Private 10-Hour Tour to Santa Barbara & Solvang from Los Angeles

Explore Santa Barbara and Solvang in One Day with a Private Guide

This private 10-hour tour from Los Angeles offers a seamless escape to two distinct coastal towns. For $1,124.06 per person, the experience includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a private driver/guide, and visits to Santa Barbara’s scenic waterfront and historic mission, as well as the charming Danish-inspired streets of Solvang. With flexible scheduling and personalized attention, it suits those seeking an in-depth, hassle-free day trip without leaving California.

While the tour offers a rundown of both locations, keep in mind that entrance fees and food and drinks are not included**, so planning ahead can enhance the experience. This trip is ideal for travelers who appreciate customized guidance and want to explore at their own pace, enjoying picturesque scenery, iconic landmarks, and cultural highlights.

Key Points

• Private 10-hour tour with hotel pickup and drop-off in Los Angeles
• Visit Santa Barbara’s waterfront, Old Mission, and scenic spots
• Discover Solvang’s Danish architecture, Little Mermaid statue, and European charm
• Personalized guide offers tailored insights and flexible pacing
• Hassle-free transfer with a private vehicle and licensed driver
• Not included: entrance fees and food or drinks

How the Tour Combines Santa Barbara and Solvang in a Single Day

This full-day custom trip departs from your Los Angeles hotel, with pick-up included and a private vehicle at your disposal for around 10 hours. The tour emphasizes convenience and comfort, allowing for a relaxed exploration of Santa Barbara’s coastal beauty and Solvang’s European-inspired streets, all led by a private licensed guide who provides personalized attention throughout.

The flexible schedule means you can spend about 2 hours in Santa Barbara, exploring sights like Stearns Wharf and the Old Mission, before heading to Solvang for another 2 hours of browsing Danish shops, taking photos at the Little Mermaid statue, and strolling through the Hans Christian Andersen Park. The entire experience balances sightseeing with ample time for photos and questions.

Santa Barbara’s Spanish Heritage and Ocean Views

The first stop in Santa Barbara introduces you to the city’s Spanish roots and charming architecture. The Old Mission Santa Barbara, known as the “Queen of the Missions,” was founded in 1786 and impresses with its beautiful design. While admission fees are not included, the exterior and surrounding grounds offer plenty to admire.

Next, the tour passes by Stearns Wharf, a historic pier at the end of State Street, where ocean views and fresh sea air create a perfect photo opportunity. This area highlights Santa Barbara’s maritime history and scenic charm, making it a popular spot for a quick walk or a scenic break.

Discovering Santa Barbara’s Artistic and Cultural Scene

The tour emphasizes a stroll through Santa Barbara’s vibrant neighborhoods, showcasing palm-lined streets and white facades that evoke Mediterranean allure. The guide provides insights into the city’s history and architecture, adding depth to the sightseeing experience. The birdsong and ocean breeze add to the relaxed ambiance, making this stop a memorable part of the day.

While there is no specific mention of additional attractions, the free admission to these scenic spots allows visitors to appreciate Santa Barbara’s natural beauty and historic architecture at their own pace.

Exploring Solvang’s Danish Charm and Landmarks

The drive from Santa Barbara to Solvang takes about two hours, giving travelers a chance to enjoy the scenic California coast along the way. Upon arrival, the town’s Danish architecture shines through, with replica landmarks like the Little Mermaid statue and a scaled-down Round Tower offering authentic European vibes just a few hours from Los Angeles.

The town feels like a miniature Denmark, with quaint shops, bakeries, and coffee spots. The Little Mermaid replica is a key photo stop, capturing the town’s playful homage to Copenhagen. Visitors also enjoy a leisurely walk through Hans Christian Andersen Park, a spacious area filled with large, live oak trees and scenic picnic spots.

Solvang’s Historic Missions and Scandinavian Culture

Along With the fun photo stops, the tour includes Old Mission Santa Ines, established in 1804. While admission fees are not included, the mission grounds provide insight into California’s early mission history and architecture.

The town’s Scandinavian identity extends beyond architecture, with bakeries serving Danish-style pastries and shops selling traditional crafts. The European ambiance combined with local history makes Solvang a distinctive stop that contrasts nicely with Santa Barbara’s coastal elegance.

Practical Details: Logistics and Comfort

This tour’s private vehicle and licensed driver/guide ensure a personalized and comfortable experience. The hotel pickup and drop-off remove the stress of navigating public transport or arranging separate transfers. The 10-hour duration balances ample sightseeing with relaxed pacing, suitable for most travelers.

Since the tour is private, your party enjoys flexible timing and the ability to customize stops according to interests. The tour is also COVID-safe, with safety protocols in place, allowing peace of mind during your day out.

What to Expect During Your 10-Hour Journey

The schedule is designed to maximize sightseeing while maintaining a comfortable pace. The Santa Barbara stops include the mission and waterfront, while Solvang offers a blend of cultural exploration and charming photo opportunities. Each location is visited for about two hours, enough to soak in the atmosphere but not overly rushed.

The tour’s flexibility means you can prioritize specific spots or ask your guide for tailored suggestions. Note that entrance fees and food and drinks are not included, so consider bringing snacks or planning meals accordingly.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private tour is well-suited for those who want a personalized experience with minimal hassle. It’s ideal for travelers who value customized attention, want to visit both Santa Barbara and Solvang in one day, and prefer comfort and convenience over group tours. The scenic coastal views, historic landmarks, and European charm make it a versatile choice for couples, families, or small groups.

While the tour covers many highlights, those interested in specific museums or paid attractions should plan accordingly, since admission fees are extra.

The Sum Up: A Tailored Day Trip to California’s Coastal and Danish Towns

The Private 10-hour tour from Los Angeles to Santa Barbara and Solvang offers a thoughtful blend of coastal beauty, historic landmarks, and European charm. The private guide and vehicle provide a flexible and intimate experience, perfect for those wanting a customized journey without the stress of planning individual transfers.

The tour’s highlights—such as the Old Mission Santa Barbara, Stearns Wharf, and Solvang’s Little Mermaid—deliver memorable photo opportunities and cultural insights. While entrance fees and meals are not included, the overall value lies in the personalized service and scenic variety.

This experience is best suited for travelers who appreciate comfort, flexibility, and a deeper understanding of California’s coastal towns. It presents a well-rounded, enjoyable way to spend a day exploring beyond Los Angeles, with enough time to appreciate the unique charms of each destination.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, a private vehicle, and a private licensed guide for 10 hours.

Are entrance fees and meals included?
No, entrance fees for sites like the Old Mission are not included, and meals or drinks are not covered in the tour price.

How long is the drive between Santa Barbara and Solvang?
The drive takes approximately two hours, offering scenic views of California’s coast along the way.

Can I customize the stops or pace?
Yes, as a private tour, it allows for personalized attention and flexibility in how long you stay at each stop.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate; however, those with mobility issues should consider the walking involved at outdoor sites.

How do I book this tour?
You can book through the provider, Tour Travel & More, with options for free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start time.