Immerse yourself in movie magic at Universal Studios Hollywood*
Drive the iconic Pacific Coast Highway
Explore San Francisco’s Alcatraz* and Golden Gate Bridge
Lose yourself in awe inspiring Yosemite National Park
Discover towns lost to history in Death Valley
Refresh at the desert oasis of Palm Springs
International flights, accommodation and car hire included in the price
* Optional Extra - please speak to one of our USA Travel Specialists to book.
Delve into the American west and discover stunning wilderness and buzzing cities.
Want to really explore California in all its glory? Then this 15-night itinerary is just for you! Start your trip of a lifetime in the Golden State’s most southerly city, San Diego before travelling north up the coast to glitzy Los Angeles, the ‘City by the Bay’ (that’s San Francisco) and seaside Monterey. But wait, that’s not all! Take in the dramatic scenery of two exceptional national parks: Yosemite and Death Valley. And the cherry on top is a few days in Las Vegas – hello America’s playground!
Itinerary idea in detail
Day 1-2: Arrival and overnight in San Diego
San Diego
Day 1-2: Arrival and overnight in San Diego
California’s
southernmost city enjoys strong cultural and culinary links to Mexico.
Collect your car at the airport then spend your days exploring Old Town,
revelling in the Gaslamp Quarter or relaxing on one of the many beaches. Balboa Park is a must-see for first time visitors.
Day 3-4: San Diego to Los Angeles - 120 Mi
San Diego to Los Angeles
Day 3-4: San Diego to Los Angeles - 120 Mi
A short drive north is the entertainment capital of the world. Discover the Golden Age of Hollywood along the Walk of Fame, enjoy the thrills of Universal Studios and
shop with the stars in Beverly Hills. To escape the city, head to the coast and beautiful Santa Monica.
Distance approx: 120 Mi Time to travel approx: 2 hour
Day 5: Los Angeles to Santa Barbara - 95 Mi
Los Angeles to Santa Barbara
Day 5: Los Angeles to Santa Barbara - 95 Mi
This small town has a picturesque port, a beautiful beach and some fantastic shopping on State Street. It also benefits from its proximity to California’s second
largest wine growing region.
Distance approx: 95 Mi Time to travel approx: 1 hour 45 minutes
Day 6: Santa Barbara to Monterey - 240 Mi
Santa Barbara to Monterey
Day 6: Santa Barbara to Monterey - 240 Mi
Today’s journey takes you up the coast, past Pismo Beach and Cambria, to the famous Big Sur. The iconic stretch of road hugs the cliff as it sweeps past forests and bays to the harbour town of Monterey.
Distance approx: 240 Mi Time to travel approx: 4 hour
Please Note: The road between Big Sur (north) and Ragged Point (south) along Highway 1 remains closed following adverse weather conditions that affected the area in early 2017. The road is anticipated to reopen late 2017. Alternative routes are available via US-101.
Day 7-8: Monterey to San Francisco - 119 Mi
Monterey to San Francisco
Day 7-8: Monterey to San Francisco - 119 Mi
As you step into San Francisco the chiming of the cable cars, the historic ferry building
and the haunting shadow of Alcatraz evoke the history of this western outpost. Now a thoroughly modern city, San Francisco is adored for its friendly neighbourhoods and fantastic cuisine.
Distance approx: 119 Mi Time to travel approx: 2 hour
Day 9-10: San Francisco to Yosemite - 210 Mi
San Francisco to Yosemite National Park
Day 9-10: San Francisco to Yosemite - 210 Mi
Leave the coast behind and head into the stunning Sierra Nevada mountain range. Yosemite National Park is a nature lover’s paradise with groves of sequoia trees, bountiful wildlife and all of it is framed by soaring granite peaks and cascading waterfalls.
Distance approx: 210 Mi Time to travel approx: 4 hour
Note: It's advised to check the ‘National Park Service’ website before setting off, as changing weather conditions can often mean temporary road closures and reroutes around the parks.
Day 11-12: Yosemite to Death Valley - 332 Mi
Yosemite National Park to Death Valley National Park
Day 11-12: Yosemite to Death Valley - 332 Mi
Heading southeast out of the mountains, this varied journey brings you to the hottest place in the USA: Death Valley National Park. Home to a remarkable diversity of flora and fauna, Death Valley also boasts many spectacular vistas.
Distance approx: 332 Mi Time to travel approx: 5 hour
Note: It's advised to check the ‘National Park Service’ website before setting off, as changing weather conditions can often mean temporary road closures and reroutes around the parks.
Day 13-14: Death Valley to Las Vegas - 120 Mi
Death Valley National Park to Las Vegas
Day 13-14: Death Valley to Las Vegas - 120 Mi
Will Lady Luck smile on you amid the glittering lights of Las Vegas? Take the roulette wheel for a spin, enjoy a flight to witness the Grand Canyon or relax by the
pool at one of the fabulous resort hotels.
Distance approx: 120 Mi Time to travel approx: 2 hour
Day 15: Las Vegas to Palm Springs - 227 Mi
Las Vegas to Palm Springs
Day 15: Las Vegas to Palm Springs - 227 Mi
Famous as a spa retreat for LA’s rich and famous, Palm Springs is an oasis in the desert for weary travellers. Gorgeous hotels and fantastic golf sits beside a buzzing foodie scene and some great bars.
Distance approx: 227 Mi Time to travel approx: 4 hour
Hotels
San Francisco
The Westin St. Francis
Located in downtown San Francisco, The Westin St. Francis boasts an enviable position on Union Square, within easy distance of local shopping, bars and restaurants. Inside the hotel guests can make use of a spa, fitness centre and two restaurants.
Monterey
Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa
The Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa on Del Monte Golf Course is nestled within 22 acres of pines on Del Monte Golf Course along California’s Central Coast. Facilities include 2 heated swimming pools and a Marilyn Monroe Spa.
Santa Barbara
Harbor View Inn
Guests looking for a comfortable base from which to explore the surrounds of Santa Barbara will find the Harbor View Inn to be the perfect spot. Rooms at this traditionally red-roofed hotel are warm and comfortably furnished and the rest of the hotel well-appointed. In fact, with a restaurant and spa on-site and delightful views across the beach, you needn't leave the hotel at all!
Death Valley National Park
The Oasis at Death Valley
Located in California’s famous Death Valley, The Oasis at Death Valley
provides an oasis of relaxation amid the arid desert from where guests
can enjoy their incredible surroundings.
Yosemite National Park
Yosemite Valley Lodge
Set amidst the famous natural wonders of Yosemite National Park, the Yosemite Valley Lodge is the closest guests can get to staying right by the thunderous Yosemite Falls.
Las Vegas
Luxor Resort & Casino
Luxor Las Vegas is one of Sin City’s many unique experiences – where else can you sleep inside a pyramid? Inside this landmark hotel you’ll find delectable dining at more than 10 restaurants, exciting nightlife and entertainment, one of the largest pool decks in the city and an elevator that runs at a 39 degree angle!
Palm Springs
Avalon Hotel & Bungalows Palm Springs
A boutique hideaway in the heart of Downtown Palm Springs, the Avalon Hotel & Bungalows Palm Springs provides an oasis of sophistication just steps from the shops, bars and restaurants of this desert city.
San Diego
Kona Kai Resort & Spa
Immerse yourself in luxury island life at Kona Kai Resort and Spa, a Noble House Resort. Close your eyes and relax in the warm Californian sun from comfort of Kona Kai beach, one of the few privately own beaches in California. Over looking the San Diego Bay and marina, Koni Kia Offers the perfect blend of Spanish traditions and modern infused living.
Downtown LA
The Standard Downtown LA
Known for its psychedelic décor and minimalist guestrooms, The Standard is a firm favourite LA hotel which offers far more than simply its eye-catching design. Of the many draws here, in addition to its prime downtown location, retro 1950’s architecture and edgy artworks, it is The Standard’s rooftop terrace that sets it apart; one of the best bars in LA for the city views alone.
Pricing
All prices shown represent a from price per person based on low season travel unless otherwise stated. Availability of tour components and flights seats change continually, affecting the final price. The lead-in price given is therefore for guidance only. To obtain a tailored quote for you and your party, please call one of our travel experts today.
This fly drive itinerary runs all year round
from
1st January 2025 - 31st December 2025
from £3,499pp
From (date dependent)
1st January 2026 - 31st December 2026
from £3,299pp
Supplements
Resort Fee/Tourist Tax - required by some hotels at check in (subject to change)
Important Info
Important info
Drivers must be over 25 years old and able to provide a full valid driving license
Consider using public transport when in cities as traffic can be busy
When parking in the US, park facing the destination of travel
All cars are covered with Platinum or Gold cover
We highly recommend checking (or requesting) a SatNav to be included in your car
Children are legally required to have the correct car seat when in the US so please provide accurate ages of any children travelling
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