Los Angeles is home to countless attractions, from world-famous landmarks to scenic coastlines. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local looking for something new to explore, this sprawling metropolis offers a wide variety of tours that cater to all interests. If you’re looking for a fresh way to explore Southern California, consider taking a tour on the water. City Cruises offers a variety of memorable experiences that showcase the beauty of Los Angeles and the surrounding areas from the comfort of a yacht. From Hollywood’s allure to scenic coastal adventures, let’s dive into the best tours in Los Angeles that offer fun, relaxation, and unforgettable memories.
LA’s Film and Television Studio Tours
Step behind the scenes of your favorite TV shows and movies at a studio tour, such as the Warner Bros. Studio Tour in Burbank, California. On this studio tour, you’ll visit active sets and soundstages and even explore the backlot where famous shows like Friends and The Big Bang Theory were filmed. You can also sit on the famous couch at Central Perk and walk through the DC Universe exhibits. Booking in advance is recommended, as tickets often sell out, especially on weekends.
Long Beach Brunch Cruise: Tour the California Coast
Imagine starting your day with a delicious brunch aboard a luxurious yacht, gliding along the Southern California coast. The Long Beach Premier Bottomless Mimosa Brunch Cruise offers a scenic brunch tour with endless mimosas, live music, and a chef-prepared buffet. This 2-hour experience combines exquisite food with panoramic ocean views, featuring the Queen Mary and Lion Lighthouse, creating a relaxing way to spend a morning indulging and sightseeing with family and friends.
Hollywood Celebrity and Movie Star Home Tours
Have you ever wondered where and how the rich and famous live? Celebrity home tours in Hollywood are among the most popular attractions in Los Angeles. Starline Tours will take you through Beverly Hills and the Hollywood Hills, pointing out homes owned (or once owned) by movie stars and musicians. You’ll also pass by iconic landmarks such as the Sunset Strip, Rodeo Drive, and the famous Beverly Hills Hotel. Experience the high-end lifestyle of Beverly Hills firsthand, learn juicy gossip, and hear fascinating celebrity stories.
LA in a Day: Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus Tour
If you’re short on time, want to explore several areas in one day, or prefer a stress-free way to see LA in one day, hop-on, hop-off bus tours are a great option. These open-top buses, such as Big Bus Tours, take you around popular attractions like the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Santa Monica Pier, and the Getty Center, allowing you to explore the city at your own pace while prioritizing what you want to see. Enjoy live commentary about the city’s history and landmarks. Grab a seat on the top deck for the best views, and don’t forget to pack sunscreen—LA has beautiful weather, but the sun can be intense!
Dinner Cruise with Scenic Views in Newport Beach
Looking for a tour that can double as a romantic experience? The Newport Beach Premier Dinner Cruise is the perfect choice. Watch the sunset paint the sky as you enjoy a multi-course chef-prepared plated dinner. Live music and delicious cocktails add to the ambiance, making this 2.5-hour cruise ideal for couples or anyone looking for a sophisticated night out. Request a window seat to maximize your view of the sunset and the scenic views of the Los Angeles coast, including the Newport Beach Harbor and multi-million waterfront homes.
Bicycle Tours Along Venice Beach and Santa Monica
Feel the ocean breeze as you pedal along the famous Venice Beach Boardwalk and Santa Monica Pier. Guided bike tours offer a leisurely way to explore Orange County’s beautiful coast. On the Santa Monica & Venice Beach Bike Adventure, you’ll see quirky street performers, skate parks, and Muscle Beach, where bodybuilders from all over the world come to work out. Bike tours are an excellent option for families and active travelers. However, some tours offer electric bikes, making the ride more accessible and enjoyable.
Haunted Los Angeles Ghost Tour
Join a ghost tour and uncover the darker side of Los Angeles. You’ll learn about LA’s history through ghostly tales, as these tours take you to famous haunted locations like the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, the Black Dahlia crime scene, and spooky theaters along Hollywood Boulevard. Guides share chilling stories of paranormal encounters and unsolved mysteries still haunting the city. Some tours include access to haunted sites not open to the public. Wear comfortable shoes, as ghost tours often involve a lot of walking.
Helicopter Sightseeing Tour Over Los Angeles
For the ultimate adventure, take to the skies on a Los Angeles helicopter tour. Soar above the Hollywood Sign, glide over Downtown LA, and fly along the Pacific Coast for unbeatable bird’s-eye city views. Many operators offer sunset tours or romantic flights that include champagne. Here are some top helicopter tours in Los Angeles courtesy of TripAdvisor.
Food Tours: Explore the Los Angeles Culinary Scene
Los Angeles is a melting pot of cultures, and its food scene directly reflects that (which explains Melting Pot Food Tours). Embark on a guided food tour to sample flavors from around the world. You can explore neighborhoods like Koreatown, Little Tokyo, or Grand Central Market, tasting everything from tacos and dim sum to artisanal ice cream and gourmet coffee. Be prepared and come with an empty stomach, as food tours can be generous with their samples!
Customize Your LA Tour with a Private Yacht Charter
If you’re planning a special occasion or want a private adventure on the water, City Cruises offers customizable yacht charters. Whether it’s a birthday, corporate event, or family gathering, you can create your own itinerary, complete with catered meals, live music, and a private crew. This is one of the few ways you can truly personalize your Los Angeles tour, and choose both the scenic views and time of day to explore. Plan your charter around sunset for the most picturesque views and photos. Visit our Marina del Rey Groups & Private Events for more options, including all-inclusive packages. See Los Angeles on your terms and make memories with friends and family in a stunning setting.
Experience Los Angeles with a Sightseeing Tour
Los Angeles is more than just a city—it’s an experience, a cultural hub, and a place everyone should add to their bucket lists. Whether you’re into movies, art, food, or outdoor adventures, LA has a tour to suit your interests. Adding water-based tours with City Cruises allows you to relax, enjoy the beautiful coastal views, and create lasting memories. So, what are you waiting for? Next time you’re in Los Angeles, skip the traffic and hop aboard a City Cruises yacht to see the City of Angels from a whole new perspective. Start planning your adventure and discover why Los Angeles is one of the most exciting cities in the world!