How to Plan Your Los Angeles Ports of Call Tour in Long Beach

Are you arriving in Los Angeles by cruise ship and looking for the perfect day-long excursion to see the city’s top attractions? Look no further than the Los Angeles Ports of Call Tour offered by Viator. This fully guided sightseeing tour will take you to all of the must-see sights in and around Los Angeles, including Downtown, Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and Santa Monica. Keep reading to learn how to plan your own Los Angeles Ports of Call Tour in Long Beach.

Overview of the Tour

The Los Angeles Ports of Call Tour is a full-day excursion that takes place in and around Los Angeles, departing from Long Beach. The tour includes pickup and drop-off at your cruise ship, hotel, or airport, and offers flexible drop-off locations in Santa Monica, San Pedro, or Long Beach. Along the way, you’ll visit iconic sights such as the Hollywood Walk of Fame, the TCL Chinese Theater, and the Griffith Observatory, and explore diverse neighborhoods like Venice Beach and Beverly Hills. A knowledgeable guide will provide commentary throughout the tour, ensuring that you don’t miss a thing.

What’s Included

The Los Angeles Ports of Call Tour includes the following:

• Local taxes
• Lunch
• Entrance fee to any museum
• Cruise terminal pickup and drop-off
• Flexible drop-off locations
• Fully-guided sightseeing tour with free time to explore

Meeting and Pickup Details

The tour begins with pickup from your cruise ship, hotel or airport in Long Beach at 9:00 AM. Exact pickup location and time will be confirmed at the time of booking.

What to Expect on the Tour

The Los Angeles Ports of Call Tour packs a lot into one day, so be prepared for a full and busy itinerary. Here are some of the top sights and activities you can expect to see and do on the tour:

Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum

The Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum is a historic sports stadium located in the heart of downtown LA. The Coliseum has been the site of numerous major sporting events over the years, including two Olympic Games, and is home to the University of Southern California Trojans football team.

Griffith Observatory

Perched atop a hill in Griffith Park, the Griffith Observatory is one of LA’s most iconic landmarks. From the observatory, you can enjoy stunning views of the city and the Hollywood Sign, as well as explore interactive exhibits and stargaze through telescopes.

The TCL Chinese Theatre

The TCL Chinese Theatre, originally known simply as the Chinese Theatre, is a historic movie palace on the famous Hollywood Boulevard. The theatre has hosted many film premieres and is known for its elaborate architecture and iconic handprints and footprints of movie stars.

The Hollywood Walk of Fame

The Hollywood Walk of Fame is a famed sidewalk along Hollywood Boulevard that features stars embedded with the names of famous actors, musicians, and other celebrities. As you stroll down the Walk of Fame, you can snap photos of your favorite stars and soak up the glitz and glamour of Hollywood.

Venice Beach

Venice Beach is one of LA’s most colorful and eclectic neighborhoods, known for its vibrant street performers, funky shops, and laid-back beach vibe. Take a stroll down the boardwalk and check out the many unique sights and sounds of Venice.

Beverly Hills

Beverly Hills is a posh neighborhood known for its high-end shops, restaurants, and celebrity sightings. Drive down Rodeo Drive, one of the most famous shopping streets in the world, and marvel at the luxurious boutiques and designer storefronts.

Santa Monica Pier

The Santa Monica Pier is a popular landmark on the beachfront, featuring an amusement park, an aquarium, and plenty of food and souvenir vendors. Take a stroll down the Pier and snap some photos of the iconic Ferris wheel and roller coaster.

Booking Your Tour

Ready to book your Los Angeles Ports of Call Tour in Long Beach? Head to Viator, where you can find more information about the tour and make your reservation. Don’t forget to bring your camera and your sense of adventure, as you’re sure to have an unforgettable day exploring the best of Los Angeles.

Frequently Asked Questions About Long Beach, California

Are you planning a trip to Long Beach, California? We’ve put together some frequently asked questions to help you make the most of your visit.

1. What is Long Beach, California?

Long Beach is a coastal city located in Southern California. It’s known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant arts and culture scene, and unique attractions like the historic Queen Mary ship and Aquarium of the Pacific.

2. How do I get to Long Beach?

There are several options for getting to Long Beach. The Long Beach Airport (LGB) is located in the city and offers domestic flights. The closest international airport is Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), which is about 25 miles away. You can also arrive in Long Beach via Amtrak or Greyhound.

3. What are the best things to do in Long Beach?

There are plenty of things to see and do in Long Beach! Some of the top attractions include: – Visit the Aquarium of the Pacific to see thousands of marine animals and learn about their habitats. – Explore the historic Queen Mary ship, which is now a hotel and museum. – Check out the beautiful gardens and art collections at the Long Beach Museum of Art. – Take a stroll along the famous Long Beach Boardwalk. – Attend a concert or event at the Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center.

4. When is the best time to visit Long Beach?

Long Beach has a Mediterranean climate, which means that the summers are warm and dry, while the winters are cool and rainy. The best time to visit depends on your preferences. If you’re looking for warm weather and sunshine, visit Long Beach from May to September. If you prefer cooler temperatures, visit between November and April.

5. What are the best beaches in Long Beach?

Long Beach is home to several beautiful beaches, including: – The Peninsula Beach, which is known for its calm waters and excellent views of the ocean and city. – Alamitos Beach, which is great for swimming, sunbathing, and beach volleyball. – Junipero Beach, which is a popular spot for windsurfing and kiteboarding.

6. What is the food scene like in Long Beach?

Long Beach has a diverse food scene with plenty of options to choose from. Some of the top places to eat include: – The Attic on Broadway, which serves up Southern comfort food with a modern twist. – Nick’s on 2nd, which offers a variety of American and seafood dishes. – Roe Seafood, which specializes in fresh, sustainable seafood.

7. What are some family-friendly activities in Long Beach?

Long Beach has plenty of family-friendly activities to enjoy, including: – Visiting the Aquarium of the Pacific – Taking a cruise on the water taxi – Exploring the El Dorado Nature Center – Riding the Ferris wheel and other attractions at the Pike Outlets

8. What are the best neighborhoods to visit in Long Beach?

Long Beach has several unique neighborhoods to explore, including: – Belmont Shore, which is known for its picturesque canals and stylish boutiques. – Naples Island, which is a small island community with beautiful waterfront homes and excellent views of the Pacific Ocean. – Bixby Knolls, which is a historic neighborhood with beautiful homes and plenty of places to shop and eat.

9. What is the nightlife like in Long Beach?

Long Beach has a lively nightlife scene with plenty of bars, clubs, and entertainment options to choose from. Some popular nightlife destinations include: – The Blind Donkey, which is a whiskey bar with a laid-back atmosphere. – The Sky Room, which is a rooftop lounge with spectacular views of the city. – The Federal Bar, which is a gastropub with live music and delicious food.

10. What are the transportation options in Long Beach?

Long Beach has several transportation options to choose from, including: – The Metro Blue Line, which connects Long Beach to downtown Los Angeles and other nearby cities. – The Long Beach Transit, which provides bus and shuttle services throughout the city. – Taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are also available in Long Beach.

Book Your Tour Now

Long Beach, California is a beautiful city with plenty of things to see and do. Whether you’re looking for fun family-friendly activities, beautiful beaches, or a lively nightlife scene, Long Beach has something to offer. We hope these frequently asked questions help you plan your trip and make the most of your visit.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Long Beach

Long Beach, California is a popular tourist destination for those who want to experience the sun, sand, and ocean breeze. With its diverse culture, beautiful scenery, and endless attractions, Long Beach has something for everyone. If you are planning a trip to Long Beach and wondering how to spend your time, this guide will provide you with some helpful tips.

1. Visit the Aquarium of the Pacific

The Aquarium of the Pacific is one of the most popular attractions in Long Beach. It is home to more than 11,000 animals from over 500 different species, including penguins, sea lions, sharks, and more. The aquarium also features interactive exhibits, shows, and educational programs for visitors of all ages.

Tip:

Plan to spend at least half a day at the aquarium to fully experience everything it has to offer. Purchase tickets in advance to avoid long lines.

2. Explore the Queen Mary

The Queen Mary is a retired ocean liner that has been converted into a hotel and museum. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the ship, which includes exhibits on its history and famous passengers. The Queen Mary also offers dining, entertainment, and events throughout the year.

Tip:

If you’re interested in staying on the Queen Mary, book in advance as it is a popular hotel and tends to fill up quickly.

3. Relax on the Beach

Long Beach is known for its beautiful beaches, and no trip to the city is complete without some time spent basking in the sun. The most popular beach in Long Beach is Belmont Shore Beach, which offers a long stretch of sand and stunning views of the ocean.

Tip:

Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water to stay comfortable during your day at the beach.

4. Stroll through Naples Island

Naples Island is a picturesque neighborhood in Long Beach that is famous for its canals and charming homes. Take a leisurely stroll through the area and admire the unique architecture and waterfront views. You can also rent a gondola for a romantic tour of the canals.

Tip:

Visit Naples Island during the holiday season to see the houses decorated with festive lights and decorations.

5. Visit the Long Beach Museum of Art

The Long Beach Museum of Art is a hidden gem in the city. It features a collection of artwork from local and international artists, as well as stunning views of the ocean from the museum’s cliffside location.

Tip:

Check the museum’s website for information on current exhibits and events.

6. Take a Scenic Drive

Long Beach has several scenic drives that offer breathtaking views of the coastline and surrounding landscape. The most popular drive is the Pacific Coast Highway, which stretches from Long Beach to San Francisco. Other scenic drives include Ocean Boulevard and Shoreline Drive.

Tip:

Pack a picnic and stop at one of the scenic overlooks for a relaxing afternoon with a stunning view.

7. Visit the Long Beach Antique Market

The Long Beach Antique Market is a must-see for vintage and antique enthusiasts. It is held on the third Sunday of every month and features over 800 vendors selling everything from furniture to jewelry.

Tip:

Arrive early to beat the crowds and bring cash as not all vendors accept credit cards. In conclusion, Long Beach offers plenty of exciting activities and attractions for tourists to experience. Whether you want to relax on the beach or explore the city’s culture and history, there is something for everyone in Long Beach. With this guide, you can ensure that you make the most of your trip to this Southern California gem.