California Coast

Start your California adventure in San Francisco, in northern California. Known for its year-round fog, iconic Golden Gate Bridge, cable cars and colourful Victorian houses, this city is also famed for its steep streets - the most famous being Lombard Street. Located in the upscale Russian Hill neighbourhood, Lombard Street is the famous crooked road that’s goes one way (down) past gorgeous Victorian mansions. During your 3 days here see major sights such as Alcatraz, the Golden Gate Bridge and Fisherman’s Wharf.

Collect your rental vehicle and depart San Francisco in the morning and start your journey south along the Pacific Highway en route to the coastal city of Monterey for a 2-night stay. The coastal drive from San Francisco to Monterey is one of the top scenic drives in the US so take your time and enjoy the 2-hour journey. Monterey has a scenic location and offers a lot for visitors. Visit Cannery Row, visit the aquarium or take a boat tour to see marine species in their natural habitat.

After you’ve had your fill of Monterey, it’s time to drive the famous and spectacular Highway 1 towards Big Sur. Make sure to stop and check out the view from Bixby Bridge, one of the largest single-span concrete bridges in the world, and one of the most photographed bridges in California. Consider visiting Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, McWay Falls, Point Sur State Historic Park, and Big Sur State Historic Park. Each place is unique, but all provide breathtaking views, so make sure to pack a pair of comfortable shoes and a camera. Overnight at Big Sur Lodge, nestled deep in the mighty redwood forest of Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park.

After savouring the breathtaking views, continue south to Morro Bay, which is an incredibly quaint coastal town with a much slower pace for an overnight stay. Sit at the beach and stare into the water, which is filled to the brim with local seals and otters who will swim by and wave hello. Visitors who are feeling a bit more motivated could even hop on one of the many seal and whale watching tour boats waiting at the docks or visit Hearst Castle for a tour, and pop your head in across the street at the Hearst Ranch to try one of their wine varietals.

This morning you’ll head south to the 'American Riviera' city of Santa Barbara for a 2-night stay. This unforgettable destination offers sparkling beaches, majestic mountain ranges, 300 days of sunshine a year and signature Spanish Revival architecture. En-route visit Pismo Beach, where you can take in beautiful views, eat some delicious food, and explore a cute downtown.

Today you’ll arrive in the sprawling city of Los Angeles for a 3-night stay. Here you’ll find all kinds of things to do and interesting neighbourhoods to explore. Recent upgrades to the public transportation network and the addition of a bike share program in downtown LA have made getting around and sightseeing easier than ever. For families, nearby Disneyland and Universal Studios are key destinations.

San Diego is the perfect place to finish your California road-trip adventure. Located not far from the Mexico border, it is the oldest town in California offering an enchanting natural beauty and a pleasant climate. During your 2-night stay, explore some of the city's most popular attractions including the Spanish Colonial-style architecture found in Balboa Park; the world famous San Diego Zoo; and the Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum. For a little history and shopping, stroll the streets of Old Town San Diego State Historic Park or wander through the Gaslamp Quarter.

Enjoy a final day in San Diego before returning your rental vehicle to the airport. Alternatively, speak with your Discover North America Travel Specialist about extending your trip.