Santa Monica stands out not just for its iconic pier and beautiful beaches, but also for its dynamic food scene. Whether you’re craving a luxurious cruise dinner with sweeping marina views, a personalized private tour of local hotspots, or an intimate boat experience with a surprise menu, Santa Monica offers memorable ways to indulge your appetite. We especially like the Los Angeles Premier Dinner Cruise from Marina del Rey because it combines fantastic scenery with a refined dining experience, all aboard a stylish vessel. If you want a more customized outing, the Santa Monica Private Tour with Restaurant and Bar Stops lets you explore the area’s hotspots at your own pace, perfect for small groups seeking exclusivity. And for a truly intimate experience, the Romantic-Surprise Dinner-Wine & Cheese or Sushi Boat Cruise offers a cozy atmosphere with personalized surprises—ideal for special occasions or those seeking something different.
Quick Overview
Our list of the best dining experiences in Santa Monica includes a scenic dinner cruise, a private guided food and drink tour, and an intimate sushi or wine cruise. Each offers a unique flavor of local cuisine and scenery, tailored to different preferences and budgets. For more detailed info, check out the full reviews and options below.
1. Los Angeles Premier Dinner Cruise from Marina del Rey
At number one, this 2.5-hour dinner cruise combines a high-end dining experience with stunning views of the Los Angeles harbor. You’ll board at either Marina del Rey or Newport Beach and enjoy a freshly prepared duet entrée, featuring locally sourced ingredients like pan-seared salmon and slow-braised beef short ribs. The outdoor decks provide a perfect backdrop for watching the sunset and the illuminated harbor, making for a truly scenic meal.
What sets this cruise apart is the combination of gourmet food, relaxing atmosphere, and entertainment—a DJ spins tunes as you cruise. The dinner is served with artisan breads, seasonal vegetables, and Yukon Gold mashed potatoes, ensuring a well-rounded experience. Reviews highlight the friendly, professional staff and the exceptional quality of the food, with many guests raving about the service and views. The only caveat is that the dress code and breeze might require some planning—dressing warmly is advised.
Bottom line: If you want a sophisticated night out with good food and spectacular marina panoramas, this cruise offers excellent value for around $134.49 per person.
2. Santa Monica Private Tour with Restaurant and Bar Stops
Number two on our list is a private, 5-hour tour designed for those who want a personalized exploration of Santa Monica’s best dining and drinking spots. For around $650 per group (up to 14 people), you get a customizable experience including visits to iconic sites like Santa Monica Pier, Venice Beach, and Marina del Rey Harbor. The guide provides live commentary during your drive, sharing local insights along the way.
What makes this tour special is its flexibility. You can choose your favorite restaurant for lunch or dinner, as well as select your preferred bars or lounges in the neighborhood. It’s perfect for celebrating special occasions or simply indulging in Santa Monica’s diverse culinary scene with friends or family. The reviews are glowing, with one noting, “You get to explore at your pace and dive into local favorites.”
Bottom line: If you prefer an intimate, tailored experience with the freedom to pick your own dining stops, this private tour provides a flexible, fun way to enjoy Santa Monica’s food scene.
3. Romantic-Surprise Dinner-Wine & Cheese or Sushi Boat Cruise
Our third pick is a cozy 2-hour cruise that promises an intimate, personalized dinner experience. While reviews are scarce, this cruise consistently earns five-star feedback on other platforms for its scenic views, wildlife encounters, and customized menu. It’s ideal for couples or anyone celebrating a special milestone.
The experience features a surprise menu that caters to adventurous guests, offering options like wine and cheese or sushi, depending on your preference. The service is noted for being warm and attentive, creating a relaxed, personal atmosphere. The small size of the boat keeps things intimate, allowing for easy conversations and close-up wildlife viewing, such as dolphins or sea birds.
Bottom line: If you’re after a romantic, personalized evening with a touch of adventure, this cruise offers a memorable escape on the water—at a reasonable price of $149 per person.
$149.00 per person
How to Choose
When deciding between these options, think about your priorities: Are you after a luxury experience and spectacular views? Then the Los Angeles Premier Dinner Cruise is a great pick. Want something more customized and private? The Santa Monica Private Tour offers flexibility and exclusivity. For a romantic, intimate, water-based meal, the Romantic-Surprise Cruise is ideal.
Your choice will also depend on your budget, time constraints, and whether you prefer a guided group experience or a private adventure. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred date.
In summary, Santa Monica offers a range of distinctive dining experiences, from elegant dinners on the water to private culinary tours. If you’re looking for a luxurious cruise, the first option delivers great value and unforgettable views. For those craving personalized exploration and flexible stops, the private tour is the way to go. And if romance or a special occasion is your focus, the intimate boat cruise provides a cozy, customized evening.
Each of these experiences can turn a simple meal into a memorable highlight of your Santa Monica trip. No matter which you choose, early booking ensures you won’t miss out on these popular options. Happy eating and cruising!