Discover the top experiences in Los Angeles, United States. From sustainable eco-tourism to hygge-inspired experiences, these carefully selected options embody everything we love about mindful, authentic travel.
1. One-Hour Cruise Around Marina del Rey
Board a comfortable vessel in Marina del Rey, Los Angeles, for a pleasant one-hour outing on the water. The cruise gives you a front-row view of the marina’s dense collection of boats and scenic coastal architecture. You’ll drift along calm waters, enjoy sea-breezes and easy conversation or quiet reflection.
According to visitor listings, the tour is suitable for most travelers (infants must sit on laps, service animals allowed, stroller accessible) though wheelchair access may vary. The pace is gentle, making it a simple and satisfying way to soak in the marina landscape without committing to a long trip.
Provider: Expedia
Sustainability Score: 6/10 | Hygge Factor: 7/10
2. Beverly Hills Segway Tour
Meet your guide in Beverly Hills and receive a brief Segway safety orientation. Then cruise through the upscale tree-lined streets of the 90210 neighborhood, stop for a photo at the iconic Beverly Hills sign, and ride past designer boutiques along Rodeo Drive.
Your guide shares stories of Hollywood glamour, architecture and modern luxury as you glide effortlessly by celebrity mansions, historic hotels and elegant gardens.
This tour is ideal for travellers who like a mix of movement, local culture and peek-behind-the-glamour views in one of L.A.’s most famous neighborhoods. Comfortable shoes, sun protection and a sense of fun are recommended.
Provider: Viator
Sustainability Score: 7/10 | Hygge Factor: 8/10
3. Hollywood & Beverly Hills E-Bike Tour
Meet your guide in the heart of Hollywood and mount your e-bike for a fun, comfortable ride that takes in the glamour and hidden corners of Los Angeles. You’ll pass by major film locations, the Hollywood Sign (from a viewpoint), the Sunset Strip, luxury streets of Beverly Hills and parts of Bel Air - and your guide shares insider stories about stars, architecture and L.A. culture along the way.
E-bikes make the route accessible, meaning less effort, more enjoyment - ideal for a half-day outing that blends local flavor, motion and discovery. Bring sunscreen, a light jacket for the breeze, and your camera for photo moments.
Provider: Viator
Sustainability Score: 8/10 | Hygge Factor: 9/10
4. Half-Day LA Tour: Hollywood, Beverly Hills & Santa Monica
Departing from either Hollywood or Santa Monica, this air-conditioned coach tour takes you through some of Los Angeles’ most famed neighborhoods. You’ll travel past the Hollywood Sign, walk along the Hollywood Walk of Fame, drive through Beverly Hills and Rodeo Drive, and pause at Santa Monica Pier for oceanside views and photo opportunities.
The format typically includes commentary from a local guide (or recorded audio) offering insider tips, historical background and pop-culture references. The tour gives a broad, efficient snapshot of LA’s diverse scenes - from beach to glamour to suburbia - all in a manageable timeframe.
Provider: Expedia
Sustainability Score: 6/10 | Hygge Factor: 6/10
5. Mt. Hollywood Trail Tour
Join a guided tour that takes you on horseback through the scenic trails of Griffith Park in Los Angeles. The ride lasts approximately two hours and traverses ridgelines and open vistas overlooking downtown Los Angeles, the Hollywood Sign and the surrounding hills.
The tour is suitable for beginners as well as more experienced riders, and emphasizes a leisurely pace to soak in the landscape.
Provider: Expedia
Sustainability Score: 6/10 | Hygge Factor: 8/10
6. Los Angeles Full-Day Highlights Tour
Begin the day with a comfortable ride from your Anaheim or Buena Park hotel in an air-conditioned vehicle. Your guide will take you through the history of Hollywood as you explore the Walk of Fame, view the iconic Hollywood Sign, and take in sweeping vistas at Griffith Park.
Then the journey shifts to the coast where you’ll stroll along the Santa Monica Pier and breathe in the salt air at Venice Beach - an energetic mix of boardwalk culture, street art, and ocean views. Throughout the tour, your guide shares storytelling about LA’s film legacy, architecture and urban evolution. The pace is unhurried, designed to give you a meaningful taste of LA’s style, scenery and culture in a single day.
Provider: Booking.com
Sustainability Score: 5/10 | Hygge Factor: 9/10
7. 2-Day Beginner Surf Adventure
This 2-day adventure delivers more than just a surf lesson—it’s a surf-camp style escape designed for those new to the sport. On Day 1 you’ll meet at a designated beach location near Los Angeles, get fitted with wetsuit and board, receive beginner-level instruction, and catch your first waves under the guidance of experienced instructors. The afternoon or evening transitions into a camping setting: you’ll be provided with quality camping equipment (private tent, inflatable sleeping mat, sleeping bag) at an exclusive campsite. The package also includes meals, snacks and the opportunity to relax in a natural seaside setting.
On Day 2 you return to the water to build on your new skills - more wave time, practicing balance, paddling, standing up, and gaining confidence in the ocean. The environment blends active learning with outdoor living under the sky and near the coast, giving you both a sport-experience and a nature-escape. Reviews note that participants appreciated the relaxed pace, friendly guides, and “getting to know LA like a local”.
Provider: Expedia
Sustainability Score: 8/10 | Hygge Factor: 9/10
8. Downtown LA History & Architecture Walk
Meet your guide at the bottom of the historic Angels Flight Railway in Downtown Los Angeles and begin an insightful walking tour through the city’s layered past. You’ll ride the 1901 funicular, then explore landmark buildings like the Bradbury Building, Walt Disney Concert Hall and L.A. City Hall, delving into styles from Art-Deco to post-modern. As you move through neighborhoods like Little Tokyo, your guide shares the stories behind the facades and the people who built the city. Along the way you’ll sample a treat from a historic candy store and soak in the roots and resurgence of this dynamic urban core.
Provider: Booking.com
Sustainability Score: 9/10 | Hygge Factor: 8/10
9. Hollywood Sign Guided Hike
Meet your guide in the Hollywood Hills and set off on a moderately paced hike through Griffith Park, one of the largest urban parks in North America. Along the way, your guide shares stories about Los Angeles’ film history, famous landmarks, and the creation of the Hollywood Sign itself.
The route winds through chaparral-covered hills, with several lookout points overlooking Downtown L.A., the Pacific Ocean, and the San Fernando Valley. When you reach the top, you’ll stand just behind the iconic sign - the perfect place for photos and a quiet moment to take in the view.
This 90-minute hike blends movement, storytelling, and a taste of Los Angeles nature - a great way to start your day or stretch your legs between city adventures.
Provider: Viator
Sustainability Score: 8/10 | Hygge Factor: 8/10
10. Santa Monica Bike Rental — Ride the Coast
Arrive at 1431 Ocean Ave in Santa Monica, where you’ll pick up your bike, helmet, lock and basket before setting off along the wide, flat path by the ocean. Pedal leisurely past Santa Monica Pier, feel the sea air at your side, then glide into the Venice Canals - a peaceful, scenic neighborhood where the water winds among charming homes and greenery.
Continue toward Marina del Rey to spot art walls and beachfront communities as you ride. This rental gives you the flexibility to stop for coffee or a snack, explore hidden corners, and experience the coastline on your own rhythm. It’s relaxed, local and full of coastal charm.
Provider: Booking.com
Sustainability Score: 9/10 | Hygge Factor: 9/10
11. Hollywood Sign Hiking Tour to Griffith Observatory
This tour begins in Griffith Park and leads you on foot through scenic trails toward iconic viewpoints of the Hollywood Sign and the observatory. Guides share stories about LA-history, local nature, filming locations and the city’s cultural backdrop. The hike covers roughly 2–3 hours, over about 3 miles (≈5 km) round-trip, with some elevation gain (expect hills and steps) - rated easy to moderate in fitness requirement.
Along the way expect:
-A photo stop with the Hollywood Sign in frame.
-Panoramic vistas of Los Angeles, the Hollywood Hills and including views of downtown and the Pacific.
-A visit to or view of the Griffith Observatory - you may enter the building, or at least enjoy its exterior and terrace views - depending on the tour version.
-Insightful commentary about the local environment, architecture and film-history background.
Provider: Expedia
Sustainability Score: 8/10 | Hygge Factor: 9/10
12. Getty Center Guided Tour
Join a guided experience at the Getty Center, located at 1200 Getty Center Drive, Los Angeles, CA – a landmark museum campus set atop a hill with panoramic views of LA.
During the tour you’ll:
-Ride the tram up from the parking lower level to the arrival plaza, which already gives a sense of elevation and space.
-Explore selected works from the museum’s collection of European paintings, decorative arts, manuscripts and photographs, guided by an art-historian or docent who adds insight into the meaning, context and design of the pieces.
-Discover the architecture (designed by Richard Meier) and the outdoor sculpture and garden spaces (notably the Central Garden by Robert Irwin), which help make the space feel luminous, calm and deeply connected with nature.
-Enjoy the gardens and terraces, where you can pause for views of LA, the Santa Monica Mountains and the Pacific ocean in the distance - a blend of art, architecture, nature and contemplation.
Provider: Expedia
Sustainability Score: 8/10 | Hygge Factor: 9/10
13. Swan Boat Rental at Rainbow Lagoon
Hop into a whimsical swan-shaped pedal boat at Rainbow Lagoon (Shoreline Drive at S Pine Ave, Long Beach) and spend about one hour floating around the calm lagoon waters. Enjoy views of the downtown skyline, the nearby marina, and the peaceful islands that dot the water.
Each boat comes with a shaded canopy, US Coast Guard life-vests, and you’re welcome to bring non-alcoholic drinks or a small snack aboard.
If you’re here at dusk, you can opt for the LED-lit night rides - adding a magical touch to the experience with lights reflecting off the water.
Arrive a little early, pick your boat, follow the safety briefing, and enjoy a relaxing time paddling at your pace.
Provider: Viator
Sustainability Score: 8/10 | Hygge Factor: 8/10
14. Academy Museum of Motion Pictures Admission Ticket
Head to the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures, located at 6067 Wilshire Blvd in the Miracle Mile district of Los Angeles. The museum—operated by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences - houses more than 13 million objects connected to moviemaking and film history.
Exhibits span the art, technology, and cultural impact of cinema: from iconic props (like Ruby Slippers from The Wizard of Oz) to immersive experiences that let you step into the world of movies. You’ll find multiple galleries, two theatres for screenings and a rooftop terrace with views of L.A. and the Hollywood Sign.
The building itself is a design piece: the historic 1939 May Company building (now the Saban Building) was restored and expanded under architect Renzo Piano, blending cinema-with-architecture in striking form.
Provider: Expedia
Sustainability Score: 7/10 | Hygge Factor: 7/10
15. Long Beach Boat Tour
Depart from Long Beach’s waterfront and set out on a relaxing harbor cruise with live narration from your guide. You’ll pass massive cargo ships, sea lions lounging on buoys, and waterfront landmarks that highlight the balance between industry and marine ecosystems.
Learn about the area’s maritime history and ongoing conservation efforts while taking in ocean views and the sea breeze. It’s an ideal short experience for travelers who want a peaceful and educational glimpse of Southern California’s coast.
Bring a light jacket, sunscreen, and your camera to capture harbor life from a new perspective.
Provider: Viator
Sustainability Score: 7/10 | Hygge Factor: 7/10
16. Guided Whale Watching Tour from Long Beach
Depart from the Harbor Breeze Whale Watching Cruises meeting point (Long Beach, CA 90802) for a gentle 2 h 30 m voyage into the Pacific, guided by seasoned captains with 30+ years of whale-watching experience.
The tour uses custom-built catamarans with climate-controlled interiors, large windows, outdoor seating and modern safety systems. You’ll pass by sights including the Queen Mary, the Aquarium of the Pacific, the Port of Long Beach breakwater and cruise terminal before heading into deeper waters where marine life abounds.
Wildlife you may encounter includes gray whales (Nov–Apr), blue whales (May–Nov), humpbacks, fin whales, minke whales, orcas, dolphins, sea lions and rare seabirds. Included in the tour are: low-emission engines to minimize impact on the marine environment, expert narration, multiple restrooms on board, and a ‘sea-life guarantee’ (i.e., if no sealife is seen, you can return for free).
Provider: Expedia
Sustainability Score: 7/10 | Hygge Factor: 8/10
17. 7-Day Grand Teton & Yellowstone Explorer
Embark on a week-long adventure that carries you through some of America’s most iconic wilderness. Your journey begins in Southern or Central Utah/California (LA, LV, or SLC depending on the departure) and drives north into Centennial State landscapes.
Days 1-2: Travel from your departure city into Wyoming, arriving in the Jackson Hole/Grand Teton region. Spend time immersed in the Teton range: glacial lakes, jagged peaks, aspen forests and abundant wildlife await.
Days 3-6: Continue into Yellowstone, where you’ll explore its unique geothermal features (geyser basins, hot springs, colorful pools), deep canyons, waterfalls and wide-open valleys. Learn from naturalist guides about the ecology, geothermal geology and wildlife of the region.
Day 7: Complete your loop back toward your starting city, reflecting on the journey, spotting more scenery and perhaps enjoying a slower final morning in the mountains before transit out.
Expect early mornings, full days of scenery and activity, and nights in comfortable lodgings - though you’ll be on the move, you’ll also be immersed in nature’s rhythms rather than rush-through sightseeing. Bring layered clothing (mountain weather varies), sturdy shoes, camera gear and a mindset ready for both big landscapes and quiet-campfire-style moments.
Provider: Viator
Sustainability Score: 6/10 | Hygge Factor: 8/10
18. Catalina Express: One-Way Ferry from San Pedro to Avalon
Board the Catalina Express at the Catalina Sea & Air Terminal in San Pedro (Berth 95) and enjoy a scenic one-way ferry voyage to Avalon, the primary town on Santa Catalina Island.
During the ~75-minute crossing (approximate) you’ll experience crisp fresh sea-air, broad Pacific vistas and the approach to Avalon Harbor. Once you disembark, you’ll be leisurely within minutes of Avalon’s pedestrian-friendly main streets, shops, cafés and waterfront walkways.
The fare is listed from about US $42 for adults for one-way. Accessible for most travelers - strollers, service animals allowed.
Provider: Expedia
Sustainability Score: 7/10 | Hygge Factor: 7/10
19. Downtown L.A. Insider Walking Tour
Meet your guide in the Civic Centre or Historic Core area of downtown Los Angeles. From there you’ll stroll through blocks filled with architectural treasures, repurposed buildings, and hidden gems only locals usually uncover.
Along the way you’ll visit landmarks such as the Bradbury Building, the bustling Grand Central Market, and the revitalized Broadway corridor. Your guide will share stories about downtown’s golden era, decline, and current renaissance - highlighting how Los Angeles is reimagining its city centre.
The walking pace is relaxed but engaging; along the way you’ll pass cafés, mural-filled alleys, and the spots where film, design and local life converge. Bring comfortable shoes, a water bottle, and curiosity for what lies beyond the usual tourist path.
Provider: Viator
Sustainability Score: 9/10 | Hygge Factor: 8/10
20. Los Angeles Harbor Cruise (45 min)
Departing from 550 S Harbor Blvd in San Pedro, you’ll board a low-emission vessel and enjoy a comfortable ride with panoramic windows and both indoor and outdoor seating. Your guide will share stories about the port’s role in global trade while you watch sea lions frolic near massive container terminals and pass landmarks like the USS Iowa.
You’ll also learn about the port’s sustainability initiatives and green infrastructure as you cruise past the harbor lighthouse and historic fishing-village memorial sites. It’s a relaxed, insightful experience blending nature, industry, and local heritage - all in under an hour.
Provider: Booking.com
Sustainability Score: 6/10 | Hygge Factor: 7/10
Plan Your Trip to Los Angeles
Ready to explore Los Angeles? These experiences represent the best of sustainable, hygge-inspired travel. Each option has been carefully selected for its commitment to environmental responsibility and authentic local experiences.
Remember to travel mindfully, support local businesses, and leave only footprints behind. Safe travels!
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