12 Fantastic Wine Tours In Los Angeles

Introduction

Los Angeles might be best known for its Hollywood glamour and endless sunshine, but it’s also quietly gaining recognition as a fantastic wine destination. The city’s proximity to renowned wine regions like Malibu, Temecula, and Santa Barbara means you can enjoy a glass of excellent local wine without straying too far from the city. Whether you’re after a relaxed yacht cruise with wine and cheese or a guided vineyard hike, LA offers a surprising variety of ways to sample its wine culture.

To create this list of the best wine tours in Los Angeles, we looked at reviews, ratings, value, and the unique experiences each offers. We included everything from intimate private tours to lively group adventures, all rated at least 4.5 stars or higher. For example, the Luxury Cruise with Wine, Cheese & Sea Lions stands out for its relaxing water-based experience, while the Malibu Vineyard Hike combines scenic views with wine tasting on a beginner-friendly walk. Our goal is to help you find the perfect match—whether your priority is premium wine, outdoor activity, or a romantic outing.

In this guide, you’ll find detailed descriptions of each tour, what makes them special, practical tips, and insights into who they’re best suited for. From a 2-hour marina cruise to a full-day Santa Barbara private tour, there’s an option here for nearly every kind of wine lover.

1. Los Angeles: Luxury Cruise with Wine, Cheese & Sea Lions

This luxury cruise combines a relaxing boat ride with wine, cheese, and the chance to see sea lions and local birdlife. For just $119 per person, you get two hours aboard a fully electric Duffy boat exploring LA’s largest marina, with a guide who shares insights about the area. The boat is immaculately clean, spacious, and comfortable, making it perfect for a romantic outing or a laid-back afternoon with friends.

What makes this tour stand out is its peaceful, eco-friendly setting. During the cruise, you’ll enjoy delicious deli boards, and the sunset views are unforgettable. Reviewers consistently praise the guide’s knowledge and friendliness, with Captain Shaun getting special mentions for making everyone feel at home. The experience is ideal for those who enjoy wildlife viewing, relaxing waterside scenery, and a touch of luxury without the formality of a winery.

Bottom line: If you want a memorable, low-stress outing with the chance to see sea lions up close, this cruise offers excellent value and a truly unique perspective of LA’s marina.

2. Newport Beach: Champagne and Brunch Buffet City Cruise

For a laid-back, indulgent experience, this 2-hour yacht cruise from Newport Beach offers a sumptuous brunch buffet paired with unlimited champagne or sparkling cider. For $120 per person, you’ll enjoy cruising past landmarks like the Balboa Peninsula and Mariner’s Mile, with panoramic views of the harbor.

The tour’s highlights include a reserved dining experience and the chance to see some of Southern California’s most scenic coastal sights. Reviewers mention how smoothly everything runs, although some note the meal timing could be tighter. It’s best suited for those seeking a relaxed, food-focused cruise with a bubbly toast in hand.

Bottom line: This tour is perfect for brunch lovers and those wanting a leisurely, scenic ride with unlimited champagne, ideal for celebrating special occasions in style.

3. Malibu: Guided Vineyard Hike with Photo Stops and Wine

This $49 guided hike in Malibu offers a different way to enjoy wine country—on foot. The tour takes you through private vineyards on a 2.5-mile walk, with stops to take photos and learn about the area’s history and native flora. You’ll visit a family-owned vineyard, learn about native American cave paintings, and sample local wines along the way.

What makes this experience special is its mix of outdoor activity and cultural insight. The hike is beginner-friendly, lasting about two hours, and provides impressive views of Malibu’s sprawling vineyards. Reviewers praise the guide’s knowledge, fun attitude, and the chance to taste regional wines in a scenic setting.

Bottom line: If you prefer outdoor adventures over traditional wine tastings, this guided hike offers a relaxed pace with plenty of photo opportunities and tastings.

4. Temecula Wine Tour from Los Angeles

This full-day tour (about 6 hours) takes you from LA to Temecula’s renowned wine country for a curated experience. For $849 per group (up to 5 people), you’ll explore multiple wineries, including Wilson Creek Winery, famous for its award-winning wines and welcoming atmosphere. The winery offers tastings of six different varietals, along with a lush setting perfect for a picnic or a stroll.

The highlight of this trip is the combination of scenic views, wine tasting, and a relaxed pace. You’ll also have free time at Lake Harveston Park and possibly walk around charming Old Town Temecula. The guide’s local knowledge makes it easy to discover hidden corners and enjoy the best wines.

Bottom line: Best for small groups seeking a comprehensive, premium experience with a focus on quality wines and scenic surroundings.

5. Marina Del Rey: A Romantic Boat Cruise with Sushi & Wine

This 2-hour cruise offers an intimate, romantic experience with sushi and wine in Marina del Rey. At $119 per person, you enjoy a guided tour with wildlife viewing, including sea lions and pelicans, from a comfortable electric boat. The guide helps you get close to nature while you relax with delicious sushi prepared by a local chef.

The tour is praised for its personal touch, with reviewers mentioning how the captain’s friendly attitude made the experience memorable. It’s perfect for couples celebrating special occasions or anyone wanting a quiet, scenic cruise that combines good food and wildlife.

Bottom line: For a romantic water adventure with excellent food and wildlife viewing, this tour offers a memorable, intimate experience.

6. Santa Barbara Private Tour and Wine Tasting Experience from LA

This private tour (about 9-10 hours) offers a luxurious, personalized look at Santa Barbara and the nearby Santa Ynez Valley. For $750 per person, you’ll visit historic sites like the Santa Barbara Courthouse and enjoy a private wine tasting at a top winery. The tour includes visits to the Old Mission, Spanish architecture, and scenic stops along the coast.

What makes this tour stand out is its custom experience—no crowded buses, just a dedicated guide showing you the best of Santa Barbara at your pace. Reviewers appreciate the flexibility and the knowledgeable guide who makes the day special.

Bottom line: Ideal for travelers wanting a tailored, comfortable day of sightseeing and tastings without the hassle of self-driving.

7. Santa Barbara Wine Tasting Day Tour from Los Angeles

This 8.5-hour tour combines scenic drives and wine tastings, starting with sightseeing en route to Santa Barbara and Santa Ynez wine country. For $419 per person, you’ll visit Vincent Vineyards, enjoy wine tastings, and stroll through charming towns like Los Olivos. The tour also includes optional stops at Stearns Wharf and Lake Cachuma.

This experience is perfect for those who want a mix of scenic views and wine without the hassle of planning. Reviewers highlight Galina’s engaging style and how she makes the day feel personalized. It’s practical, with transportation included, and showcases some of California’s most beautiful scenery.

Bottom line: Excellent for wine lovers who want a full day of tasting, sightseeing, and relaxing travel in a small-group setting.

8. Malibu Wine Country: Electric-Assisted Mountain Bike Tour

This $199 guided bike tour explores Malibu’s hills on electric mountain bikes, making it easy for all fitness levels. Running about 2.5 hours, it combines scenic rides with visits to local wineries and stops for breathtaking views of Malibu.

Tour guide Roger is praised for his friendly, informative approach, and the bikes’ electric assist means you can focus on the landscape without getting exhausted. It’s perfect for active travelers who want a unique, outdoor way to experience Malibu’s wine scene.

Bottom line: For active wine lovers, this bike tour offers a memorable, energetic alternative to traditional tastings.

9. Malibu: Vintage VW Sightseeing Tour and Wine Tasting

Cruise Malibu in a 1972 VW camper van on this 4-hour sightseeing tour costing $195 per person. Highlights include driving along the coast, visiting Malibu Pier, and enjoying a wine tasting at a local winery. The vintage van adds a touch of hippie nostalgia, making the journey as fun as the destination.

Reviewers love the relaxed atmosphere and the fun of exploring Malibu in a classic vehicle. The tour combines scenic drives with wine tasting and photo stops, giving a laid-back yet engaging experience.

Bottom line: Perfect for vintage vehicle fans or anyone seeking a relaxed, nostalgic way to explore Malibu with wine.

10. Los Angeles: Luxury Cruise w/ Wine, Charcuterie & Sealions

This 2-hour luxury boat cruise offers wildlife viewing, including sea lions, plus wine and charcuterie. For $149 per person, you’ll cruise from Marina del Rey in a comfortable electric boat, with a guide sharing insider tips. It’s an elegant way to relax and see LA’s coastline.

Reviewers highlight the friendly captain, the comfortable setting, and the wildlife sightings. It’s suitable for couples or small groups seeking a refined, scenic water experience with some local wildlife.

Bottom line: An excellent choice for those wanting a relaxed, upscale water outing with wildlife, wine, and good company.

11. Los Angeles: Wine Tour at Fess Parker Winery by Helicopter

This premium experience, priced at $4,299 per person, combines a scenic helicopter flight with a private tasting at Fess Parker Winery. The tour includes a 90-minute tasting of five acclaimed wines and a helicopter ride offering sweeping views of the Santa Ynez coast.

It’s designed for travelers seeking exclusivity and a truly luxurious experience. Reviews are limited, but the combination of flight and wine tasting makes it one of LA’s most unique wine adventures.

Bottom line: Best suited for travelers with a healthy budget looking for a once-in-a-lifetime, ultra-luxurious wine experience.

12. Los Angeles: Wine Experience at Fess Parker Winery by Helicopter

This $3,999 private helicopter tour offers a 4-hour experience including a special tasting at Fess Parker Winery, with options to sit inside or outside. The tour includes a scenic flight, private tasting of five premium wines, and the chance to enjoy Napa-style luxury in Santa Barbara wine country.

While no reviews are available yet, its lavish setup appeals to those seeking a high-end, memorable wine adventure from LA.

Bottom line: For those with a high budget wanting an exclusive, scenic, and private wine experience, this helicopter tour is hard to beat.

How to Choose the Right Wine Tour

Choosing among these options depends on your priorities and circumstances. If you prefer a relaxing water-based experience with wildlife, the Luxury Cruise or the Sushi & Wine Boat are excellent. Want an active outdoor adventure? The Malibu Vineyard Hike or the Electric Mountain Bike Tour provide scenic exercise with tastings.

For those seeking luxury and privacy, the Santa Barbara private tour or the helicopter experiences at Fess Parker are unmatched. Budget-conscious travelers may find the Malibu Guided Hike or Malibu VW Tour more suitable, while groups or special occasions might opt for the full-day Temecula tour.

Booking early is recommended, especially for the helicopter and private tours, which tend to fill up fast. Consider your fitness level, your interests in wildlife vs. cultural sites, and whether you prefer a guided or private experience.

Final Thoughts

Los Angeles offers a surprisingly broad range of wine-related experiences—from scenic boat cruises and outdoor hikes to luxurious helicopter tastings. If you’re looking for a relaxing day on the water, the Los Angeles Luxury Cruise with Wine, Cheese & Sea Lions is a top choice. For a more active adventure, the Malibu Vineyard Hike or Electric Mountain Bike Tour provide a memorable outdoor experience.

Travelers seeking luxury and exclusivity should consider the private Santa Barbara tour or helicopter options, while those on a tighter budget can enjoy the more casual but equally enjoyable Malibu VW or guided hike. Whichever you choose, booking in advance ensures you’ll secure your spot for an unforgettable California wine experience.