Santa Monica isn’t just about the beach and the pier — it’s also a fantastic place for quick, engaging tours that give you a real taste of Los Angeles’ coastal charm. Whether you want to float on the water, see the bustling marina, or enjoy some fresh sea air, these 1-hour excursions are perfect for fitting into a busy schedule.
We particularly like the Bring Your Own Beverages One Hour Harbor Cruise for its relaxed vibe and personal touch — bring your favorite drinks and enjoy the ride while soaking up views of yachts and sea lions. It’s a fun, laid-back way to experience Marina del Rey without the crowds.
If you’re after a slightly more comprehensive look at the area, the One Hour Cruise Around Marina del Rey offers a broader perspective with scenic stops, wildlife sightings, and a chance to see LA’s iconic beaches and luxury yachts.
Both tours showcase the best of Santa Monica’s watery surroundings but cater to different tastes — one more casual, the other more sightseeing-oriented. Below, we break down each option so you can find the perfect quick adventure.
1. Bring Your Own Beverages One Hour Harbor Cruise
At number 1 on our list, the Bring Your Own Beverages One Hour Harbor Cruise stands out for its casual, personalized approach. For just $80 per person, this tour offers around one hour of relaxed cruising around Marina del Rey, a major yachting hub in LA. What makes this experience different is the freedom to bring your own drinks, turning it into a social, laid-back gathering on the water.
The cruise takes you past 6000 boats, offering plenty of eye-catching vessels, along with opportunities to spot sea lions and admire fancy yachts.
The captain is known for making the trip memorable, often pointing out wildlife and sharing stories about the marina’s history. You can expect beautiful sunsets and fresh ocean air, which are the real highlights.
This tour’s simplicity and focus on comfort make it perfect for groups of friends, families, or anyone wanting a quick escape from the city’s buzz. The added bonus: free parking at the meeting spot makes logistics easy.
The one review praises the captain’s warmth and the cozy blankets provided during sunset. For a laid-back, inexpensive way to enjoy LA’s coast, this cruise hits the spot.
Bottom Line: If you want a relaxed, customizable experience with stunning views and the chance to sip your own drinks, this cruise offers great value and authentic fun.
2. One Hour Cruise Around Marina del Rey
For a slightly more structured experience, the One Hour Cruise Around Marina del Rey provides a comprehensive look at LA’s famous marina and surrounding coastline. Priced at $135, it includes multiple stops and a variety of sights over roughly an hour.
Starting in Marina del Rey harbor, the tour first takes you 30 minutes around the marina, where you can see the world’s largest man-made marina and appreciate the scale of LA’s boat scene.
Next, the boat ventures into Santa Monica Bay for about five minutes, giving you a chance to see the coast from a different angle. You’ll then stop at Playa del Rey Beach for about 10 minutes, where you can observe the planes taking off from nearby LAX — a surprisingly captivating sight.
The final stop is Fisherman’s Village, a colorful spot reminiscent of Amsterdam’s canals, perfect for photos or a quick walk.
This tour’s reviews highlight the friendly captain and the enjoyment of exploring LA’s iconic beaches. It’s ideal for travelers who want a more detailed overview and enjoy a mix of wildlife spotting, sightseeing, and a bit of beach ambiance. The price reflects the inclusion of multiple scenic stops and a richer experience than a simple cruise.
Bottom Line: If you prefer a more comprehensive, sightseeing-focused cruise with several scenic stops, this tour adds more variety and offers a deeper look at LA’s waterfront.
How to Choose
When deciding between these quick ocean adventures, consider your preferences and schedule. If you’re after a relaxed, personal experience with the freedom to bring your own drinks, the Bring Your Own Beverages Harbor Cruise fits perfectly. On the other hand, if you want a more extensive tour with multiple stops and sightseeing, the Cruise Around Marina del Rey may suit you better.
Think about your budget, too. The first option is more affordable and informal, great for groups looking for a relaxed vibe. The second offers a broader tour experience for those willing to spend a bit more for added variety. Both tours are best booked early in the day to secure your spot, especially during peak seasons.
To sum it up, Santa Monica offers excellent opportunities for short, memorable tours that showcase LA’s stunning coastline and lively marinas. Whether you prefer a laid-back cruise with your favorite drinks or a more structured sightseeing adventure, you’ll find something that suits your style.
For a relaxed outing, the Bring Your Own Beverages cruise is perfect, while the Cruise Around Marina del Rey provides a richer overview of the area’s sights. Booking early ensures you get your preferred time and make the most of these quick, enjoyable excursions.