Santa Monica is a fantastic place for wine tours — but not just because of its wineries (which are few). Instead, it’s the city’s unique blend of coastal scenery, luxurious waterfront living, and laid-back vibe that makes it a prime spot for enjoying wine in style. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking to relax with a glass in hand, Santa Monica offers experiences that combine stunning views and memorable moments. Our favorites include a private e-boat cruise that combines sea lions and wine with a touch of eco-consciousness, and a vintage VW tour that whisks you along Malibu’s coast in classic style. These options stand out for their personal touch and scenic settings.
If you’re after a quick getaway that blends wildlife watching with wine tasting, the Luxury Shared E-Boat Cruise offers an excellent value, with the chance to spot seals, sea lions, and enjoy cheeses and wines in a relaxed environment. For those craving a more intimate experience, the Romantic Luxury Boat Cruise combines wildlife and fine wines on a cozy boat perfect for couples. Or, if a vintage vibe is more your style, the Vintage VW Hippie Tour to Malibu takes you along the coast in a classic camper van, with stops at Malibu Pier and a winery for tastings.
Below, you’ll find a detailed look at each of these top-rated wine tours, helping you decide which fits your mood, budget, and time best.
1. Private Luxury E-Boat Cruise with Wine, Charcuterie & Sea Lions Spotting
At number 1 on our list, this private electric boat cruise combines luxury with the chance to enjoy wine, cheese, and charcuterie while cruising around Marina del Rey. The boat itself is eco-friendly, making it an appealing choice for environmentally conscious travelers. The 2-hour tour starts from the Santa Monica area but takes you through the scenic waterways of Marina del Rey, where you’ll get up close to some local sea lions and admire waterfront homes.
What makes this tour special is the balance of elegance and intimacy — perfect for bachelorette parties, family outings, or romantic celebrations. The guide will take you to prime wildlife-viewing spots, and the included snacks and two glasses of wine make sure you’re well taken care of. Reviewers love the friendly captain, with one noting how “Shaun waited for us through traffic and was so welcoming,” and others enjoying the view of luxury yachts and playful sea lions.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a luxurious, private experience that’s ideal if you want to skip crowds and indulge in a personalized, scenic cruise.
2. Private Vintage VW Hippie Tour to Malibu with wine tasting
For around $195, this 4-hour tour takes you along Malibu in a vintage 1972 VW camper van, capturing the spirit of California’s surf and mountain landscapes. The tour includes stops at iconic spots like Malibu Pier and a local winery, with opportunities for wine tasting and sightseeing. You can choose between morning or afternoon departures, making it flexible for your schedule.
What sets this tour apart is the roaring 70s vibe and the stunning coastal vistas. Guests rave about how they felt like “celebrities riding in style,” and the guide, Alexey, keeps things engaging with his fun personality and local insights. The itinerary also includes famous surf spots and beautiful mountain views, giving you a full picture of Malibu’s natural charm.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect for those who love retro style, scenic drives, and wine in a relaxed, charismatic setting.
3. Luxury Shared E-Boat Cruise with Wine, Charcuterie & Sea Lions Spotting
This shared 2-hour cruise offers excellent value at just $119 per person. It departs from Marina del Rey and takes guests through the calm waterways, with the chance to see sea lions, seals, and a variety of seabirds. The electric Duffy boat provides a quiet, smooth ride, with meat, cheese, fruit, and wine included to enjoy during the trip.
Guests appreciate the friendly captain Michel, who was described as “very personable,” and the overall relaxing vibe of the tour. While some noted that wildlife sightings can vary, the experience of cruising past luxury yachts and boat houses makes it worthwhile. It’s well-suited for those seeking a casual, social outing with good drinks and wildlife viewing.
Bottom Line: An affordable, laid-back tour that combines wildlife, water, and wine in a relaxed setting.
4. Romantic Luxury Boat Cruise with Wine Cheese Sea Lion Tours
Designed for couples, this intimate 1-2 hour cruise offers a chance to enjoy calm waters with wine, cheese, and wildlife sightings. The focus is on creating a romantic atmosphere, with views of playful sea lions, stunning sunsets, and the tranquility of Marina del Rey.
The tour is highly rated, with guests praising the calming environment and friendly guides. The experience combines a wine and charcuterie setup with the opportunity to spot dolphins and seabirds. It’s perfect for celebrating anniversaries or special nights out in a cozy, elegant setting.
Bottom Line: A top pick for couples wanting a romantic, scenic, and wildlife-filled evening on the water.
5. Venice Beach & Malibu View Boat Cruiser – Music, Wine & Sealions
This 2-3 hour cruise is great for groups and parties who want lively entertainment with beautiful views. It features karaoke and music, with the chance to sing along while enjoying wine and wildlife sightings. The boat departs from Marina del Rey and offers excellent group activity options.
Though only rated by two reviews, visitors describe it as “the best karaoke entertainment in LA” and a fun, energetic way to experience Venice Beach and Malibu from the water. It’s a good choice if you want a more lively, interactive experience with scenic coastlines and social fun.
Bottom Line: Ideal for groups or anyone wanting to combine singing, wine, and scenic views in a lively setting.
6. Marina Del Rey: Romantic Cruise, Wine, Cheese, Sealions
This cozy 2-hour cruise is tailored for those seeking a romantic escape in Marina del Rey. It includes wine, cheese, and charcuterie while focusing on wildlife watching — especially sea lions and other marine life. The tour boasts a luxury yacht lifestyle vibe with personalized service.
Reviewers highlight the charming captain and the serene environment, perfect for celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, or just a relaxing day. It’s an intimate experience that balances scenic beauty and wildlife viewing with comfort and elegance.
Bottom Line: A refined, romantic choice with a focus on wildlife and luxurious surroundings.
7. Vintage VW Hippie Shared Tour to Malibu with Wine Tasting
For $199, this shared 4-hour tour takes you in a vintage VW camper van along Malibu’s coast. It features stops at Point Dume, Malibu Pier, and a local winery for tastings. It’s a social experience, ideal for those who enjoy meeting others while exploring scenic spots.
Guests praise the beautiful views, the smooth ride, and the guide’s friendly manner. The tour gives a comprehensive look at Malibu’s coastline, mountains, and vineyards, with the Pacific Coast Highway as your route. It’s a fun, relaxed way to combine sightseeing and wine tasting.
Bottom Line: Perfect if you want a longer, social, and scenic road trip with wine included.
$199.00 per person
8. Vintage VW Hippie Shared Tour to Malibu with Wine Tasting
This shared 4-hour tour offers a similar experience to the previous VW tour but with a more modest rating of 3/5. It includes stops at Malibu Pier and Pacific Coast Highway with a visit to a winery. It’s suitable for travelers on a budget or those wanting a more social, less personalized experience.
The reviews are mixed, but the scenic stops are consistent, and it provides a chance to see Malibu’s coastline in a fun vehicle. It’s best suited for those who prioritize cost savings and are flexible about a slightly less polished experience.
Bottom Line: A budget-friendly option for vintage VW lovers willing to overlook some inconsistencies.
$199.00 per person
How to Choose the Right Santa Monica Wine Tour
When deciding among these options, consider your budget, interests, and the type of experience you seek. For a private, luxurious day with personalized service, the Private Luxury E-Boat Cruise is ideal. If you prefer a more social, affordable experience with wildlife, the Luxury Shared E-Boat fits the bill.
For romantic getaways, the Romantic Luxury Boat Cruise offers intimacy and wildlife, while the vintage VW tours provide a laid-back, scenic drive in Malibu, perfect for vintage car enthusiasts or those seeking a longer exploration.
Think about how much time you want to spend — from one-hour cruises to full-day adventures — and whether you want to include wine tasting at a winery or enjoy lively entertainment with karaoke.
Final Thoughts
Santa Monica offers a surprising variety of wine-related experiences that combine coastal views, wildlife, and a touch of luxury or retro charm. Whether you choose a private boat tailored for romance, a shared eco-friendly cruise, or a vintage VW adventure, each provides a memorable way to enjoy California’s wine and water culture. Planning ahead and booking early is always wise, especially for popular tours during peak seasons.
For a relaxed yet scenic wine escape, these tours give you options that suit different tastes and budgets — so go ahead, clink glasses and enjoy the view.
Happy planning, and cheers to a fantastic wine adventure in Santa Monica!