, sunshine, and beachfront fun. Our tour begins at a California institution, Randy’s Donuts. You may know Randy’s from their many appearances across TV, movies, and music videos, specifically for their iconic giant donut. After we’ve tried some of their amazing classics, we’ll move on to our next location, Sidecar Doughnuts. If you are looking for amazing, artisanal donuts - you’ve come to the right place. Our third location is a slightly unexpected stop, but still quintessentially California for churros. And our last stop may change based on the group or the weather, so we won’t ruin the surprise, but the two options we’ve picked out are both equally fantastic.

Enjoy our guided bike adventure through Santa Monica and the historical streets of Venice Beach, California. We’ll explore the sites and history around Santa Monica, and take in some privileged views of the California coast before continuing our bike ride south towards Venice. Although the Italian influenced landscape is widely recognized as the birthplace of skateboarding, Venice Beach is also home to talented musicians, performers, stunning architecture, sculptures and West Coast legal graffiti walls that have become alluring grounds for artists from around the world. Our guides will show you these often overlooked sights and provide interesting and insightful information about the culture, communities and history of the area. Participants are expected to know how to ride a bike. This tour travels through a separated bike path and bike lanes on city streets. *no children under 12 years old.

Learn to surf on one of California’s most iconic beaches with a private lesson at Santa Monica Beach. With over 20 years of experience, Aqua Surf School is one of the longest-running surf schools in Los Angeles. Your private instructor focuses entirely on you, providing hands-on coaching that helps most beginners stand up and ride waves during their first lesson. Whether it’s your first time surfing or you want to improve your skills, the lesson is tailored to your experience level. With the Santa Monica coastline and Pacific Ocean as your backdrop, this is the perfect California surfing experience for travelers looking to try something unforgettable. All equipment is included, so you can simply show up and enjoy the waves.

Alley Kat Adventures is an Austin, TX-based event design company offering city scavenger hunts in 60 cities in the US and Mexico as well as custom events worldwide. Our specially hand-crafted, interactive quests are equal parts tour, cultural experience, creative challenge, detective hunt, & social experiment! Guests get to discover hidden gems off the beaten trail while completing fun missions! Find a cozy cocoon waiting just for you, discover some musical art installations, and people watch at a chess park.

⭐ Top-Rated Vacation Photoshoots 2025 We’re not just photographers, we’re storytellers capturing your holiday exactly as it feels. With over six years of experience photographing travellers around the world, our small team specialises in authentic, natural photography that truly reflects your trip. In Santa Monica, we combine creativity with local knowledge to show you hidden gems, secret angles, and the best light. You’ll not only get beautiful, professional photos but also insider tips to make the most of your time here. We’re proud to be recognised among the top-rated photography tours of 2025, trusted by travellers worldwide for our relaxed style and stunning results.

Explore Hollywood on this guided bus tour with stops at the most iconic landmarks of LA. Be astonished by the lavishness of the City of Angels as you stroll down the Rodeo Drive and Hollywood Walk of Fame, marveling at stunning TCL Chinese Theatres. Drive through the Sunset Strip, which is an LA nightlife nexus known from the 1960-70s, and explore the most iconic venues along the way. Dive deeper into the historic part of the city and learn how the place has changed since its foundation in 1781. Hear captivating, eye-opening facts and details as you ride. Spend your time with your enthusiastic, knowledgeable guide who will reveal another Hollywood for you. • No need to spend time worrying about transportation • Drive from one landmark to another while listening to your enthusiastic local guide • Take a chance to visit all the iconic sights and learn more about them • Feel the vibe of the city inside the traffic, admiring the stunning views

Discover the glitz and glamour of Los Angeles on this 3.5-hour open bus tour featuring celebrity homes and iconic landmarks. Starting from Santa Monica, the journey takes you through Beverly Hills, where you can snap photos at the Beverly Hills Sign and stroll along Rodeo Drive. Explore the Hollywood Walk of Fame with a 30-minute stop, and cruise down Mulholland Drive to view the homes of stars like Leonardo DiCaprio and Katy Perry. This tour combines breathtaking sights with expert commentary, making it a must for fans of Hollywood culture and celebrity life. - 3.5-hour tour departing from Santa Monica - Stops at Beverly Hills, Rodeo Drive, and the Hollywood Walk of Fame - Open-air bus for panoramic views and a live English-speaking guide - Family-friendly with infant seats available upon request

Start your Santa Monica day the right way with AFK Food Tours. In just 2 hours, you’ll cruise an easy beach-town route and hit four of the area’s most crave-worthy dessert spots—no guessing, no filler. You’ll get samples + full scoops at every stop, so you’re not just tasting. you’re actually getting fed. This is built for maximum variety: bright, refreshing flavors, creamy classics, and a couple “only-in-LA” creations that make you pause mid-bite. It’s relaxed, social, and snack-heavy—perfect for visitors, locals, date days, and friend groups. Between stops, your guide keeps it smooth with quick local context and smart recommendations so you finish full, happy, and already knowing where to head next. Group size is intentionally limited to keep it easy and never crowded.

What sets this Los Angeles tour apart is the FULL integrated multimedia experience that turns sightseeing into a cinematic journey rather than a traditional bus tour. Instead of simply passing landmarks, guests experience Los Angeles through a curated blend of real-time storytelling, film clips, music, and visual media that bring each stop to life. The experience is delivered inside luxury Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vehicles equipped with high-quality screens and sound systems, ensuring every guest has a clear, engaging view of the content. Unlike standard sightseeing tours that rely only on commentary, this approach combines visual storytelling, soundtracks, and expert narration to create a deeper emotional connection to Los Angeles. Guests don’t just see the city—they experience its movies, music, and legends as they happen around them. It’s this fusion of guided touring + cinematic media + real-world landmarks that makes the experience truly unique in Los Angeles.

Experience surfing on land and snowboard at the beach. This is an unforgettable, one of a kind activity that will be sure to make memories that will last a lifetime.

Explore the vibrant essence of Los Angeles on this 7-hour open-air bus tour that captures the city's most iconic sights. Visit four must-see locations including the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Beverly Hills' Rodeo Drive, the historic Original Farmers Market, and the stunning Griffith Observatory for panoramic views. With a live guide sharing expert insights, this is the perfect way to experience LA's landmarks without the hassle of navigation. Ideal for first-time visitors, this tour combines culture, entertainment, and culinary delights in a single day. - Full-day open-air bus tour featuring Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and Santa Monica - Four one-hour stops at top attractions for in-depth exploration - Enjoy lunch at the original Farmers Market - Live expert guide providing insights throughout the journey

Your Ticket to The Hollywood Hills on this Interactive Sightseeing Tour on an Open Air Bus with a Fun Driver Guide. Your Drive Guide will take you past Hollywood, Mulholland Drive, Celebrity Homes, Beverly Hills, Rodeo Drive, and more! Keep your cameras ready for great photo opportunities, and you may spot a Celebrity! Your Driver Guide will take you through Hollywood to The Hollywood Hills. You will get great views of The Hollywood Sign and The City of LA as you cruise down Mulholland Drive. You will pass by Celebrity Homes and Filming Locations on your way to Beverly Hills. When you get to Beverly Hills, you will get a 10-15-minute stop at The Beverly Hills Sign for pictures and a restroom break. We will finish with Rodeo Drive, West Hollywood, and take the Sunset Strip Back to Hollywood. This is a two-hour tour with traffic permitting. Now offering a departure from Santa Monica, with stops in Beverly Hills/Rodeo Drive, and the Hollywood Walk of Fame. (3.5 Hours)

What sets our luxury surf experience apart is the unmatched level of care and expertise we bring to every moment of your trip. As lifelong local surfers and elite coaches, we combine world-class instruction with insider access to California’s most stunning waves and coastal gems. From the moment we pick you up, every detail is handled — allowing you to fully relax, unplug, and immerse yourself in the joy of surfing. Whether it’s your very first time on a board or you’re an experienced surfer seeking refinement, we’ll tailor your itinerary to your exact needs and desires. Expect thoughtful touches, seamless logistics, and a pace that’s all about you. Our goal isn’t just to give you a great trip — it’s to craft an unforgettable, stress-free experience that you’ll remember for a lifetime.

Kapowui, was awarded best surf school in Venice beach for the last 5 years in a row. Kapowui is a family run business and and an icon of southern California. We live, eat, and dream surfing and teach surfing because we want to share our love and stoke for the sport. This is a life choice for us and what gives our lives meaning. All of Kapowui's instructors are imbued with the Aloha spirit, live within blocks of the beach (4 of them live in surf vans), surf every day and have many years teaching experience. When we are doing a lesson with you, we are 100% focused and in the moment with you. At Kapowui we truly care about your experience. Whether surfing is a one time bucket list item or a new sport you want to pick up, we will have you up riding waves, 100% guaranteed! Additionally you will be immersed in the surf culture, giving you the opportunity to feel the true surfer vibe, while learning a skill you can use forever.

If you’re looking to fit the most Los Angeles photo ops into the shortest time, this private photo session was made for you. You’ll be awe-struck by the amazing views and panoramic vistas in Santa Monica. You won’t believe the memories you packed into just 2 hours! For art, architecture, culture, great food and nature, there’ s no contest in all California. Get that classic postcard picture of Southern California and experience the charm of a beachside city of Santa Monica. • Marvel at the Santa Monica Pier and Palisades Park • Meditate at the idyllic and well-designed Tongva Park • Take in the stunning views of the ocean and Santa Monica Mountains • Fall in love with the picture-perfect L.A.’s coastline and Third Street Promenade • Enjoy personalized attention and a tailored itinerary • Ideal for Instagrammers, bloggers, and all photo lovers • A private experience so you can customize your experience and schedule • 50 professionally captured and edited photos

Experience the vibrant beachside city of Santa Monica with Delicious Dish Tours. While enjoying views of the ocean, the mountains, and the famous pier, taste some of the best food SoCal has to offer. Between tastings, learn about the history of this hip seaside resort town from an expert guide. On this tour you will: * Enjoy 6-8 stops at top-rated eateries * Sample unique dishes beyond typical tourist fare * Delight your inner child with an adventure on Santa Monica Pier * Learn how a 1970s drought created modern skateboarding culture * Sip soup from the juiciest Chinese dumplings * See where Old Hollywood stars drank illegal liquor during Hollywood’s Golden Age * See where SoCal fitness culture got its start Perfect for food lovers, beach enthusiasts, and those seeking to experience Santa Monica's unique blend of laid-back coastal vibes and sophisticated cuisine.

A group surf lesson in the iconic Santa Monica offers the perfect blend of fun and learning, whether you're a complete novice or looking to refine your skills. With Aqua Surf School, you'll start on the sand with essential ocean safety and surf etiquette tips before hitting the waves under the guidance of experienced instructors. Enjoy a supportive atmosphere where small group sizes ensure personalized coaching and plenty of wave-catching opportunities. With over 25 years of experience and a reputation for excellence, Aqua Surf guarantees a memorable surfing experience, complete with all necessary equipment and a focus on safety.

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 and entertaining driver-guide gives you an insider look at LA culture, history, landmarks, and hot spots. This tour is an excellent mix of time spent on the bus, sightseeing, and exploring different stops yourself! (NEW) You can now choose to begin your tour in Hollywood or Santa Monica! (Your first stop will either be Santa Monica or Hollywood, depending on where your tour begins) 1st Stop: Beverly Hills & Rodeo Drive (30 Minutes) 2nd stop: Santa Monica Pier or Hollywood (45 minutes) 3rd Stop: The Grove & Farmer's Market (60 Minutes) 4th Stop: The Griffith Observatory (30 Minutes) The ONLY Half-Day Tour in LA! Unlike competitor tours, which last 7-9 hours (or longer with hotel pick-ups), we're proud to offer a streamlined, half-day option that gives you all the highlights without taking up your entire day!

Experience a one-of-a-kind sightseeing adventure through the famous neighborhoods of Los Angeles on this 5.5-hour VIP-style tour. Starting from the Santa Monica Pier with our fun and entertaining driver guide, you’ll travel in a premium mini-coach to see LA’s most iconic landmarks and neighborhoods, with some stops along the way, all in a convenient half-day format. Stops: 1. Beverly Hills & Rodeo Drive for 30 minutes, 2. Hollywood Walk of Fame for 45 Minutes. 3. The Grove & Farmers Market for 60 minutes. 4. The Griffith Observatory for 30 Minutes. (FYI: The Inside of the Griffith Observatory is closed on Mondays. You will still experience the outside, the outlook, and the Hollywood Sign viewpoint.)

Experience Hollywood’s most popular sightseeing tour, which is now starting from Santa Monica! Discover the glitz and glamour of Los Angeles on our Hollywood Sightseeing and Celebrity Homes Tour! Starting and ending at the iconic Santa Monica Pier, this 3.5-hour journey takes you on an unforgettable adventure through LA’s most famous neighborhoods and landmarks, all from the comfort of an open-air bus. Your ticket to the Hollywood Hills on Santa Monica's ONLY Celebrity Homes Tour. Tour Highlights: • Cruise through Hollywood, Hollywood Hills, The Sunset Strip, West Hollywood, and Beverly Hills. • Marvel at stunning celebrity homes and legendary filming locations. • Explore LA’s iconic hot spots and discover why this city is a global entertainment hub. Exciting Stops Along the Way: • Beverly Hills Sign @ Rodeo Drive (30 minutes) • Hollywood Walk of Fame (30 minutes)