Full Day Iconic Sites Tour of LA from Santa Monica with Six Stops

Explore Los Angeles in a Day for $99 with this Iconic Sites Tour from Santa Monica

This full-day Los Angeles tour offers an efficient way to see the city’s most famous landmarks in about 7.5 hours. Starting from Santa Monica, it covers six key stops on an itinerary that includes Hollywood, Venice Beach, Santa Monica Pier, Beverly Hills, and Griffith Park. Priced at $99 per person, it provides a guided experience with up to 40 minutes at each location, plus a 1-hour lunch break at the Original Farmers Market.

The tour is ideal for families, first-time visitors, or anyone wanting a rundown of LA’s culture and sights in one day. The experience is conducted in a luxury small tour bus with complimentary bottled water, and hotel pickup is available from select hotels. While the tour manages to pack in many highlights, some stops may feel rushed, and the tour can run longer than scheduled.

Key Points

• Full-day tour lasting approximately 7.5 hours with six major stops
• Starting point at 1537 2nd St in Santa Monica at 9:30 am
• Adult price is $99, includes luxury transportation and bottled water
• Stops include Santa Monica Pier, Venice Beach, Rodeo Drive, Griffith Park, and Hollywood Walk of Fame
• Up to 40 minutes allocated for sightseeing at each location, with a 1-hour lunch break
• Guided tour with knowledgeable guides sharing fun facts and history

Convenient Location and Schedule in Santa Monica

The tour departs from 1537 2nd St in Santa Monica at 9:30 am, making it easy for visitors staying in or near this vibrant beach city. The meeting point is close to public transportation, simplifying arrival.

The tour duration of 7 hours and 30 minutes allows for a comprehensive look at LA’s highlights without feeling overly rushed. Hotel pickup is available for select locations, easing the logistics for those staying nearby. The mobile ticket option offers flexibility, and the tour ends back at the starting point, making it convenient for further exploration.

Santa Monica Pier and Venice Beach: Coastal Classics

This tour kicks off at the Santa Monica Pier, a must-visit icon where you’ll see the stretch of coastal beauty and experience the lively atmosphere. Santa Monica is famous for its beach scene, where Forrest Gump jogged Route 66 to the Pacific.

Next, the Venice Beach stop explores the Boardwalk, renowned as the birthplace of surfing. Visitors can spot Muscle Beach, skate parks, vibrant art murals, and the Venice Canals. Both stops showcase LA’s beach culture and outdoor lifestyle.

Beverly Hills and Rodeo Drive: Celebrity Shopping and Glitz

A visit to Beverly Hills includes a walk along Rodeo Drive, known for luxury shopping and celebrity sightings. The tour offers a chance to window shop at the high-end boutiques where Julia Roberts and other stars have shopped. You’ll also get a picture in front of the famous Beverly Hills sign, soaking in the glamour of this wealthy neighborhood.

Hollywood Landmarks and Walk of Fame Highlights

The Hollywood Walk of Fame is a highlight, offering a chance to stroll along the sidewalk lined with stars honoring celebrities. The guide shares fun facts about the stars and the history of Hollywood’s entertainment scene.

Adjacent to this, the tour visits Graumans Chinese Theatre, giving a glance at Hollywood’s cinematic history. Travelers can find their favorite celebrity stars embedded in the sidewalk and learn about Hollywood’s famous venues.

Griffith Park and the Hollywood Sign: Iconic Views

A key feature of this tour is the stop at Griffith Park, where visitors get close enough in the bus to see the Hollywood Sign. The Park offers sweeping views of the LA Basin and is often a favorite among travelers for its scenic vistas.

Following this, the Griffith Observatory offers exhibits about space and cosmos, adding an educational component. The observatory is part of Griffith Park and is known for stunning city views from its vantage point.

Celebrity Hotspots along the Sunset Strip

The tour includes a drive past the famous Sunset Strip, home to legendary music venues like The Roxy, Whiskey a Go Go, and The Viper Room. These spots are well-known for celebrity sightings and live music events.

The drive provides a glimpse into LA’s nightlife and entertainment history, even if the stops are outside the venues. The tour’s commentary highlights famous clubs and historic venues along the strip.

Lunch at the Farmers Market and Shopping at The Grove

The Original Farmers Market at the Grove serves as the lunch stop. It’s a well-loved LA icon with numerous food vendors offering options for most budgets and dietary needs. The market also provides opportunities to spot celebrities and enjoy a relaxed break.

Adjacent to the lunch spot, The Grove offers a quick shopping opportunity if time permits. The outdoor mall is known for its charming atmosphere, fountains, and fashion boutiques.

Transport, Group Size, and Accessibility

The luxury small tour bus accommodates up to 50 travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience. The seating is not pre-assigned, but efforts are made to group close together. The vehicle is air-conditioned, and complimentary bottled water is provided.

Guests are asked to bring personal-sized carry-on luggage only, as no large luggage is accepted or stored. The tour includes hotel pickup from select hotels, but parking is not provided at the meeting point.

Practical Tips and Considerations

While most stops are free to explore, some may feel rushed due to the tight schedule. The tour can run longer than 7.5 hours, especially if traffic delays occur. Weather conditions can impact the experience; bringing an umbrella or poncho is advised if rain is forecasted.

Children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult, and luggage restrictions apply. The tour operates in English only, so travelers should be comfortable with that.

Comparing This Tour to Similar LA Experiences

This full-day tour is a solid choice for those wanting a rundown. It stands out by covering a wide range of landmarks in a single day, with stops at iconic locations like Hollywood, Venice Beach, and Beverly Hills.

While some reviews note the tour ran longer than expected, they also highlight knowledgeable guides and great views, making it a valuable experience for those who prefer guided sightseeing.

Final Thoughts on the Full Day LA Iconic Sites Tour

This tour offers excellent value at $99, especially for travelers wanting to see the highlights of Los Angeles in a single day. The guided format ensures you get insights and fun facts about each location, making it engaging and informative.

The duration and pace are suitable for first-time visitors or families, though those seeking a more relaxed experience might prefer to spread exploration over two days. The stop at Griffith Park for views of the Hollywood Sign and the drive along Sunset Strip are particular highlights.

The Full Day Iconic Sites Tour from Santa Monica is a reliable, well-organized way to experience LA’s most famous sights in a single trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of this tour?
The tour costs $99 per person, including transportation, bottled water, and guided commentary.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 7 hours and 30 minutes.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour starts at 1537 2nd St, Santa Monica at 9:30 am and ends back at the same location.

Are lunch or meals included?
No, lunch is not included, but there is a 45-minute break at the Farmers Market for eating.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are available from select hotels.

What stops are included in the tour?
Stops include Santa Monica Pier, Venice Beach, Rodeo Drive, Farmers Market, Griffith Park, Hollywood Walk of Fame, and Sunset Strip.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, but children must be accompanied by an adult.

Are luggage restrictions in place?
Yes, only personal-sized carry-on luggage is permitted; large luggage is not allowed.

Can I customize the stops or itinerary?
Seating is not pre-assigned, but the tour is fixed with the listed stops, and special requests should be communicated immediately after booking.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and an umbrella or poncho if rain is forecasted.