Los Angeles is a city that truly shines during the holiday season. With its mix of glamorous neighborhoods and scenic coastlines, LA offers a variety of Christmas experiences that blend luxury, tradition, and fun. We especially like the Marina Del Rey Christmas Day cruise for its festive atmosphere on the water and the Beverly Hills Christmas lights tour for its intimate, customized feel.
These experiences stand out because they let you soak in LA’s holiday spirit while enjoying exceptional views and personalized service. Whether you want a relaxing cruise or an elegant walking tour, LA’s holiday offerings make the season special.
If you’re planning your Christmas in LA, you’ll find a nice variety of options. You can enjoy a gourmet buffet on a boat with live entertainment or take a private guided tour through beautifully decorated neighborhoods. Each offers a different way to celebrate, whether you’re with family, friends, or a loved one.
To help you decide, we’ve broken down two top Christmas tours that capture the magic of Los Angeles during the holidays—one on the water and one on land.
1. Marina Del Rey: Christmas Day Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise
At number one, the Marina Del Rey Christmas Day Cruise offers a festive way to see the coast and enjoy a hearty meal. This 2 to 2.5-hour harbor cruise provides stunning views of Southern California beaches, all from the comfort of a boat deck.
The cruise includes a chef-prepared buffet, which features a variety of holiday favorites, and for brunch, unlimited mimosas to toast the season. Live music adds to the cheerful vibe, making it a lively holiday outing.
What makes this cruise stand out is the combination of scenic water views and a festive atmosphere. You’ll cruise past the marina’s illuminated boats and coastline, capturing that quintessential California Christmas feel.
The buffet offers both brunch and dinner options, so you can choose your preferred time of day. The cruise is perfect for families or couples looking for a laid-back yet special holiday experience.
Although the price is $101 per person, the all-inclusive buffet and entertainment make it good value. The only potential downside is that it’s a relatively short experience, but it’s packed with holiday cheer.
Bottom Line: If you want a relaxing holiday cruise with great views, good food, and a festive spirit, this is a top choice.
2. Christmas Lights in Beverly Hills – Private Guide and Free Coffee with Dessert
Number two on our list is the Christmas Lights in Beverly Hills private tour. For around $155 per person, this 2-hour personalized experience gives you a front-row seat to Beverly Hills’ most impressive holiday displays. It begins with a meet-up at Laduree, the famous French pastry shop, where you’ll enjoy complimentary coffee and macarons—a sweet start to your evening.
Your private guide then takes you through Beverly Canon Gardens, Rodeo Drive, and the Beverly Garden Park, all glowing with holiday lights and elaborate displays.
What makes this tour unique is its flexibility and intimacy. You can customize the route based on your interests and enjoy more personalized attention from your guide.
The tour includes stops at iconic spots like the Beverly Wilshire Hotel and the luxurious Montage Beverly Hills, where the holiday decorations are often spectacular. The experience is ideal for those who want a relaxed, elegant way to enjoy LA’s holiday spirit without crowds.
Since it’s a private guide, it’s perfect for families, couples, or small groups wanting a curated, memorable evening.
While there are no reviews yet, the detailed itinerary and the inclusion of a personal guide suggest a quality experience. It’s a bit pricier than the cruise but offers a more tailored, less hurried way to see the city’s festive lights.
Bottom Line: For a personalized and elegant Christmas light experience, this private tour is a fantastic choice.
How to Choose Your Perfect LA Christmas Experience
When deciding between these options, consider your priorities. If you love being on the water and want a relaxed, scenic cruise with good food, the Marina Del Rey cruise (see details here) is hard to beat. It’s especially appealing if you’re traveling with family or looking for a lively holiday outing.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more personalized experience and enjoy walking through beautifully decorated neighborhoods, the Christmas Lights in Beverly Hills tour (find out more) offers an intimate, elegant way to celebrate. It’s perfect if you want flexibility and a quiet, charming holiday atmosphere.
For budget-conscious travelers, the cruise offers good value with its inclusive buffet and entertainment. If you’re after a special, private experience, the Beverly Hills tour might be worth the extra cost. Remember that booking early is advised, especially during the busy holiday season.
Final Thoughts
Los Angeles offers a variety of Christmas experiences to suit different tastes and budgets. The Marina Del Rey Christmas cruise provides a festive, waterfront celebration, while the Beverly Hills light tour offers a personalized, upscale way to see the city sparkle.
If you’re seeking a lively cruise with scenic views or a cozy, guided walk through decorated streets, LA’s holiday options won’t disappoint.
For families wanting a fun water adventure, the cruise is a winner. For couples or friends craving a quiet, elegant evening, the Beverly Hills tour shines. No matter what you choose, booking early will help ensure you get the dates and times that fit your holiday plans. Now, all that’s left is to pick your perfect LA Christmas adventure and enjoy the season in style.