The 10 Best Wine Tours in Los Angeles
Los Angeles offers more than just Hollywood glitz and endless beaches — it’s also home to some fantastic wine experiences. You can sip champagne on a relaxing boat cruise, hike through Malibu vineyards, or enjoy private tastings in Santa Barbara. The region’s diverse landscapes and climate give way to a rich wine culture that’s surprisingly accessible right outside the city.
In this guide, you’ll find detailed descriptions of the top 10 wine tours in Los Angeles, including unique options like a luxury sunset cruise with wine and cheese, a guided vineyard hike in Malibu, and a heli-wine tour at Fess Parker Winery. Whether you’re after a laid-back brunch with sparkling wine, a day of exploring scenic vineyards, or a retro Malibu VW van tour, there’s something here for your taste buds and sense of adventure.
From high-end private excursions to budget-friendly outdoor hikes, these tours cover a variety of experiences. We’ll help you compare their highlights, value, and suitability so you can pick the perfect sip-and-see adventure in California’s wine country.
1. Los Angeles: Luxury Cruise with Wine, Cheese & Sea Lions
The Luxury Cruise with Wine, Cheese & Sea Lions offers a relaxing two-hour journey in Marina del Rey aboard a fully electric Duffy boat. This experience stands out for its combination of scenic views, wildlife encounters, and fine wine. As you glide through California’s largest marina, your guide points out local wildlife — including curious sea lions — and hidden spots that only boaters get to see.
This tour is praised for its peaceful atmosphere and knowledgeable captain. Guests rave about the friendly guides and the chance to enjoy a deli board while sipping wine. It’s perfect for couples or small groups looking for a romantic or laid-back outing. At $119 per person, it delivers a value-packed experience with intimate scenery and wildlife. Expect to spend about 2 hours, with flexible times depending on availability.
Bottom Line: If you want a scenic, wildlife-rich cruise with wine and cheese, this tour’s relaxed vibe and personalized touch make it a top choice.
2. Newport Beach: Champagne and Brunch Buffet City Cruise
This Champagne and Brunch Buffet City Cruise takes you out for two hours from Newport Beach, where you can indulge in a sumptuous brunch buffet while enjoying unlimited champagne or sparkling cider. The cruise offers sweeping views of the harbor, including landmarks like Balboa Peninsula and Mariner’s Mile.
Guests appreciate the smooth boarding, attentive service, and the opportunity to relax in a reserved dining area with plenty of seasonal favorites. The $120 per person price includes all-you-can-eat brunch and drinks, making it an excellent value for those wanting a leisurely, celebratory experience. The 2-hour cruise duration suits travelers seeking a laid-back morning or early afternoon outing.
Top Tip: The friendly crew and scenic views make this ideal for celebrating special occasions or simply enjoying a peaceful cruise with a classy brunch.
Bottom Line: For those who love good food and bubbly in a scenic setting, this cruise provides a refined yet casual experience.
3. Malibu: Guided Vineyard Hike with Photo Stops and Wine
On the Guided Vineyard Hike, you’ll combine outdoor adventure with wine tasting amidst Malibu’s rolling vineyards. Perfect for beginners, this two-hour tour takes you through a private ranch, where you’ll enjoy sweeping views and learn about the area’s winemaking history.
Your guide shares insights about native flora, fauna, and Native American cave paintings, making this more than just a walk. You’ll also sample regional wines made on-site, with the opportunity to take home a bottle. The $49 per person price makes it an affordable taste of Malibu’s scenic wine country, and reviews mention how fun and well-paced the hike is, with guides like Maddi bringing a lively, informative touch.
This tour is best suited for active travelers who enjoy nature and want a low-key, educational experience. The 2-hour duration includes plenty of photo stops and tasting moments.
Bottom Line: If you want a scenic, beginner-friendly hike combined with wine and cultural history, this guided tour offers a memorable outdoor experience.
4. Temecula Wine Tour from Los Angeles
The Temecula Wine Tour is a full-day escape to California’s famous wine region. Starting early from Los Angeles, this 6-hour tour includes visits to several wineries, including Wilson Creek, where you can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere and sample six different wines.
Guests often mention the professional driver and friendly guide as highlights, along with the chance to stroll on expansive winery grounds. The experience is ideal for small groups of up to 5 people for $849, offering a private, personalized day. The tasting at Wilson Creek includes a variety of reds and whites, and the lush setting is perfect for a romantic picnic or just soaking in the views.
Although the high price might seem steep, it covers transportation, multiple tastings, and a stress-free day without needing to book separate taxis. The tour focuses on quality, comfort, and an intimate look at the wine-making process.
Bottom Line: This is best for wine lovers seeking a private, all-inclusive experience in California’s renowned wine country.
5. Santa Barbara Private Tour and Wine Tasting Experience from LA
This Private Santa Barbara and Wine Tasting Tour offers a luxurious, personalized way to explore Santa Barbara’s highlights and wineries. It’s a 9 to 10-hour journey that begins with visits to historic sites like the Santa Barbara Courthouse and the Old Mission before heading to the nearby wine region of Los Olivos.
Guests love the flexibility of private transportation and the chance to customize stops, with expert guides providing rich insights into local history and wine. The tour includes a wine tasting at a scenic vineyard and provides a relaxed, intimate atmosphere for groups or couples. The $750 per person price reflects the premium experience, including private vehicle and personalized service.
Ideal for those seeking an in-depth, exclusive day outside LA, this tour combines sightseeing, history, and wine in an elegant package. The only downside might be the cost, but the tailored experience and private transport make it worth it for special occasions.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a bespoke day with a mix of cultural sights and wine tasting in a scenic setting.
6. Santa Barbara Wine Tasting Day Tour from Los Angeles
The Santa Barbara Wine Tasting Day Tour offers an accessible way to explore the region’s vineyards without the hassle of planning. Over 8 hours and 30 minutes, you’ll visit Santa Ynez Valley wineries, enjoy views of Los Padres National Forest, and explore downtown Santa Barbara.
Guests rave about the lively tour guide Galena, who makes the day engaging and informative. The included transportation means no worries about driving, and the stops at scenic vineyards allow for tastings and photo ops. Costing $419 per person, it offers good value considering the full-day itinerary and the scenic landscape.
Ideal for visitors who want a structured day with multiple wineries, scenic views, and a relaxed atmosphere. The tour balances wine tastings with sightseeing, making it a well-rounded experience.
Bottom Line: If you prefer an organized day with multiple stops and scenic vistas, this tour hits the mark.
7. Malibu Wine Country: Electric-Assisted Mountain Bike Tour
The Malibu Wine Country Electric Bike Tour combines outdoor activity with wine tasting. Over 2.5 hours, you’ll ride on high-performance electric bikes, making hills and distances easier while enjoying breathtaking views.
Highlights include visits to scenic viewpoints and stops at local wineries, with guidance suitable for all skill levels. The tour’s reviews highlight the professional guides like Roger, who make the experience both fun and educational. With a price of $199 per person, it’s a good value for active travelers wanting to combine exercise, nature, and wine.
This tour is best for those who like an active challenge but don’t want a strenuous ride, as the e-bikes do most of the work. It’s perfect for a half-day adventure that’s both physical and scenic.
Bottom Line: For energetic travelers wanting a memorable, scenic bike ride with wine, this tour offers a unique perspective of Malibu.
8. Malibu: Vintage VW Sightseeing Tour and Wine Tasting
The Malibu Vintage VW Sightseeing Tour offers a retro take on wine touring. Riding in a classic 1972 VW camper van, you’ll explore Malibu’s beaches, scenic spots, and local wineries over 4 hours.
Guests love the casual, fun vibe and the photo-worthy vintage van. The tour includes wine tastings and stops at iconic coastal locations like the Malibu Pier. Reviews mention the guide’s friendly attitude and the unique experience of cruising in a “hippie” van. At $195 per person, the experience balances nostalgia and scenery.
The stops are curated for memorable moments, making it ideal for couples or groups seeking a relaxed, fun atmosphere with a touch of nostalgia. The limited duration means it’s suitable for those with a half-day available.
Bottom Line: If you want a relaxed, vintage-style tour with great photo ops and wine, this fun ride hits the spot.
9. Los Angeles Luxury Cruise with Wine, Charcuterie & Seals
For a luxurious water outing, the Los Angeles Luxury Cruise with Wine, Charcuterie & Seals delivers a 2-hour wildlife-focused boat tour in Marina del Rey. This guided cruise includes wine and charcuterie, with opportunities to photograph sea lions, pelicans, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
Guests rave about the professional photography tips from a top wildlife photographer, making it a favorite for romantic or special occasions. The electric boat ensures a comfortable, eco-friendly ride, and the small group size keeps the experience intimate. The $149 per person fee provides a good value for the quality of wildlife encounters and the luxurious setting.
Ideal for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts, it focuses on wildlife observation while sipping wine in style.
Bottom Line: If wildlife and luxury combine in your ideal outing, this wildlife-photo cruise offers a memorable, relaxing experience.
10. Los Angeles: Wine Tour at Fess Parker Winery by Helicopter
At $4,299 per person, the Wine Tour at Fess Parker Winery by Helicopter is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. This high-end tour combines scenic helicopter flight with private wine tasting in Los Olivos, a renowned wine region.
Your adventure starts with a 90-minute helicopter ride over California’s vineyards, giving you spectacular aerial views. Upon landing, you enjoy a private tasting of five acclaimed wines, paired with snacks in a sophisticated setting. Guests mention the exceptional service and the once-in-a-lifetime nature of flying over the vineyards.
This experience is suited for serious wine aficionados and travelers celebrating a special occasion who want to splurge on exclusivity. The cost is significant, but the thrill of flying and privacy make it unforgettable.
Bottom Line: For luxury seekers willing to invest in an extraordinary, scenic, and exclusive wine adventure, this helicopter tour is unbeatable.
How to Choose the Right Los Angeles Wine Tour for You
When deciding which tour to pick, consider your budget, interest level, and physical activity preferences. For example, if you love a relaxing day on the water, the luxury cruise with wine and wildlife offers a peaceful setting with wildlife sightings. For active travelers, the Malibu electric bike tour combines exercise with scenic views. If you’re celebrating a special occasion and want privacy, the private Santa Barbara tour is perfect, though it comes at a higher price.
Timing also matters: the half-day Malibu VW tour suits those with limited time, while the full-day Temecula or Santa Barbara tours are better for a leisurely exploration. Book early, especially for popular excursions like the helicopter tour or private experiences.
Consider weather and seasonality — outdoor hikes and bike tours are best in spring or fall when the weather is mild. Cruises and boat tours are popular in summer, so availability might be limited during peak times.
Final Thoughts: Which Experience Suits Your Style?
Los Angeles offers a surprising variety of wine-related adventures, from laid-back boat cruises to scenic vineyard hikes and luxury helicopter tastings. For a romantic, wildlife-rich outing, the boat cruise with sea lions is a top pick. For active explorers, the Malibu wine country bike tour offers a memorable way to combine exercise and scenery. If privacy and luxury are your goals, the Santa Barbara private tour or the helicopter wine tour will elevate your experience.
If you’re on a budget, the guided vineyard hike provides excellent value and a taste of Malibu’s wine culture. For a fun and nostalgic vibe, the vintage VW Malibu tour offers memorable photos and unique scenery.
Whatever your preference, these tours showcase the best of California’s wine landscape, combined with the diverse landscapes and charming towns nearby. Take your pick, book early, and enjoy a sip of LA’s wine scene.
Now, it’s time to choose your perfect wine adventure—cheers to discovering California’s hidden vintages and scenic views!