Private Full Day LA Tour from Manhattan Beach

Visiting Los Angeles can be both exciting and overwhelming—so many neighborhoods, sights, and experiences to choose from. A private tour like this from Best Coast Tours promises a curated day that hits all the must-see spots, with the flexibility to tailor the experience.

What we love about this tour is how it balances iconic landmarks with authentic LA neighborhoods, all while being guided by knowledgeable hosts. The personalized nature of a private experience means fewer crowds and more tailored commentary. The value for money stands out, especially with tiered group pricing—more friends or family, less per person.

One thing to keep in mind is that meals are not included, so you’ll want to plan for lunch. Also, the tour’s 8-hour length means packing in a lot, but with a flexible itinerary and a comfortable vehicle, it’s a fantastic way to see a wide swath of LA in one day. It suits travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free experience without the stress of navigating alone.

Good To Know

• Flexible group discounts make it affordable for families or larger groups.
• Expert guides provide insightful commentary and local tips.
• Comprehensive itinerary covers LA’s top sights and neighborhoods.
• Private tour format offers a personalized experience and fewer crowds.
• Duration and transportation allow for a relaxed pace with air-conditioned comfort.
• Meals not included mean you can choose lunch options to suit your tastes.

What You Can Expect from the Tour

This full-day private tour is designed to show you Los Angeles through the eyes of a local, with stops at the city’s most famous attractions and neighborhoods. Starting from Manhattan Beach, the tour head north, giving you the chance to enjoy the LA highlights without the stress of planning or driving yourself.

The itinerary balances sightseeing with relaxed breaks, making it ideal whether you’re visiting LA for the first time or want a condensed overview of the city’s highlights. The private nature means your guide can adjust the pacing or focus on what interests you most, whether that’s photos, celebrity spotting, or local culture.

The Highlights

Griffith Observatory and Hollywood Sign

We love the early stop at Griffith Observatory because of its sweeping views of the city and the Hollywood Sign. The observatory itself is a gem—free to enter—and offers fantastic photo opportunities. From here, you’ll get a postcard-perfect shot of the Hollywood Sign, a must for anyone wanting that iconic LA photo.

One reviewer mentioned that the view from Griffith “made the whole trip worthwhile,” and appreciated the guide’s knowledge about LA’s history. It’s a perfect way to start the day with a sense of LA’s sprawling layout.

Hollywood Walk of Fame and Grauman’s Chinese Theatre

Next, you’ll stroll along the Hollywood Walk of Fame, where the stars embedded in the sidewalk celebrate Hollywood’s entertainment legends. The walk typically takes around 40 minutes, giving you time to admire the stars and snap some photos.

Passing Graumans Chinese Theatre, known for its handprints of celebrities, adds a touch of movie magic. Reviewers noted that guides are great at sharing fun facts about the stars and the history of Hollywood’s entertainment scene.

Melrose Avenue and The Farmers Market

Driving down Melrose Avenue, you’ll see vibrant street art, boutique shops, and a creative vibe that captures LA’s eclectic style. It’s a quick glimpse but a fun one for fashion and pop culture lovers.

Lunch at The Original Farmers Market and The Grove offers a chance to explore diverse food stalls (meals not included). This area is loved for its variety and lively atmosphere, with over 35 food vendors offering everything from fresh produce to international cuisines. A reviewer praised the market’s “buzzing vibe and variety,” making it a highlight for foodies.

Sunset Strip and Beverly Hills

Post-lunch, your drive along the Sunset Strip reveals LA’s nightlife history, with legendary clubs like Whisky a Go Go. It’s a glimpse into LA’s lively entertainment scene.

A stop at Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills lets you stretch your legs and window shop—or splurge—on luxury brands. The guide’s insights make this a fun, aspirational moment, with one traveler commenting, “It’s like walking in a movie scene.”

Santa Monica Pier and Venice Beach

The day winds down at the Santa Monica Pier, with its colorful Ferris wheel and lively boardwalk, perfect for photos and relaxing. The nearby Venice Beach completes your coastal tour, featuring street performers, skaters at the famous skatepark, and the vibrant scene that makes Venice so unique.

One reviewer described Venice as “a kaleidoscope of street performers, bodybuilders, and artists,” capturing its eclectic spirit perfectly.

In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Exploring Downtown LA

The tour begins with panoramic views of Exposition Park, USC, and Crypto.com Arena—setting the stage for your day. This area is less touristy but gives insight into LA’s civic and sports culture, which some guests found surprisingly interesting.

Griffith Observatory

The 30-minute stop at Griffith Observatory is a highlight. The free admission to the observatory itself is perfect for those wanting to soak in views without extra cost. From here, the Hollywood Sign dominates the background, and many guests appreciated the opportunity to take photos from this prime vantage point.

One person shared that the guide “knew exactly where to position us for the best shot,” making this stop both scenic and practical.

Hollywood Walk of Fame & Chinese Theatre

The 40-minute walk along Hollywood Boulevard allows time for photos, souvenir shopping, and hearing stories from your guide about Hollywood history. It’s a lively area, but the guided aspect helps avoid getting lost or overwhelmed.

Melrose Avenue

Driving through Melrose, you’ll witness LA’s street art and boutique culture. It’s a quick drive, but enough to give you a sense of LA’s creative edge, especially if you’re into fashion or street art.

Farmers Market & The Grove

This 1-hour stop is a definite highlight. The Farmers Market is renowned for its diverse food stalls, and the Grove offers a picturesque shopping and entertainment district. Food isn’t included, but you’ll have the chance to explore and pick what appeals to you.

Reviewers appreciated this part for its relaxed pace, with one noting, “It’s the perfect break in a busy day to eat and browse.”

Sunset Strip & Beverly Hills

The drive along Sunset Strip showcases LA’s legendary nightlife and music history, while the Beverly Hills stop at Rodeo Drive is all about luxury and style. It’s a fun, aspirational moment that many enjoy, regardless of whether they plan to shop.

Century City, Santa Monica, and Venice

Your journey continues through Century City, LA’s business hub, offering a glimpse into LA’s entertainment industry side.

The Santa Monica Pier is a classic LA spot—bright, lively, and perfect for photos. The Venice Beach final stop is a vibrant tableau of street performers, skaters, and artists, making it an authentic LA experience. One visitor mentioned watching “skaters throw tricks at the skatepark and seeing bodybuilders and artists all in one place,” which captures Venice’s diverse vibe.

Practical Details and Value

This private tour costing around $169.64 per person offers a lot of value for those wanting a comprehensive day with a local guide. The tiered pricing structure makes it more affordable for larger groups, which is great for families or friends traveling together.

The tour lasts roughly 8 hours, giving enough time at each stop without feeling rushed. Included in the price are bottled water, snacks, and a fully narrated experience—adding to the comfort and educational value.

Transportation is in an air-conditioned vehicle, essential for LA’s often warm weather, and the tour is designed to keep travelers comfortable and engaged.

While meals are not included, the visit to The Farmers Market & The Grove offers plenty of options to suit various tastes and dietary needs. The flexible schedule and private format mean you can customize your experience if desired.

The guided narration adds depth to each stop, with guides sharing insider tips and anecdotes that you might not find in a guidebook. Reviewers consistently praised the guides for their knowledge and friendliness, making the experience more engaging and informative.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is perfect for first-time visitors who want a structured yet flexible overview of LA’s most famous sights. It’s also ideal for groups and families, thanks to its tiered pricing and private format.

Those looking for a convenient, all-in-one day without the hassle of navigating LA on their own will find this tour a sound choice. It offers a good mix of sightseeing, photo opportunities, and cultural insights—all within a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.

If you’re interested in seeing LA’s entertainment roots, luxury shopping, and beach culture in one day, this tour hits all those points. It’s particularly suited for travelers who enjoy guided experiences that blend education, fun, and a touch of glamour.

FAQ

Is lunch included in this tour?
No, lunch is not included. However, the stop at The Farmers Market and The Grove provides plenty of options for you to choose from.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, allowing plenty of time at each stop without feeling rushed.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, with a full refund.

Is this a group tour or private?
It’s a private tour, so only your group will participate, providing a more personalized experience.

Does the tour accommodate children?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed, making it suitable for families.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothing, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a camera for all those great photo ops. Bottled water and snacks are provided during the day.

Final Thoughts

This Private Full-Day LA Tour from Manhattan Beach offers an engaging, flexible way to explore Los Angeles’ most iconic sights with a local guide. Its well-balanced itinerary covers cultural landmarks, glamorous neighborhoods, and lively coastal spots, making it a fantastic option for first-timers and seasoned visitors alike.

The private format ensures a tailored experience, with knowledgeable guides enhancing the sightseeing with fun facts and insider tips. The inclusion of stops at Griffith Observatory, Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and the beach makes this tour a comprehensive snapshot of LA’s diverse personality.

While it doesn’t include meals, the stops at Farmers Market and The Grove provide excellent opportunities to enjoy local flavors at your own pace. The tour’s value, combined with the comfort of air-conditioned transportation and the ability to customize, makes it a worthwhile choice for those seeking a hassle-free, memorable day in Los Angeles.

This tour is a solid pick for travelers wanting a curated, insightful, and comfortable LA experience that covers all the classic highlights with a personal touch.