From the misty redwood forests and gently rolling vineyards of the north to the sweeping deserts and sun-kissed beaches of the south, California’s diversity makes it one of the most exciting states to visit in the whole of the USA.
Beaches, forests, deserts and vineyard-covered hills make California one of the most geographically varied US states.
The north holds some of the state’s best scenery, from Yosemite to Lake Tahoe, and the wine-producing valleys of Napa and Sonoma.
San Francisco’s hills, vintage cable cars and bay views set the scene for icons like Alcatraz, the Golden Gate Bridge and the Pacific Coast Highway.
From Beverly Hills to Santa Monica and Hollywood, LA remains one of the most recognisable and varied cities in the country.
Continue south through California to reach Palm Springs in the desert, followed by San Diego’s beaches, Gaslamp Quarter and nearby Coronado Island.
If America has an answer to Tuscany, it’s Napa Valley and Sonoma, where world-class wines meet exceptional hotels and restaurants. To the east, Lake Tahoe shimmers in shades of green and blue, a paradise for watersports enthusiasts in summer and skiers in winter. Further south, Yosemite National Park showcases iconic landscapes, from El Capitan, the world’s largest granite monolith, to Yosemite Falls and Half Dome.
Below wine country lies the City by the Bay, San Francisco, home to vintage cable cars, Alcatraz, Fisherman’s Wharf and the Golden Gate Bridge. It also marks the start of one of the world’s greatest roads: the Pacific Coast Highway. This breathtaking drive winds along the Big Sur coastline, a dramatic stretch where cliffs plunge into the roaring Pacific. From there, head to Santa Barbara, the ‘American Riviera’, before arriving in the glamour of Los Angeles.
LA has something for everyone, from Beverly Hills’ designer boutiques to the amusements of Santa Monica and Hollywood’s famed attractions. Further south, Palm Springs offers a desert escape, while San Diego’s stunning beaches and vibrant downtown make it an irresistible finale.
Southern California can be visited year-round; summers are hot and dry while winters are slightly cooler with a small amount of rain. Northern California has a more temperate climate with warm summer days but cold winters. The northern coast experiences rain and fog during the winter while the mountains have some snowfall.
Popular among celebrities and beach-loving families for over 130 years, 'The Del' - as it's affectionately known - is ideally located on the powdery white sands of the Pacific coast yet is only a stone’s throw from sizzling San Diego.
Tucked beside the yacht-dotted harbour, Pendry Newport Beach blends coastal elegance with effortless California cool. Expect light-filled suites, a serene spa, vibrant dining and a distinct sense of place, all crafted with refined detail and contemporary flair.
Designed by Frank Gehry, this striking hotel overlooks the Walt Disney Concert Hall and LA’s sparkling skyline. Steps from world-class museums, dining, shopping and nightlife, it’s the perfect base for exploring Downtown LA’s vibrant arts and entertainment scene.
With impressive views of both the city and the bay, Fairmont San Francisco occupies a coveted spot atop well-heeled Nob Hill, near the only spot where each of the city’s cable car lines meet.
As one of only two luxury hotels on the beach in Santa Monica, Shutters offers breathtaking ocean views in a beach-house setting that combines the barefoot ease of the west coast with the elegance of Cape Cod and the north-east.
Housed in an historic waterfront warehouse, the Argonaut Hotel blends nautical charm with boutique luxury. With views of Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge, spacious rooms, eco-conscious touches and unbeatable access to Fisherman’s Wharf, it’s ideal for stylish city explorers.