Santa Monica Sinister Sins & Sorrow Ghost Tour

The Santa Monica Sinister Sins & Sorrow Ghost Tour offers a captivating, one-hour evening journey through the haunted corners of downtown Santa Monica. Priced with flexibility—reservations are open with the option to reserve now and pay later—this tour is led by guides wearing US Ghost Adventures shirts and carrying lanterns, ensuring an authentic ghost-hunting vibe. Meeting at the iconic Santa Monica Pier sign, the tour begins with a brief introduction to the area’s dark past, setting the stage for an exploration of haunted hotels, bars, bridges, and amusement rides. This experience suits those who enjoy short, themed walking tours packed with spooky stories, historic insights, and visual ghost sightings, though it may feel limited for anyone seeking a longer or more in-depth journey.

While the duration is just one hour, the tour packs in notable stops such as The Georgian Hotel, known for its paranormal hijinks, and Chez Jay, famous for its ghostly Hollywood legends. For those interested in more locations, the extended tour option allows visits to three additional haunted sites, including the Pacific Wheel, where Marilyn Monroe’s ghost has reportedly been seen. Despite a 3.9-star rating based on 7 reviews, the tour’s brief length and average review scores suggest it is best for those with an interest in ghost stories without demanding a long or highly intense experience.

Key Points

• One-hour walking tour starting at the Santa Monica Pier sign
• Led by guides in US Ghost Adventures shirts with lanterns
• Visit haunted sites like The Georgian Hotel and Chez Jay
• Extended tour option includes three extra haunted locations
• Emphasizes Hollywood ghosts, including Elizabeth Taylor and Frank Sinatra
• Suitable for those prepared for a walk of about a mile, not ideal for those with mobility issues

You can check availability for your dates here:

Meeting Point and Tour Logistics

The tour begins precisely under the Santa Monica Pier sign at the intersection of Ocean Avenue and Colorado Avenue. The guide, unmistakable with a US Ghost Adventures shirt and lantern, welcomes guests 15 minutes before the scheduled start. The location’s coordinates are 34.00828170776367, -118.4987564086914, making it easy to find near the iconic Pier. All tours are rain or shine, which means visitors should come prepared with comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing. The tour is wheelchair accessible, but it covers about one mile of walking, so those with mobility impairments might find it challenging.

Highlights of Santa Monica’s Haunted Spots

The tour features visits to Santa Monica’s darkest corners, where a palpable spooky atmosphere prevails. The Georgian Hotel stands out with its reputation for paranormal hijinks, and visitors get the chance to hear first-hand accounts of ghostly activity at this historic location. Outside Chez Jay, the tour explores Hollywood’s ghostly past by revealing stories of spirits from Old Hollywood, including Elizabeth Taylor, Frank Sinatra, and Marlon Brando.

As the sun sets behind the water, the guides encourage guests to scan the city skyline for rooftop spirits. One of the tour’s unique features is investigating the disappearance of Celine Borde, adding an extra layer of mystery. For those opting for the extended experience, three more haunted sites await, such as the Pacific Wheel, where Marilyn Monroe’s ghost has reportedly been seen on a date with John F. Kennedy.

The Tour Route and Haunted Sites Explored

The walking route takes guests through Santa Monica’s historic downtown, focusing on locations with deep ties to local ghost lore. Each stop offers a chance to hear chilling tales about haunted hotels, bars, bridges, and amusement rides. The Carousel is part of the experience, where visitors might see a mysterious shadow or hear whispers of ghostly presence.

The Georgian Hotel is notable for its paranormal activity, while Chez Jay is famed for its Hollywood ghost stories. The disappearance of Celine Borde adds a mysterious element to the exploration, with stories of lost spirits. The extended tour expands this journey to three additional haunted locations, with the Pacific Wheel being a highlight due to Marilyn Monroe’s ghostly appearances.

The Guide and Atmosphere During the Tour

Guides lead the walk with engaging storytelling, often sharing first-hand accounts and local legends. Their approach maintains a lively but spooky atmosphere, enhanced by lanterns that cast shadows and evoke a true ghost-hunting vibe. While the tour duration is short, it effectively combines history and ghost lore, making the experience both informative and chilling.

The group size tends to be manageable, fostering a more personal experience. The live English-guided narration ensures clarity, while the weather-appropriate attire keeps guests comfortable despite potential rain or wind. The guide’s storytelling style is straightforward, making the tour accessible and suitable for first-time ghost tour participants.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Extended Tour: More Haunted Locations and Marilyn Monroe

The extended option is perfect for those wanting more ghostly encounters. It includes visits to three additional haunted sites, including the Pacific Wheel. Here, the legend of Marilyn Monroe’s ghost being seen on a date with John F. Kennedy adds a glamorous ghost story to the mix. This extension offers a more comprehensive glimpse into Santa Monica’s haunted side, though it requires additional time and possibly more walking.

Practical Tips for Attendees

Guests should bring passport or ID, wear comfortable shoes, and dress according to the weather forecast. Since video recording is not allowed, visitors should focus on listening and observing. Expect the tour to go ahead rain or shine, so prepare for possible outdoor weather conditions. Since the tour is not recommended for those with mobility impairments, guests with walking difficulties might find the experience challenging.

Pricing and Cancellation Policy

The tour provides free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility for changing plans. Booking reserves your spot without immediate payment, allowing travelers to pay later. With a duration of 1 hour, the tour fits conveniently into an evening schedule, making it accessible even for those with limited time in Santa Monica.

Final Thoughts on the Santa Monica Ghost Tour

The Santa Monica Sinister Sins & Sorrow Ghost Tour delivers a compact, engaging journey into the haunted history of Santa Monica’s downtown. It’s ideal for visitors interested in a short ghostly adventure with Hollywood legends and paranormal stories. The walk’s history-rich stops like the Georgian Hotel and Chez Jay provide authentic spooky tales, and the extended option offers even more haunted locations.

While the average review score of 3.9 stars suggests some room for improvement—particularly in story depth and length—this tour stands out for its authentic guides and atmospheric storytelling. It is best suited for ghost enthusiasts, history buffs, or those curious about Santa Monica’s haunted past, who are comfortable walking about a mile. For a quick, spooky excursion with historic flavor and Hollywood ghost stories, this tour offers a fun, accessible option.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the Santa Monica Ghost Tour last?
The tour lasts about one hour.

Where does the tour meet?
All tours meet under the Santa Monica Pier sign, at the intersection of Ocean Avenue and Colorado Avenue.

Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

What should I bring on the tour?
Guests should bring passport or ID, comfortable shoes, and weather-appropriate clothing.

Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.

What locations are included in the tour?
Stops include haunted hotels, bars, bridges, amusement rides, specifically The Georgian Hotel and Chez Jay.

Is there an extended version of the tour?
Yes, the extended tour visits three additional haunted sites, including the Pacific Wheel.

What kind of stories are told during the tour?
The tour features paranormal hijinks, Hollywood ghost legends, and stories like the disappearance of Celine Borde.

Is this tour appropriate for children?
The tour is suitable for those able to walk about a mile; it may not be ideal for very young children or those with mobility issues.

What is the cost of the tour?
Prices are flexible—reserve now and pay later, with exact costs depending on the booking option.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby