Best Tours in Southern California During Winter

Ready to book your Southern California winter tours?

You’re in the right place because we’ve compiled some of the best Southern California tours during winter.

Southern California captures world-class destinations from San Diego to the south, Anaheim and Los Angeles in its center, and Santa Barbara County to the north. You’ll find an abundance of options to fill your winter calendar.

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Southern California is renowned for its stunning beaches, vibrant entertainment industry, and diverse cultural attractions. The region is home to iconic destinations such as Hollywood, the epicenter of the film and television industry, and Disneyland, a world-famous theme park that delights visitors of all ages. Additionally, the area is celebrated for its culinary diversity, offering a wide array of dining options that reflect its rich multicultural heritage.

Why Visit Southern California in Winter?

Southern California offers a unique charm during the winter months. With its mild weather, stunning coastal views, and a variety of activities suited to all interests, this region is a haven for travelers looking to escape harsh winter conditions elsewhere. Winter in Southern California means you can enjoy outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and luxury tours, all while basking in comfortable temperatures. Whether you’re exploring the deserts, hiking iconic trails, or indulging in a romantic sunset cruise, Southern California provides the perfect backdrop for your winter getaway.

The Best Winter Tours in Southern California

Whale Watching from Newport Beach

⏰ Tour time: 2.5 hours | ⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | 🤿 Book now

Winter marks the prime season for whale watching as gray whales migrate along the California coast. Departing from Newport Beach, this private 2 hour whale and dolphin watching tour is guided by a certified naturalist who knows the area’s ecosystem inside and out. With a private group of up to six people, you’ll cruise past scenic spots like Newport Harbor and Balboa Island, all while spotting dolphins and whales in their natural habitat.

We had an incredible, magical experience that our family will never forget. We have 3 young children, including a 3 year old and Nick was fantastic at engaging and accommodating them all.

Hannah B – A VIATOR REVIEWER

Learn fascinating facts about these majestic creatures along the way and savor the adventure with a suggested treat, like a legendary Balboa bar, after your tour. Perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and ocean lovers alike!

Joshua Tree National Park Offroad Tour

⏰ Tour time: 5 hours | ⭐️ Rating: 4.9 out of 5 Stars | 🤿 Book now

Joshua Tree’s otherworldly desert landscape is a must-visit during winter when temperatures are cooler and more comfortable for hiking and exploration. Guided tours can provide fascinating insights into this iconic national park’s unique geology, flora, and history.

Rugged drive thru desert is jaw dropping experience. Our guide Ron was a spectacular guide and driver. Came familiar with history of Palm Springs which could not be possible to know if he drove ourselves. Glad we took this tour.

Ramita S – A Viator Reviewer

Enjoy Joshua Tree National Park like never before with an offroad 4×4 tour! This guided adventure takes you deep into the rugged backcountry, far beyond the crowded paved paths, to reveal stunning vistas of the Mojave Desert, sacred Joshua trees, wild rock formations, and other hidden gems. With entrance fees covered and a route designed to maximize your time, you’ll experience the park’s vast, Rhode Island-sized terrain thrillingly and efficiently. Plus, it’s kid-friendly for adventurers aged five and up, making it the perfect way to explore one of America’s most iconic national parks!

Stargazing & UFO Tour in Joshua Tree

⏰ Tour time: 1.5 hours | ⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | 🤿 Book now

Discover the magic of the cosmos with the Stargazing and UFO Tour in Joshua Tree National Park! This unforgettable experience combines advanced GEN3 Military Night Vision Binoculars and laser pointers with a secluded, light-pollution-free location to unveil a sky teeming with stars, planets, and celestial phenomena invisible to the naked eye. Your expert guide will share fascinating science, history, and legends connected to the stars, bringing the universe to life as you gaze at the heavens just as ancient civilizations once did. The tour is perfect for small groups and ensures an intimate and interactive adventure under the starry skies.

Tony was hospitable and knowledgeable, bringing the night sky to life in a totally new way! The use of technology linked with ancient stories was magical. The heated blankets were a great addition too!

Shannon W. – A VIATOR REVIEWER

The Ultimate Hollywood Tour

⏰ Tour time: 4 hours | ⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | 🤿 Book now

Discover the magic of Hollywood with the ultimate private tour in Los Angeles! This experience takes you through iconic spots like Mulholland Drive, offering breathtaking city views, and the Hollywood Sign, where you can snap the perfect photo. Wander the star-studded Hollywood Walk of Fame and see the handprints outside the legendary Chinese Theatre. Cruise down the glamorous Sunset Strip, passing famous landmarks like The Viper Room, Chateau Marmont, and The Beverly Hills Hotel. Guided by an expert storyteller, you’ll hear fascinating anecdotes and enjoy plenty of photo opportunities, making this adventure a must for Hollywood enthusiasts!

Ben provided us with the ultimate, one-of-a-kind experience, that went above and beyond what we expected. We really enjoyed our day and everything we got to see. Just an amazing time. Really appreciated all the time and effort he put into showing us LA all in one day! Awesomeness!!!

A TripAdvisor Reviewer

Beverly Hills Food Tour with Gourmet Tastings and Drinks

⏰ Tour time: 3.5 hours | ⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | 🤿 Book now

Discover the best of Beverly Hills with this exciting walking food tour! Over 3.5 hours, you’ll explore secret bars and iconic movie locations and indulge in gourmet tastings, including artisan chocolates, a truffle Caesar salad, Pozole, and imported cheeses—all paired with two expertly crafted alcoholic beverages. Plus, gain exclusive access to a fashion house on Rodeo Drive. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a long-time local, this tour delivers a delicious and stylish adventure you won’t forget!

Brian did an incredible job! Super knowledgeable about Beverly Hills, the history and all sorts of fun facts and trivia. The resturants we visited were excellent, with a high level of skill in their cooking and presentation. There’s a fair amount of walking, so wear good walking shoes. Bring a healthy appetite as well, you’ll be stuffed at the end. I’d give 6 stars, but am limited to 5!

Collin M – A Viator Reviewer

Small-Group Wine Tour to Private Locations in Santa Barbara

⏰ Tour time: 7 hours | ⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | 🤿 Book now

Discover Santa Barbara wine country like never before with this exclusive small-group tour. Perfect for couples and small groups seeking a VIP experience, you’ll visit intimate, family-owned wineries and estates not open to the public. Enjoy private, one-on-one tastings often hosted by the winemakers or owners themselves, stroll through picturesque vineyards and explore wine cellars and production facilities up close. With no crowded commercial tasting rooms, this tour offers a red-carpet experience tailored for true wine enthusiasts.

This was the best wine tasting I have done. It had a great variety of different wineries. The your was very intimate and exclusive. Carlos was amazing and very knowledgeable and friendly. I definitely recommend doing this tour!

Jenny G – A Viator Reviewer

Los Angeles – Private Helicopter Tour

⏰ Tour time: 50 minutes | ⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | 🤿 Book now

Experience Los Angeles like never before with a private helicopter tour, offering breathtaking aerial views of the city’s most iconic landmarks. From flying above the historic Hollywood Sign and the glittering Griffith Observatory to soaring over the architectural marvel of the Walt Disney Concert Hall and the iconic Dodger Stadium, this tour provides an exciting way to view Los Angeles.

Catch glimpses of exclusive celebrity homes in Beverly Hills and enjoy the thrill of seeing LA’s vibrant landscapes from the skies. This adventure is perfect for anyone looking to add a touch of luxury and excitement to their visit to the City of Angels!

Beautiful views and great staff. Knowledgeable and friendly. Loved the tour. Orbic Air is a great team to do your tour.

Arthur d – a viator reviewer

LA Ghosts: Sunset Boulevard True Crime and Ghost Stories

⏰ Tour time: 2 Hours | ⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | 🤿 Book now

Explore Sunset Boulevard’s sinister and haunting history with a thrilling True Crime and Ghost Stories tour. From the gruesome crimes of notorious figures like Bugsy Siegel and Charles Manson to the eerie tales linked to landmarks such as Chateau Marmont and the Viper Room, this tour brings the dark side of Los Angeles to life. Meander down the iconic Sunset Strip as you uncover chilling stories of the Wonderland Gang, Ramon Novarro, and the “Ice Cream Blonde” Thelma Todd. With each step, you’ll feel the eerie allure of LA’s infamous past, wrapped in celebrity secrets, gangsters, and paranormal encounters.

Amazing tour! Chris did not skip a beat throughout the tour. The stops along the way corresponded along with the area perfectly as each story related to the area along with the inter weaving through the presentation. This is a must do and see tour. Easy walk, spectacular views, wonderful pieces of history to hear and see and packed the entire time with information! 

ryan c – a viator reviewer

Los Angeles and Celebrity Homes Combo Tour

⏰ Tour time: 7 Hours | ⭐️ Rating: 4.9 out of 5 Stars | 🤿 Book now

Experience the best of Los Angeles in a single day with the Los Angeles and Celebrity Homes Combo Tour! This exclusive adventure takes you through iconic spots like the Santa Monica Pier, Griffith Observatory, and the Hollywood Walk of Fame while giving you a glimpse into the lives of the rich and famous on a celebrity homes tour. From taking photos at the Beverly Hills sign to exploring chic shopping areas like The Grove and Rodeo Drive, this tour ensures you soak up the city’s culture, history, and glitz. With expert curation and a jam-packed itinerary, it’s the ultimate way to make the most of your time in LA. Don’t miss out—adventure awaits!

This tour exposes you to all the many exciting things about this great city. Our tour guide was very knowledgeable and pleasant. I would recommend this tour to anyone who wants to learn more about this city.

Melissa D – A Viator Reviewer

Los Angeles: Mulholland Trail Horseback Riding Tour

⏰ Tour time: 1 Hour | ⭐️ Rating: 4.7 out of 5 Stars | 🤿 Book now

Discover Los Angeles like never before with the Mulholland Trail Horseback Tour! This one-hour guided adventure takes you through the scenic Griffith Park, a 5,000-acre gem in the heart of LA. From the iconic Hollywood Hills, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the Hollywood Sign, Griffith Observatory, downtown LA, the Pacific Ocean, and even snow-capped mountains—all from the unique vantage point of horseback.

Perfect for explorers and locals alike, this unforgettable trail ride offers a rare opportunity to experience the beauty of Los Angeles in a way you’ll never forget. Saddle up and create lasting memories on this must-try adventure!

We did the 1 hour tour on Christmas which was a great way to spend Christmas in LA, weather was great. The tour guides were all nice and helpful. Calming ride up and down the mountains. Definitely a fun experience.

RAMI S – A VIATOR REVIEWER

Marina Del Rey: Los Angeles Premier Brunch Cruise

⏰ Tour time: 2 Hours | ⭐️ Rating: 4.7 out of 5 Stars | 🤿 Book now

Set sail into the heart of sunny Southern California with the Los Angeles Premier Brunch Cruise from Marina del Rey. This two-hour adventure along the picturesque Pacific coastline pairs breathtaking views with an unforgettable dining experience. Indulge in a lavish brunch buffet featuring delicious favorites like croissants, French toast, and tortes, all while enjoying unlimited mimosas, Champagne, or sparkling cider.

Relax to the soothing tunes of live music as you sip your bubbly, soak in the coastal breeze, and take in the iconic sights of Los Angeles from the water. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply unwinding, this brunch cruise is the ideal way to immerse yourself in LA’s easygoing vibes.

It was a wonderful experience we had a great time there was a lot of food and the sites were beautiful.

Mimi – A Viator Reviewer

Is Southern California Safe for Tourists?

Southern California is generally safe for tourists, but as with any destination, it’s crucial to exercise basic precautions. Stay aware of your surroundings, especially in busy urban areas. Most tourist attractions are well-patrolled and designed to accommodate visitors safely. Be mindful of weather conditions for outdoor adventures to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

How to Get Around Southern California

Southern California’s expansive layout makes transportation a key consideration for travelers. Renting a car is often the most convenient option, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Public transit is available in major cities like Los Angeles, connecting key areas with buses and metro lines. Many operators provide transportation for specific tours, making it easy to access even remote locations without a car.

Conclusion

Southern California in winter offers an impressive array of tours and experiences, from outdoor adventures to luxurious escapes. Whether you’re exploring iconic landmarks, indulging in fine wine, or marveling at marine wildlife, there’s something for every traveler. With its mild weather, diverse attractions, and welcoming atmosphere, Southern California is an unbeatable destination for a winter vacation. Plan your trip and discover the best tours that make this region shine in the cooler months.

Thanks for reading our article. Happy travels and we hope to see you at the places where we go!
Julie & Art

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