Three iconic cities, the rolling vineyards of the Central Coast, and the chance to drive arguably the finest coast road in the world all combine perfectly to create this classic road trip from San Francisco in the north to San Diego in the south.
San Francisco delights with its mix of icons, from cable cars and Fisherman’s Wharf to the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz.
The Central Coast reveals rolling vineyards, charming Carmel and Monterey Bay’s timeless mix of beaches, wildlife and villages.
Driving the Pacific Coast Highway through Big Sur offers breathtaking ocean views, rugged cliffs and unforgettable scenery.
Santa Barbara, known as the American Riviera, combines golden beaches, mountain backdrops and outstanding local wines.
San Diego’s laid-back charm blends sun-drenched beaches with vibrant neighbourhoods, cultural treasures and coastal dining.
After arriving in San Francisco, a private transfer will take you to the Argonaut Hotel for a three-night stay. The hotel offers views of the Golden Gate Bridge and easy access to many popular attractions. Walk to Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39, hop on a cable car over the hill to Union Square, ride a streetcar along the Embarcadero, or board a ferry to infamous Alcatraz.
Collect your hire car and head off down the coast past Monterey Bay to Carmel Valley Ranch in the heart of California’s Central Coast wine country. The ranch sits on a hill amid 500 acres of rolling hills and farmland, complete with river, lakes and vineyards. It makes a wonderful contrast to the busy coastal villages of Monterey, Carmel-by-the-Sea and Pebble Beach, which are a short 10-minute drive down the valley to the sea.
The route today from Carmel to Pismo Beach is easily one of the most spectacular coastal drives in the world. It follows the legendary Pacific Coast Highway, which literally clings to America’s western edge, snaking its way above the surf-carved seascapes of Big Sur, a coastal wilderness where the Santa Lucia Mountains meet the roaring Pacific Ocean. Look out for elephant seals at Point Pedras Blancas just north of San Simeon, then check in for the night at Vespera on Pismo Beach, Autograph Collection.
Continue south to Santa Barbara, an idyllic town set between the mountains and the sea, sometimes referred to as the ‘American Riviera’ and check in for two nights at El Encanto. Enjoy wonderful wines from the surrounding vineyards and dine on the delicious food that’s synonymous with the area.
Prepare to feel like a movie star as you settle into The Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills for a two-night stay. Shop till you drop on Rodeo Drive, walk among the stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, go behind the scenes of a real working movie set at Universal Studios Hollywood, or soak up the sun in playful Santa Monica.
A short drive will take you to Laguna Beach, famed for its secluded coves and surf spots, not to mention its galleries and trendy arts festivals. Take time to relax here with a three-night stay at Montage Laguna Beach. The beach and ocean views are the main attractions, though the excellent Loft restaurant and ocean-inspired spa never fail to disappoint.
The trip ends in style with a two-night stay at the iconic Hotel del Coronado, which sits on 26 acres of prime Pacific beachfront, a stone's throw from San Diego. Perhaps visit the USS Midway Museum, LEGOLAND or San Diego Zoo, or venture downtown to the bars and restaurants of the historic Gaslamp Quarter. Return your hire car at the airport on day 16 in time for your flight home.