California Coast Discovery - Itinerary
Meander down California’s Coast from San Francisco to San Diego. Beginning in the “City by the Bay,” visit popular landmarks of San Francisco: the Twin Peaks, Seal Rocks, Golden Gate Bridge, and Chinatown. Explore Fisherman’s Wharf, shop in Union Square, or ride the famed cable cars up and down San Francisco’s thrilling hills. Wind your way through the majestic Sierra Nevada to nature's masterpiece: Yosemite National Park, where you’ll gaze in wonder at amazing waterfalls, unique rock formations, deep valleys, Alpine meadows, and pristine wilderness.
Absorb the breathtaking coastline views along 17 Mile Drive as you travel to Monterey, the first capital of California, filled with lovingly restored historic buildings and Spanish adobes. Continue along the sea-sprayed Big Sur Coast, where the mountains meet the sea forming a rugged, jagged coastline. Stop in Los Angeles to see the popular Hollywood Walk of Fame. Conclude with two nights relaxing in San Diego, where an ideal climate, 70 miles of pristine beaches, and world-class attractions await.
The sequence of touring and days may be altered to adjust to religious holidays, special closings of sites, air schedule changes, etc. Hotels listed subject to availability. Meal inclusions may vary by departure.
Day 1: Arrive San Francisco, California
Welcome as you join us on a scenic journey along California’s amazing coast. Your tour begins in “the City by the Bay,” San Francisco. (D)
Day 2: San Francisco
Join a local guide for a captivating tour featuring the popular landmarks of this dynamic city. Highlights include the Twin Peaks, Seal Rocks, the Golden Gate Bridge and Chinatown. Upon completion of the tour, the remainder of your day is at leisure to explore Fisherman’s Wharf, shop in Union Square, or ride the famed cable cars up and down San Francisco’s thrilling hills.
Day 3: San Francisco - Yosemite National Park
Today you wind through the majestic Sierra Nevada mountains en route to one of Mother Nature's greatest masterpieces, Yosemite National Park. Yosemite’s amazing waterfalls, unique rock formations, deep valleys, Alpine meadows and pristine wilderness will leave you awestruck.
Day 4: Yosemite National Park - Monterey
Prior to your arrival into Monterey, you will drive along one of the most breathtaking coastlines in the world, the incredible 17 Mile Drive. Next, travel to the Monterey Peninsula, often called the greatest meeting of land, sea and sky. Monterey, the first capital of California, is filled with lovingly restored historic buildings and Spanish adobes. An afternoon arrival will allow you time to independently explore charming Old Monterey and shop at Cannery Row. (B, D)
Day 5: Monterey - Solvang
A wonderful day of sightseeing is in store as you journey along the sea-sprayed Big Sur Coast. A stop will be made at one of the world’s greatest showplaces, the mountain-top retreat, Hearst Castle at St. Simeon. Tour Hearst Castle and explore some of its 165 rooms and 127 acres of gardens, terraces, pools and walkways. Continue along the Big Sur coastline en route to the quaint Dutch village of Solvang. (B, D)
Day 6: Solvang - Los Angeles
This morning, take some time to stroll through Solvang’s flower-lined streets and European shops and bakeries before departing for the next stop on your coastal journey - Los Angeles, the “City of Angels.” During your tour, visit Graumann's Chinese Theatre, where nearly 200 movie stars have left their hand and foot prints, and see the popular Hollywood Walk of Fame. (B, D)
Day 7: Los Angeles - San Diego
Today you will travel to San Diego where the ideal climate, 70 miles of pristine beaches, and world-class attractions make it possible for visitors to have a pleasant stay no matter what the season. Upon your arrival you will be joined by a local guide for a comprehensive tour including downtown, the Gaslamp Quarter, Balboa Park, Coronado Island and Old Town San Diego. (B, D)
Day 8: San Diego
The day is yours to experience San Diego on your own. You may want to visit the San Diego Zoo located in Balboa Park; observe the blending of old and new as you cross one of the “busiest international borders in the world” into Tijuana, Mexico; or travel down the beautiful Baja coastline toward Ensenada, Mexico for lunch and shopping. Whatever you choose, you are certain to enjoy your day in this beautiful destination. (B)
Day 9: San Diego - Depart for Home
Today you depart San Diego with many wonderful memories of your California vacation.
