The Very Best of California

Today we set out to explore San Francisco, a city shaped by Spanish colonists and gold rush pioneers. Our morning sightseeing begins at Golden Gate Park, with the option to walk across the world-renowned Golden Gate Bridge, before continuing to the vibrant Haight-Ashbury district. We take in views of Alcatraz Island and the Pacific Ocean and explore the bustling neighbourhoods of Chinatown and North Beach, before finishing our tour at the iconic Fisherman’s Wharf. The afternoon is free to explore the city at your own pace. Perhaps ride the historic cable cars, or join an optional excursion to Sausalito to visit three distinctive houseboats, where the owners welcome visitors and share the history and character of their unique floating homes.

Today is our first Freedom Day in the USA – a chance to explore San Francisco at leisure or join one of our optional tours. Wine lovers may choose a full-day excursion to Sonoma, California’s renowned wine region, known for its world-class Chardonnays, Pinot Noirs, and Cabernet Sauvignons. After a morning stroll among the towering ancient redwoods at Armstrong Woods Natural Reserve, we arrive at Kendall-Jackson Wine Estate for a five-course lunch paired with wine tastings. Alternatively, history enthusiasts can opt for a tour of Alcatraz Island, home to the former maximum-security prison that once held notorious criminals such as Al Capone, George 'Machine Gun' Kelly, and Robert Franklin Stroud, better known as the 'Birdman of Alcatraz.'

After breakfast, we depart San Francisco and head east towards Yosemite National Park. En route, we stop at the locally-owned Merced Fruit Barn where we can pick up fresh regional produce, deli sandwiches, and gourmet coffee. We continue through Oakhurst, the southern gateway to Yosemite, catching our first views of the Sierra Nevada mountains before ascending into the park’s dramatic landscape. Our hotel for the next two nights is the Tenaya at Yosemite, a welcoming mountain lodge nestled among towering pines, just minutes from the park entrance. Offering rustic charm, it’s the perfect base for our Yosemite adventure. On arrival, our luggage will be delivered directly to our rooms while we continue to explore Mariposa Grove, home to the park’s largest Giant Sequoias. This evening, perhaps join an optional excursion to the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad, complete with a historic train ride, live entertainment, and a barbecue dinner.

This morning, we leave the mountains behind and travel across California’s Central Valley to discover the ‘food basket of America,’ with endless fields of produce and world class orchards. By midday, we arrive in Monterey, a charming coastal town set along California’s rugged Pacific shoreline, where we take an orientation drive along Cannery Row, once home to the city’s sardine canneries and made famous by local author John Steinbeck. Now a lively waterfront strip, it’s lined with boutiques, cafes, and galleries, and we have free time to enjoy the area. Perhaps take a stroll on Old Fisherman’s Wharf, dine at a seafood restaurant, or visit the world-renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium. Later, we transfer to the Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa, where we will spend the next two nights.

This morning, we journey along the iconic 17-mile Drive, a breathtaking coastal route winding through Pacific Grove to Pebble Beach. Our first stop is Lovers Point, known for its sweeping ocean views, followed by Bird Rock, home to seabirds, sea lions, and harbour seals. We view the famed Lone Cypress – one of the most photographed trees in the world – before arriving at Pebble Beach Golf Club, where dramatic views of the Pacific await. We continue to the charming seaside town of Carmel-by-the-Sea, known for its bohemian character, art galleries, and former mayor, Clint Eastwood. Returning to Monterey, the remainder of the day is at leisure. Perhaps join an optional whale-watching cruise - humpback whales are seen year-round, whilst blue and killer whales can often be spotted in season.

Today we continue our journey south toward Santa Barbara. At the legendary Hearst Castle, a lavish estate of newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst, set high above the ocean, we take a guided tour of Casa Grande, the estate’s main house. We continue to Piedras Blancas, where thousands of Elephant seals gather year-round on the rocky shoreline. Heading inland we travel towards the Santa Ynez mountains and the charming town of Los Olivos, known for its boutique wineries. We enjoy a tasting experience paired with cupcakes, surrounded by rolling vineyards. Following our visit, we continue to Santa Barbara. Our hotel for the next two nights is the Mar Monte Hotel – The Unbound Collection by Hyatt.

Nestled between the Santa Ynez Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, Santa Barbara offers a striking mix of natural beauty and Spanish colonial charm. With red-tiled roofs, whitewashed walls, and breezy coastal views, the city feels like a slice of the Mediterranean along California’s Central Coast. This morning, we set out on a walking tour focused on the city’s most influential architect, Jeff Shelton. Step into hidden courtyards, visit the architect’s original studio and gain rare access to a private residence. Later, we visit the iconic Mission Santa Barbara, founded in 1786 by Spanish Franciscans. Known as the ‘Queen of the Missions,’ it is the only mission to remain under continuous use by the Franciscan order. With its twin bell towers, pink-hued stone façade, and sweeping views over the Pacific and surrounding mountains, it’s one of California’s most picturesque landmarks. Returning to our hotel, the remainder of the day is at leisure to enjoy the laid-back charm of Santa Barbara.

After breakfast, we follow the scenic Malibu coastline towards Los Angeles. We stop at Getty Villa, a stunning museum set in a hillside, Roman-style villa, overlooking the Pacific, before continuing to Santa Monica Pier, where there is time to enjoy its lively boardwalk of shops and restaurants. We head to Venice Beach where we stroll through the Venice Canals Historic District before arriving in Marina del Rey. Our home for the next three nights is the DoubleTree by Hilton MdR Marina del Rey. This evening, for those that wish, we visit the historic LA Farmers, known for its wide range of casual restaurants, artisanal treats, and lively atmosphere.

Today begins with a visit to The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens. Spanning 130 acres, The Huntington features 16 themed gardens with more than 83,000 plants, including many rare and endangered species. There’s also time to explore the historic mansion and world-renowned art galleries. Later, we head to Hollywood for a guided tour of the Dolby Theatre, home to the Academy Awards. We trace the red-carpet route, step inside the celebrated auditorium, and enjoy a behind-the-scenes look at this celebrated venue. We end our day with a scenic drive along the legendary Sunset Boulevard to Beverly Hills. There is time to explore palm-lined Rodeo Drive, known for its collection of famous boutiques and designer stores, before returning to our hotel.

Today is ours to spend as we please. Choose to relax by the hotel’s inviting pool and soak up the California sunshine, or perhaps revisit nearby Santa Monica or Venice Beach, both just a short taxi ride away. For those wishing to explore further afield, join us on an optional excursion to Catalina Island, where we enjoy a guided tour of Avalon, the island’s charming town, with panoramic coastal views and the chance to spot the roaming herds of American bison. Alternatively, visit the historic Queen Mary in Long Beach. Once the world’s grandest ocean liner, discover more about her innovative construction service during World War II and her golden era as a transatlantic icon. However, you choose to spend your day, enjoy!

With its mild climate and golden beaches, San Diego offers a relaxed setting on the edge of the Pacific Ocean. Influenced by its Spanish colonial past, the city is known for its historic districts, colourful markets, and lively waterfronts. Our day begins at Balboa Park, a 1,200-acre oasis, home to gardens, museums, theatres, and the world-famous San Diego Zoo. We visit Coronado Island, for some classic Southern California charm and Chicano Park, where vivid murals tell the story of the city’s Hispanic heritage. Our sightseeing concludes at Point Loma, where we enjoy the sweeping views across San Diego Bay and the Pacific Ocean.

This morning, we make our way to Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, where in 1769 Father Junípero Serra founded the first of 21 Spanish missions that would shape the settlement of California. Today, the park preserves this rich heritage with historic buildings and museums. We step back in time to the 19th century, discovering restored structures such as the old courthouse, blacksmith shop and schoolhouse. Later, we transfer to the airport for our early evening British Airways flight to London Heathrow.

Our flight arrives at London Heathrow in the early afternoon. For those returning to regional UK airports, connecting flights will operate via Heathrow. After 15 unforgettable days exploring California’s stunning coastline, vibrant cities, and natural wonders, our journey comes to an end.