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
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
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
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
Wine Tasting and Ranch Life
Today you can drive around the region as you enjoy the Napa vineyards and fabulous wine.
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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.
- 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
AUTHENTICITYWe won't take you to the usual tourist traps, instead we'll introduce you to people that show you the true side of a country. With our contacts in each destination, we can arrange for you to meet locals away from the crowds and ensure an authentic experience.
EXPERTISEYou can rely on our extensive first-hand knowledge and years of experience in the country you’re visiting. We use only the best expert guides, and provide insider tips on the local customs, and everything from vibrant festivals to hidden Himalayan monasteries
PERSONAL SERVICEYour vacation will be as unique as you are. By getting to know you and what makes you tick, we fuse our wealth of expertise and a deep understanding of our destinations to create unique day by day itineraries that are built around you.
