Arrive into San Francisco International airport, collect your bags and transfer to your hotel.

Home of the majestic Wine Country and the Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco is well-known for its historic cable cars and bustling Union Square. Enjoy your first evening along the colourful waterfront.

The Riu Plaza Fisherman’s Wharf or similar

Today, you are free to discover the many sights and sounds of San Francisco. Perhaps take a cable car ride from Fisherman’s Wharf to Union Square, or visit the famous Alcatraz Island.

This evening, dine in one of San Francisco’s many distinctive neighbourhoods, from Chinatown to the very Italian flavoured North Beach, each offers its own distinctive culture and cuisine.

Optional Experience – San Francisco Hop on Hop off Bus Tour
See San Francisco from the top of an authentic English Double Decker Bus! This is a fully narrated sightseeing tour. Enjoy the city lights and skyline on the Night Loop.

Optional Experience – Alcatraz Island Tour
Welcome to Alcatraz; once home to some of America’s most notorious criminals. Delve into the island’s remarkable history on this essential tour.

The Riu Plaza Fisherman’s Wharf or similar

After collecting your car this morning, jump on to Highway 1, the Pacific Coast toward Monterey.

After being swept away by views of the Pacific Ocean, spend the late afternoon enjoying the artisan city of Monterey. Monterey Bay is a fantastic place to view whales and boat tours are offered locally.

Optional Experience – Monterey Whale Watching
Join Discovery Whale Watch for an inspiring and educational experience with amazing marine wildlife in Monterey Bay.

San Francisco > Monterey | 120 miles

Abrego Hotel or similar

Continue south with a picturesque drive along the beautiful Pacific Coast Highway toward Santa Barbara.

Begin your day driving along one of the most photographed coastlines in California; Big Sur. This stretch of cliff-lined coast offers spectacular views along the winding road.

You may choose to break your journey along the Pacific Coast Highway at Pismo Beach before continuing southwards.

Santa Barbara is a seaside gem. The city’s white-washed buildings and red-tiled roofs reflect its Spanish colonial history, whilst its designer boutique shops and gourmet restaurants more reflect the aspirations of current residents.

This beautiful city enjoys an almost perfect year-round climate allowing you to enjoy the outdoor lifestyle and attractions any time.

Stroll through the Santa Barbara Botanic Gardens, hike a scenic nature trail in Los Padres National Forest or enjoy one of the stunning beaches, all of which have their own allure.

In the early evening, visit Stearn’s Wharf and enjoy a sumptuous meal of fresh seafood at one of the many restaurants.

Monterey > Santa Barbara | 250 miles

Mar Monte Hotel or similar

When leaving Santa Barbara rejoin the Pacific Coast Highway following signs towards Los Angeles.

With the Santa Monica Mountains inland, the road hugs the coast all the way. You may like to stop at Malibu which is well known for its celebrity homes as well as its surf beach.

Continue on Highway 1, before exiting at Santa Monica, to check-in at your hotel near the beach.

Santa Barbara > Santa Monica | 85 miles

Le Meridien Delfina or similar

Los Angeles by the sea, Santa Monica is a seaside town most famous for its pier and the fact that it is the end of the historic Route 66.

Santa Monica is very walkable, so spend a day out of the car exploring on foot. Wander down to the soft golden sands and walk along the paved promenade, watching the fitness followers and families at play. Walk out onto the historic pier where a variety of amusements and rollercoasters dominate the skyline.

Alternatively, the train links Santa Monica with Downtown Los Angeles so if you want to explore the city independently this is a simple way to avoid the traffic. Alternatively, join a sightseeing bus tour to take in the Hollywood studios and the Walk of Fame.

You could choose to go behind the scenes of Paramount Studios or enjoy the fun at Universal Studios also in Hollywood. For the full theme park experience drive to Anaheim to enjoy the rides at Disneyland.

Optional Experience – Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour
A fun, informative and easy way to explore the wonders of Los Angeles. Stopping by all of the major sights and attractions. Your pass will be valid for 24 hours.

Le Meridien Delfina or similar

The last section of Highway 1 runs south from Santa Monica, past LAX airport and down to Long Beach.

You may like to stop at huntington Beach or Newport Beach, but some of the best beaches can be found a little further south at Laguna Beach and Surf Creek.

At Capistrano Beach, Highway 1 merges with the San Diego Freeway and this can be followed all the way down the coast and towards the city centre.

Santa Monica > San Diego | 138 miles

Kona Kai Resort or similar

The compact city of San Diego is home to SeaWorld® Adventure Park and the San Diego Zoo. These world-class attractions feature a variety of spectacular sights and activities. A variety of animal-themed shows are featured here and it’s even possible to take a behind the scenes tour.

Choose to take a walk along the spectacular sands of Ocean and Mission Beach, or cross the uniquely curved Coronado Bridge to access the island beyond the city. Alternatively you can explore the gardens and trails of Bilboa Park, or wander the historic Old Town. Don’t forget to try some authentic Mexican cuisine.

Optional Experience – San Diego Old Town Trolley
See the best of San Diego while touring at your own pace on a traditional orange and green trolley-bus.

Kona Kai Resort or similar

Your Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip comes to end as you make your way to San Diego International Airport to return your car and check-in for your return flights.