Santa Monica Ghosts Haunted Ghost Tour on the Pier

If you’re curious about the darker side of Santa Monica’s charming seaside charm, the Santa Monica Ghosts Haunted Ghost Tour offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s haunted corners. This walking experience, lasting around an hour and a half, takes you through some of Santa Monica’s most iconic landmarks while revealing stories of spectral sightings, ghostly legends, and eerie happenings. Perfect for history buffs, ghost enthusiasts, or anyone looking to add a spooky twist to their beachside visit, this tour combines local lore with a bit of Hollywood mystique.

What I really like about this tour is how it balances eerie storytelling with historical context, making the ghost tales feel grounded in real places and stories. Plus, the guide’s passion and knowledge often shine through, making each stop more engaging. On the downside, the weather can sometimes be chilly or misty, which might make waiting around a bit less comfortable. Still, if you’re open to a spooky stroll that explores Santa Monica’s hidden stories, this tour is likely to entertain and surprise you.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy ghost stories, local history, or simply want something different from the typical beach day. It’s also great for those who prefer walking tours and are comfortable spending about 90 minutes outdoors. Keep in mind, the tour is best suited for those with a moderate physical fitness level, as it involves some walking and standing.

Key Points

• The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours and covers several well-known Santa Monica landmarks.
• Guides are praised for their knowledge and storytelling skills, making history and ghost tales engaging.
• Stops include the Santa Monica Pier, Palisades Park, Ocean Avenue, and historic hotels—all with haunted legends tied to them.
• The price of $32 offers a decent value considering the storytelling, local insights, and walking route.
• Tour is suitable for those interested in ghost stories, history, and Santa Monica’s local secrets.
• There are some mixed reviews, mainly about tour punctuality and clarity, but many recommend it for a memorable night out.

What to Expect from the Tour

The Santa Monica Ghosts Haunted Ghost Tour invites you to explore the city’s darker side—stories that have been whispered about for decades. From the moment you meet at the iconic Santa Monica Pier, you’ll start learning about how this seaside town’s history is intertwined with spirits and spectral legends. The tour is designed as a walking experience, so be prepared for about 90 minutes of outdoor exploration, with stops at notable landmarks.

The tour begins at the Santa Monica Pier Arch, where you’ll hear about the spirits believed to haunt this bustling gateway to the ocean. Expect stories that blend Santa Monica’s vibrant beach culture with ghostly legends that have endured over the years. The guide’s engaging narration makes these stories lively, even humorous at times, which keeps the mood balanced between spooky and fun.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Santa Monica Pier Arch

This is where the tour kicks off. Not just a photo-worthy landmark, the Pier Arch is steeped in stories of spirits that supposedly haunt its boards. The guide will reveal some of the dark tales connected to this famous structure, giving you a foundation for what’s to come—ghost stories that stretch back decades.

Palisades Park and the Cannon Statue

Strolling through the park, you’ll hear about ghostly encounters linked to the park’s residents. If you ever find yourself near the cannon statue and notice lost jewelry, beware—leaving it there might upset the local spirits. One reviewer mentioned that if you find jewelry near the cannon, it’s best to leave it be, as it’s believed to be protected by resident ghosts.

Arizona Avenue Pedestrian Bridge

Overlooking one of America’s most haunted highways, this spot is famous for drivers reporting shadowy figures appearing in the middle of the road—and then vanishing. It’s a classic roadside ghost story that adds a mysterious edge to the evening.

St. Monica’s Statue

In connection with the “Day of the Dead,” locals sometimes see spirits around this statue during specific times of year. The guide shares why this spot is particularly linked to ghostly sightings, blending local tradition with supernatural tales.

The Georgian Hotel

This historic hotel is a major highlight, with ghosts linked to big names like Rose Kennedy and Al Capone. The hotel’s storied past as a speakeasy and its reputation for paranormal activity make it a must-see. Many visitors find the stories of Hollywood ghosts quite captivating.

The Georgian’s Restaurant

Connected to the hotel, this scenic eatery is said to be haunted by spirits of old Hollywood stars. It adds a touch of glamour to ghost stories, blending California’s film history with spectral legends.

Santa Monica Pier Carousel

Ghost sightings near the carousel date back to the 1960s when apartments were built above it. Despite its cheerful appearance, some say that the ride is haunted by unseen visitors, which makes for a fun, spooky story—perfect for families or ghost enthusiasts.

The 1950s Dive Bar

A truly quirky stop—this dive bar has a colorful history involving elephants, astronaut Alan Shepard, and Julia Roberts, along with reports of paranormal activity. The diverse stories make this place stand out as a lively, if slightly eerie, part of the tour.

What We Love About the Tour

Knowledgeable Guides – Many reviews highlight the guides’ enthusiasm and depth of knowledge, making the stories come alive. For example, one reviewer commended Miles for not rushing and for his detailed storytelling, which kept the group engaged despite cold weather.

Well-Chosen Stops – The tour hits a mix of iconic landmarks and lesser-known spots, all tied together with ghostly legends. These locations are historically significant, making the ghost stories feel rooted in real places.

Affordable Price Point – At $32 per person, you’re getting a walking tour packed with stories, atmosphere, and local insights. Compared to other experiences, it’s a solid value for those interested in the spooky side of Santa Monica.

What Could Be Better

Punctuality and Communication – A few reviews mention guide no-shows or poor communication, which can be frustrating. It’s important to confirm your reservation and be aware that the experience relies heavily on the guide’s presence and storytelling skills.

Weather Considerations – Since the tour is outdoors, cold or foggy nights might be less comfortable. Bring layers if you’re sensitive to chill, especially since some reviews mention misty, cool evenings.

Limited Indoor Access – The tour doesn’t include interior visits; it’s all about walking past landmarks and hearing stories. If you’re looking for a spooky experience inside historic buildings, you might find this a little limiting.

The Experience for Different Travelers

This tour is best suited for ghost story enthusiasts, history buffs, and those seeking a different way to explore Santa Monica. It’s also great if you enjoy walking and don’t mind a bit of outdoor weather. Families, couples, or groups of friends looking for a spooky adventure will find plenty to enjoy here.

However, if punctuality or indoor access are deal breakers, or if you’re expecting sophisticated effects or haunted house-style scares, this might not meet your expectations. Still, for genuine stories rooted in real places, this tour offers authentic appeal.

The Sum Up

The Santa Monica Ghosts Haunted Ghost Tour offers a fun, atmospheric way to experience the city’s lesser-known side. It’s a great choice for travelers who appreciate storytelling, local history, and a touch of spooky fun, all at a reasonable price. The guiding staff’s enthusiasm and knowledge make it a memorable experience, especially if you’re lucky enough to catch a clear, misty evening.

While it isn’t perfect—some reviews mention logistical issues and weather considerations—the overall atmosphere and engaging landmarks make this a worthwhile addition to your Santa Monica visit. It’s best suited for those curious about ghost stories, eager to explore the city’s haunted corners, and open to a lively walk that mixes history with hauntings.

Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, you’ll enjoy hearing about the spirits that may still linger among Santa Monica’s iconic sights. Keep your camera ready for photos and your ears open for tales that might just make the hair stand up on your neck.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a manageable outdoor activity that fits into a relaxed evening.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at 200 Santa Monica Pier, right at the iconic Pier entrance—easy to find and perfect for starting your ghostly adventure.

What landmarks will we visit?
Stops include the Santa Monica Pier Arch, Palisades Park, Arizona Avenue Pedestrian Bridge, St. Monica’s Statue, The Georgian Hotel, and the historic carousel, among others.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the storytelling style and moderate walking suggest it could be suitable for older children and teenagers, especially those interested in ghost stories.

What’s the cost?
It’s priced at $32 per person, which offers good value considering the duration and the range of stories and sights covered.

Are the guides experienced?
Many reviews praise the guides for their knowledge and storytelling ability, making the experience informative and engaging.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour accessible via public transportation?
Yes, it’s near public transportation, making it convenient to reach the starting point.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, layers for weather changes, and perhaps a camera for spooky photos. Snacks are not included, so bring your own if desired.

This Santa Monica Ghosts Haunted Ghost Tour offers a lively, atmospheric exploration of the city’s ghostly side—an enjoyable mix of history, legend, and seaside charm for those who like their stories with a ghostly twist.