Long Beach is a fantastic place to explore, especially because of its prime waterfront location and proximity to Los Angeles. It’s a city that lends itself well to unique experiences, whether you prefer to see the skyline from the water, hit the highlights of LA in a day, or enjoy a quiet afternoon on the coast. I personally love the idea of a private night yacht cruise — it’s a perfect way to combine relaxation with stunning views. Plus, the City Tour of Los Angeles offers a convenient way to see Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and downtown without the hassle of driving. For a more intimate experience, the Palos Verdes private tour is a hidden treasure, with breathtaking coastal vistas and a gourmet dinner. These options give you a taste of Long Beach’s diverse attractions.
If you’re trying to decide what kind of tour suits your style, this guide breaks down three of the best choices, each with its own charm. Whether you want a romantic cruise, a comprehensive city overview, or a scenic escape with dinner, there’s something here for every traveler.
1. Long Beach: Private Night Yacht Cruise With City Lights
At number one, the Private Night Yacht Cruise offers an intimate way to see Long Beach from the water. Priced at $268 per group up to 6, this 1-hour cruise feels like a special event, perfect for celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or just a romantic night out. The boat can be booked for daytime or night, but the evening cruise truly shines as the city lights reflect on the calm ocean, creating a picture-perfect setting.
What makes this tour stand out is its flexibility — you can bring your own food and drinks, turning it into a personalized party. Imagine sipping champagne or enjoying a picnic while gazing at the colorful skyline. The bluetooth speakers let you set the mood, whether you want relaxing tunes or a lively playlist. Keep an eye out for sea life, which can include dolphins or pelicans, adding a bit of nature to your night. The reviews are glowing, with a perfect 5-star rating from 55 travelers, emphasizing the intimate atmosphere and stunning views.
Bottom line: If you’re after a cozy, customizable experience with spectacular water reflections, this private yacht cruise is a fantastic choice. It’s ideal for couples or small groups wanting a memorable and relaxed evening.
2. City Tour of Los Angeles from Long Beach and San Pedro Cruise Terminals
For those who want a comprehensive snapshot of LA in a single day, the City Tour of Los Angeles is hard to beat. Priced at $152.83 per person, and lasting about 7 to 8 hours, this tour is perfect for cruise passengers or anyone short on time but eager to see the highlights. The tour departs conveniently from Long Beach or San Pedro, making it an easy add-on after a cruise.
The tour covers famous landmarks like the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, Downtown LA, and the Hollywood Sign. You’ll get to explore Rodeo Drive and Hollywood Boulevard on foot, providing a chance to snap photos and soak in the ambiance. The guide, especially if you get someone like Roberto or Alberto, brings a lot of local knowledge and fun facts to the experience. During the day, the views of LA from different angles are impressive, and the included transfers remove all the stress of navigating busy streets.
Reviewers appreciate how much they see in one trip, noting that it’s a great option for first-timers. Some helpful hints: plan for some free time to explore or shop, and expect to spend some time on the bus. A few mention that the Venice Beach stop might be less appealing than Santa Monica, but overall, the tour hits the main highlights efficiently.
Bottom line: This tour is ideal for travelers who want a guided overview of LA’s must-see sights without the hassle of navigating or planning. It’s especially suited for cruise visitors wanting a stress-free introduction to LA.
3. Private Palos Verdes Tour: Lighthouse, Ocean/City with Dinner
At number three, the Private Palos Verdes Tour offers a more leisurely, scenic escape just outside Long Beach. Priced at $150 per person for about 4 hours, this tour takes you to a stunning lighthouse and along cliffside views of the Pacific. What sets this apart is the combination of natural beauty and a gourmet dinner at a private estate with panoramic city views.
Starting at the lighthouse, you’ll get to take memorable photos of the ocean and Catalina Island—a striking backdrop for any trip. Afterwards, the tour moves to a private estate with a 180-degree view of Los Angeles, perfect for watching the sunset. The included garden tour and gourmet dinner make this an elegant and intimate experience, ideal for a special occasion or those seeking a peaceful retreat from city bustle. Private transportation can be arranged, making logistics straightforward.
This tour has only one review so far, but it’s glowing, citing the amazing views and personalized service. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy natural scenery, fine dining, and quiet, scenic enrichment.
Bottom line: If you’re looking for an upscale, scenic experience with spectacular coast and city views, this private Palos Verdes tour is a fantastic choice, especially for a romantic getaway or celebration.
$150.00 per person
How to Choose
When deciding between these options, consider what fits your schedule, interests, and budget. If a romantic, sunset cruise appeals, the private yacht is perfect. For a quick, comprehensive overview of LA’s highlights, the full-day city tour offers great value. Meanwhile, the scenic and elegant Palos Verdes experience suits those who want a quieter, luxurious escape. Remember to book early, especially for private options, and plan around the best times—sunset for the yacht, midday for the LA tour, and late afternoon for the dinner tour.
Long Beach offers diverse ways to explore — from water-based luxury cruises to full-day city adventures and scenic coastal escapes. For a romantic evening, we love the Night Yacht Cruise, while the LA City Tour provides a thorough overview perfect for first-timers. For those after a more relaxed, upscale experience, the Palos Verdes private tour won’t disappoint. Whichever you choose, booking ahead ensures you won’t miss out on these memorable experiences in Southern California.