All California Tours &amp; Excursions in 2026

SF: Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Tour by Open-top Bus

Cruise off the coast of Orange County in search of whales on this excursion from Newport Beach. Watch the rugged, beautiful scenery of the Pacific Coast glide by as you listen to interesting commentary from your crew about the native California marine life. Watch for blows and tail slaps; these signals indicate that humpback, minke, grey, finback, or giant blue whales are nearby. Dolphins and other marine life are also in abundance during this family-friendly, year-round whale watching tour.

4.1

(4,735)

from US$56

Whale-Watching Cruise from Newport Beach

Whale-Watching Cruise from Newport Beach

2 hours 15 minutesFree Cancellation

4.4

(1,043)

from US$39

Full-Day Iconic Sights of LA, Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Beaches and More

7 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

4.9

(6,598)

from US$99

Price varies by group size

Climb aboard a traditional paddlewheeler and embark on a scenic cruise around Lake Tahoe’s world-famous Emerald Lake. Learn about how the bay was formed, hear tales about Fannette Island, and discover Vikingsholm Castle from your included audio guide. Choose to enjoy the scenery and fresh air outside or sit indoors in a climate-controlled seating area. Pack light: lunch and a full-service bar are available for purchase.

Lake Tahoe Emerald Bay Scenic Cruise

Whale Watching Tour From Monterey

4.6

(879)

from US$105

3 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

4.8

(1,129)

from US$75

Universal Studios Hollywood General Admission Ticket, California

Enjoy an unforgettable day at Universal Studios Hollywood, where thrilling rides, iconic shows, and attractions await. Experience the magic of famous movie sets, meet beloved characters, and soar over incredible lands. This ticket grants access to all shows, rides, and attractions, making it the ultimate LA adventure. Valid for your selected travel date only. ** VALID FOR UNIVERSAL STUDIOS HOLLYWOOD IN CALIFORNIA ONLY **

Universal Studios Hollywood General Admission Ticket, California

1 dayFree Cancellation

4.0

(1,654)

from US$110

Hollywood, Beverly Hills & Celebrity Homes Tour by Open Air Bus

Get the most out of your time in Los Angeles with this comprehensive tour that passes famous landmarks and celebrity homes. Travel between sites on an open-air bus, which helps cover more ground than a walking tour and offers great photo opportunities too. Highlights include the Hollywood Sign, the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Beverley Hills, the Sunset Strip, Rodeo Drive, West Hollywood, and a selection of famous homes and celebrity hotspots.

Hollywood, Beverly Hills & Celebrity Homes Tour by Open Air Bus

Muir Woods and Sausalito Small Group Tour

4.8

(3,181)

from US$39

5 hoursFree Cancellation

Enjoy sublime coastal scenery as you spot marine life during this kayaking trip to La Jolla’s sea caves and ecological reserve. Paddle alongside your expert naturalist guide as you observe the numerous species of birds, dolphins, sea lions, and even orcas of the area. Kayak among the lush kelp beds that grow in the reserve and, if conditions permit, explore inside the sea caves that dot the rocky coastline.

(1,007)

from US$99

La Jolla Sea Caves Kayak Tour For Two (Tandem Kayak)

1 hour 30 minutesFree Cancellation

Experience the magic of Hollywood and see where your favorite movies were made during this guided tour of Warner Bros. Studio. Join your guide and a small group to explore back-lot sets and sound stages, see the famous Central Perk cafe from “Friends,” and learn about green-screen technology. For a grand finale, become a part of your favorite DC Universe and Harry Potter movies on recreated sets.

(1,437)

from US$75

Per group

Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood

4.6

(5,624)

from US$79

San Diego Harbor Cruise

Meet some of the world's most exotic animals with your admission ticket to the renowned San Diego Zoo, one of California's top family-friendly attractions. More than 4,000 animals representing 800 species live in this state-of-the-art zoo, including some that are rarely seen at other zoos. Admire the animals and go in-depth during daily keeper talks. With mobile tickets, simply scan your phone for direct entry into the San Diego Zoo. Ticket must be redeemed on travel date selected. Tickets must be purchased at least one day prior to visit.

(3,281)

from US$37

San Diego Zoo 1-Day Pass: Any Day Ticket

San Diego Zoo 1-Day Pass: Any Day Ticket

1 to 4 hoursFree Cancellation

Bypass the line and head directly to the gate with your prebooked tickets for this San Francisco Bay sightseeing cruise. This sunset cruise takes you across the bay with outstanding views of the city skyline, Golden Gate Bridge, the San Francisco Bay Bridge, and Alcatraz Island. Relax while background music sets the tone. Watch the sunset or select a city lights cruise during winter months.

(4,641)

from US$78

San Francisco Bay Sunset & City Lights Cruise

Explore some of the top highlights of San Diego with your or or two day trolley pass (depending on option selected) for the city’s Hop-on, Hop-off Trolley Tour. Choose your own adventure as you get on and off the trolley at any of the 11 included stops, covering famous sights including the Gaslamp Quarter, the San Diego Zoo, USS Midway and the Cruise Ship Terminal, Little Italy, and many more. This San Diego trolley tour also features live commentary from the on-board guide during your ride.

(2,104)

from US$58

San Diego Hop On Hop Off Trolley Tour

Embark on an exhilarating journey through history with our Alcatraz Highlights Tour! Step foot on the infamous island that once contained America's most notorious criminals and immerse yourself in the captivating tales of Alcatraz. Witness the chilling cells that housed Al Capone and George "Machine Gun" Kelly, as you explore the imposing cell blocks. Be captivated by the echoes of the past as you wander through the eerie corridors, and soak in the stunning panoramic views of the San Francisco skyline. Don't miss your chance to uncover the mysteries and legends of America's most infamous prison on our Alcatraz Highlights Tour - a thrilling adventure you won't ever forget! Don't worry about other people, this tour is completely tailored to you with the App! With our app, you can pause the tour, and check out the locations as long as you want! You can skip a stop you don't like, and you have all the best information about each stop at your fingertips.

(2,801)

from US$57

Likely to Sell Out

San Francisco Alcatraz App Guided Tour with Cruise and Jail House

San Francisco Alcatraz App Guided Tour with Cruise and Jail House

1 to 2 hoursFree Cancellation

3.7

(143)

from US$76

Los Angeles 3-Hour City Tour with 3 Stops

This is a great choice for time-tight travelers visiting Los Angeles. Save hours researching the best things to do in the city, and instead, go on a special tour that visits the city’s most photogenic spots and famous locations. Along the way, listen to commentary and stop to take photos near the Hollywood Sign, the American Film Academy, the Sunset Strip, Beverly Hills, and Rodeo Drive.

Los Angeles 3-Hour City Tour with 3 Stops

3 hoursFree Cancellation

4.8

(1,814)

from US$55

Make exploring Wine Country easy on this tour aboard the Napa Valley Wine Trolley. The open-air cable car is a replica of the historic trolleys seen in San Francisco and offers views of the vineyards as you travel to three or four wineries to sample the local wines (tastings at your own expense). A guide provides commentary about Napa’s rich history. Lunch at one of the wineries is also included for extra convenience.

Napa Valley Wine Trolley Classic Tour

6 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

See Los Angeles’ key neighborhoods and landmarks in one full-day tour designed to reduce planning and travel stress. With hotel pickup included, you can focus on the experience while a guide provides context and local insight along the way. This tour offers a practical overview of the city, moving efficiently from urban highlights to coastal areas, making it a strong choice for first-time visitors or short stays.

(796)

from US$145

Tour of LA, Hollywood, Beverly Hills and Beach with Hotel Pickup

Tour of LA, Hollywood, Beverly Hills and Beach with Hotel Pickup

7 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

4.6

(176)

from US$95

60min Duo Splatter Paint Experience in LA Large Shared Canvas

What makes the Duo Splatter Paint experience unique is that two people create one shared artwork together on a large 30x40” canvas. Using spray, pour, and action techniques, you’ll collaborate in a fun, messy, no-rules environment. No experience needed—just creativity and connection. No other art studio offers this kind of true shared canvas experience. Designed for couples, friends, or family, you leave with a one-of-a-kind piece you made together. For weekend bookings or to schedule a group /private party contact us directly.

60min Duo Splatter Paint Experience in LA Large Shared Canvas

1 hourFree Cancellation

from US$125

Known for its steep granite cliffs, waterfalls, towering sequoia groves, and diversity of wildlife, Yosemite National Park is something you don’t want to miss. On this small group day trip, you can leave the logistics to a tour guide so all you have to do is enjoy the great outdoors. You have both guided sightseeing and free time, ensuring you see the UNESCO World Heritage Site’s major attractions, like Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, and Yosemite Valley, with the chance to explore more of the park however you wish.

Yosemite Day Tour from San Francisco

15 hoursFree Cancellation

4.4

(760)

from US$209

Small Group Yosemite and Giant Sequoias Day Trip from San Francisco

Visit Yosemite National Park without the hassle of planning a long day of driving or coordinating park logistics from San Francisco. Traveling in a small group, you'll journey through California’s Central Valley before exploring Yosemite Valley’s most famous sights, including Half Dome, El Capitan, and Yosemite Falls. A stop among giant sequoias adds another iconic California landscape to the experience.

Small Group Yosemite and Giant Sequoias Day Trip from San Francisco

14 hoursFree Cancellation

4.9

(4,099)

from US$239

Monterey Whale Watching Tour

Swap city sightseeing for some time on the water with this exciting whale-watching cruise. Avoid the guesswork when trying to figure out where to spot whales, and let the experienced crew take you directly to places known for sightings. As well as whales, you may spot sea lions, sea birds, and sometimes dolphins—with commentary from the naturalist guides who can share plenty of facts about marine life.

(871)

from US$70

Likely to Sell Out

San Diego: 3 Hour Whale Watch Cruise with Legacy Whale Watch

San Diego: 3 Hour Whale Watch Cruise with Legacy Whale Watch

3 hoursFree Cancellation

2-Hour GoCar Tour: Downtown San Diego and Old Town or Beaches

(346)

from US$34

Price varies by group size

(193)

from US$52

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Top Attractions in California

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Attractions

What are people saying about California

2 Hour Sailing Cruise on Lake Tahoe

Manya_G, Aug 2026

Book it! Great trip

Great trip! The sailing experience was amazing! Loved having a small group. The drink selection was not for me. I’m a red wine drinker, which they don’t have- but I get that (the stain factor). I still highly recommend the trip. The crew were amazing, the views were stunning, and I would definitely do again and I hope to.

San Diego Whale/Dolphin Watching Cruise Aboard Luxury Vessel

Robert_P, Aug 2026

True to their word!

It was very difficult to find the desk to sign in for the cruise. But after that, boarding the boat was smooth ( and I had a walker)! The ride was very choppy, the seas were rough. Several, including my hubby got seasick. But the staff was well prepared for all situations encountered. They were both kind and compassionate as well as professional. Unfortunately we didn’t see any whales, porpoises 🐬 or dolphins ☹️. Although the captain and staff kept looking for them. But to their credit, since they couldn’t find the aquatic life we came to see, they offered all of us a coupon to take the same excursion again free of charge in the future with no expiration date‼️I would have preferred a refund since I don’t know if I’ll ever be back in San Diego. I haven’t seen my coupon yet, but I’m sure I will, or perhaps I just don’t know where to look for it on my phone🤷🏻‍♀️.All in all, it is a well organized excursion with staff trying to orchestrate what was out of their control… choppy seas and no sightings. You also don’t have to get wet👏🏽👏🏽‼️I would definitely recommend this trip‼️

Guided Whale Watching Tour from Long Beach

MardestR_P, Aug 2026

Great time. Boat was very...

Great time. Boat was very clean. Narrator explained things as we went along & was very helpful. This was a goal of my cousin to see whales & she wasn’t disappointed! I, myself, saw more whales on this trip than when l was on a cruise in Mexico & did a “whale watching “ excursion!! Thank you Viator. I have been using you for years & have never had a bad experience!!!

Lake Tahoe Emerald Bay Scenic Cruise

Susan_R, Aug 2026

Beautiful Boat Ride

The boat ride was very enjoyable and relaxing. They shared information along the way that made it more interesting. They had refreshments, which gave you the ability to have lunch or snacks. I would highly recommend this tour to anybody who wants to experience a beautiful boat ride on Lake Tahoe.

Parasailing in Catalina Island: Soar Above The Stunning Coastline

Alexandra_w, Aug 2026

Best view of Catalina Island!

Best way to see Catalina Island!! This was so fun. My mom and I had never parasailed before. The staff was fantastic and were very helpful with scheduling issues. They were so kind answering our questions. The music was so fun and it was a great atmosphere with everyone cheering each other on! It lasted about 9 minutes in the air and it was so fun! Wasn’t scary at all. Great view! Highly recommend

Monterey Whale Watching Tour

Victoria_C, Aug 2026

Unforgettable experience!

The naturalist gave very good and interesting explanations on sea creatures we saw. We saw humpback whales (even their feedings too!), two kinds of dolphins and sea lions as well. I thought the tour was 1.5 hr long but it took 3 hrs to get back to the harbor because THERE WERE SO MANY WHALES. The captain tried to let us see as many as qe could. My kids loved the experience. The ship is big enough to have a indoor area that my kids can go when it was too cold to be on the deck. I would definitely recommend this tour to other friends.

Clear Kayak Tour of Sand Harbor's Crystal Clear Waters

pq74zzmsnz, Jul 2026

Will was a friendly and...

Will was a friendly and welcoming guide with lots of great local knowledge! Views were unreal, highly recommend this to anyone visiting Tahoe for the first time. The company was also nice enough to accommodate us the next day when the weather wasn’t so good for the original day booked.

Alcatraz Inside Cruise With Free Audio and Night Option

Elizabeth_A, Jul 2026

Alcatraz with family

I loved Alcatraz tour. The audio tour was so informational. The park personnel was very nice and helpful. One of the part person who,, a gentleman towards the end of the tour was very friendly asking me where we were from and was able to tell me things about my town for memory even a movie about the town and acted out of skid in the movie. I loved it. The gift shop had great memorabilia and Adams to purchase. I definitely would go again.

Wine Country Join-in Flight

Mashawn_K, Jul 2026

Experience of a lifetime

This was an experience of a lifetime. Nacho was an amazing pilot. He taught us so much about the different types of crops in Napa Valley and he taught us about the ballon itself. He was so patient and knowledgeable about the Valley and a very experienced pilot. I would definitely recommend this ballon ride to anyone.

Whale-Watching Cruise from Newport Beach

Andrea_M, Jun 2026

A lieutenant Dan and the storm kind of day!

We went out on a choppy ocean day. My son and I had a blast standing at the bow of the boat as we crashed head on into waves. Eventually we were told we were turning around due to the swells. Didn’t get to see any marine life, but we had a friggin blast anyways, and they gave us a ticket to return whenever for free. I highly recommend anyways! 🤗

Yellow Semi-Submarine Tour of Catalina Island From Avalon

Kemesha_C, Apr 2026

The best experience!!

The best experience! We had a great time. I traveled with my spouse and our 10 year old daughter and we all loved it. Its a fun not to miss activity for both adults and children. We felt so upclose to marine life and the captain did a wonderful job narrating about the species of fish. From the moment we got on board to the moment we arrived back from sea we saw tons of fish! We were seated comfortably with big windows so got to see plenty!! Captain Brad was wonderful!