27 Of The Best Team Building Ideas in Santa Monica, CA
Your team will think you came from straight from Muscle beach once you flex on them with our favorite Santa Monica team building ideas. We’ve put together a creative collection of activities based on local knowledge and teambuilding expertise. Santa Monica’s eclectic neighborhoods, artistic spirit, and a little thing we like to call THE PACIFIC OCEAN create perfect backdrops for corporate retreats and team bonding.
Thinking of a Scavenger Hunt on Santa Monica Pier or the beach? ? What about a CSR give back event focused on Surfboards or Skateboards to embrace that SoCal culture? We’ve hosted so many team Olympics on the beaches in Santa Monica they’ve considered renaming the pier “Firefly Pier.” (Not really but that does have a nice sound to it right?)
All of the Santa Monica based activities on our list can be classified as team building exercises, fun team activities, or team bonding. The uniting factor is your group will be together and enjoying themselves as a team. This list of top ideas for Santa Monica and the surrounding areas contains both indoor team building activities and outdoor team building ideas. Remember, that no matter the team activity you choose the true value is spending time together. Connection in the current landscape of remote work and hybrid workplaces is more important than ever.
1. Scavenger Hunts
Boost employee engagement in this fast paced high tech adventure. It’s team versus team as you complete hilarious photo missions! Each team uses an Android/Iphone app to complete missions as they run around the streets and shops of places like The Santa Monica Pier, the beach or downtown. Each mission is a photograph that might have your team giving strangers a piggyback ride or wrapping a team member up with toilet paper like a mummy. You’ll also test yourself against puzzles, staffed checkpoints, and trivia. It’s like the Amazing Race meets a scavenger hunt pumped full of Redbull.
Pricing: Price varies
Group Size: Any
Address: Any
Website: https://fireflyteamevents.com/team-building-options/amazing-race-scavenger-hunt-events-2/
2. Iron Team Olympics
Experience the ultimate team Olympics challenge on the beach! Face-off against other teams in a series of crazy fun team building challenges inspired by the TV show Survivor. As your team rotates through challenge stations they have chances to earn points toward the final showdown; a little thing we call The Gauntlet. Along the way they have to embrace concepts like trust, communication, and leadership if they want to win. You’ll be laughing, searching, goofing, and high-fiving all the way through. Does your team have what it takes to be the Iron Team Champions?
Pricing: Price varies
Group Size: Any
Address: Any
Website: https://fireflyteamevents.com/team-building-options/team-building-olympics/
3. Sand Sculpture Build
Add this to your list of awesome and unique Santa Monica team building ideas. Sunshine, sand, and water are the secret ingredients for this amazing team building event. Your team will create the ultimate sand sculpture or building to match the day’s theme. Our sculpting lesson will show you how to wet pack sand, carve, and build bigger, taller sand masterpieces. Who are the creatives on your team? Managers? Builders? You’ll need them all if your team is going to win!
Pricing: Price varies
Group Size: Any
Address: Any
Website: https://fireflyteamevents.com/team-building-options/sand-sculptures/
4. Santa Monica Pedal Pub Crawl
Hop on the barcycle pub crawl! This team building activity offers a fun and interactive way for colleagues to bond and let loose outside of the office. Pedal your way through the streets of Santa Monica on a party bike, with stops at some of the city’s top bars and pubs. Enjoy drinks, music, and great company as you navigate the city together. This exciting team building activity is perfect for groups of all sizes . Whether you’re a local business looking for a fun team building activity or a visiting company looking to experience the best of Santa Monica, the barcycle pub crawl is a fantastic option.
Pricing: TBD
Group Size: 44942
Address: Contact for location
Website: https://www.partybike.com/santamonica/
5. The Painted Peach
At Painted Peach, let loose and channel your inner artist – no matter if it’s your first time with a paintbrush or if you’re an experienced artist! This teambuilding activity promises a laidback and fun experience where you can unwind and enjoy some laughs.
Take a sip of your favorite beverage – whether it’s a refreshing glass of H20, a crisp white wine, or a full-bodied red – as their experienced instructors guide your group through a step-by-step painting process. And the best part? You get to bring home your very own masterpiece as a tangible memory of the great time you had at Painted Peach.
Pricing: 100
Group Size: 1-35
Address: Rose Ave, Venice, CA
Website: https://paintedpeachla.com/
6. The RIDE Program: A Fun and Meaningful Team Building Adventure with the Do Good Bus
The RIDE program is not your typical team building experience. This adventure offers so much more than just an opportunity to bond with your team; it is a chance to make a real difference in your community. The day is filled with excitement, from the moment the booked bus arrives until the mystery volunteer location is revealed. Along the way, participants engage in team building activities that challenge them both mentally and physically. They also enjoy a delicious lunch, fueling them for the remainder of the day’s activities.
The highlight of the RIDE program is the mystery volunteer location. Participants may not know where they’re going, but they know they’ll be doing something good for the community. This creates a sense of excitement and anticipation that is sure to leave a lasting impression on your team. The RIDE program is perfect for companies or organizations looking to make a positive impact while also strengthening their team’s bond. So, hop on board and get ready for an adventure that you won’t soon forget!
Pricing: Contact for pricing
Group Size: 1-35
Address: 6053 Bristol Pkwy, Culver City, CA
Website: https://www.dogoodbus.com/
7. Santa Monica Beach Volley Ball
Ready to hit the sand and spike some balls? Look no further than Santa Monica Beach Volleyball for an epic team building activity!
Their classes and programs are designed to bring your team together for some fun in the sun, while also giving everyone the opportunity to improve their volleyball game. It’s the perfect combination of fitness, fun, and bonding – and who knows, maybe you’ll even discover some hidden talents on the court!
So, swap out those suits and ties for some swimwear and sunscreen, and get ready to serve up some serious teamwork with Santa Monica Beach Volleyball.
Pricing: 310
Group Size: Any
Address: 200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA
Website: https://santamonicabeachvolleyball.com/
8. Discovering the Charm and Character of Third Street Promenade
Get ready for a team building event that’s sure to be a blockbuster hit! This vibrant and colorful three-block stretch is a moviegoer’s paradise, boasting more than 20 screens and hundreds of stores.
But that’s not all – there’s also an array of mouth-watering restaurants, adorable animal topiaries, and even street performers to keep you entertained. From dancers to fortune tellers, the street entertainment has something for everyone. Whether you’re catching a movie, trying some delicious food, or simply enjoying the sights and sounds of the lively street performers, there’s no shortage of ways to bond and have a great time together.
Pricing: Price varies
Group Size: Any
Address: 1351 3rd Street Promenade, Santa Monica, CA
Website: https://www.downtownsm.com/
9. Perfect Day Surf Camp
Cowabunga! Get ready to ride the waves and bond with your team at Perfect Day Surf Camp in sunny Santa Monica. With their CPR certified elite surf coaches, they will teach you and your team how to surf at some of the best beach bottom surf spots in Los Angeles and the South Bay. You have the option to choose from private parties and surf lessons. Whether you’re a total newbie or a seasoned pro, the instructors at Perfect Day Surf Camp will help you level up your surfing skills and catch some gnarly waves. So, grab your board shorts and sunscreen and get ready to hang ten with your colleagues on the beautiful beaches of Santa Monica! a unique and unforgettable team building experience?
Pricing: 95
Group Size: 60
Address: Perfect Day Surf Camp, 964 Palisades Beach Rd, Santa Monica, CA
Website: https://www.perfectdaysurfcamp.com/
10. Blue Pacific Yatching
Welcome to LA’s Premier Sailing & Powerboating Club, presented by Blue Pacific Yatching! This top-notch club is the perfect venue for team building, bonding, and networking among colleagues, making it an ideal location for your next corporate team building event. Participants can learn to sail or powerboat and establish trust and camaraderie while cruising the open waters.
The club offers certified sailing and powerboating classes that cater to all skill levels, from beginners to advanced sailors. Their team of experienced and knowledgeable instructors ensure that participants learn the necessary skills to conquer the open water with confidence. Custom training sessions are also available and can be tailored to meet the specific needs of your team.
For those seeking an extraordinary team building adventure, the club provides charters to Catalina Island and day trips to Malibu. These excursions offer the perfect opportunity to bond with colleagues while discovering the stunning California coast.
Pricing: TBD
Group Size: TBD
Address: Varies
Website: https://www.bluepacificboating.com/
11. Hit the Bullseye with Hatchet Hound
Get ready to unleash your inner lumberjack and bond with your team in the most epic way possible – axe throwing at Hatchet Hound! This exciting team building activity promises to be a thrill ride from start to finish.
Not only will you and your team get to learn new skills and perfect your axe throwing technique, but you’ll also get to indulge in delicious food and drinks while you play. Plus, with team competitions, you’ll have the chance to show off your skills and earn bragging rights!
Before and after your reservation, feel free to hang out at our fully stocked bar and soak up the fun and lively atmosphere. Hatchet Hound is the perfect place to let loose, have some laughs, and make unforgettable memories with your team.
Pricing: Price varies
Group Size: 1-50
Address: 204 Main St. El Segundo, CA
Website: https://hatchethound.com/
12. Still Life Studio
Ready to get your hands dirty and create some pottery magic with your team? Come on down to Still Life Studio in Santa Monica for an exciting and fun team building activity!
In just one hour, their skilled instructors will teach you and your team how to throw a bowl on the potter’s wheel. Even if you’ve never touched clay before, no worries! They provide all the materials and no experience is necessary. After the class, get ready to unleash your creativity by choosing your favorite glaze color for your piece. Then, in about three weeks, your masterpieces will be all fired up and ready for you to pick up. you to pick up. Grab your coworkers and let’s get spinning! Still Life Studio is the perfect place to unwind, get creative, and bond with your team in a fun and energetic way.
Pricing: 100
Group Size: 10-20
Address: 850 Pico Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90405
Neighborhood:
Website: https://still-life-studio.com/
13. The VR Hour
Get ready to level up your team building game at VRHour! This incredible venue offers a fully immersive virtual reality escape room experience that promotes collaborative puzzle-solving and teamwork. As you enter the virtual world and become avatars, you’ll communicate with your colleagues using built-in microphones and headphones, developing leadership and teamwork skills. With 7 VR stations available, up to 7 players can participate at a time, while larger groups can split into smaller teams that take turns. The shared experience of puzzle-solving encourages communication, trust, cooperation, and connection among team members.
Pricing: Price varies
Group Size: 50
Address: 2901 Ocean Park Blvd Ste 103 Santa Monica, CA
Website: https://vr-hour.com/
14. Bike Along the Marvin Braude Bike Trail
Ready to hit the beach and explore Santa Monica and Venice in style? This is a perfect team building option and Perry’s has got you covered with the largest bike fleet in California and nine convenient locations. Whether you’re up for a leisurely ride along the boardwalk or an adventurous trek through the hills, they have the perfect bike for you. And the best part? It’s the most eco-friendly way to experience the beauty of these iconic beach cities! So grab your helmet and hop on the Marvin Braude Bike Trail for a day of fun in the sun.
Pricing: TBD
Group Size: Any
Address: 2400 Ocean Front Walk
Website: https://perryscafe.com/
15. Bergamot Station
Ready to show your team a great time in Santa Monica? Look no further than the Bergamot Station Arts Center! This creative arts complex is packed with an incredible collection of galleries and creative businesses, offering a truly diverse range of artistic mediums and styles.
Get ready to explore rotating exhibitions from top artists around the globe and discover the latest in contemporary art. But the fun doesn’t stop there! The Bergamot Station Arts Center is also a hub for community and cultural events, with a packed calendar of educational, non-profit, and charitable activities happening all year round.
Whether you’re hoping to inspire your team with cutting-edge art or simply want to get involved with the local community, the Bergamot Station Arts Center has it all. With its lively atmosphere and unbeatable selection of fine art galleries, your team is sure to have a blast.
Pricing: TBD
Group Size: Any
Address: 2525 Michigan Avenue, Santa Monica, CA
Website: https://bergamotstation.com/
16. The Iconic Santa Monica Pier
If you’re looking for a fun team-building activity in Santa Monica, the iconic Santa Monica Pier is a perfect choice! This beloved landmark offers an endless array of exciting activities that are sure to bring your team together and create unforgettable memories.
For starters, the pier is home to an amusement park with a range of thrilling rides and attractions, including a Ferris wheel, roller coaster, and arcade games. Your team can bond over competing for the highest score or experiencing the adrenaline rush of a roller coaster ride together.
If you prefer more low-key activities, the pier also offers plenty of options, such as fishing off the pier, strolling along the boardwalk, or sampling local cuisine at one of the many food stands and restaurants. No matter what your team’s interests may be, the Santa Monica Pier offers something for everyone. It’s a great way to break out of the office and let loose.
Pricing: FREE
Group Size: Any
Address: 200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA
Website: https://www.santamonica.com/things-to-do/visiting-santa-monica-pier/
17. Rock Your Team Building with Rockreation
Rockreation presents an excellent team building option for companies seeking to enhance their teamwork skills. It provides a chance to escape from the office and engage in an exciting adventure with colleagues. Whether the aim is to strengthen team dynamics or just have some fun, Rockreation can offer a perfect location for your next corporate outing. With state-of-the-art equipment, experienced instructors, and a variety of climbing routes to choose from, Rockreation can accommodate all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned climbers.
Pricing: $65-$85
Group Size: TBD
Address: 11866 La Grange Ave Los Angeles, CA
Website: https://www.rockreation.com/
18. Moonlight Glass
Unleash your creativity with a glass blowing class that doubles as a team building activity. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, you’ll get the chance to make a lasting keepsake in the form of a paperweight, stemless wine glass, or tumbler. Held at the beautiful Moonlight Glass, you’ll have the opportunity to bring your unique ideas to life and work collaboratively with your coworkers to create something truly special. By the end of the class, you’ll have not only created a stunning piece of art
Pricing: TBD
Group Size: 44938
Address: 705 Hampton Dr Venice, C
Website: https://www.johnmooneyglass.com/
19. SUP Rentals: Poseidon Paddle & Surf
Poseidon Paddle & Surf Rentals in Santa Monica is an excellent choice to inject some excitement into your team’s day. SUP is a great way to explore the stunning Santa Monica coastline, while also building teamwork skills through a shared experience. The rental team provides all the necessary equipment and instruction to ensure a safe and enjoyable outing, even for beginners. At Poseidon Stand Up Paddle Board Rentals, you can get out of the office, get active, and develop valuable teamwork skills, all while enjoying the beautiful outdoors.
Pricing: $50-$80
Group Size: Any
Address: 1654 Ocean Ave Santa Monica, CA
Website: https://www.poseidonstandup.com/
20. Museum of Flying
Get ready to bond with your colleagues as you embark on a journey through time to discover the fascinating history of aviation. Through interactive exhibits and engaging multimedia experiences, you will learn about the remarkable achievements of Douglas Aircraft and the Santa Monica Airport. You’ll have the chance to experience what it was like to be a pilot in the early days of aviation and see the world from a bird’s eye view. The Museum of Flying’s is a fun spot for your next team outing!
Pricing: 10
Group Size: 1-50
Address: 3100 Airport Ave., Santa Monica, CA
Website: https://www.museumofflying.org/
21. Palisades Park
Palisades Park is an ideal destination for a company outing, offering a stunning view of Santa Monica Bay. This iconic park spans over 26 acres and boasts a variety of features, including picnic areas, benches, artworks and monuments, a rose garden, the Camera Obscura Art Lab, and more. Visitors from all over the world come to enjoy the picturesque scenery and take in the fresh ocean air. Palisades Park is the perfect location to gather your team for a fun and memorable day out in the sun.
Pricing: FREE
Group Size: Any
Address: Palisades Park, Ocean Ave, Santa Monica, CA
Website: https://www.santamonica.com/things-to-do/palisades-park/
22. Annenberg Community Beach House
The Annenberg Community Beach House is an ideal destination for an unforgettable meeting or celebration! No matter the size of your group, from intimate gatherings of 10 to grand festivities with up to 400 guests, this incredible event space is the spot for you.
Imagine soaking up the sunshine and chilling out by the pool with your friends, creating lasting memories in a relaxed atmosphere. The Beach House offers the perfect setting to unwind, enjoy the beautiful surroundings, and make the most of your time together. Whether you’re hosting a team meeting, a company celebration, or a special event, the Annenberg Community Beach House provides the ideal backdrop and southern california sunshine for an incredible experience.
Pricing: TBD
Group Size: Any
Address: 415 E Pacific Coast Hwy, Santa Monica, CA
Website: https://www.annenbergbeachhouse.com/
23. Loof Hippodrome and Carousel
Charles I.D. Looff, a legendary carousel builder, created an architectural gem in 1916 that your team will adore. The Looff Hippodrome features a delightful carousel and a fascinating history that will pique your team’s interest.
Step back in time at the Looff Hippodrome and escape the daily grind. Discover the captivating story of the carousel and its significance in American culture, as well as Charles I.D. Looff’s impressive contributions to the amusement park industry. After enjoying a ride on the carousel, visit the vintage ice cream parlor located in the historic Looff Hippodrome and treat your team to some delicious ice cream!
Pricing: 6
Group Size: 1-35
Address: 1619 Ocean Front Walk, Santa Monica, CA 90401
Website: https://www.smconservancy.org/property/looff-hippodrome-2/
24. The Scenic Santa Monica Electric Mountain Biking Tour
Get ready to kick-start your team building activity with the Scenic Santa Monica Electric Mountain Biking Tour for Beginners! This adventure-packed tour promises to unleash your inner adventurer and bond your team through a shared experience of breathtaking views of Santa Monica’s ocean and mountains.
But before the thrill of the ride, the group will receive a briefing from an expert guide on everything they need to know to make the most of their exhilarating journey. With electric mountain bikes, even beginners can keep up with the group and conquer the trails like a pro. So don’t miss out on this active team building activity! Gather your team, put on your helmets, and prepare to ride through Santa Monica’s stunning landscapes.
Pricing: 169
Group Size: 30
Address: 2118-2100, Queensferry Rd, Los Angeles, CA
Website: https://www.viator.com//tours/Los-Angeles/BEST-ELECTRIC-MTN-BIKE-EXPERIENCE-SANTA-MONICA/d645-92161P19?mcid=54929&awc=11018_1683654535_b40930f4fe6bfa4351a825a57c164d97&aid=awinUSDEEPLINK_470525
25. Heal the Bay Aquarium
Heal the Bay Aquarium is a fantastic spot to take your team for an unforgettable company outing! Not only is it an exciting and hands-on learning experience, but it caters to all ages and interests. Explore the colorful and diverse marine life of Santa Monica Bay while bonding with your coworkers.
Plus, the aquarium’s environmental and social mission is totally on-point! Their dedication to ocean conservation and sustainable practices is seriously impressive and will leave you feeling motivated to make positive changes in your own life. Get ready to have a blast while making a difference!
Pricing: 10
Group Size: Any
Address: 1600 Ocean Front Walk Santa Monica, CA
Website: https://healthebay.org/aquarium/
26. California Heritage Museum
Step back in time and discover the rich history of American fine arts and crafts at the California Heritage Museum! This stately green house, built in 1984 for Roy Jones, now houses an impressive collection of exhibits that showcase California’s cultural heritage.
The museum’s unique architecture is just as impressive as the exhibits it houses, making it a visually stunning destination for your team building outing. Take a break from the office and explore the fascinating displays, including historical exhibits on Navajo textiles and fun displays like “”awkward family photos””. And with the museum frequently hosting special exhibits, like the skateboard evolution in California, there’s always something new to discover.
Pricing: 10
Group Size: Any
Address: 2612 Main Street Santa Monica CA
Website: https://californiaheritagemuseum.org/
27. TiKi Mermaid
Spice up your day with an adventure that you won’t forget! Hop on board the luxurious yachts of Tiki Mermaid Charter and get ready to embark on a serene voyage through the Marina del Rey harbor. With amazing views of the Santa Monica Bay and the Los Angeles coastline, these yachts have multiple decks, indoor and outdoor areas, and delicious food and drinks to keep you satisfied. It’s the perfect team-building activity to boost morale, impress clients or entertain guests. You don’t have to worry about a thing because Tiki Mermaid Charter provides everything you need to make your outing a blast.
Pricing: TBD
Group Size: 1-100
Address: 13755 Fiji Way, D-5 Marina Del Rey, Ca
Website: https://www.tikimermaid.com/
Whether you are looking for fun group team activities in Santa Monica or nearby areas like Marina Del Rey, El Segundo, Malibu or Los Angeles we have got you covered. Don’t feel like planning everything yourself? Need help with permits? Reach out to us today at 877.267.1939 or request a quote . Our team is committed to providing you with a stress-free planning experience.
Santa Monica Team Building FAQ
What outing should I book if I have a really large group?
We advise professional help(not that kind). Call us. We specialize in large group satisfaction and will make sure you group walks away smiling.
What is the most popular team building activity in Santa Monica?
It’s impossible to say BUT from the events we produce we see a LOT of bookings for our Iron Team Challenge on the beach, Scavenger Hunts, and skateboard charity events.
Where should we stay in Santa Monica when we hold our team building retreat?
Consider that distances in Los Angeles don’t always follow the normal laws of physics. If your map says you’re only 2 miles away we’ll see you in 45 minutes. Consider carefully what activities you want access to. If you’re staying in Santa Monica a DTLA or Hollywood outing becomes a logistics challenge. In short, map the activities you’re considering in relation to where you’re staying. You may find they are further than they appear.
Do we need permits for an event on the Beach?
Yes and No. It depends on the group size and activity. Santa Monica allows groups under a certain size to function without a permit. Ask us, we’ll help you figure it out.
Ask For Help / Request An Anaheim Team Building Quote
Overwhelmed by all the options in the Santa Monica area? Instead of leaving the happiness of your group to chance, hire us, we’re local. We produce professional events for everyone under the sun and even Canada. We would love to help you craft a happy memory around a team building event near Santa Monica, Marina Del Rey, El Segundo, Malibu or Los Angeles . Fill out the information below and our kick awesome event specialists will reach out to help guide you.
