Surf City Tours: Discovering LA and Beyond
Explore Los Angeles in style with open-air bus tours departing from Santa Monica, offering iconic sights and celebrity hotspots.
Surf City Tours, located in Santa Monica, offers open-air bus tours of Los Angeles, Hollywood, and Malibu. With knowledgeable guides and comfortable transportation, it's an ideal way to explore the region's iconic sights and celebrity hotspots.
A brief summary to Surf City Tours
- 1654 Ocean Ave, Santa Monica, California, 90401, US
- +1800-913-9356
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Book your tour in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot.
- Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, as the open-air buses provide limited shade.
- Consider combining your tour with a visit to the Santa Monica Pier or Third Street Promenade for a full day of sightseeing.
- Check for discounts or package deals that may be available, especially for families or groups.
Getting There
-
Walking
Surf City Tours is located at 1654 Ocean Ave, Santa Monica. From the Santa Monica Pier, walk south along Ocean Avenue for approximately 10 minutes. The tour office will be on your left, across from the beach. This is a free and scenic way to reach the destination.
-
Public Transport
From Downtown Santa Monica Station (Metro E Line), take the Big Blue Bus Route 1 or 8 towards the south. Get off at the Ocean Ave & Colorado Ave stop. Walk south along Ocean Avenue for about 3 minutes. The bus fare is $1.10 with a TAP card. The Big Blue Bus provides efficient service in Santa Monica.
-
Ride Share
Request a ride-share service (Uber/Lyft) to 1654 Ocean Ave, Santa Monica. From popular starting points like the Santa Monica Pier or Third Street Promenade, the fare typically ranges from $8-$15, depending on traffic and demand. Drop-off is directly in front of the Surf City Tours office.
-
Parking
If driving, several parking options are available near Surf City Tours. Street parking meters cost around $2.50 per hour, with a 2-hour time limit. Alternatively, use nearby parking structures. The closest one is located on the corner of 2nd and Colorado. The first 90 minutes are free; after which, rates vary from $17-$20. Be aware that parking can be limited, especially during peak hours.
Discover more about Surf City Tours
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Santa Monica Place
0.4 km
Discover the ultimate shopping experience at Santa Monica Place, where luxury meets the laid-back charm of California's coast.
Viceroy Santa Monica
0.4 km
Discover luxury at Viceroy Santa Monica, where modern elegance meets stunning ocean views in the heart of California's iconic beach city.
Santa Monica Civic Auditorium
0.4 km
Discover the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium, a landmark of mid-century modern architecture with a rich history of hosting the Academy Awards and legendary performers, currently awaiting revitalization.
Beach Crossing Staircase
0.5 km
Discover Santa Monica's coastal charm at the Beach Crossing Staircase, a historical landmark offering stunning ocean views and a seamless connection between city life and beach serenity.
Santa Monica Pier
0.5 km
Discover the enchanting Santa Monica Pier, where history meets fun with attractions, stunning views, and vibrant coastal culture.
Historic Belmar Park
0.5 km
Discover Santa Monica's Historic Belmar Park: A poignant memorial and vibrant community space honoring a displaced African American neighborhood through art, history, and recreation.
Will Rogers Highway Marker
0.6 km
Commemorating the iconic Route 66 and the beloved Will Rogers, this Santa Monica marker offers a glimpse into America's open road spirit and a tribute to a legendary entertainer.
Crescent Bay Park
0.6 km
Discover a tranquil coastal haven at Crescent Bay Park in Santa Monica, offering stunning ocean views, lush green spaces, and a rich history as part of the Bay Street Beach Historic District.
Clock Tower Building
0.6 km
Discover Santa Monica's iconic Clock Tower Building: an Art Deco masterpiece with a rich history, offering a blend of architectural beauty and modern attractions in the heart of downtown.
Downtown Santa Monica
0.7 km
Experience the best of Southern California in Downtown Santa Monica: sun-kissed beaches, vibrant shopping, diverse dining, and iconic attractions all steps from the Pacific Ocean.
Horatio Court (Point of Interest - Architecture)
1.0 km
Discover Horatio Court in Santa Monica: An architectural masterpiece by Irving Gill, showcasing early modernist design and a commitment to simple, functional living in Ocean Park.
Santa Monica History Museum
1.0 km
Discover Santa Monica's vibrant history at the Santa Monica History Museum, featuring engaging exhibits and rich cultural stories that celebrate the city's heritage.
Santa Monica Statue
1.0 km
Discover the Santa Monica Statue, a stunning cultural landmark dedicated to the Virgin Mary, nestled in picturesque Palisades Park with breathtaking ocean views.
Edwin Building
1.0 km
Discover the Edwin Building, a historical landmark in Santa Monica showcasing architectural beauty and cultural heritage amidst vibrant surroundings, designed by Paul Revere Williams.
Old Rte 66,
1.1 km
Discover the western end of the legendary Route 66 in Santa Monica, where the iconic highway meets the Pacific Ocean, offering a blend of history, culture, and seaside charm.
Unmissable attractions to see
Tongva Park
0.1 km
Explore the beauty of Tongva Park in Santa Monica, a serene urban oasis with stunning landscapes, vibrant community events, and breathtaking ocean views.
Chess Park
0.1 km
Experience the unique charm of Chess Park in Santa Monica—a seaside destination for chess lovers and beachgoers alike.
Santa Monica Street Art
0.2 km
Explore the colorful murals and artistic installations of Santa Monica Street Art, a vibrant outdoor gallery along California's stunning coastline.
Original Muscle Beach Santa Monica
0.2 km
Discover the legacy of fitness at Original Muscle Beach in Santa Monica, where history meets health in a stunning coastal setting.
Santa Monica Pier Arch
0.2 km
An iconic gateway to seaside fun, the Santa Monica Pier Arch welcomes visitors to a historic landmark filled with amusement park thrills, classic charm, and breathtaking ocean views.
Yacht Harbour, Santa Monica
0.2 km
Experience the stunning Yacht Harbour in Santa Monica, a vibrant coastal gem perfect for relaxation, dining, and water activities.
Heal the Bay Aquarium
0.2 km
Discover marine wonders at the Heal the Bay Aquarium in Santa Monica, where education meets conservation and oceanic beauty awaits.
Santa Monica Pier Carousel
0.2 km
Experience a nostalgic ride on a hand-carved carousel at the Santa Monica Pier, a historic landmark offering timeless fun and breathtaking ocean views for visitors of all ages.
Santa Monica Looff Hippodrome
0.2 km
Discover the charm of the Santa Monica Looff Hippodrome, a historic carousel on the iconic Ocean Front Walk, where nostalgia meets fun.
The Bike Center Santa Monica
0.2 km
Explore Santa Monica's iconic sights and hidden gems with quality bike rentals, tours, and services at The Bike Center!
Sci-Fi World
0.3 km
Explore iconic props and sets from your favorite sci-fi and fantasy films at Sci-Fi World in Santa Monica!
Route 66 End of the Trail Sign
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant Santa Monica Pier, the iconic end of Route 66, featuring amusement rides, stunning ocean views, and a lively atmosphere perfect for tourists.
Route 66 End of the Trail
0.3 km
Experience the end of Route 66 at Santa Monica Pier, where history meets breathtaking ocean views and vibrant culture.
Camera Obscura Art Lab
0.4 km
Explore the enchanting Camera Obscura Art Lab in Santa Monica, where art meets science in a unique interactive experience.
Cayton Children's Museum
0.4 km
Discover creativity and fun at the Cayton Children's Museum – an imaginative paradise for kids in Santa Monica, California.
Essential places to dine
Bruno's Italian Restaurant
0.0 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at Bruno's Italian Restaurant in Santa Monica - where every dish tells a story.
Chez Jay
0.1 km
Experience exceptional steak and seafood at Chez Jay in Santa Monica - where coastal charm meets culinary excellence.
The Lobster
0.1 km
Experience exquisite seafood dining at The Lobster in Santa Monica, where ocean views meet culinary artistry for an unforgettable meal.
RED O CANTINA
0.2 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine with a modern twist at RED O CANTINA in Santa Monica - where vibrant flavors meet coastal charm.
Sol Agave - santa monica
0.2 km
Savor authentic Mexican cuisine at Sol Agave in Santa Monica; indulge in flavorful dishes and an extensive tequila selection by the beach.
Seaside on the Pier
0.2 km
Experience delectable American cuisine at Seaside on the Pier with stunning ocean views and vibrant atmosphere in Santa Monica.
The Albright
0.3 km
Discover fresh seafood delights at The Albright on Santa Monica Pier, where ocean views and delicious flavors unite for an unforgettable dining experience.
True Food Kitchen
0.3 km
Discover healthful dining at True Food Kitchen in Santa Monica - where delicious meets nutritious with diverse menu options for every palate.
Capo
0.3 km
Indulge in authentic Italian cuisine at Capo in Santa Monica - where fine dining meets stunning coastal views.
LouLou Santa Monica
0.4 km
Experience exquisite French-Mediterranean cuisine at LouLou Santa Monica, where stunning views meet culinary excellence in the heart of California's coastline.
Meat On Ocean
0.4 km
Experience culinary excellence at Meat On Ocean - Santa Monica's premier steakhouse with stunning ocean views.
Santa Monica Whaler
0.4 km
Experience coastal dining at its finest at Santa Monica Whaler - where fresh flavors meet stunning ocean views.
THE Curious PALATE
0.4 km
Discover unique American cuisine at The Curious Palate in Santa Monica – where classic dishes meet creative twists in an inviting atmosphere.
1 Pico
0.4 km
Experience exquisite seafood dining at 1 Pico in Santa Monica - where coastal charm meets culinary excellence.
Sugar Palm Santa Monica
0.4 km
Experience culinary excellence at Sugar Palm Santa Monica - where coastal charm meets exquisite dining.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Gift & Souvenirs Santa Monica
0.2 km
Explore Santa Monica's Gift & Souvenirs for unique keepsakes and stylish clothes that capture the essence of California's coastal charm.
66-To-Cali
0.3 km
Explore the vibrant culture of California at 66-To-Cali, a unique gift shop in Santa Monica offering local souvenirs and trendy apparel.
Santa Monica Pier Rock Shop
0.3 km
Explore unique gifts and souvenirs at the Santa Monica Pier Rock Shop, a treasure trove of coastal charm and local craftsmanship.
Oatman Rock Shop
0.3 km
Explore the unique gifts and treasures at Oatman Rock Shop, your go-to destination for souvenirs at the iconic Santa Monica Pier.
Beachcomber Gift Cart
0.3 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at Beachcomber Gift Cart, your go-to gift shop on Santa Monica Pier.
UNIQLO Santa Monica Place
0.4 km
Explore modern fashion for all ages at UNIQLO Santa Monica Place, a stylish clothing store in the heart of Santa Monica.
Free People
0.4 km
Discover bohemian fashion and unique clothing at Free People, a must-visit women's clothing store in the heart of Santa Monica.
Sand 'n Surf
0.4 km
Explore Sand 'n Surf in Santa Monica for unique gifts and souvenirs that capture the essence of California's vibrant coastal culture.
Johnny Was
0.4 km
Explore the unique blend of bohemian fashion and luxurious accessories at Johnny Was in Santa Monica, a must-visit boutique for every style enthusiast.
Pier Gear
0.4 km
Explore Pier Gear at Santa Monica Pier for a diverse selection of unique souvenirs capturing the spirit of California's coastal charm.
LA Gift Stop
0.4 km
Explore LA Gift Stop in Santa Monica for unique gifts and treasures that embody the spirit of California's coastal charm.
Urban Outfitters
0.5 km
Discover Urban Outfitters in Santa Monica, where fashion meets fun with a unique blend of clothing, beauty, and home goods.
Anthropologie
0.6 km
Shop at Anthropologie in Santa Monica for a unique blend of women's fashion, beauty products, and home décor in a stunning coastal setting.
Santa Monica Pier Bait and Tackle (Route 66 Gift Shop)
0.6 km
Explore Santa Monica Pier Bait and Tackle, your go-to gift shop for unique souvenirs and fishing supplies on the iconic Santa Monica Pier.
Wonders of the World
0.7 km
Discover unique souvenirs and handcrafted treasures at the Wonders of the World gift shop in Santa Monica's lively 3rd Street Promenade.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Backyard
0.1 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of The Backyard in Santa Monica, where crafted cocktails and coastal cuisine meet in a stunning outdoor oasis.
Big Dean's Ocean Front Cafe
0.2 km
Experience the best of Santa Monica dining at Big Dean's Ocean Front Cafe, where fresh seafood and stunning ocean views come together.
The Living Room
0.4 km
Experience the elegance of The Living Room in Santa Monica, where coastal charm meets culinary excellence and breathtaking ocean views.
Lanea
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Lanea, a Santa Monica cocktail bar offering delicious Mexican cuisine and live music in a chic beach setting.
Bar Chloe
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and unique cocktails at Bar Chloe, Santa Monica's trendy bar perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
Ye Olde King's Head
0.6 km
Discover the charm of British cuisine at Ye Olde King's Head in Santa Monica, a brewpub and tea house offering a delightful culinary experience.
The Coco Club
0.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Coco Club, Santa Monica's premier rooftop bar and lounge with stunning ocean views and crafted cocktails.
Bodega Wine Bar
1.0 km
Experience the perfect blend of artisan pizzas, fine wines, and a cozy ambiance at Bodega Wine Bar in Santa Monica, California.
Esters Wine Shop & Bar
1.0 km
Experience the finest selection of wines and gourmet bites at Esters Wine Shop & Bar in Santa Monica, where every sip tells a story.
THE BUNGALOW
1.1 km
Discover The Bungalow, a stylish bar and restaurant in Santa Monica offering a unique blend of relaxation, vibrant nightlife, and coastal charm.
Basement Tavern
1.4 km
Basement Tavern: A lively bar and American restaurant in Santa Monica, perfect for great food, drinks, and vibrant nightlife.
Jameson’s Pub
1.5 km
Discover the charm of Ireland at Jameson’s Pub in Santa Monica, where great food, drinks, and hospitality come together in a lively atmosphere.
The Room Santa Monica
1.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Santa Monica at The Room, where exquisite cocktails meet an electrifying dance atmosphere.
Tavern on Main SM
1.7 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Tavern on Main SM in Santa Monica, where delicious grill dishes and a lively bar atmosphere come together.
The Chestnut Club - Santa Monica Bar - Cocktails - Happy Hour 5-7pm
1.7 km
Discover the vibrant cocktail culture at The Chestnut Club, a cozy bar in Santa Monica where crafted drinks and socializing come together.
