Santa Monica is a city that offers more than just beautiful beaches and scenic ocean views — it’s also a place where food lovers can indulge in a variety of authentic and innovative bites. Its diverse neighborhoods, rich local history, and lively food scene make it an ideal destination for food tours.
Whether you want to explore trendy eateries, sample street food, or enjoy a sweet holiday treat, there’s a tour that fits your taste.
Among the options, we’re particularly fond of the Gourmet Santa Monica Walking Food Tour with Delicious Dish Tours for its excellent mix of history and cuisine, and the Flavors of Venice Beach Food Tour by Junket for its eclectic, vibrant flavors.
Both give you a chance to see different sides of Santa Monica, from its classic seaside charm to the quirky Venice Beach vibe.
If you’re short on time, the Santa Monica Holiday Donut Adventure offers a quick but sweet dive into the city’s favorite treats, perfect for holiday visits. For a more relaxed but equally delicious experience, the Gourmet Santa Monica Walking Food Tour combines scenic views with top-notch food stops.
Ready to discover the best bites Santa Monica has to offer? Let’s explore each tour in detail so you can choose the one that’s best for your style and schedule.
1. Gourmet Santa Monica Walking Food Tour with Delicious Dish Tours
At number 1 on our list, the Gourmet Santa Monica Walking Food Tour stands out for its comprehensive taste of this lively seaside city. Priced at $159 per person, it lasts roughly 3 to 4 hours and includes 6-8 stops at top-rated eateries. This tour is perfect if you want a balanced mix of delicious bites and local storytelling, as your guide shares insights into Santa Monica’s history and culture.
What makes this tour special is not just the variety of food but the setting — you’ll stroll past historic hotels, parks honoring the Tongva people, and sites linked to famous bodybuilders from the 1930s. It’s a curated culinary journey that takes you beyond tourist traps, offering unique dishes such as Korean f… (the full menu is a delicious surprise).
During the tour, you’ll enjoy local favorites, get tips on where to eat afterward, and have a chance to explore the iconic Santa Monica Pier. Guests often praise the knowledgeable guides and the quality of the tastings.
Bottom line: This tour is ideal for those who want a deep dive into Santa Monica’s flavor and history in a relaxed pace. It’s a bit more expensive but offers rich storytelling alongside excellent food.
2. Flavors of Venice Beach Food Tour By Junket
Coming in at number 2, the Flavors of Venice Beach Food Tour costs just $93 per person and lasts around 2 hours. This tour captures the eclectic spirit of Venice Beach, where the ocean, boardwalk, and diverse local food scene collide. It’s shorter but packed with flavor, making it perfect for travelers with tight schedules or those wanting a quick taste of Venice’s culinary scene.
During this tour, you’ll visit iconic spots like the Cow’s End Café to sample surfer-friendly treats and learn about the origin of a popular vegan superfood. You’ll also stroll past million-dollar homes originally built by Italian immigrants, explore local shops offering organic and vegan products, and enjoy some authentic Mexican street food at Teddy’s Red Tacos.
The tour wraps up near the lively skate park and the famous pink elephant liquor store, offering a true slice of Venice’s free-spirited atmosphere.
This tour has a perfect 5-star rating from a single review, with travelers noting the friendly guide and the “great variety of food and stories.” It’s a great option if you want an energetic, flavor-filled walk that highlights Venice’s unique personality.
Bottom line: If you’re after a lively, quick immersion into Venice Beach’s food scene, this tour offers excellent value and a taste of everything from surf snacks to Mexican street food.
3. Gourmet Santa Monica Walking Food Tour with Delicious Dish
At number 3, the Gourmet Santa Monica Walking Food Tour offers a slightly shorter, 3-hour experience that focuses on delivering high-quality tastings at some of Santa Monica’s best restaurants. With a price of $159 per person, this tour emphasizes breathtaking views of the beach and Santa Monica Pier while sampling the city’s finest cuisine.
The tour features 6 to 8 stops, where the guide shares insights into local skateboarding and bodybuilding cultures — a fun way to connect food with the city’s broader scene. The stops are carefully selected to showcase diverse flavors, from seafood to international dishes, and the experience suits travelers who want a balance of cultural insight and culinary adventure.
The highlight here is the expertly curated stops that provide a true taste of SoCal’s culinary scene, all while enjoying the scenic backdrop of the ocean and pier. The reviews praise the guide’s knowledge and the quality of food, making it a reliable choice for a well-rounded Santa Monica experience.
Bottom line: This tour is best if you want a scenic, culturally rich walk paired with top-tier food tastings in a moderate timeframe.
4. Santa Monica Holiday Donut Adventure and Walking Food Tour
Number 4 is the Santa Monica Holiday Donut Adventure, a 2-hour tour priced at $70 per person. It’s perfect for sweet tooth travelers and holiday visitors wanting a quick but memorable treat-focused outing.
The tour kicks off at Randy’s Donuts, an iconic California institution made famous in movies — their giant donut is hard to miss. Then you’ll visit Sidecar Doughnuts & Coffee for artisanal creations, and Papi Churros & Tacos to sample flavorful churros and birria tacos.
The tour culminates with a walk to the Santa Monica Pier, possibly ending with a final sweet stop or exploring the lively Third Street Promenade.
Though it doesn’t have reviews yet, the combination of classic donuts, artisanal options, and holiday cheer makes it stand out for seasonal fun. It’s a relaxed, family-friendly way to indulge in Santa Monica’s favorite treats without a long commitment.
Bottom line: Ideal for those seeking a festive, sweet-focused experience that captures the holiday spirit and coastal charm.
How to Choose Your Santa Monica Food Tour
When picking a food tour, consider your budget, time, and interests. If you want an in-depth exploration with history and diverse cuisine, the Gourmet Santa Monica Walking Food Tour is a strong choice. For a quick, lively taste of Venice Beach, Flavors of Venice Beach offers great value. The Holiday Donut Tour is perfect for a short, sweet holiday treat.
Consider the pacing, whether you prefer scenic, cultural insights or focus solely on food. Booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons or holidays, as these tours tend to fill quickly.
Final Thoughts
Santa Monica’s food scene is as diverse as its landscapes. For a well-rounded experience combining history, culture, and cuisine, the Gourmet Santa Monica Walking Food Tour is a top pick. If you’re after something quick, fun, and energetic, the Venice Beach Flavors Tour hits the mark. And for holiday visits, the Sweet Donut Adventure offers a festive, family-friendly option.
Whichever you choose, these tours promise a chance to taste the city’s best while exploring its unique neighborhoods. Be sure to book early and come hungry — Santa Monica’s food scene awaits.