Small-Group Electric Bike Tour of Santa Monica and Venice

This experience made our article of The 15 Top Bike Tours In Los Angeles: Which Is Best?.

Experience the Best of Santa Monica and Venice Beach on an Electric Bike Tour

Imagine cruising along Southern California’s most famous beaches on a comfortable electric bike, with the ocean breeze in your hair and a guide sharing stories about the area’s hidden gems and well-known landmarks. For just $89 per person, this small-group electric bike tour lasts about three hours, covering the highlights of Santa Monica and Venice Beach. Led by knowledgeable guides, like Barb or Steph, you’ll skip the bus crowds and experience these iconic neighborhoods at a relaxed, personal pace.

What we really love about this tour is the freedom of the electric bikes—you can pedal as much or as little as you want, which makes it accessible for most fitness levels. Plus, the stops are thoughtfully chosen to showcase the most photogenic spots and interesting sights, from the Santa Monica Pier to the Venice Canals. On the flip side, a possible consideration is the weather—since the tour is outdoors, rain can cancel the ride, though you can reschedule or get a full refund if that happens.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want to combine scenic coastal views with a bit of history and local flavor, all without the constraints of a traditional bus tour. If you’re comfortable on two wheels and eager to explore at your own pace, you’ll find this small-group experience both fun and informative.

Key Points

• Flexible riding options with pedal or electric assist
• Expert guides sharing local stories and history
• Beautiful stops including Santa Monica Pier, Venice Canals, and Muscle Beach
• All-inclusive price covers bikes, helmets, and bottled water
• Small group size maximizes personal attention and safety
• Ideal for active travelers comfortable riding a bike and ages 13+

A Deep Dive into the Santa Monica & Venice Beach Electric Bike Tour

If you’re looking for a way to see Los Angeles’s coastlines beyond the usual tourist spots, this electric bike tour is a practical and enjoyable choice. It’s especially appealing for those wanting to experience the laid-back California vibe without sacrificing comfort or convenience.

Starting Point and Duration

The tour begins at 214 Pier Ave in Santa Monica, a location that’s easy to reach via public transportation and close to many hotels and attractions. The entire experience lasts about three hours, including stops, which makes it manageable even on a busy sightseeing day.

What the Tour Covers

The itinerary is carefully curated to include a good mix of scenic views, iconic landmarks, and unique neighborhoods. We loved the way the route begins with a visit to Ocean View Park, offering a quick, stunning look at the Pacific Ocean and Santa Monica Bay—a fantastic photo opp. From there, the ride takes you past the Santa Monica Pier, a well-known symbol of Southern California’s beach culture, with its bright rides and bustling atmosphere.

As you pedal or glide along, your guide shares insights into the area’s history, architecture, and fun facts. The Annenberg Community Beach House is a quiet gem where locals relax, and the award-winning Santa Monica State Beach provides plenty of space for a quick break and some people-watching.

Exploring Venice Beach and Its Highlights

The tour then moves into Venice, famous for its eclectic vibe and unique attractions. You’ll cycle around the Venice Canals, designed to resemble Venice, Italy, and a favorite spot for both locals and visitors. The Venice Muscle Beach Gym—the birthplace of bodybuilding—gives a peek into the area’s fitness history, while the Venice Skatepark showcases gravity-defying tricks from talented skaters.

You’ll also pass the Venice Art Walls, a colorful canvas for street artists, and continue to the fishing pier, where the local fishermen cast their lines. The Southernmost point on the ride offers views of the coastline that are truly picture-worthy, framed by the Malibu and Palos Verdes areas.

The Final Stretch and Views

Back along the bike path, you’ll enjoy the Santa Monica Bay, a spectacular backdrop for your ride, with clear views of the shoreline and ocean. While biking on the pier itself isn’t permitted for safety reasons, your guide points out the Pacific Park Ferris wheel, one of the most recognizable landmarks in Los Angeles.

The Bikes and Comfort

The Pedego beach cruisers are designed for comfort, equipped with six gears, high-end disc brakes, and a powerful 500-watt motor. They allow you to choose whether to do all the work or let the motor help, which is especially great if you’re not a regular cyclist. Most reviews mention how smooth and enjoyable the bikes are, making the experience accessible for most ages and fitness levels.

The Guide and Group Size

Having a small group, typically no more than six travelers, means you get plenty of attention and personalized storytelling. Many reviews sing the praises of guides like Barbara or Steph, who are clearly passionate about their areas and skilled at making everyone feel safe and engaged. One review even described how Barbara went above and beyond, making the experience feel very personal.

Practical Details

• Helmet rental and bottled water are included, so you’re set for the ride.
• Arrive 15 minutes early for check-in and gear fitting.
• The tour is suitable for ages 13 and up, with a minimum height of 5 feet and weight of 100 pounds.
• Most travelers find the pace comfortable, with plenty of stops for photos and rest.
• The tour is weather-dependent; rain cancels the ride, but rescheduling or refunds are available.

What the Reviews Say

The glowing reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery. One traveler shared, “The bike tour was our first stop during our trip to LA. Our guide Steph was very knowledgeable and shared many fun stories along the way,” highlighting how engaging and informative the experience can be.

Another reviewer noted, “Barbara was an exceptional guide, totally prepared, making sure everyone was safe, and sharing stories of the area’s history.” The majority of guests find the small group setting enhances the experience, allowing for more interaction and personalized attention.

Many mention how electric bikes make the ride more manageable, especially for those who aren’t regular cyclists, with comments like, “The bikes were a luxury—I hardly pedaled and still got to enjoy the views.” The combination of scenic stops, cultural sights, and friendly guides makes this tour a standout.

Authentic Experiences

Travelers appreciate the authenticity of the neighborhoods and the chance to see local art, street performers, and historic sites. The stops at Venice’s famous skatepark and Muscle Beach capture the vibrant, creative spirit of the area. The tour’s flexibility and pace allow you to take in the sights without feeling rushed.

Considerations

While most reviews rave about the experience, a few mention that weather can impact participation, and the group size is limited, so booking in advance is recommended—most travelers book about 23 days ahead. If you’re someone who prefers a more structured, large-group tour, this might not be the best fit, but for those seeking a personal touch, it’s ideal.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This electric bike tour appeals most to active travelers who enjoy being outdoors and exploring at a relaxed pace. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers eager to see the coast from a local’s perspective. If you love great stories, picturesque scenery, and don’t mind light physical activity, you’ll find this tour both fun and enriching.

It’s especially suited for those who want to avoid crowded buses and prefer a more intimate experience. Because the tour is easygoing and flexible with bike assistance, it’s accessible for most people with comfortable riding skills. If you’re visiting LA for the first time or want a different way to see Santa Monica and Venice, this tour offers a memorable way to do so.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 13 and older can participate, provided they are comfortable riding a bike and meet the height and weight requirements.

Do I need to be an experienced cyclist?
Not at all. The electric bikes make it easy to keep up, and you can choose to pedal or just enjoy the ride with assistance.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable closed-toed shoes, sunscreen, and sunglasses for protection against sun and wind. Bringing a light jacket is recommended as it can get breezy near the water.

Are helmets provided?
Yes, helmet rental is included in the tour price.

What if it rains?
Tours do not operate in rain. If canceled due to weather, you can reschedule or get a full refund.

How early should I arrive?
Plan to arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled departure time—either 9:45 am or 1:45 pm—to check in and get comfortable.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour limits groups to 6 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

Final Thoughts

For anyone wanting a relaxed, engaging way to see Santa Monica and Venice Beach, this electric bike tour offers a perfect mix of scenery, culture, and local stories. The small group setting and knowledgeable guides provide a personal touch, making it feel more like exploring with a friend than being on a big tour.

The combination of stunning coastal views, iconic landmarks, and the freedom of electric bikes makes this a smart choice for active travelers who value comfort and authenticity. Whether you’re a solo explorer, a couple, or a family, you’ll leave with not just photos but stories to tell.

If you’re ready to experience LA’s beaches from a new perspective, this tour promises a memorable, fun, and safe adventure—just don’t forget your sunglasses and sense of curiosity.