Iconic Highway 1 Fly Drive

San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge
Discover the dark history of Alcatraz*
Drive the 'Big Sur' coastal road
Spanish colonial influenced Santa Barbara
Drive through LA's Malibu & Santa Monica
Sample local produce at The Original Farmers Market on 3rd & Fairfax
Immerse yourself in movie magic at Warner Bros Studios*

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

Combine California's most famous cities with it's most iconic stretch of road on a relaxed, easy journey.

California’s coastal highway is, for many, the epitome of the American road trip having featured in countless movies and TV shows over the years. The sweeping road takes you from San Francisco in the north to Los Angeles in the south via dramatic ocean views, secluded coves and quaint holiday towns.

Day 1 to 3 (Arrival and overnight San Francisco)

The City by the Bay

Think San Fran, and the first thing to come to mind is probably an iconic image of the Golden Gate Bridge. Well, it is said to be one of the most photographed things in the world. Head down to Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39, and say hello to the community of sea lions that have made the pier their home. Lovers of seafood will be in heaven as you sample the delights of crab and shrimp cocktails from the famous street vendors. San Francisco is known as one of America’s best restaurant cities, so if you prefer a more traditional dining experience, there is sure to be something that takes your fancy.

Day 1 to 3 (Arrival and overnight San Francisco)

Alcatraz Island Tour From San Francisco Pier 33

Alcatraz Island Tour (Optional Extra)

Once home to some of Americas' most notorious criminals, no visit to San Francisco would be complete without a tour of 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 you are free to leave whenever you like and Alcatraz Ferries are standing by to whisk you back to dry land.

It's recommended to 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 Monterey - 119 Mi)

San Francisco to Monterey

Collect your car and start your journey down Highway 1. Monterey is a lively seaside town with an active harbour, fantastic aquarium and plenty of bars and restaurants. Make a stop in neighbouring Carmel where the way of life is distinctly slower.

Distance approx: 119 Mi
Time to travel approx: 2 hour

Day 6 (Monterey to Pismo Beach - 155 Mi)

Monterey to Pismo Beach

Take the coastal drive down the most famous stretch of Highway 1, known as the Big Sur and recognisable from innumerable movies and music videos. This dramatic stretch of coast offers photo opportunities at every turn.

Distance approx: 155 Mi
Time to travel approx: 2.5 hour

Please Note: Although the road between Big Sur (north) and Ragged Point (south) along Highway 1 remains closed following adverse weather conditions which affected the area in early 2017, it is now confirmed that Highway 1 is scheduled to be fully open once again from late September 2018.

Day 7 & 8 (Pismo Beach to Santa Barbara - 82 Mi)

Pismo Beach to Santa Barbara

Rocky coves start to give way to broad beaches and the coastal pine trees relent to swaying palms as you enter southern California. Spanish influenced Santa Barbara is a patchwork of terracotta roofs and white washed walls with the laid back atmosphere you would expect in this seaside town.

Distance approx: 82 Mi
Time to travel approx: 1.5 hour

Day 9 to 11 (Santa Barbara to Los Angeles - 95 Mi)

Santa Barbara to Los Angeles

Journey past affluent towns, like Malibu, where celebrities escape the crowds in their cliff top homes on your way into Los Angeles. Once in LA,bask in the sun on Santa Monica Beach, hit the shops of Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills and see the stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Take a day to visit incredible Universal Studios Hollywood, where thrilling rides sit next to the movie lots of old that are still used today.

Distance approx: 95 Mi
Time to travel approx: 1 hour 45 minutes

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!

Pismo Beach

SeaCrest Oceanfront Hotel

Seacrest Oceanfront Hotel has the amenities, comfortable accommodation and fabulous beachside location to make a holiday to California’s central coast a memorable one. Within easy reach are an array of excellent golf courses, stellar wineries and hiking or biking trails, making adventures into California all the more accessible, while back at the hotel you can make the most of the swimming pool and sea views, as you kick back and relax, drink in hand.

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 2nd December 2023 - 16th December 2024

from £2,799pp

Supplements

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