Los Angeles–Santa Maria Self-Guided Pacific Coast Audio Drive
Los Angeles, United States

Los Angeles–Santa Maria Self-Guided Pacific Coast Audio Drive

Outty Ranking 59 4.1 · 14 traveler reviews4 hoursFrom $12
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Outty Ranking

59/100

Worth a Look. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

4.1/5

Based on 14 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Los Angeles–Santa Maria Self-Guided Pacific Coast Audio Drive worth booking?

Los Angeles–Santa Maria Self-Guided Pacific Coast Audio Drive is a 4-hour experience in Los Angeles, United States, from $12 per person. It scores 59 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”, based on a 4.1/5 rating across 14 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
59 / 100
Rating
4.1/5 (14)
Duration
4 hours
From
$12 per person

Make the Pacific Coast Highway between Los Angeles and Santa Maria your own GPS-guided road trip. Stories play automatically through your smartphone as you pass Venice, Santa Monica, the Getty Villa, Malibu, Zuma Beach, Point Mugu, Ventura, Santa Barbara, Refugio, Gaviota and the Santa Maria Valley. Start at either end, travel in either direction and stop whenever a beach, viewpoint or town catches your eye. Download before you leave; no signal is required during the tour. Transportation, parking, attraction admission, a smartphone and an in-person guide are not included. Park and attraction access can vary with weather, construction and seasonal operations.

What you get

    About this experience

    Make the Pacific Coast Highway between Los Angeles and Santa Maria your own GPS-guided road trip. Stories play automatically through your smartphone as you pass Venice, Santa Monica, the Getty Villa, Malibu, Zuma Beach, Point Mugu, Ventura, Santa Barbara, Refugio, Gaviota and the Santa Maria Valley. Start at either end, travel in either direction and stop whenever a beach, viewpoint or town catches your eye. Download before you leave; no signal is required during the tour. Transportation, parking, attraction admission, a smartphone and an in-person guide are not included. Park and attraction access can vary with weather, construction and seasonal operations.

    What's included

    Included

    • No time constraints, take as long as you like to complete the tour
    • Only 1 tour booking needed per vehicle
    • Flexible dates - tour is yours to keep and enjoy anytime on Tripvia Tours.
    • No signal required or data used during tour
    • Good mobile or WiFi connection needed for the initial download

    Not included

    • Smartphone or tablet
    • Transportation (use your own vehicle)
    • Attraction Tickets
    • Parking fees
    • In-person tour guide

    What you'll see and do

    1. Loyola Marymount University

      LOYOLA MARYMOUNT UNIVERSITY. Pass the hilltop campus of this longstanding Jesuit and Marymount university overlooking Los Angeles.

      Pass by without stopping

    2. Marina del Rey

      MARINA DEL REY. See one of North America’s largest purpose-built small-craft harbours, filled with sailboats and waterfront activity.

      Pass by without stopping

    3. Venice

      VENICE. Pass the colourful beachfront neighbourhood known for its canals, boardwalk and creative spirit.

      Pass by without stopping

    4. Santa Monica State Beach

      SANTA MONICA AND WILL ROGERS STATE BEACHES. Follow the coast past two broad sandy beaches and classic Pacific views.

      Pass by without stopping

    5. The Getty Villa

      GETTY VILLA AND PACIFIC PALISADES. Pass the Roman-inspired museum of Greek and Roman antiquities, currently open with free timed reservations, and the surrounding coastal neighbourhood.

      Pass by without stopping

    6. Tuna Canyon Park

      TUNA CANYON AND TOPANGA STATE PARKS. See rugged native landscapes, hiking country and sweeping coastal viewpoints in the Santa Monica Mountains.

      Pass by without stopping

    7. Malibu

      MALIBU. Travel through 21 miles of celebrated coastline shaped by surf culture, beaches and dramatic ocean scenery.

      Pass by without stopping

    8. Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area

      SANTA MONICA MOUNTAINS NATIONAL RECREATION AREA. Pass a vast Mediterranean-climate landscape of canyons, ridges and coastal habitat.

      Pass by without stopping

    9. MALIBU AND ADAMSON HOUSE. Discover the city’s layered past and its landmark Spanish Colonial Revival home beside the lagoon.

      Pass by without stopping

    10. Zumba beach

      ZUMA BEACH AND POINT DUME. See a wide sandy beach and the prominent headland featured in countless coastal views.

      Pass by without stopping

    11. El Matador State Beach

      EL MATADOR STATE BEACH. Look for sea stacks, arches and sculpted rock formations along this striking Malibu shoreline.

      Pass by without stopping

    12. Nicholas Canyon Beach

      NICHOLAS CANYON BEACH. Pass a scenic beach rooted in the much older history and trading networks of the Chumash people.

      Pass by without stopping

    13. HARRISON’S REEF. Look offshore toward a rocky reef known as a local scuba-diving habitat.

      Pass by without stopping

    14. Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area

      SANTA MONICA MOUNTAINS. Follow the foothills and inland bluffs that rise sharply above the Pacific coast.

      Pass by without stopping

    15. Point Mugu State Park

      POINT MUGU STATE PARK AND BONEY PEAK. Pass open coastal parkland with canyons, trails and views toward one of the range’s highest summits.

      Pass by without stopping

    16. Point Mugu Missile Park

      POINT MUGU MISSILE PARK. View the outdoor collection of historic missiles and aircraft associated with the neighbouring naval base.

      Pass by without stopping

    17. Port Hueneme

      PORT HUENEME. Pass the coastal city and its deep-water commercial port, the only one between Los Angeles and San Francisco.

      Pass by without stopping

    18. Oxnard

      OXNARD. Travel through a fertile coastal plain famous for producing a major share of California’s strawberries.

      Pass by without stopping

    19. SANTA CLARA RIVER. Cross Southern California’s largest relatively natural river system and its important watershed habitat.

      Pass by without stopping

    20. Ventura County Coast

      VENTURA COUNTY COAST. Follow the coastal plain beneath the Topatopa Mountains through one of Southern California’s most scenic regions.

      Pass by without stopping

    21. Mission Basilica San Buenaventura

      MISSION BASILICA SAN BUENAVENTURA. Pass the active historic parish, museum and mission landmark in downtown Ventura.

      Pass by without stopping

    22. Emma Wood State Beach

      SOLIMAR AND EMMA WOOD STATE BEACHES. Trace a scenic stretch of Pacific shoreline with broad ocean views and coastal recreation.

      Pass by without stopping

    23. PITAS POINT. See the prominent coastal point shaped by powerful tectonic forces and earthquake history.

      Pass by without stopping

    24. RINCON ISLAND AND RICHFIELD PIER. Spot the small artificial island connected to shore by a remarkably long pier.

      Pass by without stopping

    25. CARPINTERIA BLUFFS NATURE PRESERVE. See community-protected coastal bluffs, open space and sweeping ocean habitat.

      Pass by without stopping

    Where it starts and ends

    Meeting point

    Los Angeles

    The tour starts or stops at either Los Angeles or Santa Maria, although you can start anywhere along the route. The specific point for Los Angeles is the Pacific Coast Highway #1, at the Los Angeles International Airport.

    Hotel pickup

    No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.

    Ends at

    The tour starts or stops at either Los Angeles or Santa Maria, although you can start anywhere along the route. The specific point for Santa Maria is the Pacific Coast Highway #101, just south of the city.

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    en
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 15 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Tripvia Tours

    Know before you go

    • Service animals allowed
    • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
    • All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
    • Wheelchair accessible

    Photos

    Los Angeles–Santa Maria Self-Guided Pacific Coast Audio Drive, photo 2Los Angeles–Santa Maria Self-Guided Pacific Coast Audio Drive, photo 3Los Angeles–Santa Maria Self-Guided Pacific Coast Audio Drive, photo 4Los Angeles–Santa Maria Self-Guided Pacific Coast Audio Drive, photo 5Los Angeles–Santa Maria Self-Guided Pacific Coast Audio Drive, photo 6Los Angeles–Santa Maria Self-Guided Pacific Coast Audio Drive, photo 7

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 14 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    The guide

    2 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Knowledge and storytelling

    2 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    Value for money

    2 mentions

    Travelers feel they got more than they paid for.

    Traveler reviews

    14 verified traveler reviews for Los Angeles–Santa Maria Self-Guided Pacific Coast Audio Drive. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    6
    4 star
    5
    3 star
    2
    2 star
    0
    1 star
    1
    Sort
    judithsO8130ON · July 2026

    Interesting facts shared.

    Once we were on the PCH the "tour guide" would just start talking as we approached a point of interest. I had expected turn by turn directions, which it does not provide. We did use our personal GPS from the airport to the PCH then it just worked in the background. Interesting facts were shared. I am glad we used it.

    Response from the operator: Thanks for the wonderful review! We're happy to hear the tour worked smoothly in the background as you drove the PCH, and that the content made the trip more interesting. We’re also glad you chose to let us guide you along your journey! Safe travels! 🚗

    via Tripadvisor

    Lynn K · February 2026

    Great information on a lovely drive

    This was a nice drive on the PCH with good information about the area and history. We are definitely glad we purchased it for our drive. We were planning to stop at Santa Barbara but after buying it (while driving) we went all the way to Santa Maria. We would definitely buy another one from them.

    Response from the operator: Thank you so much for the wonderful review. We’re thrilled to hear you enjoyed the drive along the PCH and that the tour added even more to your trip - even inspiring you to continue on to Santa Maria. If you'd like to keep your road trip adventure going, the next stretch north from Santa Maria to Monterey (Big Sur) is a beautiful continuation and part of our four‑part Pacific Coast Highway series! We’re so glad you joined us for the journey. 🚗🌞

    via Tripadvisor

    wanda_M · December 2024

    Unable to get this one...

    Unable to get this one working for me so it was a wash. Normally can get viator apps to work well maybe I’m just not understanding how this one works, but I wasn’t able to use it.

    Response from the operator: We understand your disappointment and would like to make it right. Please contact us directly so we can discuss how we can make things better for you.

    via Viator

    Faith_V · June 2024

    Geography Lesson

    This was like being in 6th grade social studies/ecology class. Extremely boring with facts pretty much limited to land formations and geography. The quizzes were trite. Overall not what I was hoping to hear. No humor or fun facts about the area.

    Response from the operator: Thank you for your feedback. We're sorry to hear that the experience didn't meet your expectations. We strive to make our content engaging and informative for all ages. We'll take your comments into consideration as we work to improve our tours.

    via Viator

    Dawn_F · February 2024

    Made the trip more interesting even if you know some of the areas!

    Made the trip fun with little facts and trivia questions along the way! Even if you're familiar with one of the POI, it the story behind it might not be something you know. It was great that gps automatically played when you're coming up on the new spot. Little quirky to get back on track if you don't want to stop at the POI and want to continue on. Definitely worth it for the price!!

    Response from the operator: Thanks for the wonderful review! We are delighted that our audio tour made your trip fun! Thank you for sharing your positive thoughts.

    via Viator

    Good to know

    Duration
    4 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Hotel pickup
    No pickup, meet at start point
    Booked in 30 days
    5
    Verdict
    Worth a Look

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by Tripvia Tours, who run 38 experiences we rank across 19 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 57.7.

    See everything Tripvia Tours runs

    Why this scores 59

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)60
    Review evidence (18% weight)41
    Booking momentum (14% weight)32
    Value for money (12% weight)100
    Listing quality (10% weight)79
    Local standing (8% weight)20
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Los Angeles–Santa Maria Self-Guided Pacific Coast Audio Drive: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Los Angeles.

    How much does Los Angeles–Santa Maria Self-Guided Pacific Coast Audio Drive cost?

    +

    Prices start at $12 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Los Angeles usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Los Angeles–Santa Maria Self-Guided Pacific Coast Audio Drive take?

    +

    Plan for about 4 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Los Angeles is not rushed.

    Is Los Angeles–Santa Maria Self-Guided Pacific Coast Audio Drive worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 59 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.1/5 across 14 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Los Angeles, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Los Angeles–Santa Maria Self-Guided Pacific Coast Audio Drive?

    +

    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is Los Angeles–Santa Maria Self-Guided Pacific Coast Audio Drive suitable for kids and families?

    +

    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 4-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Los Angeles–Santa Maria Self-Guided Pacific Coast Audio Drive?

    +

    Around 5 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Los Angeles can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

    +

    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Los Angeles and add a light layer if any part of the 4-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Los Angeles–Santa Maria Self-Guided Pacific Coast Audio Drive start and how do I get there?

    +

    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Los Angeles within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Los Angeles?

    +

    Los Angeles rewards travellers who cluster their bookings by geography rather than by theme. Studio tours and Hollywood walks sit inland, the Malibu and Santa Monica coast runs west, and Griffith Observatory and the canyon hikes work best at dawn or dusk. We weight transport clarity in the ranking here: whether pickup is included changes an LA day more than the tour itself. On Outty we rank every Los Angeles experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Hollywood Sign 2.5-Hour Tour with Comedians and Their Dogs, Los Angeles Hollywood Sign Hike: Front, Behind, and Expert Guide, Griffith Observatory Hike: Guided Tour through Griffith Park. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Los Angeles?

    +

    March to May and September to November, for clear air and open canyon roads. Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Los Angeles?

    +

    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

    +

    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in Los Angeles–Santa Maria Self-Guided Pacific Coast Audio Drive?

    +

    Included: No time constraints, take as long as you like to complete the tour; Only 1 tour booking needed per vehicle; Flexible dates - tour is yours to keep and enjoy anytime on Tripvia Tours; No signal required or data used during tour; and Good mobile or WiFi connection needed for the initial download. Not included: Smartphone or tablet; Transportation (use your own vehicle); Attraction Tickets; and Parking fees. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Where is the meeting point for Los Angeles–Santa Maria Self-Guided Pacific Coast Audio Drive?

    +

    The tour starts or stops at either Los Angeles or Santa Maria, although you can start anywhere along the route. The specific point for Los Angeles is the Pacific Coast Highway #1. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.

    What languages is Los Angeles–Santa Maria Self-Guided Pacific Coast Audio Drive offered in?

    +

    It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Los Angeles–Santa Maria Self-Guided Pacific Coast Audio Drive?

    +

    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    Is Los Angeles–Santa Maria Self-Guided Pacific Coast Audio Drive wheelchair or stroller accessible?

    +

    The operator notes: Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible; Transportation options are wheelchair accessible; and Wheelchair accessible. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to Los Angeles–Santa Maria Self-Guided Pacific Coast Audio Drive if the weather is bad?

    +

    It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Los Angeles. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.

    What do travelers say about Los Angeles–Santa Maria Self-Guided Pacific Coast Audio Drive?

    +

    Across 14 reviews averaging 4.1 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, value for money. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Ready to lock in your spot?

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