Los Angeles is a fantastic starting point for exploring some of California’s most iconic sights, especially if you’re short on time but want a taste of the state’s diverse landscapes and cities. With its sprawling urban landscape, vibrant neighborhoods, and access to scenic routes, LA offers plenty of options for multi-day excursions. Whether you’re interested in the towering cliffs of Yosemite, the charming streets of San Francisco, or the luxurious golf courses of Pebble Beach, you’ll find tours that fit different interests and budgets. These 3-day trips are perfect for travelers who want a structured way to see the highlights without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.
In this guide, we’ll look at the two best 3-day tours departing from Los Angeles, comparing what makes each special and helping you decide which best matches your travel style. From scenic drives to awe-inspiring national parks, these tours let you experience some of California’s top destinations with ease. Check out the details, reviews, and practical advice below before booking your next adventure.
1. Los Angeles-San Francisco, Yosemite National Park 3-Day Tour
At number 1, this Los Angeles-San Francisco, Yosemite National Park 3-Day Tour offers a comprehensive look at some of California’s most famous attractions. Priced at $520 per group (up to 1 person), it’s a flexible option that combines city sights with wilderness. The trip includes a scenic drive down the 17-Mile Drive, known for its stunning views of the Pacific coastline and famous golf courses. You’ll get a chance to see the Palace of Fine Arts and walk along vibrant neighborhoods like Lombard Street and Fisherman’s Wharf in San Francisco. The highlight, of course, is a visit to Yosemite National Park, where towering granite cliffs, waterfalls, and giant sequoias await.
The tour’s appeal lies in its mix of urban exploration and outdoor adventure. The hotel stays vary depending on your chosen package, which helps tailor the experience to your budget. Reviewers consistently praise the trip for its memorable sightseeing and helpful guides, with one calling it “most memorable tour experience I’ve ever had.” If you’re eager to see the Golden Gate Bridge, explore Pebble Beach, and experience Yosemite’s grandeur—all in just three days—this tour covers the essentials. Keep in mind, the reviews are generally positive, but the rating is 3.7/5 based on 10 reviews, so it’s wise to check availability and consider your comfort with the schedule.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a balanced mix of city and nature, perfect for travelers who want a bit of everything with some flexibility. It’s a good value for those looking to maximize their short trip.
2. 3-Day Tour: San Francisco, Yosemite National Park and LA
The 3-Day Tour: San Francisco, Yosemite National Park and LA provides a slightly different approach for those wanting to cover multiple highlights in a compact schedule. Priced at $420 per person, it’s geared toward travelers who want to see everything from the Golden Gate Bridge to Yosemite’s waterfalls, with an optional visit to Solvang Village if weather conditions aren’t ideal.
This tour features a detailed itinerary starting with a departure from Los Angeles to the Monterey Peninsula, famous for its rugged coastline and 17-Mile Drive. Highlights include stopping at Pebble Beach, known for its world-class golf course and scenic beauty, and exploring the Lodge at Pebble Beach. The route then continues north to San Francisco, where you’ll get to see iconic landmarks such as the Fisherman’s Wharf and the Palace of Fine Arts. The trip emphasizes natural beauty with visits to waterfalls and the deep wilderness of Yosemite, though the itinerary offers flexibility depending on weather.
Guests have noted the long travel days but also appreciated seeing multiple sights in limited time, with one reviewer saying, “Long trip but we saw a lot of gorgeous places in short time.” This tour suits budget-conscious travelers who want a broad overview of California’s most famous spots. It is best suited for active travelers who don’t mind long days on the road and are comfortable with flexible schedules.
Bottom Line: This option prioritizes value and variety, ideal if you’d rather see a lot than spend extensive time at each spot. It’s perfect for those who want a quick, comprehensive trip from Los Angeles.
How to Choose
When deciding between these two tours, consider your budget, interests, and comfort with long travel days. If you want more time at Yosemite and enjoy a relaxed pace, the first tour’s combination of city highlights and national parks might be better. For those eager to see multiple locations on a tighter schedule and save a bit, the second tour offers a broad overview at a slightly lower price. Think about whether you prefer a more structured itinerary or a more flexible trip with optional stops.
Also, check the availability and reviews when booking, especially if you’re planning during peak seasons. Both tours include visits to well-known sights like Fisherman’s Wharf and Yosemite, so you can be confident in their key attractions.
Final Thoughts
Both of these 3-day tours from Los Angeles offer excellent ways to see some of California’s most iconic sights without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. The first tour shines for its balance of city, coast, and wilderness, making it a good pick for travelers seeking variety. The second provides a more budget-friendly, all-in-one experience perfect for a quick overview.
If you’re looking for a relaxed pace with time at Yosemite, the first option is a strong choice. For a cost-effective, all-encompassing snapshot of California, the second tour will serve you well. Whichever you choose, booking early will help ensure you secure your spot on these popular adventures.
Now, all that’s left is to decide what excites you most—towering waterfalls, scenic drives, or San Francisco’s vibrant neighborhoods—and get planning for your California escape.