Long Beach is more than just a port city with a lively waterfront; it offers some genuinely memorable dining experiences that go beyond the standard restaurant scene. Thanks to its proximity to scenic coastal areas and diverse culinary options, you can enjoy a mix of spectacular views and delicious food. Whether you’re seeking a private, sunset-filled adventure or a hassle-free evening with a reservation at a top restaurant, Long Beach’s dining experiences promise a taste of both the local landscape and gourmet cuisine.
The city’s dining scene is complemented by options like Private Palos Verdes Tour: Lighthouse, Ocean/City with Dinner and Los Angeles Restaurant Week, each offering a distinctive way to indulge in the region’s flavors and sights. Prepare for a culinary journey that combines scenic beauty, exclusive access, and great food.
Quick Overview
In this guide, you’ll find two standout dining experiences in Long Beach. The first is a private tour combining breathtaking coastal views with a gourmet dinner at sunset — ideal for travelers seeking exclusivity and natural beauty. The second is a city-wide restaurant event that allows you to enjoy a carefully curated evening at an upscale eatery, with reservations arranged for you. Both options offer unique ways to enjoy Long Beach’s culinary scene, whether you want a personalized experience or a hassle-free night out.
Now, let’s explore what makes each of these tours special and which one suits your travel style best.
1. Private Palos Verdes Tour: Lighthouse, Ocean/City with Dinner
For around $150 per person, this 4-hour tour offers a blend of spectacular coastal sights and a decadent dinner. The adventure begins with visits to the iconic Palos Verdes Lighthouse, where panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and Catalina Island provide perfect photo opportunities. The scenery here is a highlight, with dramatic cliffs and clear ocean vistas that make it a favorite for landscape lovers.
After soaking in the views, the tour moves inland to a private estate with a 180-degree view of Los Angeles, where you’ll enjoy a sunset, a garden tour, and a gourmet dinner. The private setting ensures intimacy and a personalized experience, especially with transportation arranged to suit your schedule. This tour is ideal for travelers who appreciate scenic beauty with a touch of luxury, and who want to combine coastal exploration with fine dining.
A key advantage is the inclusion of a gourmet dinner in a private estate, making it a romantic choice or a special celebration. The tour’s intimate setting and tailored approach mean you’ll get a memorable, hassle-free experience. A review mentions “the views and dinner made for an unforgettable evening,” affirming its value.
Bottom Line: Perfect if you want a private, scenic coastal experience with a stunning sunset and a gourmet meal in a relaxed, intimate setting.
2. Los Angeles Restaurant Week
For those who prefer a more traditional dining outing, Los Angeles Restaurant Week offers the chance to enjoy an evening at a top restaurant of your choice, with reservations handled for you. Costing $288 per group (up to two people), this experience includes a scenic drive to and from your selected eatery — eliminating the fuss of booking and planning.
While the price does not include the actual meal, the convenience of having your reservation secured and transportation arranged makes for a stress-free evening. This option is great for couples or small groups who want to explore Long Beach’s vibrant culinary scene without the hassle of logistics. Since it allows you to choose from a variety of restaurants, you can tailor your experience to local favorites or cuisine styles you crave.
The extra cost covers the service and transportation, not the meal itself, so it’s worth considering if you value ease and a curated experience. It’s especially suited for travelers with a busy schedule or those wanting to avoid the typical restaurant waiting game.
Bottom Line: Ideal if you’re seeking a hassle-free, elegant evening with reservations arranged and transportation handled, leaving you free to enjoy your meal.
How to Choose
When deciding between these two options, consider your preferences and priorities. If scenic beauty and exclusivity are your top concerns, the Private Palos Verdes Tour is hard to beat. It offers a private, sunset-filled experience with stunning views and a gourmet meal in a private estate — perfect for a romantic date or a special occasion.
Conversely, if you want to maximize convenience and focus on dining at a specific restaurant without worrying about reservations or transportation, then Los Angeles Restaurant Week is your best bet. It’s well-suited for those who want a relaxed, curated evening with minimal planning.
Think about your budget, how much time you want to spend, and whether your priority is scenic exploration or culinary variety. Booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons or special event weeks, to secure the best times and spots.
Final Thoughts
Both of these experiences give you a different way to enjoy Long Beach’s dining and scenic offerings. The Private Palos Verdes Tour shines for travelers craving a private, luxurious experience with stunning coastal views and a gourmet dinner at sunset. Meanwhile, Los Angeles Restaurant Week caters to those who prefer a hassle-free evening at a choice restaurant with reservation and transportation taken care of for you.
For a romantic getaway, the private tour’s combination of spectacular scenery and gourmet dining makes it a memorable choice. If you prioritize convenience and variety, the restaurant week offers an easy, enjoyable evening. Either way, booking in advance will ensure you get the most out of your time in Long Beach.
Enjoy your culinary adventure — Long Beach’s diverse offerings and beautiful settings are sure to leave a lasting impression.