Los Angeles Highlights Tour from Long Beach

Discover the Los Angeles Highlights Tour from Long Beach

This Los Angeles Highlights Tour from Long Beach offers a practical way to see many of LA’s top sights in just around 8 hours for $122.06 per person. Organized by Sunseeker Tours, the tour departs early in the morning with hotel pickup and drop-off included, making it convenient for visitors staying in Long Beach. With a small group limited to 14 people, the experience remains intimate and relaxed, allowing plenty of opportunity for questions and personalized attention.

Led by a professional and knowledgeable guide, this tour moves smoothly through some of LA’s most famous neighborhoods and landmarks. The route includes Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, Venice Beach, and key attractions like the Hollywood Sign, Grauman’s Chinese Theatre, and the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The tour promises a good mix of sightseeing, location visits, and photo opportunities, with enough time allocated to each stop to enjoy the atmosphere and snap memorable photos.

Key Points

• Duration: Approximately 8 hours, starting early at 8:30 am with hotel pickup in Long Beach
• Price: $122.06 per person, offering a rundown of LA’s highlights
• Small Group: Limited to 14 participants for a more personalized experience
• Includes: Hotel pickup and drop-off, guided commentary, air-conditioned transportation
• Stops: Key sites include Hollywood Sign, Downtown LA, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, and Venice Beach
• Not Included: Food and drinks, but a lunch stop at Mel’s Diner on Sunset Strip provides a classic 50s experience

Starting the Day with Convenient Hotel Pickup in Long Beach

The tour begins with morning pickup at Long Beach hotels, simplifying logistics for visitors. Guests board a comfortable Mercedes Benz tour coach, and the journey to Los Angeles covers roughly 25 miles (40 km). As the coach makes its way north, travelers enjoy views of the twin ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach, which are among the largest in the country.

This transport setup gets everyone to LA comfortably while providing a relaxed setting to start the day. The small-group format ensures that the experience remains intimate and manageable, avoiding the feeling of being overwhelmed by large crowds.

Exploring Downtown Los Angeles and the LA Coliseum

The first stop is at downtown LA, starting with the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum in Exposition Park. This historic stadium hosts many of the city’s major sporting and entertainment events. The tour then moves on to the Walt Disney Concert Hall, designed by Frank Gehry, where the LA Philharmonic performs in a striking building that’s a must-see for architecture fans.

While at these sites, visitors get quick but impactful glimpses of LA’s cultural landscape and can ask guides about the city’s history or architecture. The stadium is easily accessible, and since it’s a free admission stop, it adds value without extra cost.

Viewing the Hollywood Sign from Griffith Park

The tour’s highlight for many is the Hollywood Sign, perched high on Mt Lee in Griffith Park. Guests spend about 20 minutes here, enough time to take photos of the icon and enjoy sweeping views over Los Angeles. This photo op remains a central reason for including this stop.

The Griffith Observatory nearby offers a panoramic view of the city and a closer look at the Hollywood Sign. The observatory itself features science exhibits and is a popular background for film scenes, adding a bit of extra interest during this part of the tour.

Hollywood Boulevard and the TCL Chinese Theatre

Following the Hollywood Sign visit, the guide leads the group into Hollywood Boulevard. Here, visitors explore the Hollywood Walk of Fame, with more than 2,600 stars embedded in the sidewalk honoring celebrities. The Dolby Theatre, home to the Oscars, is another key site visited during the roughly 45-minute stop.

The TCL Chinese Theatre is famous for its handprints and footprints of movie stars. Guests often enjoy wandering past the historic theatre and soaking in the glamour of Hollywood’s entertainment scene. This stop offers multiple photo opportunities and a chance to browse nearby shops and cafes.

Traveling along Sunset Strip and Beverly Hills

The tour then heads down the Sunset Strip, known for its vibrant nightlife and music venues. Passing through this area gives a taste of LA’s lively entertainment district. Next, the journey continues into Beverly Hills, where the guide shows the famous Rodeo Drive, lined with luxury boutiques and celebrity sightings.

Although only about 5 minutes are spent here, the stop provides a quick glance at LA’s affluent lifestyle and iconic shopping streets. It’s a chance to see how the other half lives without an extended detour.

Lunch Break at Mel’s Diner on Sunset Strip

A highlight for many is the lunch stop at Mel’s Diner, located on Sunset Strip. This classic 50s-style restaurant has appeared in films like American Graffiti and remains a lively spot full of nostalgia and character. The hour-long break allows guests to stretch, enjoy a meal, and soak in the retro atmosphere.

While the tour includes this stop, reviews note that lunch is at a restaurant chosen by the operator, and guests are encouraged to explore other dining options if they prefer. The experience, however, often features a fun environment and the chance to enjoy LA’s vintage charm.

Visiting Santa Monica Beach and Venice Beach

After lunch, the tour visits Santa Monica Beach, home to the famous Santa Monica Pier. This lively spot offers expansive ocean views, a historic pier, and a range of entertainment options. Visitors typically spend about 5 minutes here, enough to take photos or enjoy a quick walk on the beach.

Next, the group heads to Venice Beach, known for its bohemian vibe, street performers, and Muscle Beach outdoor gym. With 45 minutes allocated, travelers can stroll along the boardwalk, watch performers, or browse local shops. Venice Beach’s distinctive atmosphere makes it a vibrant and memorable stop.

End of the Tour and Return to Long Beach

The tour wraps up with a drop-off back at Long Beach hotels around the end of the day. Throughout the journey, guides provide commentary, answer questions, and share stories about the sites. Reviewers praise guides like Alberto, Gabriel, and John for their knowledge, friendliness, and humor.

The tour balances sightseeing with comfortable pacing, allowing enough time at each stop without feeling rushed. The air-conditioned van and small group size contribute to a smooth and friendly experience.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This Los Angeles Highlights Tour from Long Beach is ideal for first-time visitors or anyone looking for a rundown of LA’s most famous sights in one day. The hotel pickup, small-group setting, and well-planned itinerary make it suitable for travelers who prefer a guided experience with minimal hassle.

However, those seeking deep dives into each neighborhood or longer time at attractions might find the schedule somewhat tight. The tour’s focus on iconic landmarks means it favors a broad overview over detailed exploration.

Final Thoughts on the LA Highlights Tour

This tour offers great value for a full-day sightseeing experience in Los Angeles, especially considering the hotel pickup and drop-off included. It’s praised for expert guides and efficient routing that covers the city’s most recognizable sites. The small group size enhances comfort and interaction.

While the stops are well-chosen for their fame and photographic appeal, the relatively short time at each site means visitors should keep expectations aligned with a sampling of LA’s highlights. For those new to LA or short on time, this tour provides an accessible, enjoyable introduction to the city’s glamour and culture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup available in Long Beach?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Long Beach, making it convenient for guests staying there.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting early at 8:30 am and ending with hotel drop-off.

What attractions are included?
Stops include Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, Griffith Observatory, Hollywood Walk of Fame, TCL Chinese Theatre, Sunset Strip, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, and Venice Beach.

Is food included in the tour?
No, food and drinks are not included. However, there is a lunch stop at Mel’s Diner on Sunset Strip.

What is the group size?
The tour operates with a small group limited to 14 participants, ensuring a more personal experience.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. It’s suitable for anyone interested in a scenic overview of LA’s most famous sites.

What vehicle is used for transportation?
Guests are transported in a comfortable, air-conditioned Mercedes Benz van.

How is the guide?
Reviews consistently praise guides like Alberto, Gabriel, and John for their knowledge, friendliness, and humor.

Are there any disadvantages?
Some guests note that time at each stop can be limited, and traffic may affect the schedule, but these are common with city tours of this size.

Would you recommend this tour?
Yes, especially for those who want a hassle-free, quick overview of Los Angeles with local insights and convenient hotel pickup.

Is this tour good value for money?
Considering the comprehensive itinerary, hotel pickup, and small-group experience, it offers solid value for $122.06 per person.

Can I customize the itinerary?
This structured tour follows a set route without options for customization, but the stops cover most of LA’s iconic spots.

What should I bring?
Bring a camera, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes for walking and photo taking at each stop.

Will the weather affect the tour?
Yes, the tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, a full refund or rescheduling is offered.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. The small-group format creates a friendly environment, and hotel pickup makes solo travel easy and safe.