Santa Monica is a fantastic starting point for exploring some of Los Angeles’ most iconic sights and nearby coastal treasures. Its proximity to Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and the Pacific Ocean means a full day can pack in everything from celebrity spotting to beach walks. Whether you want a private, customizable experience or a comprehensive guided tour, Santa Monica’s location makes it easy to tailor your perfect day out. With options that include passing celebrity homes, exploring historic landmarks, and enjoying lively shopping districts, these tours offer a convenient way to see the best of LA and beyond without the hassle of navigating unfamiliar streets.
If you prefer a private experience with flexibility, or you’re eager to hit all the major hotspots like the Hollywood Sign, Rodeo Drive, and Santa Monica Pier, this list has you covered. Each tour listed brings a unique flavor, from intimate group adventures to scenic coastal drives, helping you decide what fits your interests, budget, and schedule. Let’s explore the three best full-day Santa Monica tours to help you make your choice.
1. Private Large Group Full Day Tour in Los Angeles
This private tour perfectly suits families or groups up to 14 people who want a flexible, all-inclusive day exploring Los Angeles. With a professional driver and guide, the day’s itinerary is customizable, allowing you to prioritize your interests—be it celebrity homes, shopping, or beach strolls. The tour covers iconic spots like Venice Beach’s Muscle Beach and skate park, Santa Monica Pier, and the famous Beverly Hills drive-by where you might catch a glimpse of a celebrity or two.
One of the standout features is the visit to the Original Farmers Market, where you can enjoy a leisurely lunch and browse the shops at The Grove. The guide can tailor the stops, making it ideal for travelers wanting a personalized experience. The tour lasts around 6 to 7 hours, making it a manageable day that balances sightseeing and relaxation.
Guests consistently praise the flexibility and the personal touch, often mentioning how the guide’s local knowledge brings LA to life in a relaxed, no-hassle way. The $1,359 price includes up to 14 passengers, which makes it a good value for larger groups wanting a private, comprehensive day without the stress of planning.
Bottom Line: This private group tour offers flexibility, personalized stops, and a relaxed pace, perfect for families or friends who want a private LA experience.
2. Private Full-Day Grand Tour of Los Angeles – 10 hours
If your goal is to see all the LA highlights in one day, this 10-hour tour hits the mark. It’s designed to cover the city’s most famous sights, from the Hollywood Sign to Universal CityWalk and Disney Concert Hall. The tour’s extensive itinerary ensures you won’t miss key attractions like the Walt Disney Concert Hall, the Hollywood Sign, and the Beverly Hills area, including Rodeo Drive.
What makes this tour stand out is its detailed itinerary, including a stop at Griffith Observatory, where you can take photos of the city and learn about its landmarks. The group size is limited to 12, and traveling in a comfortable, air-conditioned van means everyone can relax between stops. You’ll also explore LA’s oldest outdoor farmer’s market and enjoy some free time at the Santa Monica Pier.
Guests often comment on the efficiency and thoroughness of this tour, which packs in a lot of sights without feeling rushed. For around $1,450, it’s a good investment for travelers who want a full overview of LA’s top attractions in one day.
Bottom Line: This tour is best for those who want a detailed, full overview of Los Angeles’s most famous sights, combining sightseeing with some leisure time.
3. Full Day Private Tour of Santa Barbara – 10 Hours
For travelers seeking a scenic escape from LA, this private tour takes you up the Pacific Coast Highway to Santa Barbara, the “American Riviera.” The tour includes visits to four popular destinations like Old Mission Santa Barbara and the Santa Barbara County Courthouse, along with a leisurely exploration of State Street.
What sets this trip apart is its focus on the coastal scenery and relaxation. The guide shares insights about the region’s history and culture, and the tour can be customized to your interests, even offering services in multiple languages such as French, Dutch, German, and Italian. The transportation is in a comfortable Mercedes Sprinter van, perfect for a small group aiming for an intimate experience.
Most travelers appreciate the flexibility, allowing ample time at the pier and beach, and the chance to explore Santa Barbara’s charming streets. With a price of $1,350 for up to 13 people, it offers good value for a scenic and cultural day away from the city hustle.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want to combine scenic coastal views with cultural sights, all in a relaxed, private setting.
How to Choose Your Santa Monica Full-Day Tour
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, interests, and how much time you want to spend on the road. If you’re traveling with a larger group or family, the Private Large Group Full Day Tour in Los Angeles offers great flexibility. For those eager to see everything LA has in a single day, the 10-hour Grand Tour of Los Angeles is hard to beat. Meanwhile, if a coastal escape appeals, the Full Day Private Tour of Santa Barbara combines scenic views with cultural stops.
Think about your preferred pace—do you want a quick overview or a relaxed, in-depth experience? Also, consider booking early, especially in peak seasons, to secure your preferred date.
Final Thoughts
Santa Monica’s prime location makes it a great hub for exploring LA and its surroundings in one full day. The private tours cater to different needs—from flexible, group-focused adventures to scenic coastal trips. For families or groups wanting a tailored experience, the private LA tours (Tour #1) and (Tour #2) provide excellent options. If you’re craving a scenic drive along the Pacific Coast, the Santa Barbara tour offers a memorable day out.
No matter which tour you choose, booking early and deciding what kind of experience suits your style will ensure you make the most of your Santa Monica visit. These tours are the best way to see the highlights comfortably and efficiently—so pick one that fits your interests, and enjoy your day exploring California’s most iconic sights.