My Flydrive Enquiry : Californian Discovery

14 nights

From £1,959pp

Current Travel Advice | Flexible Booking Policy Covid - 19 USA Entry Requirements

Californian Discovery

My Trip Ideas

Californian Discovery

Iconic Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz*
Award winning wine in Napa Valley
Yosemite National Park
Pristine white sands and Pacific Ocean
Santa Monica and Beverly Hill
Immerse yourself in movie magic at Universal Studios Hollywood*

* Optional Extra - Please speak to one of our USA Travel Specialists to book.

Dream big and explore a world of diversity in one state - California!

Spend a few days exploring California, and you’ll find yourself asking why you haven’t visited sooner. With a diverse array of experiences to unearth, California has something for the entire family. Whether you want some time to relax on the beach, embark on a day of discover in Yosemite National Park, or explore the history of America’s most notorious criminals on Alcatraz – it’s all here waiting for you!

Itinerary

Day 1 to 3 (Arrival and overnight in San Francisco

The City by the Bay

San Francisco has a little bit of everything, for everyone. Think San Fran, and its probably an iconic image of the Golden Gate Bridge that springs to mind. Well, it is said to be one of the most photographed things in the world. Down at Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39, stop and say hello to the community of sea lions that have made the pier their home. Seafood lovers will be in heaven too as you sample the delights of crab and shrimp cocktails from the famous crab vendors. Or if you prefer the more traditional dining experience, San Francisco is known as one of America’s best restaurant cities so there is sure to be something that takes your fancy.

Place of Interest: If it’s some serious shopping you’re after, Union Square is the place to be. Exclusive designer boutiques line the streets, and the Westfield San Francisco Shopping Centre is home to the largest Bloomingdales outside of New York.

INCLUDES : Room Only

Day 1 to 3 (Arrival and overnight in San Francisco

Alcatraz Island Tour From San Francisco Pier 33

Alcatraz Island Tour (Optional Extra)

No visit to San Francisco would be complete without a trip across the bay to the former home of some of Americas' most notorious criminals – Alcatraz! Discover the murky history of 'The Rock' and explore the prison grounds and cell-houses that former inmates used to roam. No inmate ever knowingly managed to escaped Alcatraz, however luckily for you Alcatraz Ferries are standing by to whisk you back to dry land.

We recommend that you pre-book your Alcatraz tour tickets before you travel. Due to popularity, tickets can often sell out up to 2 weeks in advance. Speak our USA sales specialists about booking your tickets.

Alcatraz Island Tour From San Francisco Pier 33

Day 4 & 5 (San Francisco to Napa Valley - 60 Mi)

Napa Valley Wine Country

Home to some of the finest wineries in the world, Napa Valley is a hive of thriving colour and vegetation. With over 400 wineries scattered throughout the region, be sure to visit at least one where you can discover new seasonal flavours straight from the barrel. And what should always accompany a good glass (or bottle) of crisp white or full bodied red? An award winning culinary experience, and Napa Valley certainly isn’t short in that department when it comes to dining options.

Distance approx: 60 Mi
Time to travel approx: 1 hour 15 minutes

Place of Interest: In the heart of Napa is Oxbow Public Market. Open 7 days a week, it’s a fantastic place to head to if you want to grab some great food and sample some of the exceptional wine produce of the local region.

INCLUDES : Breakfast

Day 4 & 5 (San Francisco to Napa Valley - 60 Mi)

Day 6 & 7 (Napa Valley to Yosemite - 237 Mi)

Outstanding Natural Beauty

A place of outstanding natural beauty, Yosemite National Park is simply breath-taking. Awe-inspiring photo opportunities are found around every corner so it’s easy to forget how much more there is to discover. Visit between May and June for some of the best view of the falls, as the snowmelt during this time means that the streams and waterfalls flow full. September and October are also very good times to visit Yosemite as the park sees far fewer people, and the landscape changes from vibrant greens to the golden browns of fall.

Distance approx: 237 Mi
Time to travel approx: 4 hours

Place of Interest: A visit to Glacier Point will not disappoint! At 3,214 ft. above the Yosemite Valley floor, it is possibly one of the most spectacular points from where to view Yosemite Valley, Half Dome and Yosemite Falls in one place.

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.

INCLUDES : Room Only

Day 6 & 7 (Napa Valley to Yosemite - 237 Mi)

Day 8 to 10 (Yosemite to Carmel - 189 Mi)

Unique Charm in Abundance

Continually rated as one of the Top 10 destination in the USA, it’s no wonder why Carmel-by-the-sea has been attracting celebrities and sparking romances, year after year. As beach towns go, this one sits right up there. Pristine white sandy beaches and a village full of charming courtyards and secret passageways summarises Carmel perfectly. Don’t expect to see any street addresses, mailboxes or streetlamps outside of Carmel’s downtown area either. Adding to its unique charm, you’ll also find an abundant of local eateries, pubs and restaurants, but chain restaurants and shops you will not.

Distance approx: 189 Mi
Time to travel approx: 3.5 hours

Place of Interest: Take some time to visit ‘Lovers Point Park and Beach’ in Pacific Grove. Not only is it a fantastic spot to relax by the shore and enjoy a picnic, but if you manage to get there early enough it is one of the few places on the West Coast where you can watch the sun slowly rise over the water.

INCLUDES : Breakfast

Day 8 to 10 (Yosemite to Carmel - 189 Mi)

Day 11 to 12 (Carmel to Santa Barbara - 238 Mi)

The American Riviera

Known as the American Riviera, Santa Barbara sits nestled on the coast of the Pacific Ocean just 1.5 hours’ drive from Los Angeles. Spend a day soaking up the California rays on Santa Barbara’s pristine beaches, where you can also watch local fisherman bring in their catch of the day. A very Spanish Colonial influence runs through Santa Barbara and can be seen around every corner. No more so than in the distinct architecture found at the Old Mission Santa Barbara.

Distance approx: 189 Mi
Time to travel approx: 3.5 hours

Place of Interest: Take a stroll along Stearns Wharf - California’s oldest working wharf -and enjoy sparkling ocean views, spend time tantalising your taste buds at the Deep Sea Wines tasting room, or grab a bite to eat at one of the numerous restaurants located along it.

INCLUDES : Room Only

Day 11 to 12 (Carmel to Santa Barbara - 238 Mi)

Day 13 to 14 (Santa Barbara to Los Angeles - 92 Mi

The City of Angeles

Los Angeles – The Entertainment Capital of the World! Take a drive through Beverly Hills to see how the A-listers live when at home in L.A., before taking a drive down Rodeo Drive. Remember to keep your eyes peeled. You never know which Hollywood superstar you'll be bumping into next. Looking to spend a few extra days on the beach to unwind? No visit to Santa Monica would be complete without a stroll along Santa Monica Pier - the last point of historic Route 66. Los Angeles has 75 miles of sunny coastline too, so if its sand between your toes you’re after, Santa Monica has it covered.

Distance approx: 92Mi
Time to travel approx: 2 hours

Place of Interest: The Original Farmers Market has been a favourite with locals and tourists since the 1930’s, and it not hard to see why. With over 100 grocers and restaurants, this is a great place to enjoy a bite to eat and some shopping.

INCLUDES : Room Only

Day 13 to 14 (Santa Barbara to Los Angeles - 92 Mi

Hotels

San Francisco

Kimpton Sir Francis Drake

Located in downtown San Francisco, Kimpton Sir Francis Drake features a regal and retro theme with beefeater doormen and Italian renaissance furnishings. Guests can enjoy a complimentary wine hour, dine at the hotel's rooftop bar and make the most of a full calendar of events.

Carmel

Carmel Mission Inn

Carmel Mission Inn is a charming hotel surrounded by beautiful beaches and top notch golf courses. Guests staying here will no doubt enjoy modern, colourful rooms, the heated outdoor pool, spacious hot tub, fitness room, spa services, free parking and complimentary Wi-Fi.

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!

Napa

Embassy Suites by Hilton Napa Valley

Travellers looking for spacious and comfortable accommodation in the heart of the California wine region will find just that here at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Napa Valley. All suites offer a separate bedroom and living room and guests are invited to enjoy a complimentary breakfast and evening wine reception. There's also an indoor/outdoor pool, fitness centre and bikes available for hire.

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.

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

15th February 2021 - 31st December 2021

£1,959pp

1st January 2022 - 31st December 2022

£2,159pp

Supplements

Resort Fee/Tourist Tax - required by some hotels at check in (subject to change)