California Dreaming: Coast, Culture, and Carmel

Scenic Drive to Santa Barbara

Kick off your adventure heading north along the breathtaking California coast. Your first destination is beautiful Santa Barbara, where palm-lined beaches and red-tiled roofs meet mountain backdrops.

Santa Barbara Spanish Mission Experience 

Step back in time at a historic Spanish mission. Discover how these picturesque religious outposts played a vital role in shaping the heritage and growth of the entire region.

Danish Delights in Solvang 

Continue to the storybook village of Solvang, a charming Danish-style town nestled in rolling wine country. Stroll through streets lined with windmills, browse boutique shops, and perhaps sample authentic Danish pastries for a sweet treat.

Iconic California Coast Drive 

Rejoin the famous Pacific Coast on legendary Route 1. Revel in awe-inspiring ocean vistas, rugged cliffs, and cypress groves. Depending on your vehicle, travel either the scenic southern portion of Route 1 or the renowned 17-Mile Drive, famed for dramatic coastline and luxury estates.

Carmel-by-the-Sea Visit 

Visit the artistic village of Carmel, once home to actor Clint Eastwood. Wander its fairytale cottages, vibrant galleries, and white-sand beaches. Enjoy the enchanting coastal vibe that makes Carmel a California gem.

Arrival in San Francisco

Relax and soak in the mesmerizing views as you journey north toward the Bay Area, reaching San Francisco by evening.

Golden Gate Adventures & Bayfront Wonders Day

Sail San Francisco’s Iconic Bay

Start your unforgettable day at the lively Fisherman’s Wharf, where we set sail on a scenic bay cruise. Glide past awe-inspiring sights, including the majestic Golden Gate Bridge and the storied Alcatraz Island, on your way to picturesque Sausalito. The sparkling city skyline and salty sea air set the perfect tone for adventure.

Lunch & Leisure at Pier 39

Return to the bustling heart of the waterfront at Pier 39. Enjoy a leisurely lunch among colorful shops, street performers, and famed sea lions basking on floating docks.

San Francisco Landmarks Tour

After lunch, immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant culture. Our guided tour stops at the iconic Golden Gate Bridge for the perfect photo op before proceeding to Union Square’s bustling boutiques, the historic streets of Chinatown, and the elegant heights of Nob Hill.

Panoramic City Views

As the sun sets, cross the Bay Bridge for sweeping views of San Francisco’s sparkling skyline. Relax and absorb the last golden rays of the day as we head to your hotel in Modesto.

Meals: Breakfast

Yosemite Adventure: Cliffs, Falls, Memories

Across the Joaquin Valley 

Depart San Francisco and travel east through the fertile farmlands of the Joaquin Valley, watching endless orchards and fields fade into the rising Sierra Nevada mountains.

Explore Yosemite National Park Wonders

Arrive in breathtaking Yosemite National Park, a pristine wonderland sprawling across 1,200 square miles of forested valleys, shimmering lakes, iconic cliffs, and roaring waterfalls.

Scenic Highlights: El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall & Half Dome 

Marvel at the grandeur of El Capitan’s 3,000-foot granite wall—a magnet for climbers from across the globe. Watch Bridalveil Fall, a lacy ribbon of water cascading down the mountainside, and gaze up at the magnificent Half Dome, Yosemite’s most recognizable natural monument.

Yosemite Falls Hike 

Visit the Yosemite Visitor Center and enjoy a walk through lush meadows and pine-scented forests to the base of spectacular Yosemite Falls, thundering down 730 meters—among the tallest waterfalls in North America.

Return to Los Angeles

After soaking up Yosemite’s inspirational scenery, settle in for a relaxing journey back to Los Angeles, reminiscing about your incredible day exploring one of America’s most treasured national parks.

Meals: Breakfast