Santa Monica Garden Safaris: Tour Itinerary, Pricing, and Tickets

Step away from the bustle of the pier and into the serene, leafy heart of Santa Monica. This curated walking tour invites you to explore the city’s most prestigious residential avenues, where the scent of jasmine and the shade of century-old trees create a quiet sanctuary. Led by local experts with backgrounds in horticulture and design, you’ll discover a side of the Westside that most visitors never see.

A Journey Through Living Design

Santa Monica is more than a beach town; it is an open-air museum of botanical and architectural history. On this three-hour "garden safari," we meander through level, photogenic streets lined with an incredible diversity of flora and iconic home designs.

From the rare pines that tower over the Palisades to the meticulously sculpted hedges of private estates, every turn reveals a new perspective on Southern California living. You’ll see how Mediterranean palms frame the clean lines of Midcentury Modern masterpieces and how flowering arches soften the sturdy woodwork of early 20th-century Craftsman bungalows.

Tour Highlights

• Palisades Park Start: Begin your journey at the historic Rose Garden in Palisades Park, overlooking the Pacific.
• Architectural Diversity: View a stunning collection of Revival, Craftsman, and Midcentury homes.
• Botanical Treasures: Learn about the rare pines, coastal trees, and drought-tolerant gardens that define the local landscape.
• The Hidden Retreat: Conclude your 4-mile walk at a secret local destination—a charming spot where residents go to dine and unwind away from the crowds.

What to Expect

This tour is designed as a steady, moderate-paced hike on level ground, making it ideal for those who want a long, beautiful walk without strenuous inclines. It is a peaceful immersion into the local culture, perfect for lovers of design and horticulture who enjoy looking behind the garden gates.

Itinerary at a Glance

• Start Location: Rose Garden at Palisades Park.
• Duration: Approximately 3 hours.
• Distance: Roughly 4 miles of comfortable walking.
• Conclusion: The tour ends at a hidden local gem (exact location provided in your confirmation email).

Essential Information

To ensure the best experience on your garden journey, we recommend bringing the following:

• Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes are a must for the 4-mile route.
• Hydration: A refillable water bottle to stay hydrated.
• Protection: A hat, sunscreen, or light layers to adapt to the changing coastal breeze.
• Extras: Light snacks and a camera to capture the stunning architectural details.

Pricing & Private Options

We offer both intimate group settings and personalized private experiences:

• Private Tours: $200 for two guests (additional guests $75 each).
• Customization: Private tours are available on request for those seeking a more tailored pace or focus.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children? While the tour is on level ground, the 3-hour duration and 4-mile distance are best suited for adults and older children who enjoy walking and design.

Where exactly does the tour end? We keep our final destination a bit of a secret to maintain its quiet charm, but it is a beloved local spot perfect for a post-tour meal or coffee. You will receive the exact location in your booking confirmation.

What happens if it rains? Santa Monica enjoys beautiful weather year-round, but in the event of heavy rain, we will contact you to reschedule or provide a refund. We always recommend checking the forecast and bringing light layers.