Top California Eco Tours - page 3

Leave the mainland behind for the afternoon, and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Monterey Bay, on this family-friendly whale-watching excursion. Grab a lifejacket and hop aboard: With your marine biologist guide’s assistance, you’ll look out for orca and humpback whales, dolphins, seals and sea lions, and much more as you cruise. As you go, take in the coastal views, and relax in the sea breezes.

Drive down one of the most scenic roads in California on this full-day tour from San Francisco. Cruise along the coast-hugging Highway 1, passing Pebble Beach on the iconic 17-Mile Drive. Enjoy free time to explore Monterey, where you can stroll down Steinbeck’s Cannery Row or visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium (own expense). Then enjoy free time to explore Carmel-by-the-Sea before returning to San Francisco.

Enjoy two classic North Bay experiences in one day—and make your sightseeing more personal—on this redwoods and wine-tasting tour from San Francisco. Head first to Muir Woods to walk among some of the most ancient redwood trees on earth, then enjoy two winery visits with included wine tastings in Sonoma and Napa before driving across the Golden Gate Bridge back to the city.

Suitable for parties of any size and any ability level, this is a visually imposing ride, mostly on paved roads closed to traffic. You'll bask in the California sun as we traverse up and down gentle hillside grades, taking in amazing views of the San Fernando Valley, downtown LA, and Hollywood basin. Points of interest along the ride include the renowned and historic Griffith Observatory. Snacks and water provided. Free parking.

Explore many wonderful spots in Big Sur with this self-drive audio tour along California's Pacific Coast Highway. Download the app to get the map and password, then follow the marked route at your own pace, choosing where to stop and spend extra time. Note that the Overlook Trail to McWay Falls is currently closed due to repairs; the only viewpoint is a small roadside area along Highway 1.

Step into a charming petting zoo and meet a delightful group of friendly farm animals! Spend time up close with gentle Kunekune pigs, playful Nigerian Dwarf goats, and sweet Babydoll and Friesian sheep. You’ll also get to see majestic Highland cows, who love a little extra attention. Along the way, enjoy cuddling soft bunnies and meeting a cheerful flock of fluffy Silkie and crested Polish chickens. This hands-on experience is perfect for families and animal lovers of all ages, offering a fun and memorable opportunity to interact with a variety of heritage and miniature breeds in a safe and welcoming setting. At the end of the tour, the farm store will be open for those who like to shop or would like to take home a souvenir from the experience.

There's truly no better way to explore the many highlights and hidden gems of Golden Gate Park than with your own personal local meteorologist and guide. We'll visit some of the park's most iconic spots but also uncover hidden gems like the Monarch Bear Grove, candelabra redwood trees and Summer of Love sights that will be new discoveries for even the most experienced local. From some of the park's most quiet and peaceful corners to it's energetic and bustling heart, this is a truly unique San Francisco experience!

Step back in time and uncover the secrets of San Francisco’s most captivating coastal mystery. On Sutro Baths: The Story of the Ruins, you’ll leave the bustling city streets behind to explore a playground lost to time. What is now a hauntingly beautiful grid of concrete foundations perched on the edge of the Pacific was once a spectacular, 10,000-pane glass "Crystal Palace" capable of hosting 10,000 Victorian-era swimmers at a single time. Led by an expert storyteller, this guided historical walk brings the Gilded Age roaring back to life. You’ll walk the massive promenade walls, venture through a dark sea cave blasted straight into the cliffside, and discover the incredible engineering that used ocean tides to fill seven massive pools.

Travel to Southern California’s Catalina Island by boat, and solve your transit logistics in advance, when you prebook this one-way departure ferry service aboard the Catalina Express. Depart from San Pedro in Los Angeles, and enjoy views of the Pacific during the journey. The ferry conveniently drops you in the town of Avalon, the main town on the island, which is home to shops, restaurants, hotels, activities and more.

Pack some of the best spots in California all into two days with this Alcatraz and Yosemite tour package. On your first day, take a boat from Pier 33 to Alcatraz Island, and then go on a self-guided tour of the historic prison. Afterward, spend some time at the Aquarium by the Bay at the edge of Pier 39. On your second day, head off for Yosemite, and follow your guide around the Yosemite Valley. Break off on your own for about three hours, and explore Yosemite National Park however you’d like.

Learn about the natural history of the Indian Canyons area from a professional naturalist guide with this tour from Palm Springs. You and your small group of fellow explorers will head out in an open-air jeep, with a break along the way to take an easy, one-mile walk up the Andreas Canyon.

Embark on an unforgettable adventure exploring the mesmerizing tide pools of California, starting right here at the iconic Cabrillo National Monument in Point Loma. Your journey begins with a warm welcome from your personal guide extraordinaire, who will be your expert companion throughout this marine exploration. Prepare to be amazed as you discover a kaleidoscope of marine life right at your fingertips. From delicate brittle stars to playful sea anemones, you'll have the unique opportunity to interact with a diverse array of sea creatures like never before. Your knowledgeable guide will share fascinating insights into the intricacies of this coastal ecosystem, enriching your experience with their expertise and passion for marine conservation. *Please note this tour is offered one hour before peak low tide. Tour times are subject to change on a daily basis, due to tide schedules and weather conditions.

Spend a magical afternoon cycling through the lush vineyards of a 25-acre winery on the back of an electric bike with a guide to show you around. Then, enjoy a picnic of tasty snacks of artisanal cheese and charcuterie paired with delicious wines as you learn all about the estate and the drinks you’re sampling.

Discover the wild beauty of Yosemite National Park during wintertime, when crowds are fewer and the majestic natural attractions are blanketed in snow and ice. On this 2-day trip from San Francisco, take a guided coach tour of Yosemite Valley and enjoy free time to explore the wintry wonderland. Hike or snowshoe through giant sequoia groves, ice skate near the base of Half Dome and admire the snow-capped Sierra Nevada scenery. Warm up by a fire in Curry Village, and tuck into the cozy Yosemite Lodge or one of the Yosemite Curry Village Heated Tent Cabins for the night.

See Alcatraz Island and learn the history of “The Rock” with a 3-hour ferry and audio tour of the island and prison. Then check out San Francisco’s Aquarium of the Bay and get up close and personal with our underwater neighbors! On day 2, you'll head to Muir Woods and Sausalito and you’ll wander through ancient groves of coastal redwoods at the Muir Woods National Monument and take a leisurely walk along the historic flower-lined sidewalks of Sausalito. If you’ve never seen an old-growth redwood forest, prepare for a full sensory experience.

Hey there, sun seekers and beach lovers! Are you ready to leave the concrete jungle behind and embark on the most epic, unforgettable, and downright dreamy coastal adventure of your life? Well, pack your sunscreen and your sense of adventure, because our West Los Angeles Beach Tour is about to blow your mind (and maybe even your flip-flops off). First things first, let's talk about the itinerary. We've curated the ultimate beach-hopping extravaganza, taking you to the most iconic and stunning shorelines in all of Southern California. From the bustling promenade of Santa Monica to the quirky charm of Venice Beach and the rugged beauty of Malibu, this tour is like a greatest hits album of West LA's coastal gems. But before we hit the sand, we'll kick things off with a stroll down the Third Street Promenade in Santa Monica. This isn't just any old pedestrian mall – it's a vibrant hub of shopping, dining, and people-watching that'll give you a taste of the local flavor.

Experience the thrill of whale and dolphin watching on San Diego’s beautiful coast aboard Bluebill. Spend four (4) hours on the water observing marine wildlife up close, including playful dolphins and majestic whales, all in a peaceful and scenic setting. Perfect for nature lovers, family outings, or a unique date idea, this cruise offers an unforgettable glimpse into the ocean's wonders. Additional time may be available upon request, depending on boat availability—book now for an inspiring experience on the water.

Experience some of the Bay Area’s most fascinating sights on this day and night tour. See giant Redwoods at Muir Woods, visit the seaside town of Sausalito, and relax on a scenic ferry ride (optional, at your own expense) to San Francisco. Then head back out in the evening for a special nighttime tour of Alcatraz Island and tour the prison. This tour offers visitors a unique look at the Bay Area’s culture and history.

Discover the majestic redwoods of Muir Woods and the charming waterfront of Sausalito on this 5-hour tour. Walk among ancient trees that tower above, then explore the picturesque streets of Sausalito, known for its stunning views and vibrant arts scene. This tour is perfect for nature lovers and those seeking a unique San Francisco Bay Area experience, led by knowledgeable guides who share the rich history and culture of the area. Enjoy a flexible itinerary and small group sizes for a personalized adventure. - Explore the towering redwoods in Muir Woods National Monument - Stroll through the scenic waterfront town of Sausalito - Benefit from expert guidance throughout the tour - Ideal for nature enthusiasts and first-time visitors alike

Go deep into Palm Springs’ Indian Canyons on a 3-hour, small group Jeep and hiking tour to the ancestral home of the Cahuilla tribes. Take in views of the rugged desert landscape as you ride into the rocky canyons, and learn the rich history of the Cahuilla; take a 1-mile (1.6-km) walk along a palm-lined stream to see the traces of historic Native American settlements. Visit a shady desert oasis, walk to a seasonal spring and browse a tribal trading post, then finish the tour at your Palm Springs hotel.

Discover one of Yosemite National Park’s most beloved hikes as you follow the Mist Trail to Vernal Fall, a 4-hour guided hike from Yosemite Valley. Take in sweeping views of the Valley while climbing alongside your guide, and learn about the Park’s ecology, natural history and landscape. Catch a glimpse of Vernal Fall as you cross the Merced River, walk through billowing mist on a trail that parallels the waterfall’s drop from a high, granite cliff, then enjoy clear air and scenic views from the top.

Book this group tour to spot whales breaching at sunset in Monterey Bay. Each tour is led by a naturalist or marine biologist who helps find the whales and shares facts about them. Sip provided coffee or tea while you cruise for around three hours looking for whales. Alcoholic beverages are not included, and snacks are not provided on this shared tour.

Step beyond the tasting rooms and discover the Santa Ynez Valley through the people who cultivate its land. These small-group farm and food experiences offer a rare opportunity to connect directly with local ranchers, farmers, and growers through behind-the-scenes visits, seasonal tastings, and hands-on encounters with friendly rare-breed animals and u-pick harvests. Along the way, guests enjoy relaxed transportation and beautiful on-farm picnics that celebrate the region’s bounty.

Experience the highlights of Yosemite National Park—from its giant sequoias to sky-high waterfalls and flowering meadows—during this small-group, four-night camping experience. All meals are provided, plus camping and backpacking equipment as requested. Embark on a different day hike each day, from the famous Mist Trail to the summit of Sentinel Dome, plus a dip in May Lake. Learn about the park’s flora and history along the way.