Top Long Beach Day Trips

Check off Los Angeles' most important landmarks in just one day on a day trip from Long Beach. Let someone else take the wheel of a private vehicle so you can take in views of the city between destinations. Your expert guide provides fascinating insights that bring Los Angeles' fascinating history to life.

Spend a half-day sightseeing in Los Angeles during this guided tour from Long Beach. With an expert local guide and a small group of fourteen people or less, see LA landmarks like the Hollywood Sign, Santa Monica, Venice Beach and the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Follow your guide to filming locations of famous movies, explore Hollywood Boulevard and see one of the biggest ports in the US. This tour includes round-trip transportation from Long Beach hotels.

This is the perfect way to get an overview of Los Angeles’ highlights. Instead of going on a fixed route of sights that don’t interest you, take control of the itinerary and choose the places you visit. For the duration of tour, make as many stops as you like for photos, food, shopping, and exploring. Potential places to visit include Santa Monica Pier, the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Rodeo Drive, and Venice Beach.

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.

This full-day tour of Los Angeles is a popular and convenient choice for cruise ship passengers docked at the Long Beach or San Pedro terminals. Avoid having to find your way to a meeting point with pickup at the cruise point. Discover LA’s highlights and hidden gems, from the Hollywood Sign to Marlon Brando’s acting school. The day’s itinerary factors in free time to explore, dine, or shop at your own pace.

Full-Day Private Los Angeles Tour from Long Beach This private tour offers tiered pricing for up to 14 guests—the more in your group, the lower the per-person rate. It’s a perfect way for families, friends, or coworkers to explore LA in comfort. Depart from Long Beach and head north, passing the LA Harbor and city skyline as we cruise into Downtown LA. We’ll drive through the heart of DTLA before stopping at Griffith Observatory for sweeping views of the city and the iconic Hollywood Sign. Walk the Hollywood Walk of Fame, see Grauman’s Chinese Theatre, and spot Melrose Avenue’s murals. Lunch is at The Grove and Original Farmers Market (meals not included). Afterward, roll down the Sunset Strip and stop at Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills. Finish the day with a coastal drive past the Santa Monica Pier—photo op included—and free time at Venice Beach to soak in LA’s vibrant beach scene.

Dive into an unforgettable adventure with our guided jet ski tour from Long Beach to Catalina Island! Feel the thrill as you ride your own jet ski across the sparkling waters, with the wind in your hair and the sun shining down. On this exhilarating journey, you’ll have the chance to spot playful dolphins, majestic sea lions, and even whales as you make your way to the stunning shores of Avalon on Catalina Island. Once there, enjoy a few hours of beach time to relax, explore, or savor a delicious meal at one of the island’s charming eateries. Our experienced guides ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all skill levels, whether you’re a seasoned rider or a first-timer, you’ll feel right at home on our state-of-the-art jet skis. Plus, with the freedom to ride at your own pace, you can soak in the breathtaking coastal views along the way. Don’t miss out on this one-of-a-kind aquatic adventure! Book your jet ski tour today and create memories that will last a lifetime!

See the L.A. coast from the sky with an exciting, 15-minute private helicopter tour from Long Beach. Swoop above the iconic Queen Mary ocean liner, hover over downtown Long Beach and see the imposing Battleship Iowa moored in the city's bustling port. Enjoy seaward views of Catalina Island and the curving Pacific coastline before touching back to Earth at the Long Beach helipad.

Leave the bustle of Los Angeles behind—and explore peaceful Catalina Island at your own pace—with this convenient package deal. In the morning, enjoy hotel pickup and transfer to the ferry to Catalina Island, where you can admire the seaside views. Once on the island, head to the Undersea Expedition (tickets included), and explore the sights independently.

See the highlights of Catalina Island without having to rent a car on this small-group day trip from LA or Anaheim. Spend free time exploring independently or upgrade to add a range of different adventures, including ziplining above the Descanso Canyon, an underwater sub expedition, or a guided tour of Avalon.

Full-Day Private Los Angeles Tour from Seal Beach Head out from Seal Beach for a private full-day tour of Los Angeles packed with iconic sights and coastal views. Enjoy a guided drive past USC, Exposition Park, and Crypto.com Arena before exploring Downtown LA landmarks like the Walt Disney Concert Hall and City Hall. Stop at Griffith Observatory for panoramic views and the best photo op of the Hollywood Sign. Walk the Hollywood Walk of Fame, see Grauman’s Chinese Theatre, and pass Melrose Avenue’s murals and boutiques. Lunch is at The Original Farmers Market and The Grove (meals not included). Afterward, cruise down Sunset Strip and stop at Rodeo Drive for a touch of luxury. You’ll pass through Century City to see the Die Hard building and 20th Century Fox, then drive by the Santa Monica Pier. The grand finale? Free time at Venice Beach to soak up its skatepark, Muscle Beach, and boardwalk energy.

Make the most out of your time in Los Angeles by going on a scenic day trip to the nearby Catalina Island. No need to book a taxi to get to the port, as hotel transfers are included, as well as ferry tickets. Once at the island, explore its incredible views in a unique and exhilarating way—on an eco-zipline course. Rise above the Descanso Canyon floor and learn about the island’s diverse nature and wildlife at the same time.

Full-Day Private Los Angeles Tour from Palos Verdes This private tour features tiered pricing for up to 14 guests—the more in your group, the lower the per-person rate. It’s ideal for families, friends, or coworkers exploring LA in comfort and style. Depart from Palos Verdes with a scenic coastal drive into Downtown LA, where we’ll pass LA City Hall, The Music Center, and the Walt Disney Concert Hall (optional restroom stop). Next, stop at Griffith Observatory for panoramic views and the iconic Hollywood Sign. Then stroll the Hollywood Walk of Fame, see Grauman’s Chinese Theatre, and cruise past Melrose Avenue. Lunch is at The Grove and Original Farmers Market (meals not included). In the afternoon, drive down Sunset Strip, stop at Rodeo Drive, and enjoy a photo op of the Santa Monica Pier with Malibu in the distance. The day ends with free time at Venice Beach.

(A Cinematic Private Tour for Honeymooners & Families) An experience unlike any ordinary trip. This tour is fully private, prepared exclusively for one group per day, creating a Los Angeles journey that is uniquely yours. Accompanied by a professional cinematographer with 25 years of experience and studio-grade equipment, every moment of love and family is captured with the elegance of a luxury film. After the tour, you will receive 20–25 professionally edited photos, a cinematic HD video, and a custom theme song featuring your name and travel date—preserving your memories in the most exquisite way. Note: Please prepare outfits suitable for filming, along with props and sunglasses—they are essential for a cinematic experience. If you leave a review on VIATOR after your trip, you can receive your photos and video even faster. (No reviews yet – Viator partnership starts April 2026)

Exploring Southern California with me isn’t just a tour—it’s an unforgettable adventure filled with stunning scenery, rich culture, and hidden gems only a local can share. As someone who’s traveled the world and developed a deep appreciation for nature and diverse cultures, I bring a global perspective while highlighting the unique charm of California’s beaches, coastal towns, and breathtaking landscapes. My passion for storytelling and connecting with people ensures every moment is engaging, fun, and meaningful. Whether we’re soaking up the sun, spotting dolphins, or strolling through seaside villages, I’ll make sure you leave with lasting memories and a newfound love for this incredible region!

Benefit from a private half-day tour of Los Angeles by luxury van that is customized to suit your interests. Possibilities include the Staples Center—home to sports teams including basketball’s Lakers and Clippers; architectural gems like Walt Disney Concert Hall and City Hall; Angelino Heights Historic Area where many TV and movie features are filmed; and iconic sights such as the Hollywood sign, Hollywood Walk of Fame, and Beverly Hills.

Discover the wild charm of Catalina Island on the Two Harbors Adventure, a guided full-day jet ski journey from Long Beach. Glide across the ocean for 1.5 hours, surrounded by dolphins and vibrant marine life, before reaching the iconic Blue Cavern for a guided swim. Enjoy three hours at Two Harbors, where you can relax on the beach, snorkel with top-notch gear, or hike scenic trails with stunning coastal views. Your day concludes with a thrilling jet ski ride back, feeling the ocean breeze and spotting more sea creatures along the way.