Santa Monica Boat Tours
View Santa Monica Pier, the stunning Southern California coastline, and incredible wildlife with LA Waterfront Cruises. Capture postcard-perfect memories of this world-renowned destination from a unique on-the-water perspective.
Offering Daily Tours Along the Southern California Coast
Explore the Coast with LA Waterfront Cruises
Whether you’re a local wanting to get out on the water or a visitor eager to explore the coast, LA Waterfront Cruises delivers unforgettable moments for all ages. Our boat tours provide a thrilling way to connect with the ocean. Have close encounters with marine wildlife, get panoramic views of the Los Angeles skyline, and listen to guided narration that brings the harbor’s history to life.
A Boat Trip You’ll Never Forget
Why Choose LA Waterfront Cruises?
- See whales, dolphins, and sea lions up close: Enjoy front-row viewpoints of marine animals in their natural habitat.
- Cruise past iconic landmarks: Sail alongside the historic Queen Mary, the Vincent Thomas Bridge, and massive working cargo ships.
- Experience Southern California from the water: Take in sweeping coastal views you can’t get from land.
- Learn from experts: Our knowledgeable guides share fun facts about ocean science and the creatures they study.
Los Angeles is well known for its gorgeous beaches. However, most visitors don’t realize that the area is also a gateway to the Pacific Ocean, which means our home waters are teeming with unique marine wildlife and recognizable landmarks.
Family-Friendly Fun on the Water
More Than Just Another Boat Ride
LA Waterfront Cruises has been offering unforgettable whale watching and harbor tour experiences for over 20 years. Based out of San Pedro and Long Beach, we are proud to be one of the top-rated marine tour companies in Southern California. Our family-owned business is built on a love for the ocean and a commitment to delivering safe, educational, and exciting adventures on the water.
Why Choose LA Waterfront Cruises
Expert Narration
Every cruise is guided by marine educators trained by the Aquarium of the Pacific.
Diverse Wildlife Sightings
Spot blue and gray whales, dolphins, sea lions, and more marine creatures in their natural habitat.
Convenient Locations
Tours depart daily from Long Beach and San Pedro, spots that are both minutes from downtown LA.
Eco-Conscious Tours
Our practices prioritize the well-being of marine life and their habitat. Our goal is to ensure a responsible and environmentally friendly experience for all.
LA Waterfront Cruises
Santa Monica Boat Tours
See Southern California’s iconic coastline from a new perspective with Santa Monica boat tours from LA Waterfront Cruises. Our guided cruises take you beyond the shoreline to enjoy panoramic views of the city, the Santa Monica Mountains, and the Pacific Ocean. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing outing, a chance to spot marine wildlife, or a memorable activity to share with family and friends, our Santa Monica boat rides deliver an experience you won’t find on land.
LA Waterfront Cruises
Why Choose a Boat Ride in Santa Monica, CA?
Santa Monica is known for its world-famous pier, sandy beaches, and vibrant coastal culture—but the best views are often from the water. A boat ride in Santa Monica CA, gives you front-row access to the city’s skyline, with the mountains and coastline as a dramatic backdrop. You’ll also have the chance to see dolphins, sea lions, and seabirds in their natural habitat, making every trip unique.
LA Waterfront Cruises
Scenic Highlights on Every Cruise
Our Santa Monica boat trips highlight the region’s most recognizable features, including:
- The Santa Monica Pier, with its Ferris wheel and lively waterfront attractions
- The Malibu coastline stretching north with dramatic cliffs and beaches
- Expansive views of the Santa Monica Bay, especially at sunset
- Seasonal wildlife activity, from pods of dolphins to migrating whales, further offshore
Passengers frequently note that seeing these landmarks from the water provides a new appreciation for the area’s beauty and scale.
LA Waterfront Cruises
Marine Life Encounters
While the coastline is the main attraction, boat tours in Santa Monica, CA, often include sightings of marine life. Common dolphins frequently approach vessels in playful pods, while bottlenose dolphins display acrobatic leaps near the bow. California sea lions may be spotted swimming or resting on buoys, and seabirds like pelicans and cormorants add to the lively atmosphere.
During certain times of the year, migrating whales can also be seen offshore, making your cruise even more memorable.
LA Waterfront Cruises
Comfortable Vessels and Professional Crew
Every Santa Monica boat ride is conducted aboard well-equipped vessels designed for passenger comfort. Features include:
- Spacious outdoor decks with unobstructed views
- Indoor seating with large windows
- Professional narration from experienced captains
- Snack bars and restrooms onboard
Our crew provides live commentary throughout the trip, pointing out landmarks, wildlife, and sharing stories about Santa Monica’s history and coastal culture.
LA Waterfront Cruises
Perfect for All Occasions
Santa Monica boat tours are ideal for families, couples, and groups of all sizes. They make a great addition to a day at the beach or pier, offering a relaxing break from the crowds with unmatched views. Private charters are also available for special events, giving your group the flexibility to customize the route, duration, and onboard experience.
LA Waterfront Cruises
Tour Duration and Scheduling
Most tours last between 45 minutes and 1 hour, making them easy to fit into a busy schedule. Multiple daily departures provide flexibility, while sunset cruises offer some of the most striking views as the sky turns golden and the city lights begin to glow.
LA Waterfront Cruises
Book Your Santa Monica Boat Tour
From the sparkling Pacific waters to the iconic skyline and natural wildlife encounters, Santa Monica boat tours provide a complete coastal experience. Whether you’re enjoying a short sightseeing trip or booking a private charter, every cruise offers fresh perspectives on one of California’s most beloved beach cities.
Reserve your Santa Monica boat ride today and see why our boat tours in Santa Monica, CA, are a must-do for visitors and locals alike.
