Long Beach is a fantastic place to explore because it combines coastal charm, easy access to Los Angeles, and a lively waterfront scene. Whether you’re looking for a romantic evening on the water or a full-day adventure through LA’s landmarks, Long Beach offers options that suit a variety of interests.
We particularly love the Private Night Yacht Cruise — it’s a perfect way to enjoy the city’s skyline from the water with just your group, especially since you can bring your own drinks and snacks.
For those interested in combining city sights with a relaxed cruise, the City Tour of Los Angeles from Long Beach is a smart choice, offering a guided day trip with visits to Hollywood, Rodeo Drive, and more.
Finally, if you want a scenic escape with a touch of luxury, the Private Palos Verdes Tour provides stunning coastal views, a lighthouse visit, and a gourmet dinner in one memorable package.
Quick Overview
Our list covers three distinct types of city tours in Long Beach: a private sunset yacht cruise, an extensive LA sightseeing tour from Long Beach, and a scenic coastal trip to Palos Verdes with dinner. Each offers a different way to see the region’s highlights, whether on the water, on foot, or in a private vehicle. Check out their details below to see which fits your travel style.
1. Long Beach: Private Night Yacht Cruise With City Lights
At number one, we have the Private Night Yacht Cruise With City Lights. This experience offers a unique chance to view Long Beach’s colorful cityscape from the water, especially breathtaking at night. For around $268 per group (up to six people), you get a 1-hour cruise on a luxury yacht, where you can enjoy the calm waters and reflective water scenery.
It’s perfect for celebrating special occasions or simply enjoying an intimate, romantic evening.
What makes this cruise stand out is the ability to bring your own drinks and snacks, turning it into a personalized party on the water. You can connect your device to the Bluetooth speaker to set the mood, whether it’s soft jazz or party tunes.
During the cruise, look out for sea life, like dolphins or pelicans, which adds an extra layer of magic.
This tour is highly rated — with a 5/5 based on 55 reviews — for its exclusivity and stunning views. It’s suited for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting an upscale yet relaxed experience.
The only potential downside is the relatively short duration, but that’s balanced by the private ambiance.
Bottom Line: A top pick for a romantic or celebratory night out on the water with customizable options and fantastic city views.
2. City Tour of Los Angeles from Long Beach and San Pedro Cruise Terminals
For those who want a comprehensive day in LA, the City Tour of Los Angeles from Long Beach is hard to beat. Starting at the cruise terminals, this tour covers many of LA’s major sights in approximately 7 to 8 hours, including landmarks like the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, Griffith Observatory, and the Hollywood Sign.
This tour is perfect for cruise passengers who want to maximize their time ashore without the hassle of navigating LA’s busy streets alone. The guided format means you’ll skip the stress and get expert commentary along the way.
The itinerary includes stops at Rodeo Drive and Hollywood Boulevard for walking exploration, as well as scenic drives through Downtown LA.
The reviews are mostly positive, with an average rating of 4/5. Tour guide Roberto, for example, is praised for his knowledge and enthusiasm, which adds a personal touch.
The tour’s main advantage is its all-in-one approach, making it ideal for first-time visitors who want a quick but thorough look at LA.
The only concern might be the long day or the stop at Venice Beach, which some find less interesting.
Bottom Line: A practical, guided overview of LA’s highlights, perfect for short-term travelers wanting to see the main sights in one day.
3. Private Palos Verdes Tour: Lighthouse, Ocean/City with Dinner
Our third pick is a scenic coastal escape to Palos Verdes, a beautiful area just 40 minutes south of downtown LA. This private tour includes a visit to the iconic lighthouse for stunning photo opportunities and sweeping views of the Pacific.
The tour then continues to a private estate overlooking Los Angeles, where you can enjoy a sunset, a garden walk, and a gourmet dinner in a relaxed, intimate setting.
The tour is priced at $150 per person and lasts around four hours, making it a manageable half-day trip.
The highlight is the breathtaking views of Catalina Island and the coastline, combined with the tranquility of natural countryside and the chance to see horses grazing.
Private transportation can be arranged for easy access.
While this tour has only one review — a perfect 5/5 — it speaks to the exclusivity and beauty of the experience. It’s well-suited for couples or small groups seeking a peaceful retreat with a touch of luxury.
The main consideration is that it’s a more expensive, intimate experience rather than a broad city tour.
Bottom Line: An ideal option for travelers looking for scenic coastal views, a private atmosphere, and a special dinner.
How to Choose
Picking the right city tour in Long Beach depends on your interests, budget, and available time. If you want a romantic evening on the water, go for the Private Night Yacht Cruise — just be sure to book early. For a full-day LA experience, the City Tour from Long Beach offers convenience and variety, especially if you’re a first-timer.
And if you’re after a relaxing coastal escape with fine dining, the Palos Verdes Tour combines spectacular scenery with a gourmet meal.
Consider your fitness level and mobility — the LA tour involves some walking, while the yacht and Palos Verdes tours are more relaxed.
For those with limited time, the guided LA tour maximizes sightseeing efficiently. For a special occasion, the private yacht or scenic coastal trip might be the best choice.
Booking early is wise, particularly for popular options like the yacht cruise or private tours, especially during peak seasons. Check the respective links for availability and current pricing.
To sum it up, Long Beach offers a diverse range of city experiences that cater to different tastes — whether you’re seeking a romantic water adventure, a comprehensive day in LA, or a scenic coastal retreat. For a quick, luxurious escape, the private yacht cruise is perfect.
For exploring LA’s highlights, the guided tour provides value and convenience. And for a peaceful, picturesque getaway, the Palos Verdes trip is hard to beat.
No matter your choice, these tours give you a memorable way to enjoy the Southern California coast. Be sure to book early to secure your spot and make the most of your time in this vibrant region.