California
8 days / 7 nights—Los Angeles, Malibu, Santa Barbara, Morro Bay, Big Sur, Carmel, San Francisco
From Tinsel Town to the City by the Bay, along one of the most spectacular coastlines in the world, plus fabled Malibu Beach, unique Big Sur and beautiful and historic Carmel-by-the-Sea. Options & Rates
The Golden Gate
Day 1—LOS ANGELES, MALIBU
Leave Los Angeles this morning via the Pacific Coast Highway to fabled Malibu Beach. Palm trees and movies stars, freeways and billboards, a stunning coastline and a lone surfer riding the waves. It’s all part of the southern California experience.
Shutters on the Beach
Day 2—MALIBU
Full day at leisure to explore nearby Beverly Hills, Hollywood, the Sunset Strip, Pacific Palisades and Santa Monica. A visit here is not complete unless you include the astonishing Getty Museum, which has assumed its place as one of the great museums of the world. You’ll see why.
Shutters on the Beach
Day 3—MALIBU, SANTA BARBARA
Today begin a leisurely drive along the beautiful ocean coast up to historic Santa Barbara. This afternoon visit the wonderful Spanish mission, known as the “Queen of Missions” overlooking the town and the sea.
Four Seasons Santa Barbara
Day 4—SANTA BARBARA, MORRO BAY
This morning’s drive takes you up the coast via the quaint “Danish” town of Solvang, and San Louis Obispo to the fishing village of Morro Bay.
The Inn at Morro Bay
The Big Sur coast
Day 5—MORRO BAY, BIG SUR
Continue along the spectacular Highway 1 to San Simeon to see the amazing, ego-built, Hearst Castle. In the afternoon, wind your way along the shores of the Pacific to the unique tranquility and natural scenic beauty of Big Sur.
Post Ranch Inn
Day 6—BIG SUR, CARMEL
Another day along this fabulous rugged coast, destination: the historic Monterey Peninsula. Here was one of the first settlements made by the Spanish in the 18th century, and whose influence can still be found in its original colonial architecture.
Mission Ranch
Day 7—CARMEL
Full day at leisure to explore charming Carmel, 17-Mile-Drive, Pebble Beach and Monterey, with its world-class aquarium, home to more than 350,000 marine animals, fish and water plants.
Mission Ranch
Day 8—CARMEL, SAN FRANCISCO
Leave Carmel this morning, driving via Santa Cruz, Saratoga, and Palo Alto to the “City by the Bay.”