Los Angeles: Santa Monica and Venice Beach Segway Tour

A fun and unique way to experience Santa Monica and Venice Beach is by taking this 2-hour Segway tour for $199 per person. It’s run by Another Side Tours and takes you along iconic waterfronts, through lively neighborhoods, and past famous landmarks. You’ll glide along the Santa Monica Boardwalk, visit the Santa Monica Pier, cruise through Venice’s eclectic streets, and even stop at the California Heritage Museum.

What we love most about this tour are two specific details: first, how accessible it is for beginners, thanks to professional safety instructions and helmets, and second, the chance to see Venice Beach’s bohemian architecture and street performers up close. Plus, the scenic coastline views from the beachfront are genuinely memorable.

A possible consideration is the requirement to wear closed shoes—flip-flops or sandals are not allowed—so pack accordingly. Also, this tour is best suited for those comfortable standing and balancing on a Segway, but even newbies tend to get the hang of it quickly with the guidance provided.

This experience is ideal for travelers who love a mix of outdoor adventure, cultural sights, and relaxed beach vibes. Families, first-timers wanting a fun overview of LA’s beach scene, and those seeking a laid-back, engaging activity will find this tour a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Scenic Coastal Ride: Glide along Santa Monica and Venice Beach waterfronts, enjoying iconic ocean views.
• Accessible for Beginners: Professional guides provide safety instruction, making it easy for first-timers to hop on a Segway.
• Famous Landmarks: See the Santa Monica Pier, Muscle Beach, and Venice canals, blending history with bohemian charm.
• Authentic Local Vibe: Experience Venice’s artsy galleries and street performers, giving you a real feel for the neighborhood.
• Value for Money: The 2-hour guided tour includes snacks and beverages, offering a balanced mix of fun and comfort.
• Limited to Ages 8 and Up: Suitable for families, with safety and beginner-friendly instructions.

Setting the Scene

When you first arrive at the beachfront entrance of the Casa Del Mar Hotel, the vibe is immediately relaxed. With the ocean breeze, the sound of waves, and the bustling promenade, you understand why this stretch of coast is world-famous. The tour starts here, near the toll booth south of the hotel, with a friendly guide ready to equip you with a helmet and give safety instructions. At just $199 per person for two hours, this activity offers a surprisingly affordable way to cover a lot of ground and see the highlights of these two diverse neighborhoods.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Two features make this Segway adventure particularly appealing. First, the professional guidance ensures even newcomers feel confident on their Segway, which is crucial given the busy, sometimes crowded promenade. As one reviewer from Italy put it, “Guide very engaging and helpful,” making the experience both safe and enjoyable.

Second, the scenic routes—gliding along the beachfront and through Venice’s canals—offer a perspective that’s hard to match on foot or by car. The combination of ocean views, street art, and historic sites makes this more than just a ride; it’s a mini sightseeing tour with a twist.

What to Expect on the Tour

The tour packs in several must-see sights, broken down into manageable stops and smooth rides.

Santa Monica Highlights

Starting at the Santa Monica Pier, you’ll see the world-famous ferris wheel and bustling boardwalk. The pier itself is a hub of activity with street performers, arcade games, and food stalls—perfect for snapping photos or just soaking up the lively atmosphere. The Ocean Front Walk is lined with shops, galleries, and beach volleyball courts, giving you a taste of California’s relaxed lifestyle.

From there, your guide will lead you along the waterfront, with sweeping views of the Pacific. You’ll pass Muscle Beach, an iconic outdoor gym that’s been featured in countless movies, and get to see the seaside real estate with its luxurious homes and decks overlooking the ocean.

Venice Beach Charm

After exploring Santa Monica, the tour moves through Venice’s bohemian streets, laid out by developer Abbot Kinney as a replica of a Northern Italian city. Here, the architecture is quirky—think colorful houses, murals, and eclectic art galleries. The Venice Canals, inspired by Italian waterways, offer an almost Venice-like scene, a tranquil contrast to the lively beach.

On Venice Beach itself, you’ll see street performers and skateboarders at the famous Venice Boardwalk. This area is known for its hippie vibe and bohemian art scene. One reviewer noted, “The guides made it really interesting for us and our teenage kids,” highlighting how engaging and fun the experience is for families.

The Highlights’ Unique Appeal

The California Heritage Museum is an unexpected bonus—a chance to learn more about the region’s history and culture. The guide will point out intriguing architecture and explain the area’s development, adding depth to your experience.

Expert Guides and Safety

Safety is a priority, especially for first-timers. The guides demonstrate how to operate the Segway confidently, providing helmets and safety instructions. One guest from the Netherlands shared, “In the morning, it was still quiet, and the guide tore with us over the paths, making it a very pleasant morning.” This emphasis on safety and comfort helps travelers enjoy their ride without worry.

Group Size and Flexibility

The tour typically runs with small groups, often just a couple or a family, which enhances personalized attention. If you’re lucky, you might even get a private tour, as one reviewer experienced. Tours are available in the morning and afternoon, offering flexibility.

Value and Convenience

While $199 might seem a bit steep for two hours, the overall value lies in the combination of scenic views, guided commentary, and the fun activity of riding a Segway—a novel way to explore a busy, lively area. Drinks and snacks are included, and the meeting point at a convenient beachfront hotel makes for an easy start.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

A key point to remember is that sandals or flip-flops are not allowed, so dress in closed shoes for safety and comfort. Also, the tour is not suitable for children under 8, limiting younger family members. Lastly, because it’s an outdoor activity near the water, you might find it less ideal on very windy or rainy days, though weather is generally mild.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for first-time visitors wanting an overview of Santa Monica and Venice Beach without the fatigue of walking. It’s also an excellent choice for families or groups of friends seeking a memorable, active outing. If you love coastal scenery, quirky neighborhoods, and guided local insights, you’ll find this tour particularly rewarding.

Starting Point at Casa Del Mar Hotel

The tour kicks off right at the beachfront entrance of this iconic hotel, a point easily reachable with nearby parking costing between $7 and $12. From here, you’ll be fitted with your helmet and given a safety briefing, a process that most reviews highlight as friendly and reassuring.

Santa Monica Pier and Ocean Front Walk

Your first stops will be at the Santa Monica Pier, where you’ll see the famous ferris wheel and enjoy the lively atmosphere. Expect to spend about 20-30 minutes here, perfect for photos and absorbing the classic California beach scene. The guide will share tidbits of history and local lore, making this stop both fun and informational.

Along the Waterfront

Next, you’ll glide along the boardwalk, passing muscle beach and the beachfront homes. The views of the Pacific Ocean are breathtaking—waves crashing, kite surfers, and sunbathers all creating a vibrant backdrop. The glide here is smooth, with the guide ensuring everyone is comfortable, which is especially appreciated by those new to Segways.

Venice Beach and Canals

As you cross into Venice, the landscape shifts from touristy to artsy. Here, you’ll see the Canals, designed as a nod to Venice, Italy, offering a quiet, scenic walk on water. The street performers and colorful murals on the Venice Boardwalk add a lively, creative energy.

Exploring Venice’s Unique Architecture

The tour includes a pass-by of Venice’s famous homes and galleries, showcasing the neighborhood’s bohemian flair. The guide points out architectural features and art installations, giving you a richer understanding of Venice’s underground arts scene.

Ending the Tour

The tour concludes back at the starting point, with plenty of time to linger or explore independently. Many travelers comment on how the experience has provided both a quick overview and a fun memory of their Los Angeles trip.

From feedback, one thing consistently praised is the knowledgeable, friendly guides who enhance the ride with interesting facts and humor. “Luce, our guide, was outstanding,” says a recent traveler, emphasizing how guides can make or break the experience.

Many reviewers also appreciate the scenic views—the ocean, Venice’s canals, and lively street scenes—making this more than just a ride but a chance to see the city from a unique perspective. The inclusion of snacks and beverages adds a touch of comfort, making it suitable even for those with modest appetites.

Some mention the ease of learning the Segway, with the safety briefing and slow start alleviating nerves. The small group sizes make the experience intimate and flexible, allowing guides to answer questions and tailor the ride to the group’s pace.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Sum Up

The Santa Monica and Venice Beach Segway Tour offers a delightful blend of scenery, culture, and fun. It’s especially perfect for travelers who want a light, active introduction to LA’s iconic beaches and bohemian neighborhoods. The guided experience ensures you cover the highlights comfortably, all while enjoying the California sunshine from a fresh vantage point.

While it’s not for those who prefer walking or biking, if you’re open to trying a Segway—especially with a friendly guide—you’ll find this tour a memorable and engaging way to experience LA’s coast.

FAQ

• Is this tour suitable for beginners?
  Yes, the tour is designed to be beginner-friendly, with safety instructions and a practice session before heading out.

• What is the minimum age to participate?
  You must be at least 8 years old to join the tour.

• Can I wear flip-flops or sandals?
  No, closed shoes are required for safety reasons.

• Does the tour include food or drinks?
  Snacks and beverages are included in the price, making it comfortable for a quick refreshment break.

• Where do I meet the tour guide?
  At the beachfront entrance of the Casa Del Mar Hotel at 1910 Ocean Way, near the toll booth south of the hotel.

• Is parking easy?
  Yes, there is a cash parking lot right next to the hotel, costing between $7 and $12.

• Is the tour conducted in multiple languages?
  The tour is available in English and Spanish, with live guides.

• What if I need to cancel?
  You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

In summary, this Segway tour offers a lively, scenic, and informative way to explore Santa Monica and Venice Beach. It’s a fantastic option for those wanting to combine fun, sightseeing, and a touch of adventure—perfect for first-timers and families alike.

You can check availability for your dates here: