Which Santa Monica Wine Tours To Choose? Our Best 8 Picks

Santa Monica is a prime destination for those who love combining scenic coastal views, wildlife encounters, and excellent wine with a relaxed California vibe. Unlike more traditional wine regions, Santa Monica offers a refreshing take—whether you prefer a private luxury cruise, a vintage VW ride, or a lively boat karaoke session, there’s something to delight every wine lover.

For example, the Private Luxury E-Boat Cruise with Wine, Charcuterie & Sea Lions Spotting stands out for its exclusivity and scenic water-based luxury, perfect for celebrating special occasions.

Meanwhile, the Vintage VW Hippie Tour to Malibu with wine tasting offers a nostalgic road trip along stunning coastlines, blending wine tasting with a retro vibe.

These tours highlight Santa Monica’s unique environment—coastal waters, mountain vistas, and wildlife—making it a compelling choice for wine enthusiasts who also appreciate nature and small-group intimacy. Whether you’re after a romantic sunset cruise or a lively wildlife boat ride, Santa Monica’s offerings stand out for their balance of comfort, scenery, and local flavor.

Quick Overview

Our list covers a variety of wine-focused experiences in Santa Monica and nearby Malibu, including private boat trips, shared watercraft adventures, vintage VW tours, and even karaoke boat cruises. Each offers a distinct way to enjoy California’s coast with a glass in hand, with options suitable for romantic evenings, lively gatherings, or scenic wildlife encounters. Now, let’s explore each in detail.

1. Private Luxury E-Boat Cruise with Wine, Charcuterie & Sea Lions Spotting

At number 1 on our list, this private luxury e-boat cruise promises an elegant water-based experience with no crowds, ideal for celebrating a special day. The cruise departs from Marina del Rey in a sleek, eco-friendly electric boat, making it both stylish and environmentally conscious.

You’ll glide past waterfront mansions, look out for sea lions, and enjoy a cheese and charcuterie board with two included glasses of wine.

The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, with flexible departure times to fit your schedule. What’s special about this experience is its personalized touch—your captain will tailor the route to maximize wildlife sightings and scenic views. It’s perfect for bachelorette parties, family outings, or anyone wanting a luxurious, intimate cruise.

The reviews praise the friendly guides and the smooth ride, though some mention that the charcuterie could be more substantial. Still, the combination of relaxing scenery, wildlife, and wine makes this a top choice.

Bottom Line: An elegant, private water excursion that balances scenery, wildlife, and wine in a sophisticated setting. Best suited for those celebrating or seeking exclusivity.

2. Luxury Shared E-Boat Cruise with Wine, Charcuterie & Sea Lions Spotting

For around $119, the Luxury Shared E-Boat Cruise offers a budget-friendly way to experience Marina del Rey’s waterways. This 2-hour cruise takes you aboard a fully electric Duffy boat, exploring the calm waters, luxurious yachts, and local wildlife like sea lions and seabirds. The shared nature means you’ll be with a small group, making it a friendly social experience.

Your tour includes a selection of meat, cheeses, fruit, and wine, perfect for casual sipping as you drift past coastal homes and houseboats. The guide is noted for being personable, enhancing the relaxed vibe. Some reviews mention that wildlife sightings are unpredictable, but the overall experience remains highly positive, especially for those wanting a laid-back, scenic cruise.

Bottom Line: A great value, social water tour for those wanting wildlife encounters and good wine without private expense. Ideal for travelers who enjoy a lively, communal atmosphere.

3. Private Vintage VW Hippie Tour to Malibu with wine tasting

Travel back to the 1970s with this vintage VW camper van tour of Malibu. For about $195, the Vintage VW Hippie Tour combines stunning coastal views with a nostalgic ride along the Pacific Coast Highway. You’ll see iconic spots like Malibu Pier and enjoy a short visit to a local winery, where wine tastings are part of the experience.

The tour lasts about 4 hours, with options for morning or afternoon departures. Guests rave about the fun, friendly guide, and the beautiful scenery along the Malibu coast.

The vintage van adds a sense of adventure, making it perfect for those who love a bit of retro charm paired with wine and ocean vistas. The itinerary also includes stops where you can take photos of Point Dume or the Santa Monica Mountains.

Bottom Line: A memorable, stylish way to combine Malibu’s scenic coast with wine tasting, ideal for couples or groups seeking a relaxed, visually striking outing.

4. Luxury Shared E-Boat Cruise with Wine, Charcuterie & Sea Lions Spotting

This Luxury Shared E-Boat Cruise is similar to the private version but offers a more affordable shared experience. At about $119 per person, it explores Marina del Rey’s waterways aboard an electric boat, with wildlife viewing—especially sea lions—as a highlight. The cruise lasts around 2 hours, passing by yacht-filled marinas, boat houses, and scenic coastlines.

Guests enjoy a selection of meat, cheese, fruit, and wine, making it a relaxed, tasty outing. Reviewers mention the personable guides and wildlife sightings, though not everyone sees abundant sea lions. Still, the tranquil ride and scenic views make it a worthwhile choice for nature lovers and wine fans alike.

Bottom Line: A solid, budget-friendly option that combines wildlife, scenery, and wine in a cozy watercraft setting.

5. Romantic Luxury Boat Cruise with Wine Cheese Sea LionTours

For a truly romantic experience, the Romantic Luxury Boat Cruise offers an intimate 1- to 2-hour journey in Marina del Rey. The tour is renowned for its calming scenery, wildlife sightings like dolphins and sea lions, and its elegant wine and charcuterie offerings.

Designed for couples or special occasions, this tour stands out for its peaceful atmosphere and personalized service. Reviewers highlight its “breathtaking views” and the chance to relax in style. The tour is also flexible, making it easy to customize for a sunset or evening outing.

Bottom Line: Perfect for romantic couples wanting a cozy, scenic cruise with great wine and wildlife in a luxurious setting.

6. Marina Del Rey: Romantic Cruise, Wine, Cheese, Sealions

This Marina del Rey Romantic Cruise offers a cozy tour in a Duffy boat, perfect for celebrating anniversaries, birthdays, or just a peaceful day on the water. The 2-hour cruise includes complimentary wine or non-alcoholic drinks, cheese, and charcuterie, with plenty of wildlife viewing, especially sea lions.

Reviews emphasize its charming captain and the intimate atmosphere, making it a great choice for couples or small groups. The focus on lifestyle luxury and wildlife makes it stand out, especially for travelers seeking a relaxed, romantic vibe on the water.

Bottom Line: An elegant, intimate tour ideal for celebrating special moments with wine, cheese, and wildlife in Marina del Rey.

7. Venice Beach & Malibu View Boat Cruiser- Music Wine Sealions

If you’re into a lively, fun-filled experience, the Venice Beach & Malibu View Boat Cruiser mixes scenic views with karaoke music and wine. This 2-3 hour cruise offers a chance to sing along with friends while enjoying the sights of Venice Beach and Malibu from Marina del Rey.

This experience is perfect for groups or families who want a party atmosphere while still soaking up California’s iconic coastline. The energetic vibe and entertainment make it less about wildlife and more about fun and socializing.

Bottom Line: Great for groups looking for a lively, musical, and wine-filled adventure with stunning coastal views.

8. Vintage VW Hippie Shared Tour to Malibu with Wine Tasting

For a more social experience, the Vintage VW Hippie Shared Tour offers a 4-hour journey through Malibu in a classic 1972 VW camper. At $199 per person, it includes stops at Point Dume, Malibu Pier, and a local winery for wine tasting.

This tour appeals to travelers who want a casual, friendly vibe while enjoying spectacular ocean views and a bit of nostalgia. The guide shares interesting facts about Malibu’s landmarks, and guests often praise its fun and laid-back style. It’s suitable for those who enjoy a longer, social outing with wine and mountain vistas.

Bottom Line: Ideal for groups who want to combine scenic, wine-tasting stops with a retro road trip feel in Malibu.

How to Choose Your Ideal Wine Tour in Santa Monica

When selecting your perfect water or road-based wine experience, consider your budget, time available, and personal interests. If you’re seeking privacy and luxury, the private E-Boat Cruise is a standout. For a lively, social outing, the Karaoke Boat Cruise offers fun and entertainment. Prefer a nostalgic, scenic drive? The Vintage VW Malibu tour provides a relaxed, memorable experience.

Booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons. Think about whether you want wildlife encounters, romantic settings, or a lively group atmosphere. All tours listed above include options for different schedules, from sunset cruises to daytime adventures, so match your choice to your travel plans.

Final thoughts

Santa Monica offers a diverse collection of wine tours that combine coastal beauty, wildlife, and local flavor. If you’re after a private, luxurious cruise, the Private Luxury E-Boat is hard to beat.

For those who enjoy a nostalgic road trip with wine, the Vintage VW Malibu tour provides a fun, scenic ride. And if you’re looking for a social, lively experience, the Karaoke Cruise mixes entertainment with beautiful views.

No matter your style, each experience offers a unique way to enjoy Santa Monica’s stunning coastline and abundant wildlife, all paired with excellent California wines. Booking ahead will ensure you secure your preferred date, especially during busy seasons or weekends.

Enjoy your wine adventure in Santa Monica—cheers to memorable moments on water, land, and song.