Arrive in Southern California and collect your car from Los Angeles International Airport and follow Highway 1 for just 20 minutes to the seaside city of Santa Monica.

Santa Monica is Los Angeles’ beach suburb – a charming coastal town with all of the culture, events and urban amenities of a bustling metropolis. The blend of Santa Monica’s natural beauty, award winning dining and famed shopping options, all on one of California’s most iconic stretches of shoreline, creates a truly unforgettable seaside destination.

Walk along Santa Monica Pier to discover its street vendors and performers as well as the amazing sunset views. Explore the seafront or rent a bike to explore the cycle path towards Venice Beach. You could choose to cool off in the surf, or head around the coast to Topanga and the Santa Monica Mountains.

Le Meridien Delfina, Santa Monica or similar

Today, say a temporary farewell to the coast and head inland to the Coachella Valley. Located just two and a half hours east of Santa Monica, Palm Springs is among Southern California’s most prized destinations and serves as the gateway to Joshua Tree National Park. It also well-known for hosting world-class music and film festivals.

Choose to ride the scenic aerial tramway to the summit of Mount San Jacinto, for panoramic views from the 6000ft peak. Take a trip into the Joshua Tree National Park to witness the convergence of the Mojave & Colorado deserts that create natural sand carved monuments, innovative flora and fauna and unspoilt dark night skies, perfect for stargazing.

For those seeking more activity Greater Palm Springs opens up opportunities for hiking, horse riding, a round of golf and off-road driving. Alternatively for those wishing to stay local, there are plenty of museums, galleries, cafes and restaurants in Palm Springs from which to sit, people watch and search for celebrities.

The Renaissance, Palm Springs or similar

From Palm Springs head back to the coast, through the mountains to arrive in San Diego in the afternoon. If you have time, consider a stop in the town of Temecula, home to wineries and an old town featuring rustic western-era buildings.

The compact city of San Diego has a laid-back and fun-loving vibe where you can unwind poolside, at the harbour, on the beach or the golf course. The region’s unique Cali-Baja cuisine and craft brew industry always has foodies flocking for fresh experiences. World-class attractions provide endless family fun while arts and culture abound, but it is the 70-miles of beaches and awesome weather that San Diego has found fame.

Take a cruise around San Diego’s harbour to witness the yachts, boats and properties that make the most of the Pacific Ocean location. Take to the waters yourself on a guided paddle board or kayak tour. Alternatively, hire a boat to join in with the locals. Mission Trails Regional Park offers miles of trails amongst the lush forests, or grab a bike to cycle around the bay.

San Diego is is also famous for its world-renowned zoo, Sea World and Belmont Park, where rides and amusements are right on the waterfront. The aircraft carrier USS Midway is now a fascinating maritime museum and Balboa Park will reward visitors with various sculptures and botanical oddities. And we haven’t even mentioned the retail outlets!

Kona Kai Resort, San Diego or similar

You could return back to Los Angeles on the Interstate, but turning off onto Highway 1, will reward with some of California’s best beaches. Consider stopping at Newport, Huntington or even Laguna Beach to continue your love affair with sun and sand. A visit to Dana Point harbour offers boat trips, shopping and plenty of dining options with views of the ocean.

Continue back to Los Angeles International Airport to return your rental car, ready for your flight home or onward to your next destination.