While most visitors to Santa Monica gravitate toward the pier and the beach, there is a quieter, more refined side of the city found within its residential neighborhoods. The Garden Safaris walking tour offers a 4-mile loop that focuses on the intersection of coastal horticulture and California architectural history, moving through areas that feel worlds away from the tourist crowds.
What makes this experience distinct is its focus on the "North of Montana" and Palisades neighborhoods—areas known for their meticulously curated private landscapes. The tour begins at the historic Rose Garden in Palisades Park, providing immediate views of the Pacific before moving inland. As you walk, the focus shifts to the evolution of Southern California home design. You will see early 20th-century Craftsman bungalows with their signature low-pitched gables, Spanish Revival estates, and the clean, functional lines of Midcentury Modernism.
For photography enthusiasts, the route is purposefully chosen for its visual variety. The "safari" element comes from the botanical diversity on display, including rare Mediterranean palms, sculptural succulents, and towering pines that frame these historic residences. Because the tour is led by locals with backgrounds in preservation and horticulture, the commentary goes beyond surface-level facts to explain why certain plants thrive in this coastal microclimate and how the architecture was designed to "bring the outdoors in."
This is a three-hour experience covering roughly four miles. While the ground is mostly level, it is a steady walk that requires a moderate level of fitness.
This tour is ideal for travelers who prefer slow travel and local immersion over high-traffic landmarks. It is particularly rewarding for those with an interest in landscape design, urban planning, or architectural history.
However, if you are looking for a high-energy activity or want to see the main commercial highlights like the Third Street Promenade, this might feel too quiet. It is a contemplative, visual journey through residential history rather than a standard city sightseeing tour.
Is this tour suitable for children? While children are welcome, the three-hour duration and focus on architectural history and horticulture may be better suited for adults and older teens who enjoy walking and photography.
How difficult is the 4-mile walk? The route is conducted at a moderate pace on mostly level pavement. It is accessible for anyone who is comfortable being on their feet for three hours, but it is more of an "urban hike" than a casual stroll.
What happens if the weather is overcast? Santa Monica often experiences "June Gloom" or morning fog. This actually provides excellent, even lighting for garden photography, so tours typically proceed unless there is heavy rain.