Day 1
Fly to Los Angeles
On arrival into Los Angeles International Airport, independently make your way to your hotel for your first night. For ease of travel, we can pre-book your overseas airport transfers to your hotel at a supplement. Early evening, meet up with your Tour Director and fellow travellers for a Welcome Reception including drinks and a light informal meal.
Overnight: Intercontinental Downtown Los Angeles or similar. Welcome dinner with wine included
Day 2
Los Angeles
Begin your journey in the City of Angels with a nostalgic ride on the iconic Angel's Flight funicular. Explore Downtown LA's rich history and architecture, visiting landmarks like the Grand Central Market, Bradbury Building, and US Bank Tower. In Hollywood, snap photos of the Hollywood sign, stroll the Walk of Fame, and see the famous handprints at TCL Chinese Theatre. In the afternoon, choose between the Petersen Automotive Museum and the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures for a unique cultural experience. Tonight, enjoy exploring Los Angeles and its diverse dining options on your own.
Overnight: Intercontinental Los Angeles or similar. Breakfast included
Day 3
Los Angeles - Santa Barbara
Drive along the stunning Pacific Coast Highway, with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Stroll the wooden Santa Monica Pier, home to an iconic ferris wheel and amusement park, and possibly spot distant wildlife. Then, depart for Santa Barbara, enjoying ocean views on your left and mountain views on your right. Upon arrival, choose to explore the 18th-century Old Mission, one of California's original missions, or take a relaxing walk through the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History to learn about the state's diverse native plants.
Overnight: Mar Monte Hotel or similar. Breakfast included.
Day 4
Santa Barbara to Pismo Beach
This morning, visit Solvang, California, known as "The Danish Capital of America." Founded in 1911 by Danish-Americans, Solvang features charming Danish-themed architecture and is a popular tourist destination. Later, drive from Santa Barbara to Pismo Beach, taking in stunning ocean views and lush farmlands. Arrive at your destination, surrounded by olive groves, vineyards, and orchards. Enjoy lunch on your own, followed by an olive oil farm tour and tasting. Tonight, savour dinner with wine at a local restaurant.
Overnight: Vespera Resort, Pismo Beach or similar. Breakfast and dinner with wine included
Day 5
Pismo Beach - Yosemite National Park
Journey to the majestic Yosemite National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. First, visit Mariposa Grove (seasonal), the park's largest sequoia grove with over 500 giant sequoias, including the 1,800-year-old Grizzly Giant. After settling into your hotel, enjoy a three-course dinner with wine at The Mountain Room in Yosemite Valley Lodge, offering views of a 2,500-foot waterfall and a menu featuring local, organic, and seasonal dishes.
Overnight: Yosemite Valley Lodge or similar. Breakfast included.
Day 6
Yosemite National Park
Join the Yosemite Conservancy and meet a naturalist guide to learn the basics of rock climbing. Watch experts scale the iconic El Capitan, first ascended by Warren Harding in 1958. Discuss granite and gear, explore the science behind climbing, and learn how climbers help preserve the environment through the MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® initiative.
Overnight: Yosemite Valley Lodge or similar. Breakfast and dinner with wine included.
Day 7
Yosemite National Park - San Francisco
Travel to the West Coast, crossing the Bay Bridge to vibrant San Francisco. Visit Fisherman’s Wharf, a lively area with restaurants, cafes, and shops. In the afternoon, join your Travel Director for a walk across the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, then drive to the charming town of Sausalito. Enjoy leisure time before taking the ferry back to San Francisco, passing by the infamous Alcatraz Island.
Overnight: Hyatt Regency Embarcadero or similar. Breakfast included.
Day 8
Yosemite – San Francisco
This morning, visit the Ferry Building and explore one of America’s most famous farmers markets. Browse stalls offering organic produce, flowers, and regional artisan specialties like breads, cheeses, and jams. On your city tour, pass lively Union Square and expansive Golden Gate Park. Gain Insider Access at Boudin Bakery to learn how real sourdough bread is made, a San Francisco tradition since 1849. In the afternoon, walk across the Golden Gate Bridge and visit the charming seaside town of Sausalito. Tonight, toast your travels with an elevated Chinese dim sum dinner at Palette Tea House.
Overnight: Hyatt Regency Embarcadero or similar. Breakfast and dinner with wine included
Day 9
Fly home
After breakfast, make your way independently to San Francisco airport for your flight home.
Breakfast included
