Gourmet Santa Monica Walking Food Tour with Delicious Dish Tours
Active
3h - 4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Experience the vibrant beachside city of Santa Monica with Delicious Dish Tours. While enjoying views of the ocean, the mountains, and the famous pier, taste some of the best food SoCal has to offer. Between tastings, learn about the history of this hip seaside resort town from an expert guide.
On this tour you will:
* Enjoy 6-8 stops at top-rated eateries
* Sample unique dishes beyond typical tourist fare
* Delight your inner child with an adventure on Santa Monica Pier
* Learn how a 1970s drought created modern skateboarding culture
* Sip soup from the juiciest Chinese dumplings
* See where Old Hollywood stars drank illegal liquor during Hollywood’s Golden Age
* See where SoCal fitness culture got its start
Perfect for food lovers, beach enthusiasts, and those seeking to experience Santa Monica's unique blend of laid-back coastal vibes and sophisticated cuisine.
Available options
Gourmet Santa Monica Food & Walking Tour
Private Group
Private
What's included
Food Tastings
Guide (English)
Detailed itinerary
1
Dating from 1926, this hotel is in the National Register of Historic Places. Rehabilitated in 1999 and renovated in 2008, it harkens back to the days of “Gold Coast”, a former nickname of Santa Monica.
2
This park commemorates the historic African American experience in Belmar and surrounding neighborhoods of Santa Monica. Many African Americans were displaced by the “Build America Better” campaign to “clean up” Santa Monica in the 1950s.
3
This city park was previously owned by the Bruce family, African Americans that moved to California during the Great Migration. In the 1920s, it became a place of recreation for African American families. In 1927, the property was taken by eminent domain and the buildings demolished. The Bruce family sued but only received a small settlement. In 2021, the property was returned to the descendents of the Bruce’s who later sold it back to the county for $20 million.
4
A city park dedicated to the Tongva people who lived in the Los Angeles area for thousands of years.
5
The site of gym equipment that was installed near the Santa Monica Pier by the Works Progress Administration (Federal New Deal agency) in the 1930s. It was used by famous bodybuilders of the time, including Joe Gold, founder of Gold’s Gym. The original Gold’s Gym is in nearby Venice.
6
Stop 6
A popular shopping area in downtown Santa Monica, which features many shops and restaurants.
7
Stop 7
One of the remaining historic recreational piers left standing in Santa Monica and neighboring Venice. It hosts a small amusement park (Pacific Park), concession stands, areas for fishing, and views of the beach and oceanfront.
What's not included
Gratuities (Tips) for Guide
Alcoholic Beverages
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
1.0
1 reviews
5★
0
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
1
Tripadvisor
4.8
12 reviews
5★
10
4★
1
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
The itinerary is not fixed because we will visit different eateries depending on operating hours and availability of menu items. We will visit about 6-8 each tour.
The total time for the tour includes the time spent at eateries and the time to walk between them.
Not recommended for travelers with serious food allergies
We can accommodate some dietary requirements, including vegetarian and pescatarian. Please indicate your requirements when booking. If we cannot accommodate them we will fully refund your booking.
Meeting point
Meet in front of the large "TONGVA PARK" sign outside the park entrance on Ocean Ave.
About Santa Monica
Santa Monica is a vibrant beachfront city in Southern California, known for its iconic pier, stunning ocean views, and laid-back atmosphere. It offers a mix of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and a lively entertainment scene.
Top Attractions
Santa Monica Pier
The iconic Santa Monica Pier is a historic landmark featuring an amusement park, aquarium, restaurants, and shops. It offers stunning ocean views and a variety of entertainment options.
Beach/Entertainment
2-4 hours
Free entry, paid attractions
Santa Monica Beach
Santa Monica Beach is a popular destination for swimming, sunbathing, volleyball, and beach sports. The wide, sandy beach offers plenty of space for relaxation and activities.
Beach
Half day to full day
Free
Third Street Promenade
A pedestrian-only shopping and dining district featuring a variety of stores, restaurants, street performers, and entertainment. It's a great place to stroll and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
Shopping/Dining
1-3 hours
Free to explore, varies by purchases
Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area
A vast natural area offering hiking, biking, and outdoor recreation opportunities. The park features scenic trails, wildlife, and stunning views of the coastline.
Nature/Outdoor
Half day to full day
Free or small entrance fees for some areas
Must-Try Local Dishes
Fish Tacos
Grilled or fried fish served in corn tortillas with fresh salsa, avocado, and lime. A popular beachside dish in Santa Monica.
Lunch/Dinner
Can be made with various types of fish, gluten-free options available.
Ahi Poke
Fresh raw ahi tuna marinated in soy sauce, sesame oil, and green onions. Served over rice or as a salad.
Lunch/Dinner
Gluten-free options available, ensure freshness when ordering.
Popular Activities
Surfing
Hiking in the Santa Monica Mountains
Beach volleyball
Sunbathing at Santa Monica Beach
Yoga on the beach
Spa treatments
Visiting museums and galleries
Attending concerts and performances
Best Time to Visit
April to June, September to October
These months offer pleasant weather with fewer crowds and lower prices compared to the summer peak. Ideal for outdoor activities and beach visits.
18-25°C
64-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
GMT-8 (Pacific Standard Time, PST)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Santa Monica is generally safe for travelers, with a low crime rate and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take common-sense precautions.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious of your surroundings, especially at night
- • Use reputable taxi services or ride-sharing apps
Getting there
By air
- Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) • 13 km (8 miles)
By train
Santa Monica Station
By bus
Santa Monica Big Blue Bus, Metro Local
Getting around
Public transport
The Big Blue Bus system is reliable, affordable, and covers most of the city. Fares are reasonable, and day passes are available.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown Santa Monica
Ocean Park
Montana Avenue
Day trips
Venice Beach
5 km (3 miles) • Half day
Venice Beach is known for its vibrant boardwalk, street performers, and eclectic shops. It offers a unique and colorful experience with a mix of beach activities and cultural attractions.
Malibu
25 km (15 miles) • Full day
Malibu is a beautiful coastal town known for its stunning beaches, scenic drives, and celebrity homes. It offers a mix of relaxation, outdoor activities, and sightseeing.
Hollywood
20 km (12 miles) • Full day
Hollywood is a world-famous destination known for its iconic landmarks, entertainment industry, and celebrity culture. It offers a mix of sightseeing, shopping, and entertainment.
Festivals
Twilight Concert Series • Summer (June - August)
Santa Monica Pier's Annual Events • Various dates throughout the year
Pro tips
- Visit the Santa Monica Pier early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid crowds and enjoy the best views.
- Use the Big Blue Bus or Expo Line for convenient and affordable public transportation within the city.
- Explore the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area for hiking, biking, and outdoor adventures.
- Check the schedule for free concerts and events at the Santa Monica Pier and other local venues.
- Support local businesses and buy locally made products to experience the unique flavors and culture of Santa Monica.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
