Anaheim and Buena Park are fantastic bases for exploring Southern California beyond their famous theme parks. These areas offer easy access to a variety of full-day tours that showcase the region’s diverse attractions—be it the vibrant streets of Los Angeles or the sun-drenched beaches of Orange County. One standout experience is the Full Day Iconic Sights Tour of Los Angeles from Anaheim, where you get to see LA’s must-visit landmarks in just one day. For those seeking a more relaxed, beach-focused adventure, the Orange County Beach Cities Highlights Private Full Day Tour offers a personalized glimpse of Huntington Beach, Newport Beach, and Laguna Beach. And if you prefer a tailored experience, the Private Full Day Los Angeles Tour from Anaheim allows groups to explore LA with a private guide.
These tours stand out because they cater to different interests—whether you’re after iconic city sights, coastal strolls, or a flexible private experience. Each provides a chance to see some of Southern California’s highlights while offering practical, enjoyable ways to spend a full day away from the theme parks.
1. Full Day Iconic Sights Tour of Los Angeles from Anaheim: 6 Stops
At number one, this tour packs six major LA landmarks into a manageable nine-hour window, making it perfect for first-time visitors or anyone short on time. The tour begins with a visit to Santa Monica Pier, where you can soak in ocean views and imagine Forrest Gump jogging along Route 66 to the Pacific. Next, you’ll explore Venice Beach, famous for Muscle Beach, skate parks, and its colorful murals, giving you a taste of California’s surf culture. The journey continues through Beverly Hills, where you can window shop on Rodeo Drive—spotting luxury cars and maybe even catching sight of a celebrity or two. Then it’s off to the Original Farmers Market, a true LA icon, with plenty of lunch options to fuel your afternoon adventures. The tour wraps up with a visit to Hollywood and the Hollywood Sign, with ample time to snap photos and soak in the glitz.
Throughout the day, the guides offer engaging narration, making these landmarks more than just photo ops. The tour’s flexibility—allowing time for walking and photos—adds a personal touch to the experience. Though review scores haven’t accumulated yet, the carefully curated stops and insider knowledge promise a memorable day.
Bottom Line: This tour is great for those who want a comprehensive, city-focused introduction with plenty of iconic stops and photo opportunities.
$109.00 per person
2. Orange County Beach Cities Highlights Private Full Day Tour
For around $413 per person, this private tour offers 7 to 8 hours of exploring the stunning coastal towns of Orange County—perfect for families, couples, or groups who prefer a customized experience. The tour begins with Laguna Beach, renowned for its art galleries, tide pools, and scenic overlooks like Top of the World. You’ll enjoy some of the best vistas in Laguna before heading to Huntington Beach, famous for its long pier and surf culture, covered by the International Surfing Museum. The trip concludes at Newport Beach and Balboa Island, where you can browse boutique shops, walk along the pier, or indulge in local seafood.
What makes this tour stand out is the flexibility and depth of experience. Your guide will share insights into Orange County’s history and culture while tailoring stops to your interests. The stops in Laguna and Huntington Beach highlight California’s coastal beauty and surf heritage, making it ideal for beach lovers and art enthusiasts alike.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a personalized, relaxed day exploring Orange County’s most picturesque beach towns with a knowledgeable guide.
$413.00 per person
3. Private Full Day Los Angeles Tour from Anaheim
At number three, this private tour offers a flexible, intimate way to see Los Angeles with up to 14 people. Starting from Anaheim, the trip features stops at Walt Disney Concert Hall, where you can enjoy a quick look at Frank Gehry’s architectural masterpiece, and then heads into Downtown LA. The itinerary includes scenic views of Exposition Park, USC, and the Crypto.com Arena. The highlight is a visit to Griffith Observatory, from where you can take in stunning views of the Hollywood Sign and the LA skyline. If time permits, you can stroll through the historic Los Feliz neighborhood or explore additional landmarks like the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
This tour’s strength lies in its flexibility—your guide can customize stops based on your interests, whether that’s spotting celebrity homes, visiting iconic neighborhoods, or capturing photos at scenic overlooks. The private format also means a more relaxed pace, ideal for small groups or families wanting an exclusive experience.
Although no reviews are available yet, the combination of flexibility and personalized service makes this a compelling choice for those wanting to avoid large tour crowds.
Bottom Line: Ideal for groups or families seeking a tailored, private exploration of LA’s top sights with a knowledgeable guide.
$155.29 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Full-Day Tour
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, interests, and how much flexibility you want. If seeing LA’s most famous sights in a day sounds appealing, the full city tour is hard to beat for value. If you’re into beach life and coastal scenery, the Orange County highlights offer a more relaxed, scenic experience. For travelers who prefer a customized, private experience, the private LA tour provides personal attention and adaptable stops.
Booking early is recommended, especially if you plan to visit during peak seasons like summer or holidays. Think about your fitness level—most tours involve some walking, but options like the private tour allow you to tailor the pace. For a balanced experience, combine the city sights with a beach day by booking a tour like the Orange County highlights, or immerse yourself fully in LA’s iconic neighborhoods with a private guide.
In summary, Anaheim and Buena Park serve as excellent hubs for full-day adventures that can include everything from the glamour of Hollywood to the sunny beaches of Orange County. Whether you want a structured sightseeing day, a private custom tour, or a laid-back coastal trip, there’s an option tailored for you. Book early, plan according to your interests, and you’ll find plenty of ways to enjoy Southern California beyond the theme parks.