Los Angeles: Hollywood, Beverly Hills & Beach Day Tour

Summary

From Venice murals to Griffith views this LA tour brings it all together

You’ll ride through Venice Beach’s wild boardwalk energy, stroll past celebrity footprints in Hollywood, eat lunch at the bustling Farmers Market, and catch sweeping city views from Griffith Park. It’s not just sightseeing — you’ll feel LA’s mix of grit and glamour right under your skin.

What’s the experience like?

We’d barely settled into our seats when our guide, Jamie, pointed out the first mural on Venice Beach — I caught a whiff of sunscreen and seaweed as we rolled past skateboarders weaving between tourists. The air felt thick with salt and something fried (maybe churros?), and honestly, I was still half-asleep from jet lag. But then someone in the back tried to pronounce “Muscle Beach” in their best California accent and cracked everyone up. It’s weirdly comforting how casual LA feels once you’re actually here.

Driving through Beverly Hills felt like peeking behind a movie set — Rodeo Drive is shinier than I expected, but it’s the little things that stick: an older couple walking their poodle near the famous sign, or our driver pointing out a café where he once saw Jack Black (no sighting for us though). Lunch at the Farmers Market was loud and busy; I grabbed tacos from a stand that smelled like lime and grilled onions, then just sat people-watching for a while. There’s every kind of person here — families, musicians, some guy selling hats who winked at me when I nearly dropped my food.

I didn’t expect to feel anything about the Hollywood Walk of Fame but seeing all those names under my feet made me think about how many people come here chasing something. Jamie told us stories about old movie premieres at Grauman’s Chinese Theatre — apparently there’s still handprints in the cement from the 1920s. We took photos near the Hollywood Sign from Griffith Park (the closest you can get by bus), and even though it was crowded, there was this quiet moment when everyone just stared out over LA. The city looks endless from up there — kind of makes your own life feel small but good, you know?

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore LA beaches, shopping, and landmarks

• Visit Santa Monica Beach and Pier
• Explore Venice Beach Boardwalk
• Shop and photo at Rodeo Drive
• Lunch at Farmers Market at the Grove
• Shop at The Grove Los Angeles
• Pass by Sunset Strip and music venues
• Stop at Griffith Park for views
• Visit Griffith Observatory exhibits
• See Hollywood Sign from Griffith Park
• Walk Hollywood Walk of Fame and theatres

Top questions

How long is the full-day Los Angeles tour?

The tour lasts approximately 7.5 hours from start to finish.

Does this LA day trip include hotel pickup?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are available for select hotels if you choose that option.

What sights are included on this Los Angeles tour?

You’ll visit Santa Monica Pier, Venice Beach Boardwalk, Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills, The Grove & Farmers Market for lunch, Sunset Strip music venues, Griffith Observatory & Park for Hollywood Sign views, plus Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Is lunch included on the LA iconic sights tour?

No, lunch isn’t included but there’s a one-hour stop at Farmers Market with lots of food options for all diets.

Can families with young kids join this Los Angeles day trip?

Yes! The tour is suitable for families and offers stroller access plus specialized infant seats if needed.

Are tours available in languages other than English?

No, tours are conducted in English only according to current information.

What happens if Griffith Observatory is closed?

If it’s closed or filming blocks access, you’ll go to Mulholland Drive or The Hollywood Bowl instead for city views.

What’s included

Your day includes carefully planned routes through welcoming parts of Los Angeles with an LA-native guide leading the way. You get bottled water onboard an air-conditioned vehicle plus hotel pickup and drop-off if selected. There’s a one-hour stop at the Farmers Market for lunch (not included), so you can try whatever catches your eye before heading back out into the city buzz.