Our 9 Favorite Solana Beach Tours & Things To Do

Exploring Solana Beach offers more than just beautiful beaches—this coastal town is packed with unique ways to experience the California coast. Whether you’re catching waves with a private surf lesson or pedaling along scenic cliffs on an e-bike, there’s a perfect activity for every adventure seeker.

We especially like the surf lesson for its personalized instruction and the guided hike to Annie’s Canyon, which showcases the area’s natural beauty up close. If you’re more into relaxed days, renting a beach cruiser bike to explore at your own pace will suit you just fine.

Quick Overview

Our list of the best tours & things to do in Solana Beach includes a variety of options. You can learn to surf with a private lesson (learn more), explore the coast on an e-bike (more info), rent full-day bikes, or get active with a guided hike (see details).

Water sports like bodyboarding and paddleboarding are also popular, with options suitable for all skill levels. Now, let’s dive into each of these exciting options.

1. Solana Beach: Private Surf Lesson with Board and Wetsuit

At number one, the private surf lesson stands out for its personalized approach—perfect if you’re new to surfing or want to refine your skills. For $120 per person, this 2-hour experience includes all gear, like a wetsuit, and one-on-one instruction from a professional. The guide focuses on safety, technique, and helping you catch your first wave or improve your stance.

What makes this experience unique is the customized attention and relaxed pace. Whether you’re a complete beginner or have some experience, your instructor tailors the session to your comfort level.

Reviews highlight the high-quality instruction—”I was up on my board after just one lesson,” says one visitor. This tour is ideal for those wanting a focused, hands-on experience in the pristine Pacific waters.

Bottom line: If learning to surf with expert guidance sounds appealing, this private lesson offers great value for personalized coaching and all the gear included.

2. Solana Beach: E-Bike Tour to Torrey Pines or North Coast

Next up, the e-bike tour combines the fun of biking with stunning coastal scenery. For $85 per person, you’ll enjoy a 2-hour guided ride that takes you to iconic spots like Torrey Pines State Beach, Del Mar racetrack, and North County coastline. The bikes are electric, making climbs easier and allowing you to take in more sights without breaking a sweat.

What makes this tour stand out is the small group size—up to 4 people—and the flexibility it offers. You can choose between visiting Torrey Pines or exploring the North Coast, with stops at Swami’s Beach and Moonlight Beach for photos and rests. The guide shares local insights, making it more than just a bike ride.

The reviews praise the easy riding and beautiful scenery—”The perfect way to see the coast without tiring myself out,” one rider notes.

Bottom line: For those who want a guided, scenic experience with gentle exercise, this e-bike tour hits the spot, especially if you’re short on time but want a memorable coastal adventure.

3. Solana Beach: 2 Hour Electric Bike Rental with Map

Instead of a guided tour, rent a 2-hour electric bike for your own exploration. At $45 per person, you get a well-maintained e-bike, helmet, and a map to navigate Solana Beach at your leisure. The pedal assist makes tackling hills simple, allowing you to cover more ground comfortably.

This option is ideal for independent travelers who want flexibility. You can cruise along the coast, visit Fletcher Cove, or explore downtown Encinitas without a set itinerary. The easy-to-use bikes come with a quick tutorial, ensuring you’ll be confident riding. With reviews noting the smooth ride and great value, it’s a practical choice for casual explorers.

Bottom line: If you prefer to set your own pace and discover the area’s beaches and streets on your schedule, this electric bike rental offers freedom and fun.

4. Solana Beach: Beach Cruiser Full-Day Bike Rental

For a longer, more relaxed experience, the full-day beach cruiser rental lets you explore Solana Beach and nearby towns at your own pace. Costing $40 for up to 10 hours, this is perfect if you want to meander along coastal roads, visit shops, or enjoy a picnic on the beach.

What makes this option appealing is the style and comfort of beach cruisers, ideal for casual cruising. It empowers you to craft your own itinerary—stop at Fletcher Cove, cruise through Cardiff-by-the-Sea, or enjoy a local café. The freedom to wander makes this a favorite for those who enjoy spontaneous exploration.

Bottom line: If a leisurely, self-guided day on two wheels sounds appealing, this full-day bike rental provides a flexible way to take in Solana Beach’s sights.

5. Solana Beach, CA: Body Board with Leash Rental

For water lovers, renting a bodyboard ($20/day) opens up the chance to catch waves at Fletcher Cove. This lightweight, durable board is suitable for all skill levels, offering an accessible way to enjoy the Pacific Ocean. The secure leash keeps your board close, so you can focus on riding rather than chasing after gear.

What sets this rental apart is its simplicity—no need for lessons, just grab your board and hit the water. The variety of sizes allows you to find the perfect fit, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider. Many reviews note the fun of riding waves in a relaxed, straightforward manner.

Bottom line: If you’re eager to experience beach fun with minimal fuss, this bodyboard rental provides a quick and affordable way to add some wave action to your day.

6. Solana Beach: Electric Bike Rental with 5-Level Pedal Assist

Another electric bike option, this 750w e-bike with 5-level pedal assist is great for tackling more challenging terrain. For $85 per day, you can explore further afield—ride down to Cardiff-by-the-Sea, or take a scenic loop along the coast, all with minimal effort.

This rental is ideal for travelers who want to cover larger distances comfortably, especially if hills are a concern. The powerful motor helps you ascend inclines easily, making it suitable for varied fitness levels. The bike comes with a detailed tutorial, so you’ll be confident on your ride. The reviews highlight the powerful motor and ease of use.

Bottom line: If you’re planning a full day of exploring the area without overexerting yourself, this e-bike with pedal assist offers a practical and fun solution.

7. Solana Beach: Guided Hiking/Bike Tour to Annie’s Canyon

At number seven, the guided hiking and bike tour to Annie’s Canyon is a nature lover’s treat. For $80 per person, you’ll spend about 2 hours exploring the narrow slot canyons, climbing gentle rises, and enjoying panoramic views. The guide shares insights about the area’s geology and landscape, making it both an active and educational experience.

The highlight is the narrow canyon, which is perfect for those who like a bit of adventure. The trail is suitable for most fitness levels, and the scenery from the canyon’s top offers excellent photo opportunities. Many reviewers appreciate the expert guidance and the chance to see lesser-known natural sights.

Bottom line: For active travelers eager to explore Solana Beach’s natural features, this guided hike provides a memorable glimpse of local geology and scenic vistas.

8. Solana Beach: Full Day Skimboard Rental

If you want a different kind of wave ride, the skimboard rental offers a full day of fun at Fletcher Cove. For $20, you’ll get either a wood or fiberglass board, ready for some skimboarding action along California’s coast.

What makes this rental special is its accessibility—perfect for all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned skimboarders. The lightweight boards are easy to carry and maneuver, and the beach location is ideal for practicing. Many love the thrill of skimming along shallow waves and walking the shoreline.

Bottom line: For a quick, affordable, and exciting way to enjoy the surf, this skimboard rental is an excellent choice.

9. Solana Beach: Stand-up Paddle Board Rental

Finally, renting a stand-up paddleboard ($40) gives you the chance to glide across the calm waters near Fletcher Cove. The full-day rental allows plenty of time to explore, relax, and enjoy the natural surroundings. Free parking nearby makes it convenient to start your adventure.

What makes paddleboarding appealing is the peaceful experience of paddling in the pristine Pacific Ocean and the chance to see marine life close to the shoreline. It’s suitable for all levels, and the boards are stable and easy to maneuver, especially for beginners.

Bottom line: If you’re looking for a mellow, scenic water activity, paddleboarding offers a calm yet engaging way to spend your day.

How to Choose the Best Activity in Solana Beach

Selecting the right tour depends on your interests, fitness level, and how much time you want to spend. If you’re new to surfing and prefer personalized instruction, the private surf lesson is a top pick. For those eager to explore the coast on two wheels without much effort, the e-bike or electric bike rentals are great options.

If you want a more active experience, the guided hike to Annie’s Canyon provides scenic adventure with expert insight.

For water sports, beginners can try a bodyboard or skimbard, while paddleboarding offers a tranquil alternative for all skill levels. Think about how much time you want to dedicate and whether you prefer guided tours or independent exploration.

Book early during peak seasons, especially for popular activities like surfing lessons or guided hikes, to ensure availability.

Overall, Solana Beach offers a wonderful mix of active, relaxing, and scenic experiences. Whether you’re catching your first wave, pedaling along the coast, or hiking through canyons, there’s something memorable waiting for you.

For families, water sports like paddleboarding and skimboarding are great, while couples might prefer a sunset e-bike ride. Solo travelers can enjoy the freedom of a full-day bike rental or a guided adventure with local guides.

No matter your style, Solana Beach’s tours promise a fun, authentic coastal experience—so book early and get ready to enjoy every moment.