It’s a very popular attraction, so it’s packed day and night. Early morning is still your best bet: watch the surfers doing their thing, and perhaps take a dip yourself!
For more than 100 years, the iconic entrance of Santa Monica Pier has welcomed visitors to one of Los Angeles’ most recognised tourist spots. In its current form, Santa Monica Pier is actually the combination of two individual piers built in 1909 and 1916. It holds arcades, carousels, a Ferris wheel, a roller coaster and an aquarium over the waters, in addition to an array of bars and restaurants. But the main thing is the view: stretching hundreds of metres out into the Pacific, amid its rolling blue waves, the pier offers a view of the entire coast from Malibu to Palos Verdes Peninsula.
All manners of street performers, musicians and artists can be found along the pier, so it might take quite a while to walk the length through all the entertaining distractions. However, a stop at Pacific Park is a must, particularly if kids are in tow, as is a stop at the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium where there are all sorts of hands-on interactions with knobbly crustaceans. The pier is also popular for fishing, and a license is not required. Head to Santa Monica Bait and Tackle and you can rent some fishing gear; people have been known to catch White Sea bass, mackerel and even small sharks from the pier!
Just south of the pier you can find the Original Muscle Beach, where the California fitness craze really kicked off in the 1930s. Whether you think its admirable or amusing, you can ogle the muscle men with their bulging veins and popping eyes as they enjoy a very public work-out. An amusing contrast can be found close by at the International Chess Park, where young battle old, and trained mathematicians duke it out with homeless folks. Colourful company and sparky contests guaranteed.
The City of Angels enjoys a stunning location: set within a broad basin, backdropped by vast mountain ranges, dark-green forests, desert sands and the beautiful beaches of the Pacific Coast. The "City of Angels" flourished into a world-famous entertainment industry throughout the twentieth century, as people and businesses alike moved to the city to be a part of the magic - and Hollywood was born.
On your private full-day driving tour, you will:
Your adventure begins with a bird's eye view of a city that has been described as 500 miles wide and one mile deep. Should you fancy, pop into the Griffith Observatory (please note, the observatory is closed on Mondays).
Next venture down to Hollywood Boulevard, where the Walk of Fame, the Dolby Theatre and of course the beautiful TCL Chinese Theatre await you. The concrete blocks in the famous forecourt bear the hand and footprints of film legends.
Find the prints of your favourite star, and then ask your guide to snap a shot of you with the iconic 'Hollywood' sign in the hills behind you. Then meander down the Sunset Strip where you happen past iconic places like the Viper Room and Chateau Marmont.
Enjoy your lunch (food not included in price) stopping at The Grove & Farmer’s Market, an LA institution where more than 100 produce stalls and restaurants cater for every conceivable foodie whim, from nutritious Californian superfood salads to gourmet burgers, man-sized steaks and fajitas.
In this luxury district, you will see famous locations including the Greystone Mansion and the Beverly Wilshire Hotel, where the classic ‘Pretty Woman’ was filmed. You may even have the chance to grab a quick glance at the Playboy Mansion, Rodeo Drive, and the famous palm-tree-lined streets.
A trip to the Californian coast will give you time to unwind before our final stop. Enjoy some rides at the Santa Monica Pier amusement park and then soak up the Bohemian vibes of Venice Beach.
There’s never a dull moment on the boardwalk, where you’ll see the colourful locals and the famous Muscle Beach.
Los Angeles is a city with much to discover. Take our half-day highlights tour to uncover the main attractions of the city!
On your private driving tour, you will:
Your experience begins on Hollywood Boulevard, home to some of the most iconic attractions such as the TCL Chinese Theatre, the Dolby Theatre and of course the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Created in 1958, this famous pavement celebrates the Hollywood greats - from silent film stars to modern-day heroes.
Your knowledgeable guide will also point out the best spot to get that perfect snap of the Hollywood sign in the background. You will continue on to the Sunset Strip and see famous places such as the Viper Room and Chateau Marmont.
In this luxury district, you will visit famous locations such as the Greystone Mansion and the Beverly Wilshire Hotel (now the 'Four Seasons') where the classic ‘Pretty Woman’ was filmed. Other highlights include The Playboy Mansion, Rodeo Drive and the famous palm-tree-lined streets.
Your adventure ends with a breezy drive to beautiful Venice Beach. Take the time to unwind and soak up the Bohemian vibes of this vibrant community. There’s never a dull moment on the boardwalk, where you’ll see the colourful locals and the famous Muscle Beach.
At the end of your tour, your guide will be able to suggest great eateries for your lunch or dinner, should you choose to stay in the area, otherwise they will be able to transport you back to your hotel.
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