IDEAL LENGTH 12 nights
Price From $5,870 pp
When to Go All Year

California Road Trip

"Discover the west coast of America with this scenic route. From the bustling city of San Francisco to the quiet hills of Napa Valley to super hip LA, you see it all.”

Day 1
1 Highway 1 on the pacific coast, California

Day 1
Arrival San Francisco

Upon arrival at the airport, you’ll be met by a representative who'll escort you to your private hire vehicle.

You'll then drive to your hotel and after checking in, the rest of the day will be spent at leisure.

Day 2
2 Highway 1 on the pacific coast, California

Day 2
Alcatraz

Start your day ‘biking the bridge’, indulging in the city’s delectable foodie treats, wandering through world-class galleries and museums, and zigzagging down San Francisco’s steep streets.

In the afternoon, drive to infamous Alcatraz for a close-up look at the site of the first lighthouse and US built fort on the West Coast. Rich in history, there’s also a natural side to the Rock - gardens, tide pools, bird colonies, and amazing views.

Day 3
3 Highway 1 on the pacific coast, California

Day 3
San Francisco - Napa Valley

After a 90-minute transfer by private car you’ll arrive at Calistoga Ranch which is built on 157 acres spotted with ancient oaks, majestic hills, rock-hewn streams, and a private lake.

The rest of the day will be spent at leisure to enjoy hiking trails, hot air balloon rides, fabulous dining, or just pure relaxation. Your Lightfoot Travel Designer can advise on activities prior to departure.

Day 4
4 Highway 1 on the pacific coast, California

Day 4
Wine Tasting and Ranch Life

Today you can drive around the region as you enjoy the Napa vineyards and fabulous wine.

Day 5
5 Highway 1 on the pacific coast, California

Day 5
Napa Valley - Yosemite National Park

This morning you’ll drive to Yosemite National Park.

The rest of your day will be spent at leisure. Head straight into the fresh air to explore Yosemite, or hang back and book a treatment at the spa.

Your Lightfoot Travel Designer can advise on activities prior to departure.

Day 6
6 Highway 1 on the pacific coast, California

Day 6
Granite Monoliths and Sequoia Trees

Today you’ll embark on a Yosemite adventure to experience stunning granite monoliths, roaring waterfalls, hiking trails, alpine meadows, and groves of gargantuan sequoia trees.

Day 7
7 Highway 1 on the pacific coast, California

Day 7
Yosemite – Post Ranch Inn

Today you’ll drive back to the coast.

After checking into your accommodation, the rest of the day will be spent at your leisure. Relax by the pools, rejuvenate with a yoga class, take in endless ocean views, or head to picturesque Monterey or Carmel, beautiful coastal towns a short ride away.

Day 8
8 Highway 1 on the pacific coast, California

Day 8
Big Sur

Today you’ll explore the dramatic coast.

Stand atop a volcanic rock at Point Sur Lighthouse. Get a day pass to Esalen and further your journey to enlightenment. Snap photos of Bixby Bridge, the world’s highest single span concrete arch. Take the scenic drive to Pebble Beach.

Your Lightfoot Travel designer can suggest activities prior to departure.

Day 9
9 Highway 1 on the pacific coast, California

Day 9
Big Sur - Santa Barbara

Enjoy the journey from Big Sur to Santa Barbara - one of the most scenic stretches of Highway 1.

Once you’ve checked into your hotel, the remainder of the day will be spent at leisure.

Day 10
10 Highway 1 on the pacific coast, California

Day 10
Santa Barbara

After breakfast you’ll enjoy a tour through downtown Santa Barbara on an electric bike.

The afternoon will be free for you to spend exploring in your own time. Visit the Farmer’s Market on State Street, head to a restaurant in Montecito, or stroll around Santa Barbara’s waterfront.

Day 11
11 Highway 1 on the pacific coast, California

Day 11
Santa Barbara - LA

Today you’ll drive to Shutters on the Beach, an effortlessly cool base right on the Santa Monica sands.

Spend the remainder of the day at leisure.

Day 12
12 Highway 1 on the pacific coast, California

Day 12
Santa Monica

Spend today at leisure soaking up the LA lifestyle.

Bike from Malibu to Manhattan Beach, try volleyball, pack a picnic for alfresco dining, or shop the Third Street Promenade.

Your Lightfoot Travel Designer can suggest activities prior to departure.

Day 13
13 Highway 1 on the pacific coast, California

Day 13
Departure

Spend your morning at leisure before driving to the airport where you'll drop off your hire vehicle and board your onward flight home.

HOTELS IN California

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our destination expert

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itinerary highlights
  • Explore the hilly streets of San Francisco and the infamous Alcatraz
  • Discover the spectacular beauty and wines of Napa Valley, California
  • Go on a hiking trails in Yosemite National Park
  • Drive from Big Sur to Santa Barbara - one of the most scenic stretches of Highway 1
  • Soak up the LA lifestyle on the beach at Santa Monica
Looking for something else?

Get in touch with our Lightfoot Travel experts and they will create a bespoke itinerary designed to your exact needs and budget.

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