Small-Group Electric Bike Tour of Santa Monica and Venice

The Small-Group Electric Bike Tour of Santa Monica and Venice offers a lively way to see some of Los Angeles’s most famous beach neighborhoods. Priced at $89 per person, this 3-hour experience combines comfort, scenery, and local insights, making it a popular choice with a 5.0-star rating from 424 reviews. The tour departs from Santa Monica and takes you along the coast, canals, and iconic landmarks, all while riding electric bikes that provide a relaxed pace and easy navigation.

With an average booking window of 23 days in advance, this tour is suitable for active individuals who enjoy outdoor exploration. It features helmet rental and bottled water included in the price, emphasizing safety and comfort. The guide-led ride is designed to be accessible, with small group sizes capped at six travelers, ensuring personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere. While most participants find this tour ideal, it requires a basic level of comfort riding a bike, and it is not suitable for children under 13 or those over 70 who are less confident cyclists.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: A $89 fee for a 3-hour guided electric bike experience.
• Stops and Highlights: Includes Santa Monica Pier, Venice Canals, Muscle Beach, Venice Skatepark, and more.
• Comfortable Bikes: Pedego beach cruisers equipped with six gears, high-end disc brakes, and a powerful 500-watt motor.
• All-Inclusive: Helmet rental and bottled water are part of the package.
• Small Group Experience: Tours are limited to 6 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and safety.
• Expert Guides: Guides are praised for their knowledge, storytelling, and friendliness.

Santa Monica Beach and Pier: The Tour’s Starting Point

The tour begins in Santa Monica at 214 Pier Ave, where riders hop onto Pedego beach cruisers—modified with electric motors for effortless riding. The experience kicks off with a ride along Santa Monica’s renowned beach, passing by the Santa Monica Pier and the Marion Davies Guesthouse. The electric bikes make it easy to cover the scenic 26-Mile Bike Path at a relaxed pace, allowing everyone to enjoy the ocean views without overexertion.

Riders can choose to pedal or flip the electric switch to get a smooth boost, which comes in handy when riding along the flat, wide trails. The bikes feature six gears, so adjusting for different terrain is simple. The starting point’s proximity to public transportation makes it convenient for travelers to meet their guide and commence the adventure.

Exploring Santa Monica’s Iconic Landmarks

During the tour, visitors get a close look at Santa Monica Pier, an iconic LA landmark with its lively atmosphere and photo-worthy backdrop. Nearby, the Annenberg Community Beach House offers a peaceful pause, giving insight into local seaside life. The Santa Monica State Beach provides a stunning stretch of sand, and the guide shares interesting details about the area’s history and architecture.

Riders also enjoy a glimpse of the Ocean View Park, where they can take in sweeping views of Pacific Ocean and Santa Monica Bay. These stops are designed to maximize scenic views and give enough time for photos without rushing the experience.

Cycling Through Venice Beach’s Unique Attractions

Crossing into Venice, the tour visits the Venice Canals Walkway, a charming, picturesque spot often mistaken for Italy’s Venice. The canals are a highlight, with their quaint bridges and lush landscaping providing perfect photo opportunities. Next, the Venice Beach area bursts with energy, home to Muscle Beach Venice Gym, famous for its connection to Arnold Schwarzenegger, and the Venice Skatepark, which showcases gravity-defying tricks.

A quick stop at the Venice Art Walls reveals vibrant murals and street art, expressing the neighborhood’s creative spirit. Riders get to see the lively fishing pier, the Southernmost point of the ride, and enjoy the colorful atmosphere that makes Venice so distinctive.

The Highlights of the Coastal Bay and the Ocean Views

After exploring Venice’s attractions, the tour heads south toward the Santa Monica Bay, bordered by Malibu to the north. Riders enjoy a scenic ride along the coast, taking in panoramic views of the ocean and neighboring bluffs. The guide shares insights into the area’s geography and popular spots, adding depth to the experience.

The Pacific Park area on the Santa Monica Pier marks the end of the sightseeing, where visitors can view the famous Pacific Wheel Ferris wheel. While biking on the pier itself is not permitted for safety reasons, the view from the bike path provides plenty of photo opportunities.

The Electric Bikes and Ride Comfort

Participants ride Pedego beach cruisers, known for their comfort and reliability. The bikes are equipped with six gears, high-end disc brakes, and a 500-watt lithium-ion battery that offers a significant boost. The peddle assist feature allows riders to choose their level of effort, making the ride accessible for various fitness levels.

Most reviews praise the smooth ride and the electric assist, highlighting how the bikes allow covering a large area without fatigue. The bikes’ double saddlebags provide convenient storage for small personal items, while helmet rental ensures safety throughout the tour.

The Tour Guides and Personal Experience

The guides receive high praise for their knowledge, storytelling, and friendly demeanor. Many reviews mention guides like Barb, Steph, Molly, and Aurora—all known for their enthusiasm, local insights, and helpfulness. They ensure safety, provide interesting anecdotes, and often go beyond expectations, such as stopping for photos or sharing historical details.

Tours are designed for a small group of up to six people, creating an intimate, personalized atmosphere. The guides’ ability to adapt to different paces and interest levels receives consistent positive feedback, making the experience enjoyable for all.

Practical Info and Tips for the Tour

The tour departs twice daily, at 9:45am and 1:45pm, and it’s recommended to arrive 15 minutes early for check-in. Riders must be aged 13 or older, at least 5 feet tall, and weigh minimum 100 lbs. The tour is suitable for individuals who are comfortable riding a bike and are up to 70 years old if confident on two wheels.

Participants should wear closed-toe shoes, sunscreen, and sunglasses, and bring a lightweight jacket if needed. Since the tour operates in good weather only, rain can cause cancellations, with options for rescheduling or full refunds. The small group size ensures personalized attention, but availability depends on booking at least a few weeks in advance due to high demand.

Why This Tour Stands Out in LA

This electric bike tour combines scenic coastal views with cultural and historic sights, all in a relaxed setting. The electric bikes add ease, allowing visitors to cover a broad area without fatigue, which is especially appealing for varied fitness levels. The tour’s small group size fosters a friendly atmosphere and personalized storytelling, making it more engaging than larger bus options.

The stops at Venice’s skatepark, Muscle Beach, and the canals highlight Venice’s unique character, while Santa Monica’s beachfront and pier showcase classic LA. The expert guides and well-maintained bikes contribute to a safe, fun, and informative experience that captures the essence of Los Angeles’s beachside vibe.

Final Thoughts on the Santa Monica and Venice Beach Electric Bike Tour

This small-group electric bike tour offers a practical, enjoyable way to explore Santa Monica and Venice. The combination of beautiful scenery, iconic landmarks, and local stories makes it ideal for visitors who want to see a lot in a short time without the physical strain of traditional biking.

The $89 price point, inclusive of helmet and water, provides good value considering the comprehensive nature of the experience and the personalized attention from guides. It suits active travelers who appreciate a leisurely pace, stunning ocean views, and insider knowledge. However, those with limited bike confidence or seeking a more relaxed, less active experience may want to consider their comfort level first.

This tour brings LA’s coastal highlights to life in a fun, eco-friendly way that’s sure to leave lasting memories.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 13 and older who are comfortable riding a bike can participate. Children under 13 are not eligible.

What should I wear for the tour?
Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are recommended, along with sunscreen and sunglasses. Bringing a light jacket is advisable in case of weather changes.

Are helmets provided?
Yes, helmet rental is included in the tour price.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, including stops and photo breaks.

Can I use the electric assist on the bikes?
Absolutely. The bikes have a flick switch that allows you to toggle between pedaling and electric power for a relaxed ride.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour does not operate in rain. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a reschedule or a full refund.

How many people are in each group?
The small group size caps at 6 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

Where does the tour start and end?
The meeting point is 214 Pier Ave, Santa Monica, and the tour concludes back at the same location.

Is the tour accessible via public transportation?
Yes, the tour start point is near public transportation, making it convenient to reach.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 23 days in advance to secure their spot, especially during peak times.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.