Tours from cruise ship in Los Angeles
We are arriving into LA 17th April by cruise ship and have two days there so would like a tour that would take us from someplace close to the cruise ship terminal.......We would like to see the Hollywood sign, Rodeo Drive and Beverly Hills, is that a possibility in one tour?
Many thanks for any help in advance.
Yes, it is definitely possible to see the Hollywood Sign, Rodeo Drive, and Beverly Hills in a single half-day or full-day tour from the cruise ship terminal in Los Angeles, depending on the tour format you choose. Most cruise terminals dock near the Port of Los Angeles, and many tour operators offer pickup directly from the terminal or nearby hotels.
Here’s a detailed overview of your options and what to expect:
- Guided coach or van tours: Several companies offer small-group or private tours that include the Hollywood Sign, Beverly Hills, and Rodeo Drive in a single route. These typically last 4–5 hours for a half-day or 7–8 hours for a full-day tour. Guides often provide photo stops at the Hollywood Sign (Griffith Observatory or Hollywood Hills viewpoint), and a drive along Rodeo Drive for shopping or sightseeing.
- Private tours: If you want more flexibility, private tours can be customized to your schedule and interests. You can request specific stops, such as the Hollywood Sign, Beverly Hills, Rodeo Drive, and even other popular spots like Sunset Boulevard, Walk of Fame, or the TCL Chinese Theatre.
- Hop-on/hop-off bus tours: These allow you to cover several key areas at your own pace. Some have routes that pass by Hollywood and Beverly Hills, though you may need to walk short distances to see certain viewpoints.
Practical considerations for cruise passengers:
- Plan for LA traffic: Travel times can be long, especially if you’re going mid-day. A half-day tour often leaves mid-morning and returns early afternoon to give you time to get back to the ship.
- Book in advance: Cruise passengers may have limited time, so pre-booking a tour ensures availability and guarantees pickup near the terminal.
- Photo opportunities: Many Hollywood Sign viewpoints are drive-by only, but some allow short walks for better photos. Check with the tour provider if this matters to you.
Recommended tour types for your itinerary:
- 4–5 hour small-group tour covering Hollywood Sign viewpoint, Beverly Hills, and Rodeo Drive.
- Private car or SUV tour for maximum flexibility and personalized stops.
- Half-day hop-on/hop-off bus combined with a short guided drive through Beverly Hills and Rodeo Drive.
Overall, a single well-planned tour can cover all three locations, letting you enjoy the highlights of LA without worrying about driving yourself in heavy city traffic. Booking ahead and confirming pickup at or near the cruise terminal will help you maximize your short time in the city.
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